Watermelon nail art not included. (photography courtesy of beautybloggingjunkie.com)

It’s the 50-minute Watermelon Lime Pedicure at V Spa:

Cool off with a complimentary watermelon slush to sip on. Relax while your feet soak in the refreshing scent of Watermelon. Rejuvenate with a lime zest sugar scrub and moisture application. Choose your polish.

Who doesn’t love watermelon, pedis, and slushies? (If you seriously don’t, ignore this post.) This pedi sounds like heaven. It’s just $50 at V Spa on their new summer menu.

A South Seas tan. (photo courtesy of South Seas)

I’m not going to pretend life is hard as an editor  forced to review to facials and airbrush tans for the job, but I’ve been through my fair share of mediocre treatments and tan jobs ala Oompa-Loompa. But I love risking my body for the price of potential orange streaks so that I can tell you, dear readers, which treatments to try and which treatments aren’t worth the dough. Three services you must enjoy: Natura Bissé Aroma Awakening facial at The Spa at the Ritz-Carlton and the airbrush tan and Da Vinci one-hour teeth whitening at Facelogic.

Jump for details.

Natura Bissé Aroma Awakening Facial at The Spa at the Ritz-Carlton
Three new facials have been added to the Ritz-Carlton’s lineup thanks to the launch of Natura Bissé in the spa: the Aroma Awakening for 50 minutes, La Alternativa wrinkle-relaxer for 80 minutes, and the Diamond Multisensorial Lifting for 90 minutes. I can vouch for the power of the Aroma Awakening facial. It’s not so much a skin treatment as a 50-minute slice of peace. Combining facial reflexology and Ayurvedic aromatherapy, it’s truly blissful, which is really what I want most out of a spa trip. The facial massage dulled my stress (and left me nicer, quite frankly), and the floral facial bath and cleansing left me with a beautiful glow I didn’t even cover up with makeup. Book by calling the Ritz-Carlton.

60 minute Da Vinci teeth whitening session and airbrush tan at Facelogic
Sure Facelogic staffers are experts on all things face, but they’re quite good at sunless tanning and teeth whitening, too, as it turns out. The two services are perfect for vacation preparation in a snap. (Forget the detox dieting–a tan and a teeth bleach is easier.) The airbrushing, performed expertly by spa coordinator Nicole Barton is a paraben-free formula from South Seas Skincare. Although the typical aftermath includes that sunless tan smell and temporary sticky skin, I was pleasantly surprised by the near-perfect even application and natural looking color. Although there’s nothing natural about getting a Caribbean tan overnight, the ladies at D headquarters swear they’d never know I’m a fraud. (Even they hadn’t seen me glowing in the dark the day before.)

The Da Vinci teeth whitening is even more impressive. Just 60 minutes took my teeth up a few bright notches. (My teeth are fairly white to begin with, but the technician told me moving five shades brighter is a fairly common result for stained teeth.) The hook for me is Da Vinci’s claim not to break down enamel (instead, helping to rebuild it) and organic ingredients. I won’t lie to you, 60 minutes of having teeth under a laser light show (and the preparation between each 20-minute round) can be boring, but I snoozed (okay, snored) through each session. My teeth are noticeably whiter, and even though I felt a little sensitivity for a day, I’m thrilled. Book by calling Facelogic.

photography by Matthew Shelley, design by Charlotte Tobin

We’re lucky to still have access to Renée Rouleau here in Dallas. The aesthetician is always en route to LA and New York to pretty the punims of celebs, but she still makes time for her Dallas clients. When she’s out of town, you can rely on her line of products to keep your skin in check. (My favorites include the Luxe Mint Cleansing Gel, the new Glow Enhancing Cream, and most recently, the Soothing Eye Makeup Remover.) She’s fun to spot at events, too, always with a matching mani and eyeshadow job and occasionally a quirky and whimsical accessory (like her pink fascinator and faux tattoo at DIFFA). I knew it would be fun to look in her bag.

