Salon and Spa Directory: Facial at Shizuka New York

Do you want to be pampered? I'm not really sure whose answer to that question would be no. Ever on the quest for the spa that cares, that goes the extra mile, that really puts your needs first, this beauty chick recently entered the haven that is Shizuka New York.

Surrounded by the hustle and bustle of tourists around Rockefeller Center, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Luckily, a relaxing and tranquil environment awaited me. I was immediately greeted and led to the changing rooms and locker area, where I was given the cutest-ever flowered kimono in its own matching bag! After changing and relaxing for a few minutes in the lounge (complete with plenty of oversized armchairs, tasty orange-flavored water and tons of good magazines to keep me busy), I met with Shizuka Bernstein herself for my Signature Micro Facial ($160 for 80 minutes).

First, however, Shizuka asked me some questions about my daily skincare regimen so that she would know how to proceed. Once she started, I knew I was in the hands of a master -- she massaged and scrubbed with the best of them! The treatment included an absolutely yummy-scented pumpkin peel to make my skin glow, and of course put me in the mood for Thanksgiving and pumpkin pie! The most notable part of the facial, however, was the absolutely painless extractions. While extractions have never been too painful for this beauty chick, they've never exactly been a walk in the park, either! But with Shizuka's expert touch, I seriously didn't feel a thing. And when she proceeded to give me an upper body, hand and foot massage, I thought I would float right up into the clouds.

I was left with bright, supple, smooth skin and the wish that I could go to Shizuka for this kind of treatment every day. And all this and more can be yours if you just call and make an appointment. Trust me, you'll be left feeling more than satisfied.