Rita-Claudia Schrager
Aesthetician and Spa Director

The Grand’s May Event will be something special.

Since May is the month that highlights the increasingly serious threat of Melanoma, The Grand will feature a special program highlighting the threat of skin cancer. This is particularly relevant to the State of Florida. While we all appreciate the beautiful sunshine we are often less informed about the damage from the sun which causes Melanoma.

The Grand will hold an Event focusing on the threat of Melanoma on Wednesday, May 23rd from 5-8 PM.

We have the pleasure of featuring our Medical Director Dr. Thomas M. Taylor, Board Certified Dermatologist, who will speak and then respond to questions. He will be accompanied by our highly regarded Nurse Melinda Marian, an Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner.

The Grand will also feature it’s high quality line of medical products, SkinCeuticals which helps prevent Melanoma. We invited a very knowledgeable Representative of SkinCeuticals Mrs. Karen Ragaini. As the Spa Director, responsible for skin care and related subjects, I want to provide some reflections about skin cancer and prevention.

Skin Cancer

What is skin cancer and how is it formed and diagnosed?

Skin cancers are malignant growths of the skin. Each year, more than one million people in the United States are diagnosed with skin cancer.
The most common types of skin cancer affect the epidermis: basal cell carcinomas (from the lowest layer of the skin) and squamous cell carcinomas  (from the middle layer of the skin).


The least common but most deadly type of skin cancer is melanoma, a cancer that arises from pigment-producing melanocytes. Skin cancers develop when damaged skin cells grow out of control, usually because of the effects of sun exposure.

People of all ages and skin tones may get skin cancer; however, certain risk factors increase the possibility of developing the condition, including:

• excess sun exposure or a history of severe sunburn
• use of tanning beds
• fair skin (Fitzpatrick I and II); red, blonde, or light brown hair; and blue, green, or gray eyes / Fitzpatrick classification scale groups skin types by how easily they burn or tan. Insensitivity does not mean immunity to the sun’s effects. Every skin type can burn and experience sun damage.
• family or personal history of skin cancer
• freckles or a large number of moles

How to Spot Skin Cancer

Like many cancers,skin cancers — including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma — start as precancerous lesions. These are changes in the skin that are not cancer but could become cancer over time. Ask Dr. Taylor to learn how to spot it.

Prevent Skin Cancer and Still Have Fun in the Sun

Learn how safely soak up the sun — and get all its Vitamin D-making powers — without risking melanoma or other skin cancers.

Want the Best Sunscreen? What You Need to Know

Using sunscreen daily makes you 50 % less likely to develop melanoma, but which is the best sunblock? Learn about sun protection factors and sunscreen ingredients to look for from The Grand’s Medical Director Dr. Thomas Taylor and our Nurse Practitioner Melinda Marian.

More Than A Mole

How do I know if a mole is something I should have looked at or whether it’s just a normal mole?

Pop This Supplement for Your Skin

If you’re keen on skin cancer prevention, take calcium and vitamin D supplements. We will show you how these supplements can help reduce your risk of skin cancer.

Regular Cancer Screenings Improve Awareness and Statistics

Death rates are down for cancers of the breast, cervix, colon, lungs and prostate; and overall, there are fewer new cancers a year. Healthy living and better treatments explain some of the drop, but the regular cancer screening is also a big factor.

Are You Truly Safe from UV?

What are the best ways to protect myself from ultraviolet damage?
Even though it’s not sunny, apply a moisturizer with an SPF-30 sunscreen to your face and neck and to the backs of your hands daily. Exposed skin’s still vulnerable, especially if you burn easily.

Aging Skin — The Sun and Skin Aging

What does the sun do to age your skin?

Skin Cancer Risk Factors

What are the high risk factors for skin cancer?

Grow Up Strong — Prevent Skin Damage

How can I keep my kids safe from the sun? What’s the best way to prevent skin damage?

Skin Cancer Screening Tests

How can I get screened or screen myself for skin cancer?

4 Must-Eat Foods for Healthy Skin

Give your skin inside-out protection from the sun by putting these four items into your shopping cart: pomegranates, tomatoes, dark chocolate, and tea.

ANTI-WRINKLE REMINDER.

Before you go outside today, take note: About 80 percent of adults don’t use sunscreen regularly. In a new study, people who got daily reminders were almost twice as likely to slather on SPF as those who weren’t prompted, reports the Archives of Dermatology. If you don’t want to forget to apply this wrinkle and cancer fighter, make it part of your daily routine. To do: Apply moisturizer with SPF 30 every morning after you wash your face. If you need an extra nudge, stick a note on your bathroom mirror.