Renée's Valentino bag

1. Crossfit socks.
2. Tina Craig ostrich wallet
3. Payment reader
4. Motley Crue ticket stub. “I grew up in the 80s.”
5. Water. “Hydrated skin is healthy skin.”
6. Wisp toothbrushes. “For in between clients–my career is spent inches from people’s faces.”
7. (from top) MAC Cremesheen Glass in “Fashion Scoop” and “Loud & Lovely,” and Lancome Color Fever Gloss. “I love color.”
8. Business card holder
9. Renee Rouleau Daily Protection SPF 30 and Synergy.
10. Duracell Instant Power Charger
11. Vintage lock. “My husband gave me this from Tunisia.”
12. Lab sample of “new top secret product”
13. Keys to Harley. “I have a 2009 Sportster with loud pipes and a custom paint job.”
14. Mini nail files and Colore Science Mineral Powder SPF 50 as a “way to touch up sunscreen through the day.”
15. Altoids and Band-Aids. “It’s part of a woman’s survival kit.”
16. Renee Rouleau Skin Drink. “To keep my skin hydrated on the go.”
17. Jewelry: beaded bracelet from Cape Town (“One of my favorite cities”) and Shona earrings and necklace for “going from day to night.”
18. No Picking Twisty Toy.
19. Renee Rouleau samples. “When I hand out business cards, I also hand out a sample.”
20. Rosetta Stone. “I’m French and my husband’s French, so I use this to keep fresh on my French.”
21. iPhone
22. Photos with husband.
23. Ted Baker “Hoola” quilted iPad case.
24. Vogue sunglasses.

The Cleanse collection.

Lure Salon is throwing a little fete with Good Morning Texas‘ Amy Vanderoef in celebration of the a new haircare collection the ec0-friendly beauty parlor will carry. Meet Intelligent Nutrients, a natural beauty line that aims to take some chemical exposure out of your daily routine by using food-grade ingredients, plant stem cells, aromatherapy, and no pesticides, pthalates, or other toxic additions. Bottles of goodness are packed with ingredients with purpose: seeds for nutrients, a patented oil blend for its antioxidant properties, flower extracts for their hydrating properties, and more. Head in this Wednesday, April 11, from 6 pm to 8 pm for wine, light bites, music, and giveaways. Anyone can attend, but it’ll help if you give them a heads up and email info@luresalondallas.com as a quick RSVP. A part of the evening’s proceeds (perhaps you’ll stock up on shampoo or schedule a cut and color?) will go to Earth Day Dallas.

photography by me

I told you last week about Southlake’s new blowout-only Hair Bar. But I haven’t yet told you about The Do in Preston Center. It’s in the old Salon Madrid space, but it’s a completely new interior. Industrial chic with vintage Chicago brick walls, repurposed concrete countertops, and bright pops of color: pink, orange, and purple bottles of Wella haircare and cherry red blowdryers. My color faded since my last dye job over Christmastime, and although I wasn’t satisfied with its lackluster hue, I couldn’t define the color I was looking for. Owner Betty Payne seemed to know exactly how to freshen things up, and her colorist gave me a fresh, espresso tint. Doors were wide open, ladies were gossiping, and coffee, lemonade, and fresh oranges were on tap. It’s been a while since I’ve been to a salon where the vibe was so friendly and unintimidating. “We’re doing something different over here,” Betty says, and you can feel it when you walk in. (She even says dogs are invited to come hang out on the benches in front.) The space is only 1,000 square feet or so, so you get to know your neighbors. Mine included local celebrities Jenna Owens from Kidd Kraddick in the Morning, getting a 70s-inspired ‘do for a party, and legendary Ron Chapman receiving a quick trim. No one flinches when you walk in with waist-length hair, either. Even Betty has Barbie long, blonde locks. (“Teenager hair,” she calls it.) Melissa, one of the salon’s crowning jewels, took my limp hair and gave it some life with easy-to-manage layers and on-trend waves that actually lasted through the following afternoon. Moral of this story: I highly recommend this new spot. Give them a call and experience it for yourself. Grab an orange; you won’t be sorry.

So chic! (photography courtesy of The Hair Bar)

New to Southlake Town Square, open your arms (and your lovely locks) to The Hair Bar, a new blowout salon offering 30-minute wash/dry/styling for gals on the go. Choose from classic, curly, tousled, and more. Like Drybar, prices are cheap: just $35. Unlike Drybar, you can also add a few other services to your visit like make-up application, eyelash extensions, and conditioning treatments. You can also take a blow dry class! (I need this.) High tech frills will keep you busy while you get pampered. Listen to music, watch movies, or play games on one of the salon’s iPads. If you’ve run out of your fav beauty goop, pick up products from Paul Mitchell, Glo Minerals, Moroccan oil, and more.

The Hair Bar is offering one lucky ShopTalk lady the Fantastic Four, a package of four blow outs, plus a Hair Bar tee. All you have to do is fill out this form and tell us why you need some hair therapy. Enter here, enter now.

Yes, that is it a Disney princess notebook in the background. No, I don't have children.

