February 10, 2012

Las Vegas Spa Tips: The Beauty of Renewal

November 9, 2011 By Leave a Comment

THE DAYS ARE shrinking, the leaves are turning and the holiday season is beginning its chaotic approach. With full days of work, family, school, kids and everything else we try to fit into our schedule, who has time for skin care? Fortunately, we are masters at multi-tasking, and skin care is no different. Fall and winter can be unforgiving on our complexion, but with a few essential steps, your skin will survive the season with time left over to roast some chestnuts over the fire.

Marsha, Marsha, Marsha (Exfoliants: the forgotten middle child of skin care)

I hear it all day long:

  1. Cleansing? Check!
  2. Hydrating? Check!
  3. Exfoliating?  … Silence.

Here’s the skinny on the elusive science of cell turnover:

The superficial layer of skin called the epidermis is essentially … dead. Without proper shedding of the skin, our moisturizers and anti-aging products cannot work effectively. In addition, the skin becomes congested with oil and dead skin cells resulting in blackheads, whiteheads, blemishes and lackluster skin.

Links your skin will love

The brighter side

Exfoliants are extremely effective agents of radiance that are derived from natural ingredients. It is easier than ever to incorporate these polishing pals into your routine. The shady season is the perfect time to try professional treatments to obtain a glow that will make you sparkle in time for the holiday party.

Treatment spotlight

Glycolic Peel: A 30% acid, derived from sugar, that packs a punch and will soften fine lines, reduce sun damage and stimulate collagen production. (Best done in a series of 4-6 sessions)
Mircodermabrasion: You are sure to sparkle from this crystal-based treatment. Best for dry, sun- damaged, and aging skin types. (Best done in a series of 6)
Radiance: Cinnamon and fruit acids coupled with firming agents leave the skin with a warm youthful glow.

Homecare in a hurry

  • Epicurean Herbal Scrub (more at :43 of the video): An apricot-based scrub that removes buildup and leaves the skin brighter and smoother (normal/dry skin types).
  • Hylunia Fruit Acid Exfoliant (more at 1:35 of the video): Packed with AHA acids in a gel formula that digests dead skin while you sleep (normal/sensitive/combination/oily).
  • Epicurean Hydro Plus Moisturizer: This winter proof cream quenches the skin and leaves it soft and hydrated all day (dry skin types).
  • Epicurean Lip Balm: With silky shea butter and healing tea tree oil, this lip balm gives the lips the protection that lasts without cakey, sticky residue.

Have questions or concerns about your skin? Let me know below!

Filed Under: Entertainment, Red Rock Resort, Spa, Video, What's New Tagged With: , , , , ,

Las Vegas Spa Tips: Sun Protection Made Simple

July 21, 2011 By 5 Comments

Got a skin or spa question? Let Jen know below!

YOU SCREAM, I scream, we all scream for sunscreen!

By now, we are all fully aware of the damaging effects of sun exposure, but what’s left over from the informative scare are some pretty confusing options for sun protection. With so many choices available, countered with contradictions like vitamin D deficiency, and possible carcinogen-producing sunblocks: What’s the right way to block the rays?

We’ve put together a simple checklist to make prevention a piece of cake.

  • Don’t apply on the fly! Sunscreen takes 20-30 minutes to absorb and activate in order to provide maximum protection, so apply early and liberally.
  • It’s not easy being greasy. The higher the SPF the heavier they feel, and while titanium dioxide is a thorough protection, it can be oily and irritating. For those with sensitive or oily skin types, zinc oxide is a lighter option with great protection. These days it’s not your mama’s zinc. Epicurean’s formula is clear with a clean scent and a light texture.
  • Good chemistry. High does not equal better. A quick explanation of the elusive SPF numbers: let’s say you burn after 10 minutes without sunscreen. Multiply that number by the SPF number (let’s say 15) and bingo, there’s your total time with sun protection (in this case 150 minutes). Most of us aren’t heading out to Barbados on a regular basis, so an SPF between15-30 is plenty effective for traveling to work, etc. Also, with the added bonus of fewer chemicals, the lower numbers are a safer bet for building you very own ozone layer.

Visit the Red Rock Spa page or book your Spa appointment today at 702.797.7878.

