Beauty Maverick

La Prairie Spa at The Ritz Carlton

If you were to take La Prairie's luxurious approach to beauty and skin care, add a sprinkle of classic New York charm, and remove any sense of snobbery, you'd begin to understand why this spa has been such a well-kept secret among the world's elite.

I finally paid La Prairie a long overdue visit this week, and have nothing but praise for their spa and services. My Hot and Cool Stone Therapeutic Massage ($195-$255) was absolutely amazing, and made that much better by their attentive and gracious staff.

I've been to so many 'luxury' driven spas since moving to New York and, aside from an elaborate mani/pedi here or there, I've been quite disappointed with the majority of my services. This was actually the first time I've walked out of a treatment itching to book a full day of pampering (but, due to deadline, had to resist!).

My recommendation: If you have four hours (and $455) to spare, schedule a Private Reserve session and enjoy a customized facial, Swedish massage, madi/pedi, and a light lunch in a private treatment room.

La Prairie Spa at The Ritz Carlton
50 Central Park South
(212) 308 9100

The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel

With a cleaning service in my apartment, and the temperature in NYC dropping by the hour, I found myself desperately seeking refuge* from the cold on Tuesday. But, where to go?

My suburban instinct told me to find an indoor mall asap, so I went to the only one I know of in New York- the Time-Warner Center. The only catch: I'd forgotten, for a moment, that everyone's out doing their holiday shopping. I quickly realized my mistake (it was a mad house!), and walked right back into the cold. Sigh.

Then, just as I turned the corner to find a cab, I found myself right in front of The Mandarin Oriental Hotel. Fate is a fabulous thing, isn't it? I went up straight up to the 35th floor and defrosted over a lovely lunch (the view is amazing up there)... it was perfect.

I still had a bit of time left to kill after my meal, so I popped into their Spa to see if they had a manicure appointment available. Lucky for me, there was a spot open right away (there are only two chairs) and I got an amazing manicure by a lovely woman named Cecelia. The entire treatment was customized with therapeutic scents, a chroma-therapy reading, as well as Thai massage. After the manicure, Cecelia lead me to their 'Relaxation Room', where the city truly meets serenity. The room has a wonderful view and a comfy bed to rest in while your nails dry. Now that's a proper manicure; It should be always be a treat, not a chore.

The only thing that was a bit off with my experience was that I was told at the spa reception desk that the manicure I was about to receive involved hot stones, paraffin, etc., but was given an entirely different manicure which didn't include either. The one I ended up having instead was fantastic anyway, but I was expecting what had been initially described to me, so I was a bit confused for the majority of my treatment. Aside from that little glitch, this spa couldn't have been a more tranquil, or elegant, environment and I'll definitely visit again soon for a series of their enticing treatments.

UPDATE:
I've just returned from receiving the other manicure I'd mentioned above (the Holistic Hand with paraffin and hot stones, $90/60 min), and have to say that it's far better than the Touch of Thai. The TOT manicure was fantastic, but the hot stone massage, hydrating masque, and paraffin treatment I received today were just unbelievable. On another level entirely. Highly recommended.

The Spa at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel
35th Floor
80 Columbus Circle (at 60th St.)
(212) 805 8880
monyc-spa@mohg.com

* Refuge (rĕf'yūj): Protection or shelter found in in the form of boutiques, beauty bars, and/or luxury hotels.

Philosophy Aromatherapy Kits

The holiday season can take its toll on us all, and who better to lift our spirits than Philosophy? They've come up with two sets of essential oil blends to use when you're feeling sick, stressed, tired, or a bit blue.

I was a little skeptical at first glance (how could something so cute be effective?), but decided to go ahead test all four on my husband and I. I'm happy to report that we both felt a (noticeable) difference when using each blend, and now keep these little vials in the kitchen drawer for whenever we need a quick fix. They're fantastic.

