I’m one of those unicorns – at least among those who have worked nearly two decades in the beauty space – who have waited till they are in their 30s to try Botox. When I finally did it was game-changing. Everyone told me not to do it. I’m talking my parents, husband etc., so I didn’t tell them I was walking over to Dr. Dennis Gross’ office for some reverse aging last summer when I did it for the first and only time thus far (since I got pregnant soon after).
Now, I literally can’t wait to have this baby and get it again. No one noticed I had anything done, but after it settled in about 1-2 weeks later I kept getting compliments on “my glow.” No one could pinpoint what was different – just that I looked “great.” A few weeks later I ended up confessing to the Botox and all the naysayers couldn’t believe how naturally fantastic it looked.
Needless to say I swear by all things Dr. Gross and day-to-day I give myself “facials” with his Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel Pads, and they’re why I’m “sure” my acne-prone, very pale and sensitive skin hasn’t suffered from common pregnancy-related skin ailments. I’m also loving his Vitamin C Lactic Biocellulose Brightening Treatment Mask. But with frequent travels between Tel Aviv, Miami and New York squeezing in some extra professional care has been critical.
Here’s a look at three buzzy spots to consider in between your at home care – or if you’re not ready for injectables like Botox.
Deep Blue Med Spa
I’ve had a fantastic experience at Deep Blue Med Spa, which recently opened a flagship in New York City. If you want someone who really knows their stuff, this is where you want to go. All services are performed by licensed, highly trained board-certified physician assistants and nurse practitioners that have extensive experience (in the top 1% of Botox providers in the nation) in administering treatments including injectable trainers for Galderma and Allergan, but they have a ton of options for those looking for alternatives and for those who, like me, who are pregnant.
Their signature DiamondGlow Facial (real diamonds are used to exfoliate!) is based on an in-depth conversation about your skin and concerns. I’m not sure if it was the exfoliation or the extractions (no redness or marks, which I feel that I need to highlight as someone who has had awful past experiences with extractions), but my pores appeared smaller afterwards and my skin was hydrated and glowing. Plus, I picked up a few great tips specific to my skin along the way and, besides being effective, the facial is also very relaxing.
Dr. Barbara Sturm
Dr. Barbara Sturm is known for her cult beauty products beloved by celebs and models across the board, so it was only a matter of time before she expanded her spa empire with New York City locations, which is how I recently got to try one of her signature facials. Dr. Sturm’s two NYC openings come after successful ones in cities like Düsseldorf, Los Angeles, London, Miami, Dallas and Saint-Tropez and the experience – which starts with skin nourishing tea – did not disappoint.
Music, temperature, robes… everything is meticulously thought out when you go in for one of their signature facials, which also include add-ons like microdermabrasion to leave your skin glowing. Here too you need not fear about extractions and they will be very specific when it comes to add-ons – like microdermabrasion – in regards to how red (or not) you might be.
Skin Laundry
If you’re looking to be consistent with your in-office skincare but don’t want to go the invasive route, Skin Laundry is for you. They use medical-grade lasers to rejuvenate skin cells, boost collagen production and improve clarity via quick 10-15 minute treatments. These treatments are designed to be done weekly to keep skin at its optimal state. The process is quick and painless and particularly effective for those prone to the perils of environmental aggressors.