Product spotlight: Hylunia Beyond Complex-C

Why it rocks: Potent and highly stable L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) works to reverse prior sun damage while providing antioxidants to protect skin from future damage. The bioactive serum formula increases absorption. As with all of Hylunia’s products, Hylauronic acid, a key ingredient for hydration, is added making this serum a triple winner: providing moisture, collagen production and the anti-inflammatory properties for which Hylunia is known. Toss this little weapon into your beach bag and you’ll be radiant and protected even in the triple digits.

Facial recommendation: Breathe

Why it rocks: The summer months can leave the skin inflamed, dehydrated and lackluster. Our oxygen treatment blasts skin with 87 professional-grade vitamins, minerals and amino acids leaving the complexion luminous and hydrated. The Echo system treats skin at a cellular level, which is where the anti-aging magic happens. The result is immediate and lasting. Get drenched with the coolest way to escape the heat.

Jen Albrecht
Aesthetician
The Spa at Red Rock Resort

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Las Vegas Spa Secrets: Preventing dry skin in cold weather

January 3, 2011 By 2 Comments


EVERY WINTER THAT unpleasant menace, dry skin, plagues almost everyone. Here in the desert, our air lacks humidity (moisture in the air) all year long and dry air sucks moisture out of skin. Your body needs moisture inside as well as out to keep the skin lush and healthy.

Click to view Winter Spa offerings

Most of us dread the winter days of itching ashy legs, licking chapped lips, and nursing painfully cracked hands and feet. Unfortunately, we tend to consider this as unavoidable as we bundle up and dreamily wait for spring to come and chase away the problem. However, if you are prone to dry skin during the cold season, there are several steps you can take to prevent it so that your skin is moist and beautiful year round. 1) During the cold seasons don’t go outside without your cold weather gear. A heavy coat, hat, gloves, and boots protect you from wind, cold, and cold-induced dehydration. 2) Never wash the dishes or work with household chemicals without putting on gloves. 3) Take care of your feet when you are home, wearing cotton socks or slippers instead of going barefoot. 4) Always be sure to get enough water and help keep dry skin at bay by getting the recommended six to eight glasses of pure water daily and you will feel better all around.

When the cold gets the better of your skin it’s a good time to head to the spa…preferably the Spa at Red Rock. Here’s a guide:

Click to view Tis the Season Spa menu

  • Start off with a few minutes in the steam room to help detoxify your body.
  • An exfoliating sugar scrub to get rid of dead skin cells will brighten and hydrate your skin, followed with a luxurious body butter massage to relax the body and soul and seal in moisture. (Recommend: Bourbon Scrub & Massage)
  • Your Spa day wouldn’t be complete without a warming and invigorating facial. (Recommend: Winter Spice Facial)
  • Last, but certainly not least, those fingers and toes need extra attention. Cracked cuticles and heels are painful and unsightly, try a Peppermint Pedicure & Manicure to restore your hands and feet.

Even in winter we have plenty of blue skies and sunshine so don’t avoid the outdoors, just take extra good care of your skin when heading out! Always use a lip balm with SPF, and try dipping your finger in the sugar bowl and giving your lips their own yummy sugar scrub followed with lip balm. Remember, use a heavier face moisturizer, body and hand cream to stand up to the drying effects of the wind and cold. Lots of hot tea and plenty of water and most of all enjoy the Season!!!

Emily Heim
Lead Massage Therapist
The Spa at Red Rock

Got a question about winter skin treatment? Let Emily know below!

More links

Other Las Vegas Spa Secrets blog posts


Green Valley Ranch Spa website

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Las Vegas Spa Secrets: 3 Steps to Beautiful & Healthy Summer Skin

June 2, 2010 By 1 Comment

Exfoliate. Hydrate. Protect.

SUMMER IS ABOUT showing beautiful summer skin. In order to look good and stay healthy when baring that skin, you will need to take some time and reverse the signs of winter neglect and weather. If you can remember these three easy steps your skin will show great improvement and more importantly keep you safe during our desert summer season.

