Cutting-Edge Facials Freshen Skin

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400

The new 80-minute Ultra Micro-Current facial at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel.

A facial is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, but I was looking for a lot more than relaxation. I sought out the expertise of Desiree McGrath, an aesthetician at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel (1 Logan Sq., 215-963-1500), for the new Ultra Micro-Current Facial. This anti-aging 80-minute facial starts with a cleanse using Naturopathica or IS Clinical products before moving on to the Ultra-Sonic Exfoliation, which uses sound-wave technology, followed by the Micro-Current treatment, in which electrical currents and colored LED lights are directed over the skin to treat wrinkles and tighten muscles.

The secret of this facial is the sonic exfoliation, which uses sound waves to loosen dead skin cells and open pores so that the skin may better absorb products. “When you compare regular exfoliation to Ultra-Sonic Exfoliation, it’s like comparing apples to apple pie: Ultra-Sonic Exfoliation is the apple pie,” says McGrath.

She says 10 to 12 treatments prevent or visibly reverse signs of aging with long-term effects. Based on one facial with her, I’m ready to sign up for more.

The next stop in my quest for the ultimate in luxe facials brought me to Newtown’s Blossom Cosmetic Boutique (13 S. State St., 215-860-3388). I met with Britani Hofmann to discuss the new MicroVenom Anti-aging Facial, based on the Sonya Dakar MicroVenom product line, which is infused with synthetic snake venom. According to Hofmann, this synthetic venom was going to firm my skin and eliminate clogs that can lead to blemishes.

The facial consisted of Sonya Dakar Skincare’s nourishing wash, a pumpkin enzyme peeling cream, lactic acid peel, European facial massage, and calming mask. Then the MicroVenom is applied. The products were marvelously light, and suddenly I looked healthier—as if I had fresh, summertime skin without the tan.

Commonwealth Proper's Pocket Squares

Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 -0400

Floral pocket squares, Commonwealth Proper ($55 each).

A well-dressed man understands the importance of a great accessory. Though a handcrafted monk strap and a polished tie bar certainly contribute to a sophisticated ensemble, no accessory proves more powerful than the pocket square. Printed, multicolored, embroidered, or monogrammed, this classic accessory lends a touch of personality in an elegant manner.

“The pocket square serves as the final detail that brings together a man’s outfit,” says Commonwealth Proper founder Craig Arthur von Schroeder. While polka dots and stripes are among the most common patterns, the savviest customers are opting for a bolder print this spring: abstract florals. “Instead of the often two-tone nature of polkas and stripes, floral pocket squares have many colors, meaning they’ll work with even more garments. The pattern is the perfect way to take your sartorial game to the next level,” he says. Commonwealth Proper, 1732 Spruce St., 215-435-0809

Philadelphia Style Magazine

Cutting-Edge Facials Freshen Skin

Commonwealth Proper's Pocket Squares