I am looking forward to welcoming all of you to The Grand on Wednesday, May 23rd from 5-8 PM, for an interesting and stimulating evening. I hope you will join us.

Happy Mother’s Day Grand Beauties!

Being a mother is one of God’s many blessings.  As a working mother of 4, I can relate to all the endless planning, cooking, picking up, and running around, etc.  It’s crazy to think most of us don’t take the time to re energize our bodies or souls.

Take time for you

Celebrate your special day and enjoy your many blessings with your sons, daughters, grandchildren, family, and pets.  Celebrate and love yourself for all of your devotion and hard work, but most of all take some “me time” out for yourself!

3 ideas to celebrate your special day.

1. Express gratitude and love for yourself and your loved ones.
   • Enjoy a yoga class with a loved one, or take some time to sit quietly, or go for a mindful walk.
   • The Lotus Pond offers a Mother’s Day yoga class on Mother’s Day.  It’s a great way to start the day.
2. Become a Grand Member and secure a monthly visit to The Grand.
   • It’s a great way to commit to taking time and care of yourself.
   • Our membership includes your choice of a massage or facial every month. It’s a no brainer!
3. Treat mom at home by allowing her to wake up to a hand picked bouquet of flowers from the garden or yard.
   • Next, breakfast in bed after sleeping in. Massage mom’s feet before letting her get into the bath you prepare.
   • Pamper, relax, and love your mom on Mother’s Day!

Happy Mothers Day!

Carmen

by Nadine McKane, Receptionist

After your treatments at The Grand Beauty Spa, why not compliment your inner glow by slipping into some of our Grand Boutique’s fresh new bathing suits!

This spring we are carrying Mar de Rosas and D’luchi.  Both designers have provided unique embellishments and bright colors that are perfectly beach ready.

D’luchi is a line from Medellin, putting their focus on the small details of their pieces.  Some that we carry have sequins, ruffles, and other embellishments.

From a land with palm trees, exotic plants, and a cool sea breeze comes inspirational pieces coveted for their delicate attention to detail.  Also straight from Colombia, Mar de Rosas bikinis and swimsuits are an exciting combination of cutting edge fabrics and hand-finished features.

These suits will have you feeling like a goddess of the sea.

Summer is approaching and bikini season is right around the corner.

If you are like most and are feeling pale and washed out, a spray tan is the perfect way to rejuvenate your body with a sun kissed glow.  Not only is the result beautiful, but also it is a safe alternative to the damaging rays of the sun.

Sunless tans are the healthy way to get that rich bronzed tan that we all desire.

The Grand offers spray tanning by SunFX that gives you the perfect tan in just minutes.

Prolonged sun exposure can quickly age your skin, causing it to dry out and wrinkle.  It can even cause skin cancer.

Spray on tans that use harsh chemicals and additives can also damage your skin causing it to look weathered and old.

SunFX spray tanning solutions are 100% all natural – they don’t contain any chemicals.  SunFX uses only the best natural ingredients.  It is free from alcohols, oils, perfumes, preservatives, and contains no parabans.

Additives like alcohol can cause the skin to dry out which can speed up the aging process.  Other companies often use perfumes or other kinds of masking agents to cover up the smell of their tanning solutions.  SunFX spray tanning solutions are 100% natural so there is no undesirable odor that needs to be ‘hidden’.

Come in and let one of our tanning specialists create that perfect golden skinned glow and be ready to hit the beach!

Stewart Pittman
Beauty Stylist, Make-up Artist & Tanning Specialist

Katie Ryan, Beauty Stylist

This summer don’t just make a statement with the perfect outfit, but show off your polished pedicure or manicure!

With an emphasis on pretty this season, every girl can feel like a woman. Shades of cream and beige are huge this summer but bold patterns and bright moments can also be enjoyed.

It’s also all about the classic reds, chic corals, soft pastels and mellow-yellows mixed in with cool ombre and metallic designs.

Summer Trends

The summer’s trends will make for the most flattering manicure yet!

For those with more of a bright side, red, pink, orange, fuchsia, and green are in. Bright nails can be matched to the lipstick or clothes and become an eye-catching accent in a

neutral based look.