1) Exfoliate your face and body
Your body sheds skin cells at an amazing rate. If you don’t remove them they will sit on your surface layer and make hydration almost impossible. No matter how much lotion you use, you will never get glowing skin if you don’t exfoliate first. So grab a scrub and hit the shower! You will want to use a facial exfoliate for your face and neck. Also don’t forget your feet! Nothing is worse than seeing dull dry feet inside cute sandals.

Red Rock Spa recommends…

2) Hydrate your skin
It’s time to put away your thick winter body butters and try more light weight moisturizers. You want to find something fast absorbing. Gels and purees are fast absorbents. Make sure you apply right after you dry off from the shower. You need to seal in the moisture your body just soaked in.

Red Rock Spa recommends…

3) Protect your skin
Throw away last year’s sunscreen for a new bottle. Sunscreens do not have a long shelf life, and over time their protective properties can break down. Sunscreen should contain SPF 30 or higher. Sunscreens that protect against both ultraviolet A and B (UVA and UVB) are the best to use. Sunscreen needs to be applied at least 30 minutes prior to going into the sun. You should reapply every two to three hours. Protective clothing can be worn to avoid sun exposure as well. Big brimmed hats will protect eyes, ears, scalp and neck.

Although aging is something that happens to everybody, some people seem to develop wrinkles earlier than others. Why is that? A lot of it has to do with genetics, but much of it also has to do with lifestyle factors. So please take the time to take care of your skin, it is after all the largest organ of the body.

Hope this is helpful!

Jeannie Nagy
Lead Esthetician
Red Rock Spa

Get more spa specials and packages at Red Rock Resort


Visit the Las Vegas spa page for Green Valley Ranch

Have a skin or spa question, let us know below!

Filed Under: Entertainment, Green Valley Ranch, Hotels & Casinos, Red Rock Resort, Spa Tagged With: , , , ,

Our Las Vegas Pools are Cool: Here’s Why…

May 14, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Red Rock's Cabana Club heats up on the weekends!

WHEN WE SEE that the forecast calls for 90-degree temperatures here in Las Vegas, we locals know that it’s officially pool season. Whether you’re up for a relaxing day with a good book, or a flirtatious afternoon dancing with friends and cold drinks, Station Casinos has some of the most fabulous pools in Las Vegas. Our featured pool list starts at the Red Rock in Summerlin.

You don’t need to take our word for how great the pools are. Take the word of one of the Red Rock pool patrons, Jennifer Cook:

“The Red Rock Pool is luxe like a private club pool, there’s plenty of lush landscaping and plenty of room to stretch out and get lots of sunshine”

Typically, Jennifer frequents the weekends-only Cabana Club unless she has friends or family staying at Red Rock, since the main pool is reserved for hotel guests only.

“Walking through the doors at the Cabana Club instantly ups my VIP status. Everyone knows your name. I love the intimate surroundings – lines of daybeds, cabanas, and lots of mostly bare, well-tended bodies sunning while the beautiful and dependably friendly staff serves your drink – and they already know what your having.”

Jennifer and her friends know that drinks are a must when staying cool at the pool in the Las Vegas heat.

“My solitary drink of choice on a hot summer day at the Cabana Club is without a doubt, a Sapphire and tonic with two limes. The refreshing aromatics of the Sapphire (not to be confused by any other duller spirit) gin, mixed with the light bubbles of the tonic and the kick of lime send me into the sun with a smile on my face.”

“When the libations are to be shared, I go for a pitcher of Mojitos. I’m not the biggest fan of rum, but whoever is mixing at Cabana Club has got the inside track on the proper mix. It’s a light drink for the pool, but still packs a punch, without packing lbs on the bikini-clad bodies.”

Our newest featured Las Vegas pool resides in North Las Vegas at Aliante Station (free for hotel guests). Guests told management that they like the Aliante pool because it is “very nice and clean,”  and “extremely relaxing regardless if there’s lots of foot traffic,” like there is on Sundays, for the popular pool party, Sunday Splash. Visitors pay a $15 entry fee for a wristband to enjoy what we’re told are “very generous drink specials.” For more information, including special discounted pool prices for children, weekday rates and more, visit the Aliante Station website.

