Of all the body parts to be pampered, the face is often overlooked. Why not treat your own mask?
International Orange has long been loved (and showered with accolades) for its non-invasive, restorative methods that encourage the body's natural healing process. If you're feeling worn down or noticing one too many wrinkles, IO's brand new anti-aging facial (All About Face) is a rejuvenating choice to get glowing in no time. Your face gets a warm steam bath during an exfoliating peel, a vigorous facial massage, and attention by high-tech tools like Ultrasound and Microcurrent devices. The technician also uses red and blue LED lights to target damaged skin and stimulate cell regeneration. Don't be surprised when you receive comments on your glowing skin afterwards, but the next morning is when you'll especially notice the difference in the mirror. They're also launching a new Acne facial, find more details here. 2044 Fillmore St. 415-992-8640.
Never mind that Burke Williams San Francisco is located in the bustling Westfield Shopping Centre. Once you step foot through the tall, wooden doors, the city’s chaos is but a distant memory. You’re greeted at the front desk and whisked away to a land where people lounge in white robes and sip chilled water in sweet silence. Once you’ve changed, your aesthetician will show you to a heated bed to soothe your aching muscles. To start the Four-Layer Resurfacing Facial, your hands are dipped into a warm, moisturizing wax and placed into heated gloves and steam begins pouring over your face. Pineapple and papaya enzymes work to erase fine lines, while the blueberry masque infuses your skin with antioxidants. Your skin may appear rosy following your appointment, but take all the time you need relaxing in the complimentary hot tub and steam rooms. Truly an oasis in the heart of busy downtown San Francisco. 845 Market St. #510. 415-694-7980.
The Social Beauty Co. is a chatty girl’s dream salon. Think local barbershop meets everything lush and girly–a destination for those of us who aren’t programmed to speak in a permanent whisper like they do at those eerily silent day spas. Located in SF’s Marina District, young business partners Nicole and Julia put results and socialization before peace and quiet. Your visit starts off with a glass of wine, which makes filling out the standard paperwork about skin allergies a little more bearable. Imagine Damian Marley playing softly in the background as you melt into a heated bed and let your stress fade away. Aside from the shoulder and neck massage that leaves you feeling like a limp noodle (in the best way possible), the Lira Clinical scrubs and serums used in the Pure Hydration Facial transform your skin into soft and utter perfection. Tired of salons pushing pricey products on you immediately following the relaxation you just paid for? These girls do no such thing, aside from gathering some complimentary samples for you to try out on your own. Going out on the town and need your makeup and hair done? We can’t imagine a better place. See you there! 2157 Lombard St. 415-529-1305.
Botanical facial. Photo courtesy of Earthbody
Walking into Earthbody feels like you're visiting your well-traveled aunt's house. Located in a funky converted Victorian in Hayes Valley, Earthbody's focus is on eco-conscious, holistic care. If you're looking for name-brand products, clean lines, and silence, this is not the place for you. But if you're looking for organic handmade products and a spa whose motto is, "to heal every person on the planet," then this is your jam. The standard facial is one of those rare experiences where you are truly and unexpectedly blown away. The hour-long process combines massage, skin treatments, an extractions in a way that makes it both hugely beneficial to your skin and self. We came away feeling exceptionally relaxed (like a massage) and with next-level great-feeling skin. All products used at the spa were developed by Earthbody founder Denmo Ibrahim, and concocted by Adrienne Crimson Fonte (who did the facial–and was so, so wonderful). There are no fillers in any products (water, wax, alcohol, paragons, or preservatives). Essentially, nothing is added that's not directly beneficial to your skin. They use only organic, (and when possible) locally grown herbs and oils, and make everything in small batches. And on a side note, the writer purchased the "Protect" balm and her skin as never, ever felt better. 534 Laguna St. 415-552-7200
The partnership between the one-woman wonder that is Lori Anderson Skincare and product partner Ayla Beauty is pure genius. Lori is a pro when it comes to problem skin and helping clients come up with the right game plan for overall skin health. Her facials feel good, but her focus is on scientifically working to get the skin results her clients need. She moved into a new studio at the Healing Arts Building this month, and although we haven't seen her new space yet, we're sure it's as simple, relaxing and charming as her previous SoMA digs. Ayla Beauty also recently moved into the Healing Arts Building, and has a micro-shop set up if you're in the neighborhood–or you can visit their online shop. Along with stocking carefully hand-selected products, each and every customer gets paired with a skincare expert (a real person!) who guides them to the best products for their skin, and follow up to see how everything is working. It creates lasting relationships that lead to great skin. 1801 Bush St. 415-512-1884
Where is your favorite place to indulge in a facial? Let us know in the comments below.