Some other top trends for summer are patterns; nail art, metallic, and glitter. Various trends have been seen at the 2012 Fashion Shows this year.

With the perfect manicure this summer, you’re guaranteed to turn heads and feel great!

So now that you have the summer nail trends for 2012, which trends will you try? Tell us in the comment field below.

Stephanie Boutell, Lash Specialist and Esthetician

As bridal season approaches us, eyelashes should be on a brides to do list besides hair consultations and makeup run throughs.

Faux lashes will not only look great on that special day but will enhance your wedding photos for that picture perfect look.  As your bridal makeover unravels, you will be happy to know that your gorgeous lashes will stay with you as you take off to your honeymoon destination.

Let’s not forget our busy mothers!

As you are running around dropping the kids off to school and to practice, makeup is the last thing on your list.  Lash extensions complete a beautiful look without having to apply makeup.

Throw away your mascara and rest assure you didn’t skip a beat when it came to your beauty.

Let The Grand Beauty Spa create the perfect lash look with semi-permanent eyelash extensions for any occasion.

By Bruce Harburg LMT, Licensed Massage Therapist

Here are ten tips from our Grand Beauty Spa Massage Therapists to get the most from your next massage.

1. Be as receptive and open to the massage process as possible.
   • Give yourself permission to forget that there is a world on the other side of the door.
2. Don’t eat just before a massage session.
   • Let your body digest your meal first. We will be pleased to order your meal for after your treatment.


The Healing Power of Touch

3. Be on time. Better yet, arrive early.
   • First time visitors will be asked to fill out an intake questionnaire and informed consent form.
   • Returning guests may want to arrive 30 minutes early to enjoy the Sauna or Steam room and/or have a cup of tea in one of our peacefully serene courtyards.
4. Take off only as much clothing as you are comfortable removing.
   • Many clients find that changing into one of our  cozy robes, helps them to begin the relaxation process.
5. Privacy – The therapist will either leave the room or otherwise provide privacy while you undress.
   • A sheet or towel is provided for draping during the massage and the therapist will uncover only the part of your body being massaged, ensuring that modesty is respected at all times.
   • After the massage is finished, you will be provided with privacy while dressing.
6. Communicate with your massage therapist
   • Before the session, give accurate health information and let the massage therapist know your expectations and reasons for the massage.
   • Allergies to Oils, Lotions, Powders – The therapist may use oil, lotion or powders to reduce friction on your skin. At The Grand Beauty Spa, we use a professionally manufactured, unscented, hypoallergenic, water soluble massage cream.  If you are allergic to any oils, lotions or powders, tell your massage therapist, who can choose a substitute.
   • Some massage therapists play recorded music during the massage session. Others find music distracting. If it’s provided, let your massage therapist know if you have any music preferences or if you would prefer they turn off the music.
   • Some people like to talk during a massage, while others remain silent. Tell your massage therapist what you prefer.
   • During the massage session, report any discomfort, whether it’s from the massage or due to any problems or distractions related to the environment, e.g., room temperature, music volume, lighting, etc. Remember, this session is all about you, so too much, too little, too hard, too soft, too hot, too cold, just say the word and we will make it right.
   • Give feedback to the massage therapist during the massage on the amount of pressure, speed of hand movement, etc.  If anything happens that you dislike or seems improper, you have the right to ask the massage therapist to stop.  If necessary, you also have the right to end the session.
   • Don’t be afraid to discuss any apprehensions or concerns. It’s important that you be as comfortable as possible during your massage. Your massage therapist is a professional dedicated to do his or her best to help you feel at ease.
7. Remember to breathe normally.
   • Breathing helps facilitate relaxation. People often stop or limit their breathing when they feel anxious or a sensitive area is massaged.
8. Relax your muscles and your mind.
   • Tightening up by contracting or hardening your muscles during the massage is counterproductive. Be a rag doll and just let yourself melt into the table. If you find your thoughts are racing during the massage, one way to be more body-centered and to quiet your mind is to follow the hands of the massage therapist and focus on how the touch feels.
9. Drink extra water after your massage.
10. Don’t get up too quickly and do allow for some open, quiet time after your massage session. If you’re dizzy or light headed after the massage, do not get off the table too fast. It also may take a little time to integrate or absorb the results of the massage session.
    

    Our famed Grand Beauty Spa Versailles Massage Table

Be prepared to schedule several massage sessions. Massage has its greatest benefits over time.

