Reproduce spa experience at home

In just 10 years, spas have become big business in Las Vegas.

When Shawn Granito moved here in 1992, The Mirage had the only prominent spa in a Strip hotel. Now, she says, it's unusual for a hotel not to have a spa.

Their popularity is reflected nationally, too. According to the International Spa Association, the number of domestic spas has grown at an annual average of 20 percent over the past eight years and earned revenues of more than $10 billion. The association also estimates that one in four Americans has visited a spa.

Though they're popular, they can be pricey for someone who wants to do more than partake in an occasional indulgence. But there are enough over-the-counter products that can help someone create a spa experience at home without breaking the budget. The investment can be as little as a few dollars to as much as you want to spend, experts say.

"One of the things we really try to do at Canyon Ranch is teach clients how to take the experience home," says Granito, director for the spa at The Venetian. "Our boutique is dedicated to that."

It may seem counterintuitive but the policy can actually help with repeat business, she adds.

The first rule for the home spa is to keep things simple. Save the full-body peels and wraps for your favorite spa. Instead, focus on something such as a facial or a relaxing bath.

"Everything you need is readily available," Granito says, adding that she likes to shop at health food stores where she can get products without preservatives.

Staci Linklater, owner of Globe Salon, teaches clients how to extend the benefits of their facials between appointments. She recommends three basic items for home use: a mask, eye cream and a night cream.

Linklater says she uses Bioelements, a line of products she carries in her salon.

But things such as pumpkin puree, cucumbers, yogurt and some fruits can be substituted for store-bought products, notes Julia Shintaku, aesthetic director for the Las Vegas Spa and Salon at Aria.

Fruit is used in many spa treatments because the acidity in them acts as a natural exfoliant, eating away dead skin, Shintaku adds. Try lemons, limes, grapefruits and strawberries.

Aromatherapy is an important feature in spa products because it makes people feel better. Surround yourself with scents that you find relaxing or pleasant, Shintaku recommends.

Tools such as scrub mitts, bath brushes or eye masks can be useful. Granito likes them to stimulate circulation.

"The other thing I like to do at home is add bath salts," Granito says. "It adds mineralization, helps with detoxification."

Once you have your products on hand, set the mood. Granito likes to brew a big cup of herbal tea.

"Especially here in Vegas, we don't get enough fluids," she says.

Light some candles, put on some relaxing music and turn off your cell phone. If you have a towel warmer, warm a towel or bathrobe to wrap yourself in once you're finished. You also can toss them in a dryer for a few minutes, she says.

Contact reporter Sonya Padgett at spadgett@ reviewjournal.com or 702-380-4564.