There’s nothing like having your skin touched by hands that have graced the faces of some the world’s most renowned industry people. Just a stone throw from Condé Nast, Joanna Vargas Skincare is more than just another beauty spot; she’s a miracle worker. Coming from someone who has nice skin (Joanna’s words, not mine), I’m actually very hard to please. I have blackheads on my nose, so live for extractions. With the occasional breakouts on my cheek and chin and a tendency to look as though food was just fried on my face, I prefer blemish free glows after salon treatments – and Joanna came through!
To rehabilitate my skin from all those winter woes, Joanna recommended her Grapefruit Detox Cleanse. Utilized to refresh dry skin and calms redness, it feels like the facial version ofBlueprint – nourishing, delicious (from grapefruit), and hydrating. Throughout my appointment, I was curious to know why each step was necessary, especially the exfoliations. Joanna explained there is more than one type of exfoliation – ones that disrupt the skin with mechanics to slough away dead cells and others that use chemicals to encourage cell turnover like in her Exfoliating Mask.Which include galactoarabinan, derived from the larch tree, to boost cell turnover and lactic acid to break the bonds of dead skin cells. Dependent on your skin, one can be better than the other.
After what felt like mere seconds, my skin shined bright like a diamond, felt as soft as a baby’s bottom, and received many compliments on its glow. Which is what you want after a salon visit – for others to take notice. DUH!
Though located in one of the many hearts of New York, it’s calmly designed, sound-proof sanctuary offers the perfect mini break from the hustle and bustle of the streets below.