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Beauty Treatments/Cosmetic Procedures
Damone Roberts Salon Palacinka Product Rating Guide
We were lucky enough to be invited to the new Damone Roberts salon in NYC. Damone's salon is the eye brow shaping destination of famous women like Beyonce, Mandy More, Angela Bassett and more! (He also let us know that none other than Vanessa Williams has his products shipped to the "Ugly Betty" television show set)! Damone Roberts, who is also a host on the TLC television show "10 Years Younger", is the master of the perfect "frame" or eyebrow and has worked with countless celebrities such as Madonna, Chaka Kahn, Reba McEntire and Paula Abdul.
Our Editor-in-Chief had the pleasure of getting a brow shaping by Damone Roberts himself and could not have been happier. One of the keys to Damone's amazing results is that he has clients recline laying down in the chair, which gives him the perfect perspective to view the entire facial structure to create the perfect brow shape for each individual (and it's super relaxing for the clients as well!:)
Damone demonstrating his technique
After his near painless waxing and shaping process, he finished with some of his own custom brow products. For our Editor-in-Chief, he used the Minx brow power, Golddigger brow highlighter and his very own brow powder smudge brush.
What does the future hold in store for Damone? Well, more Damone Roberts salon locations, possibly in Canada and Europe for starters, and a makeup line which is currently in the works and will be available later this year. One of the components of his make up line will be a variety of pinks which will truly flatter every woman, no matter what her shade or undertone.
To schedule your appointment please contact the Damone Roberts salon in either New York or Beverly Hills. If Damone is not available, please ask for one of his other eyebrow sculptors, (who are personally trained by Damone himself), such as Armond Hambrick or Maxine.
Armond Hambrick (NYLocation)
Maxine (NYLocation)
New York Location
New York, NY 574 5th Ave. 6th Floor. New York, NY 10036 212-764-4755
Beverly Hills Location
Beverly Hills, CA 9669 Wilshire Blvd. Beverly Hills CA 90210 310-271-2100
@Ease Spa Palacinka Product Rating Guide
@Ease Spa
Treatments: Chocolate Fix Body Treatment & Oxygen Facial
Tester: African-American with dry skin on body and combination skin with occasional breakouts on face. Frequent spa goer.
"About 30min outside of Manhattan is a gem of a spa with a name that gives you your first clue that you will be in heaven soon! @Ease was created to rejuvenate your body and mind, emerge refreshed and inspired. They have created over thirty different body treatments, facials and massages with an expertly trained staff.
When I walked in I was just amazed at how beautiful it was and the relaxing, tasteful, yet truly unique décor of the spa.
My first indulgence was the Chocolate Body Treatment which takes place in their “Water” room.
Ofra (the owner and creator) who was absolutely lovely, extremely knowledgeable about skin and body care attended to my entire treatment. She began the treatment with body brushing, massaging a chocolate oil into my skin, and application of the warm chocolate mud (heavenly!). She then wrapped me to perfection and allowed me to relax the beautiful room to let all the pampering ingredients fully penetrate my body. Then, she returned to unwrap me and turn on the amazing Vichy shower to rinse everything. It ended with a final coating of the moisturizing cream of my choice (I chose chocolate again!) and a very nice massage to boot!
Then I was off to their personal sauna for a break between treatments with lovely drinks and then a nice snack of fresh fruit in the meditation room (with a rose on the plate) -- It’s these small details that make @Ease spa such a special place.
The Oxygen facial began with her moisturizing my feet and hands and then putting them in special warmers as I laid down for the treatment. The facial included steam, extraction, a wonderful shoulder and arm massage and a very effective oxygenating mask. My skin was glowing from head to toe and I can’t wait to get back!
This is a must for self-pampering for both the spa novice as well as the spa junkie.
Because of the multiple rooms done in very attractive fung shi style (Water, Fire, Earth, etc), it’s also an ideal place for couples treatments (several of the rooms have double doors which open up for this), and for bridal parties or just a day at the spa with a group of your friends!
Another fantastic feature of this spa is that the prices for their services are very reasonable and they frequently offer very great specials too.” - RLB
This service gets 4 "Palacinka Points" *
Don't you think your friend would love it if you told her about @Ease Spa?