Kits: Stuffies & Stressies and Sleepies & Weepies
Retailer: Sephora.com
Cost: $25.oo Each  

Darphin Purifying Foam Gel

I've yet to find a fault in this foaming facial cleanser and I'm down to the last drop. It's fantastic.

This mild cleanser removes makeup, excess oil, etc. without stripping the skin and leaves you feeling really refreshed.

Darphin's Purifying Foam Gel also helps to balance my t-zone, which is quite liberating as I don't have to carry my powder compact with me anymore. How great is that?

Formulated for all skin types.

Retailer: Darphin.com
Cost: $50.00

Fekkai Complete Kit Collection

I've been a devoted fan of Fekkai's Glossing Cream since it first launched, so when I had the chance to try the Complete Kits, I was beyond excited.

Of course, I don't have every hair type the Kits are created for (the Complete Kit collection includes Full Volume, Glossing, Luscious Curls, Protein Rx, and Technician Color Care product bundles), so I enlisted the help of a few girlfriends to assist in reviewing the collection.

The results were not at all what I expected, leaving me a bit confused as I've always thought quite highly of Fekkai products.

See below for our thoughts...

Protein Rx Complete Kit
Includes: Protein Rx Reparative Shampoo, Deep Nourishing Conditioner, & Anti-Breakage Treatment Mask.

"My hair is long, frizzy/wavy and tortured from curling, straightening, teasing and coloring. A dose of moisture was needed. What I got was a lump o' grease. I started off with the shampoo and conditioner. Even after the final rinse, my hair felt not so much moisturized as greasy. It took a long time to dry and when it did my hair looked flat and well, at the risk of sounding repetitive, greasy. That said, it did feel soft. But, I had to fight the temptation to wash my hair again immediately. I tried Fekkai's Protein Rx Mask three days later, and like a glutton for punishment, ended up with an Exxon Valdez situation on my head. Grease is the word! This time I washed my hair again. Bottom line - my hair may be fried, but you would need some seriously parched strands for this trio to become part of your beauty routine. Too heavy and it seemed to smother my hair rather than pamper it. Did I mention it was greasy?"
- As reviewed by my girlfriend, C., model/writer.

 Glossing Complete Kit
Includes: Glossing Shampoo, Conditioner, & Cream.

"I've been using the Glossing Shampoo, Conditioner and Cream for over a week now, and although I've been following the instructions carefully (including the three very painful seconds of cold water rinse after conditioning...) the truth is that I haven't really seen any major changes, or more precisely, any at all. I do like the softness that the Shampoo and the Conditioner have given to my hair, but I haven't seen any improvement in the shine department. Out of the three products included in the Kit, I think the Glossing Cream is by far the best. I've been handling my hair much more easily, in less time and with less frizz. It doesn't leave the hair feeling heavy at all".
- As reviewed by my girlfriend, M., fashion stylist.

Luscious Curls Complete Kit
Includes: Luscious Curls Shampoo, Conditioner, & Cream.

"Overall, I didn't like the Luscious Curls products. I have to say that during the first week my hair looked okay, but not great, and felt heavier and oilier (I had to wash my hair everyday instead of once every two days). I thought maybe the initial outcome was because I had short hair, so I kept using it for another week, but my hair didn't improve and looked 'sad' and dull. I wouldn't recommend these products".
- As reviewed by my girlfriend, L., art director/designer.

Full Volume Complete Kit
Includes: Full Volume Shampoo, Conditioner, & Mousse.

I'm one of those girls that craves lots of volume, but also has to watch out as anything too aggressive leaves my hair in mess of tangles and knots. Unfortunately, the latter happened every time I used the Full Volume Shampoo and Conditioner. Their scent was also a bit off, smelling more like dish detergent than luxurious hair care product. All that aside, I did really enjoy the Full Volume Mousse and would definitely purchase that again on it's own. It was easy to work with and gave my hair a noticeable lift at the roots.
- My review.

Retailer: BathandBodyWorks.com
Cost: $29.00 each

M.A.C Wipes

Tired and tipsy from a night out with friends, I just couldn't be bothered with my daily makeup-removal routine last night.

