Beauty Maverick

Take the Tube

When I come into contact with such promises as “Softer, smoother, instantly younger looking skin!” I usually accessorize my raised eyebrows (I have the forehead furrows to prove it) with a disapproving do-I-really-look-that-gullible? head tilt.

That said, StriVectin’s Instant Moisture Repair actually lives up to some pretty bold claims. This peptide-rich, ultra-hydrating formula penetrates below the surface to plump the skin’s natural cushion whilst binding water on the skin’s surface. The formula is lightweight— I found it worked great as a base, but my thirsty dermis required another moisturizer on top of this one— and although Strivectin claims this cream will "help skin look, feel and act younger," mercifully that didn’t mean an acne encore or extended misanthropic, Pink Floyd soundtracked, bong-pulling bedroom shut-in sessions however, listening closely, I think I heard my face begging for an bigger allowance. The cheek!

— Claire

Setai Spa, New York

If there's anything I've learned in my 5 years as a New Yorker, it's that the clock never stops and personal space is a luxury reserved for holidays abroad. We work hard, we play hard and— for those of whose vice is beauty— we spa hard. But ever since Cornelia closed their 5th Avenue spa, I've not been terribly inspired to splurge. Until now.

Meet Setai. A similarly discreet, luxuriously plush haven that boasts a highly-skilled team of therapists and estheticians (many of whom are former Cornelia employees), an inviting environment and state-of-the-art amenities.

Treatments to try*: Dead Sea Mud Mineral Enriched Hair and Scalp Revitalizer (60 mins, $165); Energy Reflexology (30 mins, $95); Honey & Citrus Renewal (60 mins, $185).

Setai Club New York
40 Broad Street
at Exchange Place
212.792.6193

*Present this page to receive a $50 savings on any spa treatment valued at $100+.

Rescue Beauty Lounge

If you love RBL products (as I do), be warned- their spa may not be what you'd expect from the brand. My recent visit there was a rather deflating experience...

I was really curious/excited to see the birthplace of such a cool concept, so I stopped by their Meat Packing location earlier this week to try a basic mani/pedi service. At first glace, everything seemed on point. But then, as I walked past the reception area to my cell-like treatment chair, I quickly realized that I was in for something quite different than I'd signed up for...

The overall appearance of the (back of the) spa was that of a modern space that is aging poorly, with the individual seating areas creating a closed-in environment that (looked and) felt quite uncomfortable.

When I confirmed that I'd like both a manicure and pedicure to my technician (thinking one would follow the other), a second women proceeded to squeeze into my cubicle to complete both services at once. It was terribly claustrophobic and awkward to say the least.

After my services, I was left in the box to air-dry (which felt like forever) and had to hobble out of the area to catch the attention of a technician for assistance in removing the cotton, etc. from my feet. But that's not all, sadly. Though the two technicians that provided my services were sweet enough, their skill level left something to be desired. The person who gave me my pedicure scrubbed my soles so much that they actually hurt to walk on afterward. And my manicure was not much better, with bumps and bubbles left in the polish. Sigh.

Perhaps my experience was a one-off, but I think I'll be avoiding any in-store treatments and sticking to Ji Baek's lovely nail polish and body care collection for the immediate future...

Rescue Beauty Lounge
34 Gansevoort St. #2
NYC, NY 10014
212. 206. 6409

Elemis SpaPod

When I first arrived at Bergdorf Goodman for my Pod appointment yesterday, I went straight up to the spa on the ninth floor. Wrong spa they told me, in a rather aggressive tone, go down to the beauty level. The beauty level? It turns out that the Elemis sanctuary is actually hidden away on one of the busiest floors at BG. Go figure.

Once at counter, I was greeted by an elegant esthetician named Irene, who quickly began assessing my skincare needs. First, she took a close-up picture of my face. Then she asked a few questions about my lifestyle and showed me six different maps of my skin, explaining each in basic terms. Finally, Irene analyzed these scans to determine which of their five facials would best address my skincare concerns. It was all rather intriguing and very informative. 

The facial itself (a quickie at only 30 mins) was conducted in a little room behind the counter, and on the most peculiar chair imaginable. Their exclusive Japanese massage chair (pictured above) measures your spine, and then works your muscles to promote lymphatic drainage. It's really something else.

By the end of the treatment, my skin was glowing and I felt completely recharged- All in less time than it takes to browse the nearby T. LeClerc counter. But you don't have to take my word for it, just book an appointment on a Tuesday/Wednesday in the month of June, and Elemis will gift you with two treatments for the price of one ($55). So go on, and let us know what you think!

Elemis Spa
Bergdorf Goodman
754 5th Ave
New York, NY 10019
(212) 753-7300

Rubbed the Right Way

Despite the grey skies and rain showers, I had the most beautiful day today. It started off with a lovely, lax breakfast at The Mercer Hotel, then a little Spring shopping on the scarce streets of SoHo (weekday mornings are the best for that...), and a trip to Haven Spa for the most heavenly treatment.

There, I spent an hour and a half under the spell of a charming esthetician named Becca, who conducted a 14th century Thai medicinal massage that combines warm herbs, energizing essential oils, and the kneading-out of all those nasty knots. She left me so relaxed in fact, it took twenty-minutes to get to Balthazar (a two-minute walk away) to meet the girls for lunch. Seriously, it was that good.

Ask for the Herbal Poultice Massage ($125/60 mins; $160/90 mins).

