Added Nov 03, 2008

Spa Overview:

Elegant, sophisticated, yet approachable space. Zen minimalism meets enough warmth and comfort that you feel instantly at ease. Chic yet unintimidating.

Reception:

I’ve been coming here for years, and the spa recently underwent a transformative expansion. Now, you can sit on the comfy pale green sofas and take in the interesting antiques, product lines on displays, and decorations while waiting for your service.

Everyone here is super sweet and welcoming. It might be in one of the traditionally chic areas of town, but it is intimate and relaxing.

Bathrooms/Changing Area:

The bathroom is a tiny little NYC bathroom—it does the job and is always clean. The changing area is in the treatment room. If you get a body scrub or treatment, there is a separate space with a shower.

Treatment Room Space:

Pristine, white sheets, and white comfy treatment bed in a tranquil little room. Some Asian/Buddhist touches such as Zen rock gardens and Buddha statues in some of the rooms.

Amenities:

Water, Pellegrino, other interesting Italian soda-drinks.

Deals:

You can buy packages of 6 for some services and get the 7^th one free.

Service:

I’m in love with lumifacials. I smoked for almost 10 years before I became a huge wellness aficionado, and I’m see-through pale with paper-thin skin. Not usually a good combination for longevity of elasticity or wrinkle-free existence. Plus I’m well into my 30s and have had hormonal problems that caused cystic acne and, hence, scars. I’ve been carded—recently—and part of the reason is these facials. Also, my scarring has been completely eliminated as a result of regular lumifacials. Their lumifacial machine is top of the line—the Soli-tone, uses multiple lights (red, green, etc.) to stimulate collagen in the skin, even out your skin tone, create elasticity, reduce acne, and reduce wrinkles. It is the most powerful machine I’ve used when it comes to high-tech skincare.

I was skeptical at first, but the thing works. On top of it, I get the enzyme treatment with Dana, who is just amazing and very knowledgeable about every service. She always gets it dead right when it comes to choosing the enzyme needed for my skin woes of the moment, whether it is seasonal or stress-related. I usually get extractions as well, and leave with baby-soft, glowing skin that appears years younger.

Because I have such sensitive skin, I need an aesthetician that is not only very knowledgeable, but also listens and is extremely detail oriented. Dana really takes her time with your skin, and never rushes any part of the service.

I have previously done the lumifacials in a package of up to 8—8 weeks in a row. I was never bored of Dana or coming into the spa. In fact, when my series was complete, and I needed to come in only once every 4 weeks for maintenance, I missed the weekly experience. I’m very busy, like every New Yorker, but my weekly retreat at Glow kept me sane. That also goes a long way for helping your skin look great.

Now I only go back once a month. My acne scars are entirely gone, and most of my hormonal breakouts are kept at bay by monthly maintenance.

Dana recommended the BioElements product line, and it has been a lifesaver when it comes to keeping up my skin care regimen. Great for those with highly sensitive skin (I’m allergic to fragrance and too many chemicals).

All in all, I owe it to Glow for having fabulous skin.

Special Sauce:

Dana is incredible, is great at facial massage, is super smart and nice to boot. Glow is in a great area of town, shop for the day or take a class at the Alliance Française, and pop into Glow after. As an Upper West Sider, I always make a point to walk through the park on my way home. Glow is also great because all the ladies there are at the top of their game, and it is easy to chat with them about anything. A true retreat.

Payment Time:

Easy and comfortable. Just a really nice spa—everyone is so engaging and friendly that the payment process is just sublime.

Go Again:

I’m addicted to this spa. Only my travels keep me away.

Recommend to a Friend:

Have done this on many occasions, but even better—people ask me where I get my facials, and I always say Glow.

Other Treatments Experienced at this Spa:

Massage, body treatments, enzyme facials, eyebrow shaping and waxing, face waxing, acupuncture.