Faina European Skin Care Center & Day Spa

Profile

Owner Faina Shafir, who’s been working in the medical and skincare fields since 1971, insists on personally training each of the dozen or so staff members at her Midtown West day spa. Originally from Moscow, Shafir believes the Europeans have it right in requiring rigorous medical training from its estheticians. Her spa, now on West 57th, is only a block from its original location opened in 1987, and boasts a long list of “one of the firsts:” Airbrush tanning, grape peels and scrubs, couples massage, and threading were all offered here before the trends went widespread. The space, all white and blonde wood, is inviting but spare, and feels a little cramped: Six small rooms, one with a steam room and shower, accommodate facials, body scrubs and wraps, massage, waxing, threading, and mani-pedis. A retractable screen between two of the rooms, even when closed, diminishes the feeling of privacy, but when opened, creates ample space for bridal events, couples treatments, or spa-themed birthday parties. Ever popular is the list of more than eighteen different facials, which are performed under the watchful eye of Shafir. The dedicated expert can be found on-site seven days a week. — Kathryn Williams

Pay cash and get 5 percent off. Treatments bought in packages are usually 10 to 20 percent cheaper than à la carte. The spa’s website features promotions that change monthly.

Men's Grooming
Treat yourself to the three-and-a-half-hour “executive” package: a steam shower, sea-mineral or peppermint body sugar scrub, European massage (a mix of Swedish and deep tissue), European facial, paraffin hand treatment or manicure, plus a snack. Or just get an hour-long aromatherapy massage, by yourself or with your bride.

Bridal
This low-key spa overseen by the meticulous Faina Shafrir has adjustable walls to host parties of up to eight (save 10 to 20 percent on groups). The “Champagne Extravaganza” for two ($229 per couple) includes a steam shower, body scrub, massage, chocolate, and Champagne, but the salon is known for its facials: There are no less than eighteen different ones on the menu.