Winter is tough on my combination skin, which plagues me with superdry cheeks and a very oily forehead. Even so, I felt hopeful as I entered this new uptown location of Bliss Spa. My aesthetician, Irina Chern, examined my grit-filled pores and blemishes, and asked me precise questions about my daily skin-care routine. Her expertise allowed her to pinpoint underlying causes of distress that I’d never connected to my mug’s sometimes erratic behavior; for instance, my salicylic-acid face wash is fine to use in the summer, when my skin is greasier, but it’s overly drying in the winter. Once the assessment concluded, she proceeded with cleansing and exfoliation—both of which employed the brand’s balancing Fabulous products—followed by extractions and an oxygen mask that felt like a fuzzy cloud resting on my face. Not only did I leave with a refreshed countenance, but I gained important insight on how to keep it looking great year-round. $125.
Whether you live in Midtown East or just work there, you’d do well to keep these spas in NYC in mind for when you need a break. Recharge with massages, facials and manicures, plus hair treatments so relaxing you’ll be tempted to doze.
RECOMMENDED: New York spas guide 2013