Profile

After a career as an Ebony model, Irma Denson earned her certification as an esthetician and reflexologist in Paris and opened her mini-spa in New York in 1977—likely the first to specialize in African American skincare. Floral rugs and paintings of black women give the space a personal touch, and pairs of fresh socks for clients in the changing room are homey comforts. Denson oversees a staff of estheticians and massage therapists, but also performs some of the facials herself. These treatments are geared toward issues like dehydration and hyperpigmentation, among a host of other skin concerns, and include a combination of steaming, exfoliation, and hydrating masks. Denson’s touch is firm, but the extraction process is gentler and safer-feeling than most, since she uses the pressure of a metal tool rather than squeezing. Particularly luxurious, in addition to aromatherapy, is her attention to pressure points when massaging the face, and her incorporation of soothing hot stones. The workers provide informed advice on nutrition and caring for the face, and also offer waxing, paraffin hand and foot treatments, and makeup application. — Karen Hudes