The therapeutic effects of massage are cumulative, so the more often you get a massage, the better you will feel and the more quickly your body will respond. From one session to the next, relaxation deepens as the chronic patterns of stress in the body are affected and released.

If you’re getting massage to address chronic muscular tension or recovery from a soft tissue injury, more than one session is usually needed. Be sure to inquire about our packages and membership program.

If you are thinking about scheduling you next massage you can request an appointment here.

We appreciate your business and are dedicated to making your next massage experience the very best that it can possibly be.

Are you planning a wedding for spring?

The wedding bells have already started ringing for 2012.  The hairstyle is one of the most important aspects of how the bride will look on her wedding day.

Wedding Hair Trends

The latest trends are classic buns and styles mixed with braids or even a ponytail.  Adding a fun headband, jewelry, flowers, tiara, or a veil is a way to take it to another level.  This is a fun way to spice it up and put your own signature on the style.

So if you have Wedding Plans in 2012, take a look at these ideas, and contact us at the Grand Beauty Spa to help you create the perfect wedding hair for your special day.

I am so excited to introduce to you the new upgraded Kerastase Fusio treatments!

Made to measure, Fusio Dose is a blend of highly concentrated active ingredients fused for profound hair transformation.

I will walk you through the steps of how these treatments work.

Step One

Your stylist will diagnose your hair by its texture, porosity, lack of moisture, and color molecules.  They will find your primary and secondary hair needs and will select two concentrated ingredients for your fusio dose.

Step Two

These treatments act instantly.  It is a professional high concentrate that can only be administered in the salon that will react immediately and in depth.

Step Three

Transformation takes place.  The hair has been penetrated in depth and instantly transformed.  Now you can enjoy your fusio treated and cured hair!

I can guarantee you will fall in love with this treatment! Request your In-Salon Fusio Dose Treatment online or call 813- 874-7674

by Logan Wilson

Happy Spring Grand Beauties!

Spring always seems to be the time I take to re-evaluate my health and fitness goals to stay or get back on track.  Reawaken the mind, body and soul!

The truth is, bathing suit season is here so it’s truly time to buckle down on our exercise routine and diets to feel good in those little things called BIKINIS.

April’s newsletter focuses on renewal.

Change it up!

Do whatever it takes to renew your spirit so you have the energy to feel great in your body.

I can’t wait to learn and share the newest trends and inspirations of haircuts and styles this month as I join the National Shu Uemura Atelier Team in NYC. I will be posting pictures of my experience on the Grand Beauty Spa Facebook Page and next month’s newsletter.

THANK YOU for helping us celebrate 5 years of beautiful success as we celebrate The Grand Beauty Spa’s 5th anniversary of keeping Tampa Bay on the forefront of beauty in every aspect!

We appreciate all of you that have included a beauty regimen into your busy life.  We promise to continue to provide the best service to all of you.

Thank you again for coming back in time after time, and we hope that you will share with others the great things you experience at The Grand Beauty Spa.

We have included an Anniversary Special Package this month that lets you experience all departments at The Grand.  Enjoy!

One more thing…

Here are a few ideas I have personally taken on to lose weight, gain energy, and stay motivated:

Challenge yourself to a new type of exercise routine:

For example try Boot camp, Zumba, Yoga, or Cycle class.  I’m typically a Yogi, so I tried a few Boot camp classes at the YMCA last month.  It was so much fun, and woke up a few muscles I forgot about. 

Schedule a consultation with a medical nutritionist and tweak the way you eat:

I am currently on a plan with The Medical Nutrition Center and found out so many things on the first visit.  I was not eating enough protein at each meal, and I need to try to drink a glass of water 30 minutes before and after every meal.  I also discovered Fit 4 Life Foods.  What a great idea!  Fresh healthy meals prepared and perfectly portioned. Delicious!

Become a Spa Junky:

We have the best body treatments found in the best spas in the world.  Our body-wraps have active ingredients to help slim and keep you detoxified and fresh.  Massage is also one of the best things for cellulite and shaping the body.  Our Sauna burns roughly 300 calories in a 20-minute session.  It’s a great reason to check out our Grand Lifestyle Memberships.

Finally, you are ready to schedule a photo shoot with our favorite artist John Canning:

Find your inner beauty and let our staff make you over!

Spring runway staples were red carpet looks with soft texture, teasing, and serious sex appeal.  Complete your look and let one of our make-up artists update your makeup bag and show you a few new tricks to add to your collection.

Carmen