SkinKlinic takes medical approach

About half-way between a spa and a medical facility lies SkinKlinic, inside Suite 111 in Mandalay Place, the new shopping complex at Mandalay Bay.

Although the stylish storefront would lead people to believe they were entering an upscale spa, and the warmth of the people who greet customers is customary at a facility that pampers, SkinKlinic means business for a person's face.

Open since late December, the company's second facility -- the other is in New York City -- has added a whole new element of skin treatment to the typical esthetician usage.

SkinKlinic's practitioners are, in addition to being estheticians, nurses and physician's assistants. In addition to the skilled staff, the establishment has an on-site medical director, Dr. Mary C. Herte, who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has been in Las Vegas since 1978.

Although the facility is filled with medical professionals, the environment is anything but hospital white. Lavender is the signature color of all SkinKlinics, including the additional 38 that are slated to open around the country within five to eight years. Each location offers a calming water feature and comfortable waiting area complete with light refreshments and upbeat music.

"We want it to look and feel the same no matter where you go," said Carly Marie, regional manager for SkinKlinic. " No matter where they are, there's always a water element with real water. When people come in, we want them to take a deep breath and relax."

But more important even than the atmosphere and personal attention given by the six skin practitioners who administer treatments is the level of quality of the products, many of which are of their own line. Treatments start at $125 and vary depending on a client's needs.

"There are 21 skin products, " Marie said. "Everyone has a brief consultation with a skin practitioner before receiving a treatment."

Just as a person goes to a doctor to improve their physical health, so people visit SkinKlinic to improve the health of their skin. Another difference between visiting SkinKlinic versus a typical spa is the length of the visit. Other than for certain laser hair removal procedures, those receiving treatments do not disrobe and can be in and out in less than an hour, although they certainly won't be rushed in and out, according to Marie. And since most treatments are noninvasive, clients won't have to face the crowded shopping area with a blotchy face upon leaving.

"These are treatments that make a difference in the skin," Marie said.

The treatments available also are no-frills. From glycolic treatments that remove fine lines and stimulate collagen production to microdermabrasion that removes skin discoloration and improves tonality and texture,

SkinKlinic's hours of operation are Sunday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Thursday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.


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