Haven Spa
150 Mercer Street
New York, NY 10012
212. 343. 3515

Waiting to Exhale

I randomly came across Exhale Spa today whilst en route to Columbus Circle, and decided to book their  60-minute Deep Tissue massage ($130) on a whim. In hindsight, I wish I'd given the decision a bit more thought...

My initial feelings of regret came when I opened the door to my little locker in the changing room.  There, waiting for me, was an uncomfortably stiff robe and a pair of awkward plastic sandals. After resisting the urge to keep my own clothes on, I went to wait in their 'relaxation room'. The name of this space is highly misleading, as it's really an excessively dim area with no reading materials, plastic cups for water, and the echo of instructors leading their fitness classes nearby. Needless to say, it wasn't exactly what I had anticipated.

Thankfully, my massage therapist (Jean) was a sweetheart with skilled hands, so the actual treatment was quite pleasant. Place Jean in a different environment, and I'd probably go back. Unfortunately, considering my overall experience, the chance of a return visit is slim to none.

If you're seeking a yoga center that happens to also provide spa services, Exhale may be the perfect sanctuary for you. But, if you're looking for a tranquil, solely-spa experience (as I was), I'd reserve elsewhere.

Exhale Spa
150 Central Park South
Nr. Sixth Avenue
(212)  561 7400

Fekkai Technician Color Care Shampoo & Conditioner

I've had a love/hate relationship with Fekkai products in the past so, naturally, I was a bit hesitant to try his Technician Color Care collection when I received it for a piece I'm working on.

As it turns out, I was worried for nothing- Fekkai's TCC products are actually quite impressive. I've been using the Shampoo and Conditioner daily for a week now (in addition to Ted Gibson's Goodnite Hair Serum every other night), and am loving the boost in shine and volume. My (fine) hair now feels full of body
and soft to the touch. Highly recommended.

Retailer: Sephora.com
Cost: $22- $32.50 each

The Perfect Facial

I generally find facials a bit grueling, especially the ones that keep you on the table for longer than need be. I don't need ten different masques, facial waxing, and a set of highlights whilst receiving a facial. Just a really relaxing, cleansing treatment that leaves me wanting more. Is that too much to ask? Thankfully, Cornelia doesn't think so.

I went into their 5th Avenue spa this afternoon and experienced a facial unlike any I'd ever had before. It was, by all accounts, divine.

Upon entering my dimly-lit treatment room, I was offered a taste of honey to begin my service (a Cornelia signature). With that sweet, soothing taste in my mouth, I laid down and was asked to place my feet in a warm bath (built into the bed). Then, whilst the primary esthetician began my facial, a second esthetician paid special attention to my body. And by special attention, I mean a paraffin treatment for both my hands and feet as well as a glorious hot stone massage. I was in heaven. It was actually the first time I hadn't squirmed through my extractions (which, by the way, were impeccably done and not a mark was left).

The cost of a Cornelia Signature Facial is $195 to $315 for 60 minutes, depending on how many enhancements are added (if any). My facial included their Balancing Peel (amazing!), but of course your esthetician will recommend what's best for your individual skincare needs.

Cornelia Day Resort
663 Fifth Avenue
(B/w 52nd and 53rd St.)
212-871-3050

Serge Normant Downtown

After years of trying every ‘it’ salon in the city, I’ve finally found a stylist I can trust.

Meet Sebastian. Approachable, charismatic, and (perhaps more importantly...) extremely talented, he's one very good reason to visit Serge Normant Downtown.

What impressed me most about Sebastian was his ability to give my hair a dose of (much-needed) volume by simply working with its natural texture. No product necessary. Thanks to him, I've now got a style that's as effortless to maintain as it is beautiful. I'm in love.

If you'd like to check out the salon before committing to a cut/color, book a blow-out with Chris, a charming stylist who's quickly becoming one-to-watch. If he doesn't put you at ease, I don't know who will.

UPDATE: I've been back since, and sent a few girlfriends too, and it's just confirmed my initial reaction- Sebastian is definitely en route to becoming the next SuperStylist. I have yet to hear about, or see, anything less than perfection from him. He's genius.

Serge Normant at John Frieda Salon
825 Washington Street
(nr. Little W.12th St.)
212- 675-0001

Jin Soon Hand and Foot Spa

I was out and about in my old neighborhood this morning, and came across Jin Soon Hand and Nail Spa on Jones St., so I popped in (without an appointment)  for a manicure and pedicure.

The space itself is quite intimate and features charming, Asian-inspired details, which quickly differentiates Jin Soon Spa from a typical (neon-lit, overcrowded...) New York nail salon. Their staff was also very friendly and accommodating, as well as talented, so I was instantly put at ease and able to enjoy my treatments.

My only suggestion is to avoid any service involving paraffin at this location, as my experience was a bit off in that regard. As the salon is quite small, the paraffin tub for feet is kept under a bench, in a cabinet, by the doorway and wasn't very appealing to look at (with dust and such on the lid...). Similarly, their paraffin treatment for hands is kept in a storage cabinet between their manicure and pedicure areas, so I was left facing their supply closet, whilst sticking each hand into the darkness to reach the tub (as people tried to pass in the narrow walkway). Not exactly a treat.

Jin Soon Hand and Nail Spa
23 Jones Street
(b/w Bleeker and West 4th)
212-229-1070