ARCONA
425 N. Broadway, Santa Monica (310) 458-3800

 

Like its impressive celebrity clients ranging from Cate Blanchett to Jessica Biel, you have to be in the know when it comes to Arcona.  Nestled in a residential condo building formerly occupied by Shiseido, the holistic skin care spa named after its late founder offers facial and body treatments as an alternative to cosmetic surgery.  A chemist and pioneer in holistic skin care, Arcona’s philosophy of providing quality, non-invasive skincare and unparalleled products, thrive at this flagship. 

 

The modern, clean studio designed by Architect David Kellena and Interior Designer Cynthia Marks uses dark woods, limestone floors and an eggshell palette to create an eco-friendly space that uses non-toxic paint and adhesives, air filtration to purify, and purified water.  Walk in and you’ll find the fragrance of Casablanca lilies dancing in the air and a staff that is friendly and as enthused about their products and services as you’ll be once you’ve experienced them.

 

The Studio is renowned for its Signature Facial Contouring.  It incorporates lymph drainage and deep facial massage to work the fifty-five muscles of the face so that a glowing, contoured, mini face-lift effect is achieved.  Note that none of Arcona’s facials involve the standard extractions but be assured that these comforting facials have the same efficacy due to the potent proprietary products used to minister them. 

 

While we are not fans of the sleek though ineffectual packaging of the products (the pump device needs to be prodded every once in a while to continue dispensing the serums), their potency is unbeatable.  Once you’ve used the Arcona skincare line with their active, cosmeceutical-grade ingredients, it will be nearly impossible to be impressed by another.  The Desert Mist, Magic White Ice and Gentle Solution are must-haves in any arsenal although a specialist will be happy to recommend products better suited to your skin type. 

 

All organic fruit enzyme facials start with a tingling enzyme peel with pineapple, papaya and pumpkin.  A neck and shoulder massage relaxes you while the peel works its magic.  The facial includes LED therapy that heals any skin inflammation and promotes collagen.  At the end, a cold and invigorating oxygen spray quenches the skin and helps drive the enzymes deeper into your grateful pores