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Beauty
Pamper Yourself
Skincare studios, massage therapists, and day spas that range from cozy to corporate can be found on practically every street block in San Francisco. But a true oasis of pampering doesn't always advertise its wares -- it takes some time to sniff out the places that actually deliver on their promises of relaxation and indulgence, despite a bunch of ostentatious claims. Every spa aficionado has her favorites, and here's my top 15 list of hidden jewels and obvious winners that'll have you feeling like a million dollars. More
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Beauty
Private, Pampering Rejuvenation
When you're in the mood for some quality TLC and self-pampering -- some solid "me" time -- you have several options for beautification: self-administration of treatments ranging from economical drugstore finds to pricey potions and concoctions, or visiting a salon or spa to be pampered by the experts. The second option does not have to default to forfeiture of the privacy and inner reflection of "me time", as you will find at Dana Leslie Organics. More
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Beauty
A Romantic Getaway…If You're So Inclined
I spa, therefore I am -- that's my mantra. Give me a hot stone massage, cedar enzyme bath, seaweed wrap, or oxygen facial over a pair of Jimmy Choos or Manolos any day. Blistered feet and envious glances for a flash-in-the-pan trend? No thank you. I'll take hours of lovingly administered languor in an urban oasis or wine country retreat in a heartbeat. More
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Beauty
Safety and Beauty
In a city that caters to beauty and health, Russian Hill's Teashi stands out as a day spa that carefully yet wonderfully considers both. Translated from Japanese, Teashi literally means hands and feet, which is of course the main, but not only, attraction here. Owned and operated by sister and brother Anne and Bill Freeman, the spa was designed to create a relaxed, social environment where service and safety both play equally important roles. More
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Beauty
A Different Kind of Spa
Tired of the same old massage or facial you're accustomed to getting when you walk into your neighborhood spa? Why not try a body wrap, which is great for slimming, detoxifying, or just plain feeling warm and buttery in a cocoon of foil and all-natural ingredients. If you're intrigued by the idea, give Laurel Heights outpost True Body Wraps a turn. More
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Beauty
Mirror, Mirror
Luscious lotions, sweet scents and refreshing cleansers -- everyone loves beauty products so before the season of giving ends, why not get a beauty product for loved ones who have everything? Here are some of the city’s best beauty buys. More
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Beauty
An Oasis for the Elite
For luxury epicures, Spa Radiance, a pampering stronghold on the Fillmore boutique side of town, is an oasis blending both old-world beauty treatments and some of the most bold and innovative spa therapies around. More
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Beauty
You are the Palette
Since I chopped my mid-back length locks above chin level, I have been addicted to getting haircuts. It seems that the shorter it gets, the more often I find myself anxious to get back to the hair dresser before the shape loses its fresh factor. Of course, it helps that the salon I go to doubles as an art gallery and that the employees seem to all operate according to the philosophy of "You're pretty… We'll make you flawless!" More
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Beauty
On a Quest for the Perfect Facial
The perfect facial is one of the most elusive beauty treatments I can think of. Aside from negotiating a multitude of products, treatment techniques, and aestheticians giving you all sorts of conflicting skin tips (to SPF or not to SPF? Gel exfoliant or scrub exfoliant?) -- it's sometimes difficult to really gauge the effectiveness of a facial. Case in point: I can't count the number of times I've discovered a new skincare line that adds a certain glow to my visage, only to wake up to an unsightly allergic reaction the next morning. More
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Beauty
Down-Home Pampering
There are few San Franciscans I know who prefer the hustle and bustle of an upscale spa to the down-home elegance of the neighborhood pampering haunt. You know the place --it harbors the tasteful urbanity of your best friend's house rather than the false fronts of coolness most exclusive digs might offer. Despite occupying a chic corner of Fillmore Street in Pacific Heights, Spa Solé plies instant comfort to no-nonsense customers. More
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