CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Andréa and Liza Young; scene from Orient Express; Chanel No. 5; Just Calm Down; Zoya nail polish; Sweet Lily Natural Nail Spa & Boutique.
Beam Me Up
Launched in November 2007 by Brazilian sisters Andréa and Liza Young, Beam Laser Spa uses the latest in FDA-approved laser technology to significantly and permanently reduce hair growth on any part of the body. Clients can expect to notice results after just one visit and, depending on skin type, will see the laser’s full effect in six to eight sessions (regular bikini line or underarm treatment from $185 to $200). Don’t let the word “laser” intimidate you: The Youngs’ GentleMax laser has a high-tech cooling blast that calms the skin while simultaneously destroying active hair follicles, which means minimal discomfort. Beam Laser Spa, 1841 Broadway, 212-245-2577; beamlaserspa.com.—BETSEY MCLAIN
A Fine Romance
This season, Chanel takes viewers on an exotic romantic voyage aboard the storied Orient Express via its new No. 5 ad campaign, featuring Audrey Tautou and directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet. In the film, two strangers who never speak (Tautou and model Travis Davenport) fi nd themselves drawn to each other on an overnight train trip to Istanbul. The reason for the attraction? Chanel No. 5 ($155), naturellement.
Tautou and Jeunet first worked together on Amélie, released in 2001, and when Jeunet was approached to direct the Chanel film, he couldn’t think of a more appropriate star than Tautou. “For an actress to take on this type of role, where there is no dialogue, there has to be a real intensity in her eyes,” he says. “If she could do it, I knew it would be good.” Available at Saks Fifth Avenue, 611 Fifth Avenue, 212-753-4000.—ANNE-MARIE GUARNIERI
Lemony Digits
Tucked away on a quiet corner in Tribeca is Sweet Lily Natural Nail Spa & Boutique, quite possibly the most tranquil nail salon you’ll ever set foot in. From its calming cream-colored interior (with original tin ceiling) to the extracomfy armchairs that serve as pedicure stations, everything about Sweet Lily is geared toward relaxation (no cell phones, please).
It’s also known for its seasonal pedicures; the newest, the Lemon Berry Pedicure (60 minutes, $68), which uses fresh lemons and strawberries, is just the summer pick-me-up tired toes need. “The best soak for the feet is one that is citrus-based. Citrus is a naturally occurring alpha-hydroxy,” explains Sweet Lily owner Donna Perillo. “When feet soak in lemon juice, the skin is both softened and exfoliated, causing surface cells to slough off. Therefore, trouble spots like calluses and cracked heels buff and clean up with ease.”
The soak is followed by a vigorous strawberry scrub (made in-house) and a thorough leg and foot massage with citrus-scented lotion. Top it off with two coats of Zoya polish (we like the La-Di-Da Collection, BELOW), which Sweet Lily uses exclusively because it’s long-wearing as well as free of formaldehyde, toluene and phthalates. Sweet Lily Natural Nail Spa & Boutique, 222 West Broadway, 212-925-5441.—A.M.G.
Bottle Service
No one likes a hangover, so instead of drinking your cares away, book Just Calm Down’s new Champagne Massage (60 minutes, $180). You’ll be engulfed in relaxation from the start: A heated water bed cradles you in warmth while the therapist massages your scalp or feet with heated packs. Next, mimosa-scented massage oil is applied and the full-body massage and Shiatsu stretching releases tension and rejuvenates. Postmassage you’ll receive a piece of rose quartz blessed by a Reiki master—and, of course, a glass of Champagne. Just Calm Down, 30 West 18th Street, 212-337-0032; justcalmdownspa.com.—B.M.