For a virtual tour to see the entire spa click here:
http://www.at-easespa.com/virtualTouregg.html
For more information and to book your spa service today visit:
142 Broadway
Hillsdale, New Jersey 07642
Tel. 866.672.4432
Tel. 201.722.8848
MesoBoutique Palacinka Product Rating Guide
Botox Treatment-by Dr. Nodar Janas
Tester: West Indian, (Trinidadian), late 30’s; with good skin tone.
Like many of you, I have always heard things like “Black doesn’t crack”; “Asian women don’t age”….etc. Well, at the tail end of 30 I was pretty pleased with how my skin looked—and most people think I am younger than I really am, but in the last year or so, I started noticing some lines on my forehead that I wasn’t happy with.
So enter the wonderful Dr. Janas, a Great Neck, NY-based dermatologist who not only had a truly pleasant bedside manner, but filled me in with his wealth of knowledge and experience with BOTOX®Cosmetic.
BOTOX®Cosmetic is considered an “injectable”, administered with a small needle into the skin. BOTOX®Cosmetic is a purified protein produced by the Clostridium botulinum bacterium, which reduces the activity of the muscles that cause those frown lines between the brows to form over time. BOTOX® Cosmetic is a non-surgical, physician-administered aesthetic treatment that can temporarily reduce the moderate to severe frown lines between your brows for up to 4 months.
What was truly amazing is how versatile BOTOX®Cosmetic is! Among other things, Dr. Janas informed me of Botox’s myriad uses: subtle nose alternations (who knew?), underarm and foot perspiration, -- even minor breast lifts (still in the testing stage).
After giving me a complete background in BOTOX®Cosmetic and his experience using it, we went to begin the treatment. He and his assistant applied a numbing cream to my forehead for about 15 min, and then Dr. Janas went on to show me the actual bottle of Botox with the official hologramed seal from the Allergan company that produces it (unopened) that he would be using. (This, he says, he a must for a patient to ask for from their doctor, as there are some unscrupulous people who use counterfeit Botox).
I don’t have a big needle fear, but in truth it’s not very big and his lovely assistant worked closely with him so that I didn’t really even notice it. He then began a series of small “pricks” (about 15 or so) with the needle all around my forehead and above my eye brows. He explained that the Botox would affect the areas around the forehead that are responsible for moving these muscles, but that later, after the Botox takes full effect (4-5 days later) my body would learn to actually utilize alternate muscles. (This is why I didn’t have any “frozen” feeling as I had feared might occur). We were done in under half an hour!
Right after the treatment, I did notice a slight softening of the lines, but otherwise I was still able to move my forehead as before and didn’t have any skin irritation at all. I felt fine and as if I hadn’t had anything done when I left the office.
As a matter of fact, it was only much later that day after lunch and meetings, that it dawned on me what I had had done!
A few days later I could really notice the difference -- my forehead was as smooth as a baby’s with not a line in sight and I had no soreness or irritation. I then felt some of the muscles were “stiffening” in my forehead area, but it wasn’t distracting or uncomfortable at all. Dr. Janas checked in with me via phone a few days later and I told me how pleased I was! It’s now been about 3 weeks and I am so happy with the results. It is true that I can’t actually “frown” the way I used to any more, but my face moves freely, I look great and I am hooked!
Dr. Janas assured me that the best was yet to come with the possibilities for utilizing BOTOX®Cosmetic in the future, and I, for one, plan or following where it goes closely to keep looking great no matter what age I am!
For more information on Dr. Nodar Janas and to set up a consultation please visit http://www.mesoboutique.com or e-mail DrJanas@mesoboutique.com
Tel: 516-643-2513
BOTOX® Cosmetic is approved for the temporary treatment of moderate to severe frown lines between the brows in people ages 18–65.
For complete information on BOTOX® Cosmetic please visit: http://www.botox.com. Please note that any physician you choose should be board certified in this designated specialty or is recognized as a member of a national cosmetic medical society.
Dr. Janas is a member of the American Academy of Family Practice, the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery, the American Academy of Home Care Physicians and the NY Medical Directors Association. He is also certified by the American Society of Aesthetic Mesotherapy. Dr. Janas is a clinical instructor at Weill Cornell Medical School and is affiliated with NS-LIJ health system and NYHQ. He serves as Medical Director of Forest Hills Nursing Home and is the recipient of a lifetime member award by Strathmore's Who's Who National Register. Dr. Janas is a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Tbillisi Medical University in Georgia and completed his U.S. residency training at Mountainside Family Practice Associates (affiliate of University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey).
