Daphne Studio

Profile

Set on the western fringes of 42nd Street, Daphne Hagadone’s homey two-room spa is about results, not fabulosity. The former owner of the notable downtown spa D.Esse, this skincare specialist was born into the life in Metz, France, where her mother liked to study herbs, and a "weekly lymphatic massage with essential oil is a female thing." Drawn to natural beauty and holistic health, Hagadone extensively researched botanical ingredients. Her resulting aromatherapeutic treatments and Belle Fée product line invoke the traditional balm of Polynesian women who, according to the alchemist, are "as beautiful as Gauguin painted them." The Tahitian wonder-substance is coconut-and-gardenia-derived monoï oil, which purportedly tames frizz and rebalances complexions. One night of Monoï de Tahiti conditioning has been said to restore bygone luster to color-parched locks. Whether or not Monoï de Tahiti works for everyone, the studio’s unhurried yet intense—and truly customized—face and bodywork are unquestionably uplifting. Facials address underlying muscles as well as skin, and body treatments may involve a languorous exfoliation with herbal salts, a fragrant soak in a crystal-adorned whirlpool tub, and/or a lymphatic massage to rev circulation and reduce bloat. A note to modest mademoiselles: Chez Hagadone you’re as naked as a Gauguin beauty. — Karen Tina Harrison

Daphne Hagadone’s passion for ballet classes has enhanced her work with the body’s musculature and brought her a following of fellow dancers.

Note
Seasonal treatments are occasionally offered, such as a Valentine’s body extravaganza that spotlights gardenia-scented Monoï de Tahiti oil.