Four-star hotels aren’t just for dream vacations and illicit rendezvous with Tiger Woods. They also house top-notch spas with state-of-the-art treatments. We felt it our obligation — nay, our civic duty — to test-drive the best of the bunch. They really hit a hole in one.
All About Eve
Get glowing with the Eve Lom signature facial ($225) at Ciel Spa at SLS. Bolstered by products from the luxe skin care line, the treatment includes extractions, lymphatic massage, herbal compresses, and a paraffin wax mask. The result? Skin so soft and supple, you’ll think you’re Benjamin Button-ing. 465 South La Cienega Boulevard, between San Vicente Boulevard and Clifton Way (310-246-5560).
Break Out the Bubbly
The Four Seasons’s Effervescence Facial ($205) tickles us pink. Start off on a sweet note with a honey and papaya enzyme mask that’s too tempting not to taste. Next, a citrus and rosemary mud mask draws out impurities. Finally, the piece de resistance: an exfoliating/collagen-stimulating citric acid mask that’s activated by copper mist and literally makes your face fizz. We decree this the most fun facial ever. 300 South Doheny Drive, at Burton Way (310-273-2222).
A Clean Slate
Pore perfectionists swear by the Cure Therapy ($160) at Casa del Mar’s Sea Wellness Spa. A thermoactive enzymatic detox formula opens and purifies pores with heat and botanicals before extractions are performed with an obsessive fervor. A soothing nano-stimulating mask delivers a hefty boost of moisturizer. 1910 Ocean Way, between Pico Boulevard and Bay Street (310-581-5533).
The Motion of the Ocean
Hotel Bel-Air Spa by La Prairie’s Advanced Marine Biology Facial ($310) harnesses the regenerating properties of sea botanicals to deliver a potent, antioxidant rich cocktail. The 90-minute treatment incorporates the full AMB product range along with a hot and cold stone body and face massage. Overlaid on the spa bed, a warm water-filled hydromat produces a pleasant, floating sensation. 701 Stone Canyon Road, between Capello and Tortuoso Ways (310-909-1681).
Photos: Nichola Evans / Getty Images; Courtesy of Ciel Spa at SLS; Courtesy of Four Seasons; Courtesy of Sea Wellness Spa; Courtesy of Hotel Bel-Air Spa by La Prairie