Go--> Botox Treatment-by Dr. Nodar Janas
This service gets 4 "Palacinka Points" *
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Skintology Palacinka Product Rating Guide
Eyelash Extensions from Skintology
Tester: African-American, regular user of mascara with fairly long but thin lashes naturally.
"When I entered this modern, exquisite full service spa in Chelsea, complete with a relaxing Japanese garden, I knew I was in for a great experience. The Skintology spa is the brain child of Yvegenya Freylikhman, a Russian skin care specialist who is of Asian decent.
My lash specialist, who has done lash extensions for over 10 years, made me feel right at home! I relaxed in a beautiful treatment room and they got to work quickly, explaining everything about the procedure and what would be taking place with the lashes. Be prepared to settle in for a while (the process will take at least an hour and a half as each 100% human hair lash is applied one by one with a special medical grade glue that is safe for the eyelids), which was a nice nap for me! There is no pain, pulling or tugging on the skin. My specialists touch was impeccable. At the end, she gave me the option of having a regular "full set" - VERY lush and long, or going even further to a more "drag queen" look. (I opted for the regular full set which was so thick and lush I just could not stop looking in the mirror)! These lashes are so sumptuous, there's no need for mascara or an eyelash curler, but they felt so natural I forgot they were extensions! They're safe in the shower and the swimming pool and they are very easy to care for. Please note: make sure to use a non oily makeup remover, non oily cleanser and take care with rich moisturizers near the lash line as these types of products will cause the lashes to loosen up and fall out. In addition, you should NOT use any mascara with these lashes!
While the lashes did thin out a bit by week three, I kept them for over a month! I may not be able to resist getting another pair soon. This creates a real show stopping look that will make your friends so jealous. The lash extensions are perfect for photos, on-camera work, special parties or events and of course your big wedding day!" RLB
Skintology Total Skin and Laser Spa 181 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10011
Phone: (212) 989 6555
Go--> Eyelash Extensions from Skintology
This service gets 4 "Palacinka Points" *
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Skin Perfections Palacinka Product Rating Guide
Custom Basic Facial/ 60 minutes by Soli Nichiyo Davis at Skin Perfections
Tester: African-American with good skin tone, combination skin and occasional breakouts.
Facial includes: Facial with Steam, Extractions (if needed), high frequency, Exfoliation, Mask and Massage. The Massage portion includes elements of Shiatsu, Reiki and Reflexology. Application of Moisturizers, Serums and Hand Massage.
"From the moment I entered Soli's cozy space in midtown Manhattan my shoulders softened and I prepared for a relaxing treat! Within minutes I was on a comfy table in a nice terry robe, puffs of warm steam were caressing my face, and Soli began her amazing facial treatment which not only resulted in glowy amazing skin but was truly educational as well!
She cleansed my skin and as she went to the next exfoliation step, began asking me questions about my skin care routine and what type of products I was currently using. One of the most enlightening things I learned that day was that I did not have the truly dry skin that I thought I was having. Soli commented that my T zone was congested (from using too much of more oil based moisturizers, so no more product in the T zone I was told!) and that my cheeks were dehydrated (but would benefit from using a more water based moisturizer, even with the cold weather).
Along the way she preformed a fantastic hand and shoulder massage, light peel and a few quick painless extractions. After the peel and application of a colorless SPF and moisturizer, my skin was absolutely glowy, fresh and radiant! Soli is truly a master facialist with an unbelievable wealth of skincare knowledge. This is a treatment that everyone should make time for at least 3x year (if not more) to keep skin in tip top shape." RLB
Here's what Soli used during the facial!
Dr. Brant Cleanser
Dr. Brant Microdermabrasion in a Jar
Biotherm Eye Lift
Biotherm Source Therapy
Dr. Brant Colorless SPF
Dr. Brant Infinite Moisture
Extra Info - Treatment includes: Facial with Steam, Extractions (if needed), high frequency, Exfoliation, Mask and Massage. The Massage portion includes elements of Shiatsu, Reiki and Reflexology. Application of Moisturizers, Serums and Hand Massage.
Soli's facials are preformed at Skin Perfections, 30 East 60th Street; Suite 902 between Park and Madison Aves. To contact Soli Nichiyo Davis for an appointment please e-mail solidavis@aol.com or call (646) 334-1017.
