The Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa, in business for nearly 100 years, has 31 locations around the country. In a recent visit to the New York City spa (on 5th Avenue at the epicenter of NYC shops), Suite 101 took a look at what's available for facial, massage, and other services at this location at the heart of the Big Apple.
Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa Philosophy
W. Todd Walter, President and Chief Executive Office of Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa states that "Elizabeth Arden founded Red Door Spas on the principles that the essential glow of beauty must come from within and that every guest who visits should leave physically refreshed and mentally rejuvenated."
Needless to say, spa guests expect an environment of relaxation, pampering, and solace. Especially in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the world, women are going to expect to feel like they are in a place of complete peace and harmony.
Spa Services
Like at other locations, Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa offers services in the following categories: facials, massage therapy, body treatments, nail care, waxing/threading, hair, makeup, and spa packages, which are combinations of different services. There are also spa services for gentlemen.
For the purpose of this article, the author experienced one "Red Door Signature Facial" which is described as the "most requested treatment. Using products and technique expertly selected for your needs, radiance is beautifully awakened." Also added to the service was a recommended microdermabrasion procedure at an additional fee to the $120 facial fee.
Facial Experience
The very experienced Nina at the NYC location is a fantastic esthetician and very knowledgeable seasoned professional. Her 'bedside manner' was enjoyable and she did not attempt to oversell products, though she helpfully suggested techniques and treatments that would be advantageous for an individual skin type.
The relaxation room which is available to spa visitors is a true highlight of the spa experience. Leather chaise lounges, subtle lighting, a fabulous magazine collection, tv/headphones and iced drinks were available. Although there is no fresh fruit offered as in most spas, a mix of dried veggies provides refreshment while you wait. The showers and hair prep area are relaxing and comfortable, and the only negative experience this writer came across was a rude woman who insisted on talking on her cell phone, right next to a sign that instructed spa goers not to do so.
Anyone visiting New York City's 5th Avenue for shopping should consider visiting the professional, relaxing environment offered at this world class spa.
Mary McCarthy - Mary T. McCarthy is the blogger at pajamasandcoffee.com and Editor of Chesapeake Family magazine.