“Merry Christmas,” our gorgeous (like, really gorgeous) receptionist said as she dropped this bag off on my desk. (See photo.) Inside, I discovered a chic, familiar box from Oribe with an unfamiliar product, Anti-Humidity Spray, and an assortment of gleaming pink Kerastase bottles from the new Cristalliste line created for long hair (me), oily roots (me), and dry ends (me, me, me!). A letter included from Salon Lucien owner Mary Crosland told me she’s fallen head-over-heels in love with Oribe’s Imperméable Anti-Humidity Spray after testing it in the Bahamas. (Jealous.) For cowlicks, kinks, and unruly waves, she says, this potion is magic. I can’t wait to try it. (April showers will surely bring on the frizz.) Then there’s the long hair care system made up of shampoos for fine and thick locks, a rinse-out conditioner, and Lumiere Liquide hair serum. I haven’t been this excited to try a shampoo in a while. Thank you, Mary, for sharing your new favs. Readers, stay tuned to find out if these gems make my obsessions list, too.

If my boyfriend–who is responsible for polishing off my prized Serge Normant shampoo–attempts to use this stuff, I will cut his arms off. (Sorry, honey.)

I'd look smug too if I had those abs. (photography courtesy of Wellness Week)

Spring is nearly here, and as you’re heading back to the gym to work those hamstrings, don’t forget the rest of the health and wellness routine, too. From shopping intern Meagan Paparella:

With spring officially kicking off March 20, there is no better way to get your beach body back than by taking advantage of all the Wellness Week festivities coming to Dallas March 19 to 25. Wellness Week is a nationwide initiative that aims to help Americans make better health, mind, body, and soul decisions.

So, how does it work? Participating Dallas spas, yoga studios, health clubs, and salons will be offering amazing deals on spa treatments, private trainings, and more. You will pay either 50 percent off the normal price or simply receive $50 deals. Examples include $50 for the 80-minute Mani-Pedi Retreat at Hiatus, $50 for an 8-class yoga card at Pranaa Ayurveda, $55 for 1 hour of personal training at Fit205, and more. Many businesses will be offering mini-treatments and workshops, too.

Don’t miss out on all of the awesome opportunities to look and feel your best. Sign-up now to see what’s available and book your appointment today. This is your perfect chance to truly “take care”. Happy Wellness Week, Dallas.

photography courtesy of Flickr user The Essex, Vermont's Culinary Resort & Spa

I love holiday themed spa treatments. So festive.

ADRIFT FLOAT SPA
Couple’s Float:
Enjoy togetherness, relaxation and rejuvenation with Valentine’s couple’s floats from Adrift Float Spa, Dallas’ first luxury floatation spa. Couple’s Floats from February 11- February 19 will come with champagne, roses, and chocolates and include all Adrift amenities: robes and slippers, full- accommodation changing rooms, relaxation room with massage chairs and underwater color and music therapy. $139

HIATUS SPA + RETREAT
100% Pure Love:
Spa love, that is….indulge in an 80-minute Hiatus Massage, a Body Glow with rose and ylang ylang essential oils, a signature Facial + the award-winning Mani-Pedi Retreat.
Love Thyself:
With a Heart-Chakra Balancing Massage, Body Glow, Spa Manicure and Perfecting Facial + Peel….the perfect way to get in the mood!
Love On the Rocks:
Or hot stones, if you prefer! This package for two features the 60-minute Hot Stone Couple’s Retreat and Hot Stone Spa Pedicure, plus a glass of bubbly, naturally.

RIVIERA SPA
Chocolate & Roses Facial:
Rich Hungarian cocoa and nutrient loaded organic roses satisfy your craving for deliciously flawless skin! Your highly trained esthetician will cleanse, hydrate and tone with rich Hungarian red roses to refine and renew your skin. Love your skin with a soothing masque of blended roses, rose tea, strawberries and chocolate. Includes a relaxing Hungarian scalp, neck and face massage. Customized for all skin types! (60 min. Reg $110, February special $95)
Couples Massage with Soothing Rose Massage Oil Candle:
Spoil you and your sweetheart with a relaxing Swedish couples massage on rose petal massage tables in our luxurious couples suite. Our YonKa Rose Candle is a natural candle of shea butter, andiroba oil, mango butter and essential oils of rose that melts into a warm, smooth massage oil, melts away stress and leaves your skin nourished and moisturized. This treatment includes complimentary champagne, strawberries & chocolate and a rose candle for you to take home. (50 min. $240)

Jump for the full list, which will be updated daily as I get more info.

