Between the perpetually great weather and the dedication to healthy living, Los Angeles locals just seem to have a certain California glow—and it’s not just from the cold-pressed green juice. Here are seven must-visit beauty and wellness destinations that are uniquely L.A.
Spa Montage
Spa Montage is a 20,000 square foot oasis in Los Angeles. Courtesy Spa Montage
This 20,000 square foot oasis inspired by 9th century Andalusia feels worlds away from the nearby hustle and bustle of Rodeo Drive. Between the “bath house”-style mineral pool (surrounded by stunning mosaic-tiled walls and large skylights), Swiss showers, herbal steam rooms and cozy relaxation nooks, you could easily find yourself having the most indulgent spa day here. Go for an L. Raphael facial (this is the only West Coast location that features the innovative Swiss line) or for a truly one-of-a-kind experience, schedule the Elements of Wellness Signature Therapy, which includes completely customized treatments that range from European hydrotherapy to intense salt exfoliations to reflexology and more—all based on a detailed pre-appointment questionnaire.
Shape House
Shape House is a literal hot spot. Courtesy Shape House
This literal hot spot is just as popular among celebrities as it is with Angelenos who believe in the detoxifying powers of a vigorous sweat session. The standard 55-minute appointment is pretty simple: You’re wrapped in an infrared blanket and left to relax in what feels like an intensely heated cocoon (cranked up to 158 degrees) while napping, listening to music, or Netflix-ing. Satisfied customers and devoted members credit monthly visits for giving them an easy way to burn calories, a daily energy boost, and much better sleep.
Kate Somerville Skin Health Experts Clinic
Kate Somerville Skin Health Experts Clinic is on Melrose Place.Housed in a charmingly historic bungalow on Melrose Place (that was once Sean Connery’s house while he filmed the Bond series), the space feels less like a comprehensive medi-skin clinic and more like a glamorous Old Hollywood home. Kate Somerville’s skincare haven specializes in glow-inducing facials using high-tech treatments and products from her wildly popular namesake line. A-listers frequent the place before major industry events for oxygen-infused DermalQuench facials and non-invasive Laser Genesis treatments, which stimulate collagen, refine pores, and leave skin even and smoothed.
Pause Float Studio
Pause Float Studio offers private float therapy. Courtesy Pause
This unique destination offers float therapy, which involves a private pool of Epsom salt-infused water to lie in while enjoying an unplugged respite from everyday life. Between the comfortable skin-soothing temperature of the water (93.5 degrees) to the gravity-defying effect from the buoyancy to the optional ambient light and sound, it’s almost impossible not to slip into a meditative state (or even fall asleep) for the full hour. The post-float wind-down is just as relaxing: Continue decompressing while reading, journaling, or sipping an organic tea in the serenely-designed lounge.
The Spa at Beverly Wilshire
Natura Bissé and the Spa at Beverly Wilshire teamed up. The Spa at Beverly Wilshire
From jet lag-banishing essential oil massages to firming pre-red carpet body treatments, this spa at the hotel made famous by Pretty Woman features a variety of lavish ways to unwind. For all-out beautification, opt for one of the Diamond Rose facial or body treatments, which include Moroccan damask rose and diamond dust-infused products from Natura Bisse’s rejuvenating, anti-aging, and supremely luxurious collection.
The Now
The Now is a rustic sanctuary. Courtesy The Now
Even if you can’t book a Tulum getaway anytime soon, you can still escape to this gorgeously rustic bohemian sanctuary, inspired by the dreamy Coqui Coqui hotel in Mexico. Massages start at an ultra affordable $35 (without skimping on expert techniques) and range from tension-relieving foot rubs to circulation-boosting sports massages, with customizable add-ons like cooling eye masks and aromatherapy. With walk-ins available and even encouraged, and locations in WeHo, Santa Monica, and soon-to-be in Silver Lake, this may become your new go-to R&R retreat that’s just as calming as it is convenient.
Base Coat Nail Salon
The Base Coat nail bar. Courtesy Base Coat
This airy, urban-chic nail bar is located in the blossoming indie-cool Arts District of downtown L.A. As the name suggests, manicures are kept simple and non-toxic (no gels or acrylics here), using the brand’s own vast collection of 8-free vegan polishes as well as all-natural scrubs and soaks from organic bodycare line Fig & Yarrow. Alongside pampering hand and foot treatments, you can also enjoy juices, teas and beauty tonics from the cute in-house bar.
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