Henderson Pool-goers, fear not! The Pond at Green Valley Ranch is open and ready for another fantastic summer. This locals hot spot is a value-packed favorite for service industry workers who enjoy their Mondays off. Monday is Industry Day, and for $20, you can enjoy all-you-can-drink champagne. Three regular DJs spin at The Pond, DJ DIGDUG, DJ QUIRA, and DJ Mika Gold. Our advice, bring a group and take advantage of the great values on daybeds, cabanas, and bottle specials. You can even order a cooler-case of Corona!

Here’s 7 other reasons why the pools at Station Casinos are the coolest pools in Las Vegas. Dive in!

  1. The Cabana Club at Red Rock Resort has a live DJ from 12pm – 4pm Saturdays and Sundays. European bathing is optional (ooh la la).
  2. Two words: Party Cabana (up to 16 people at GVR).
  3. Poolside concerts this Memorial Day weekend at the Sandbar at Red Rock Resort – tickets start at just $15 + tax/fees.
  4. DJ Alpyne and the Sunday Slash pool party (with drink specials) from 11am to 5pm at Aliante Station’s The Deck is open to public.
  5. Day and Seasonal Pool Passes are available for purchase at Sunset Station to non-hotel guests (go locals!)
  6. Locals can access the pool at Green Valley Ranch for $20 per day – that includes a $10 food & beverage credit.
  7. Friday night live music at the Sandbar at Red Rock starting in June. Tribute bands will be playing the hits from every era.
Filed Under: Aliante Station, Entertainment, Green Valley Ranch, Hotels & Casinos, Red Rock Resort, Spa, Sunset Station, Texas Station Tagged With: , , , , ,

Las Vegas Spa Secrets: Picking the Perfect Facial

March 15, 2010 By Leave a Comment

 

ONE OF THE major misconceptions in skin care is not changing your regimen as your skin changes. Clients often pick a product that works for them and then stick with it. Over time they grow concerned that the product is no longer working for them – I’m getting so dry or My skin looks dull. Clients have to realize that a product that worked for them in their mid 20s will no longer be the ideal product for them in their 30s and 40s. Simply put, as we change so must the products we use to maximize the results.

Seasonal changes affect our skin’s moisture levels. In great heat and great cold the skin becomes more dehydrated and sensitive. Keeping it clean, hydrated and protected are the keys.

As we age our body naturally slows down. We begin to lose elastin, collagen and moisture. The environment also affects the aging process. Sun exposure speeds up the aging process as well. Some of the facials we offer at the Red Rock Resort Las Vegas Spa focus on cell renewal, brightening and resurfacing of the skin.

PROFESSIONAL HELP

During a skin consultation an esthetician assesses the skin type and the goal of the client. Are they here to relax or are they here to really make a change in their skin? Once that is determined we can decide on the proper facial and product line to use. Skin consultations are important because we also need to know if there are any known allergies or injuries that might affect the client.

View the menu at the Spa at Red Rock Resort

Visit the website of the Spa at Green Valley Ranch

Sink into a spa package deal at Station Casinos 

The basic skin types are dry, oily, sensitive, combination, and acneic skin. With the Las Vegas climate, most common skin type is dry. Skin type varies from age and ethnicities as well. Our menu of facial treatments is diverse and every client is different so there is not just one facial to pick for a certain skin type, but if I were to keep it very basic….

Sensitive Skin: Breathe facial, Delicate facial

Dry Skin: Breathe facial, Classic facial, Microderm facial

Oily skin: Classic facial, Volcanic Deep Purifying facial

Combination skin: All facials (determined by skin’s specific issues)

Acneic skin: Classic facial, Volcanic Deep Purifying facial

Mature skin: Radiance, Diamond in the Rough

We can also customize your facial as everyone has different skin types and needs at different stages throughout the seasonal changes and as they age. We can customize our Classic Facial to any skin type. During the first three to four minutes the esthetican does a skin consultation asking the guest various questions about their current skin care regimen and go from there. We also can assist someone whom may wish to come on a regular basis and customize a series of facials to address their current regimen.

Jeannie Nagy
Lead Esthetician
Red Rock Spa

If you have skin or spa questions, let me know below!

Filed Under: Entertainment, Green Valley Ranch, Hotels & Casinos, Red Rock Resort, Spa Tagged With: , , , ,