GRAND SPA
Couples Retreat:
80-minute Swedish massage, personalized facial, spa cuisine, and deluxe pedicure, $630/couple, 4.5 hours
Couples Deluxe:
50-minute Swedish massage, European facial, and deluxe pedicure, $450/couple, 3 hours
It Has to Be YOU:
50-minute aromatherapy massage, Love Me facial, and seasonal pedicure with champagne and truffles, $260/couple, 3 hours
Couple A La Cart:
Core: 50-minute Love Stone massage with champagne and truffles, $230/couple
Love Me Facials: facial for two, $200/couple
Single Services:
50-minute Love Stone massage with champagne and truffles, $115
Love Me facial with champagne and truffles, $115
Seasonal pedicure with champagne & truffles, $60

EQUINOX SPA
- Valentine’s Day 50 minute Deep Tissue 3-Pack for $285 (originally $345)
- Valentine’s Day 50 minute Chocolate or Strawberry Facial 3-Pack for $390 (Originally $465)
- Valentine’s Day 50 minute Deep Tissue and Chocolate or Strawberry Facial 3-Pack for $675 (Originally $810)
The New Strawberry Facial:
The conditioning facial with specialty strawberry mask is perfect for all skin types. Strawberry contains a high level of vitamins and natural alpha hydroxyl acid, a substance that aids skin renewal for a smoother and more youthful complexion. The mask contains milk protein, strawberry extract, aloe and wheat protein which improves blood circulation and strengthens cellular metabolism, giving skin a uniform, clean, and whiter appearance. Regular price: $155 (see above for promo 3-pack pricing)
The Chocolate Facial:
The conditioning facial with specialty chocolate mask contains milk protein, cocoa extract and aloe leaf extract to moisturize. Chocolate contains a high level of anti-oxidants that improve skin’s elasticity for an overall improvement of skin texture. The mask has anti-inflammatory benefits as well and is excellent for dry or dehydrated skin. Regular price: $155 (see above for promo 3-pack pricing)

THE SKINCARE PROFESSIONALS
Chocolate Decadence Facial:
The Chocolate Decadence Facial is a true indulgence and sweet treat for the skin- without the calories! The treatment combines chocolate, which is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants with clay, which facilitates toning and deep cleansing of clogged pores. The sweet experience is topped off with a gentle cleanse using oatmeal, honey and coconut milk that gently exfoliates and replenishes moisture to thirsty skin cells. The treatment lasts 50 minutes. $95

SPA HABITAT
Green Peace for Two Massage:
Retreat to a couples suite and receive side-by-side massages along with hot stone therapy for the back. 50 min for $200, 80 min for $270
“Peace & Love” Spa Package:
Green Peace for Two Massage (50 min), Organic Foot Rituals for Two, and Little Green Facials for Two. Allow 2.5 hours – $490 (for two)

ZASPA AT HOTEL ZAZA
Couples Massages (50 min Swedish) with Tantra Vibrational Oils, paired with a Couples Bath for $135/person. ($270 per couple)

THE SPA AT THE RITZ-CARLTON
Couple’s Side-by-Side Pedicure:
$85 per person. For couples booking this on Monday through Thursday throughout February, complimentary Veuve Clicquot champagne will be provided to the couple to add to the romance.

photography courtesy of National Laser Institute

“I just moved here from California and I need a recommendation for a place to go for Botox. Help!” –Calissa

Here’s a short list of local med spas personally approved by the lovely ladies (and their crows feet) of D Magazine. Rejoice, rhytiphobics.

Skintastic Medical & Surgical Rejuvenation
The D staffer says: “I’d never had any needles put into my face before, and Dr. Adelglass totally put me at ease. A nurse even humored me and held my hand. His technique is subtle but noticeable, so I walked away looking better, but no one could tell exactly what I had done. (Restalyn and Botox.)”

Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery
The D staffer says: “Advanced Facial Plastic Surgery is who I use and love for BOTH Restalyn and Botox. Dr. Bassichis is helping me keep my youthful look as I get older!”

Regional Plastic Surgery Center
The D staffer says: “I’ve had Botox numerous times over the years with various physicians and most recently had it done in the fall with Dr. Watumull at Regional Plastic Surgery. Not only was it almost pain free, he did a great job of not “over doing it” and making the look very naturally improved. I’ve gotten lots of compliments and will be certain to return later in the spring when I need refreshing.”

photography courtesy of V Spa

On Wednesday, January 25, V Spa’s Sonya Dakar specialist, Jennifer O’Connor, and an in-house aesthetician are performing complimentary, 25-minute Express facials from 10 am to 7 pm. Grab a slot, and you’ll also receive a goodie bag with some Sonya Dakar samples to take home. I’m sure there will be a pitch to purchase a treatment and/or products, but if you go for it and purchase a treatment over $175, you’ll get a “complimentary” full bottle of Sonya Dakar face wash. Sounds good to me. Book now.