Go--> Custom Basic Facial/ 60 minutes by Soli Nichiyo Davis at Skin Perfections
This product gets 4 "Palacinka Points" *
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Just Calm Down Spa Palacinka Product Rating Guide
THE LAGUNA BE-OTCH Manicure from Just Calm Down Spa
Tester: African-American with dry skin on hands. Gets nail treatments 2x month.
"What a wonderful retreat in the heart of Chelsea! As soon as I closed the front door and entered, everything was quiet and calm. Given the noise level outside, this was rather impressive. My first impression was just how wonderful the spa smelled – warm, spicy and yet fresh – a taste of what was to come with my manicure treatment! My manicurist, Elana led me to a very large treatment area filled with lush pillows, chairs and a castle-like feel. My manicure began with the usual filing and cutting, but next was an amazing soak for my hands complete with Bacardi Grand Melon, real shavings of coconut, and medallions of melon and pearls of papaya. The concoction left my hands so soft and moist and smelled so yummy! Then she applied a tropical wrap on my hands and lower arms, gave me a great massage and an amazing scrub. I then had my pick of moisturizing lotions (there were over 6 fragrances to choose from!) and chose a great dark polish from the Color Club line (very long lasting by the way!). This is also the perfect pick for a day of beauty for a group of girlfriends or a bachelorette because of the size and set up of the treatment area. Make this a destination soon you your beauty to do list!" RLB
Just Calm Down Spa located 32 West 22nd Street between 5th and 6th Ave. New York, NY 212.337.0032
Go--> THE LAGUNA BE-OTCH Manicure from Just Calm Down Spa
This product gets 4 "Palacinka Points" *
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Synergy Spa Palacinka Product Rating Guide
The Fanny Facial at Synergy Spa
Tester: African-American late 20’s within 10 lbs of target weight.
“I really loved my Fanny Facial at Smooth Synergy. My treatment specialist first applied a nice scrub to the derriere area as well as the back of the thighs. I found it invigorating and relaxing at the same time (she was also very conscious to keep other areas covered so I didn’t feel uncomfortable at all). Next, she attached the electronic probes to my upper and back thigh areas that have a tingling sensation of being massaged. After about 15 minutes she switched the probes to a strong type that gave more of an aggressive pulling on the skin which she said is supposed to mimic 1 hour of aerobic exercise. Afterwards, I did feel tighter and the next day I still had that toned feel. My skin stayed soft and glowed for a few days as well. Another plus, the staff was gracious, welcoming and competent. I will definitely be back for more and to try some of their other treatments… P.S. a “little bird” let me know even La Naomi (Campbell) loves to go there when she wants to be low key, for effective facials!” – R.B.
Smooth Synergy Spa is located in New York City: 686 Lexington Ave. 212-397-0111 http://www.smoothsynergy.com To book an appointment today, click here!
Go--> The Fanny Facial at Synergy Spa
This product gets 3 "Palacinka Points" *
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Yin Beauty & Arts Spa - New York, N.Y.
Treatment: Chinese Pearl Facial Length: 75 Minutes Cost:$175
Tester: African-American, early 30's, with combination skin and some enlarged pores around the T-Zone area.
"Yin Beauty is housed on the second floor of a historic
I was then led to one of their treatment rooms, with low lighting and a comfortable feel. The room also held a traditional extraction and steam machine. My wonderful Facialist, Tracey, then explained the procedure I was having – the Chinese Pearl Facial, which is a treatment inspired by Empress Tsu-Shi that uses actual pearl powder to enhance skin cell renewal and brighten skin. This treatment uses luxurious pearl powder that helps enhance skin cells. It’s said to protect against environmental radicals and brighten the skin. Empress Tsu-Shi was known to use pearl powder diligently everyday. At the age of 74, her skin was smooth, radiant and soft – so I was eager to find out if I could experience a little of this magic with the powder of fabulous Pearls!
Tracey began with removing my makeup, massaging my skin, and then cleansing, steaming and a few very gentle extractions. Next she applied layers of the pearl paste to my skin (which actually cool off the entire body, so they provide a comfy blanket to cover up from the collar bone down). While the mask was still on and drying, I received a very nice massage on the upper chest, shoulders and arms/hands – simply heaven….
After the layers of
Book your appointment for the Peal Facial Today. You will luxuriate in your newfound skin! P.S. This is also a perfect gift to give for Mother’s Day!" - R.L.
Visit the website! http://www.yinbeauty.com
Directions: 6 Train to 68th St
Spa Hours: Mon- Fri 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Sat
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