Words cannot describe how incredible this place is. Founded by two sisters, these New Yorkers have the knowledge, experience and down-to-earth personalities you want in an esthetician. During my visit, I was lucky enough to try the life-changing SilkPeel Dermalinfusion with Sai, one of the owners. She guided me through the process, we talked about my skin and regimen but also gossiped like we'd been best friends forever. Aside from the incredible service, the treatment was divine. After walking in with a couple breakouts, I walked out less than an hour later and they were almost nonexistent. Needless to say, I am now addicted to the SilkPeel (and Glo Skin & Laser).
Many beauty enthusiasts have heard of (and probably experienced) Drybar products, but the blowout is on another level. I headed to the Crosby St. location that's actually inside of Bloomingdale's and was seriously impressed with the experience. My stylist told me all about how amazing the products were (and introduced me to On The Rocks, the lightweight replenishing conditioner that has forever changed my quick-to-get-oily locks). Her shampoo was divine and I loved that she didn't force me into conversation. Sometimes a blowout is best when you can just soak it all in and live inside your head for 45 minutes.
Address: 44 Crosby St, New York, NY 10012 (multiple locations)
When your skin is craving a basic facial, Dermalogica is one of the hippest places to have it done. As you walk into the light and bright (even on a day as rainy as it was when I visited) store filled to the ceilings with skin care, you know you're in the right hands. The estheticians warmly greet you, have you fill out a form detailing your skin, then take you back to their Skin Pod, a soundproof pod in the middle of the store where you'll have your service done. The colorful glowing lights give off the vibes of a high-end spa when you're actually in the middle of a retail location. My esthetician introduced me to the Bioactive Peel that left my skin bright, glowing and as healthy as ever.
Photos do not do this luxury Manhattan spa destination justice. As you head up to the eighth floor of the ever-so-luxurious building right off Fifth Avenue, you'll instantly feel like a celebrity. Relaxation hits you as you walk in and see their modern yet incredibly calming decor and staff. Whether you've come for a service or just to grab a day pass to the facilities, you'll be impressed. During my visit, I tried the Detoxifying Mud Wrap and it left my body looking and feeling brand new.
Established in 2013, the Bite Beauty Lip Lab has been a hit ever since. Sure, you could grab yourself a cool New York City mug or T-shirt, but bringing home something created specifically for you is an experience like no other. The Lip Lab artists will guide you through customizing and creating your own lipstick — including colors, finishes and scents — that you get to take home and obsess over.