But, just as I was about to commit the ultimate sin (makeup in bed), I spotted my new M.A.C Wipes from the corner of my eye. I figured there was no better time to put them to the test, so I pulled out a pre-soaked sheet and went at it.

My dark eyeshadow and water-resistant foundation were removed quickly and easily (a pleasant surprise), but what impressed me most was how soft my skin felt after using the Wipe. I just finished with a spritz of Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist and went to bed.

My skin still feels great and I avoided greeting my guy looking raccoon-esque this morning, so these little Wipes have earned a place in my heart (and medicine cabinet).

Tip: For added refreshment, try refrigerating your makeup removal pads/wipes.

Retailer: MACCosmetics.com
Cost: $16.00- $24.50

Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder

I was a bit skeptical at first glance, but decided to try this stark-white powder anyway as it's been getting rave reviews.

My findings: If you're looking for a maximum coverage powder to finish your look, this is probably not the product for you. But, if you're just looking to lightly set your foundation/concealer or add a noticeable glow to your skin- Laura Mercier's Secret Brightening Powder could become your next beauty obsession.

I've been using this product on days where I wouldn't generally use anything but mascara (a must!) and blush, and friends have actually pointed out the positive change in my (olive) complexion. Everyone secretly loves a compliment, and I'm no exception, so this little tub has definitely earned it's place in my overstuffed beauty closet.

If you decide to test the Secret Brightening Powder for yourself, dust the product on 1/2 of your face and take a look in the mirror. It's pretty impressive.

Retailer: Saks.com
Cost: $22.00

RéVive Intensite Fluide Superbe

I don't know about you, but my skin goes mad with every change of season. It's beyond frustrating.

Each Autumn/Winter, I do my best to moisturize, exfoliate, and masque my way to perfectly balanced skin, but random dry spots have always seemed unavoidable. That is, until now.

I've been using the new RéVive Intensite Fluide Superbe as a spot treatment to relieve dry skin (directly on the area) and as an intensive overnight treatment for my (lip plump addicted) lips. After only one use, my skin feels soft and supple again- it's incredible.

So why not use this miracle potion on my entire face?  Well, a) I'm fairly young and have combination skin so it's a bit too heavy, and b) the price makes you think twice before bathing your skin in it! It is expensive but, when used sparingly, this serum is well worth the SRP.

Retailer: NeimanMarcus.com
Cost: $400.00

Ole Henriksen Body Sleek

This hydrating body lotion is a must-have if your skin's craving a dose of intense moisture (without the grease).

I didn't expect much from this basic bottle when it arrived, but was quickly convinced of the product's potency after only the first application. My skin instantly felt much softer and has been retaining moisture better than before, so there's been no need to constantly reapply. There's also no heavy fragrance to Body Sleek, which is a bonus if you're sensitive to scent.

So go on, slather yourself neck-to-toe in this lightweight lotion (after a shower/bath for best results) and see for yourself. It's amazing.

Retailer: Sephora.com
Cost: $28.00

Claus Porto Favorito Liquid Soap

If you're not already familiar with Claus Porto, it's a Portuguese brand (founded in the 1800's) that produces highly addictive bath and body products. Some love the brand for their playful Art Deco packaging, and some (like me) just can't get enough of their unique scents.

That said, I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I recently ordered the Favorito (Red Poppy) scent from their Aloe Vera Liquid Soap Collection. Was it going to be floral and fresh? Rich and earthy? Poppy seems like a difficult scent to capture and I'm not sure I even know what the flower smells like in all honesty.

Well, if poppies smell anything like the Favorito Liquid Soap, I'm intrigued. I was pleasantly surprised with Claus Porto's interpretation of this bold, symbolically charged flower as the scent is beautifully bittersweet and leaves your hands with a subtle fragrance. A totally unique experience in scent.

Retailer: Drugstore.com
Cost: $17.00