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Hungarians have a reputation for infusing everything with a little extra vigor—think peppers, dancing, and, thanks to Lilla Schottner, esthetics. The owner of Lilla Skin and Body Care channeled her Budapest-schooled skills into this demure French spa when she took the helm. The renovated three-room apartment now plays host to a lineup of men and women (some weekly visitors) addicted to the flawless skin that comes courtesy of Schottner’s signature froufrouless European facial. Sure, the fanciful floral loveseats and parchment-textured walls suggest a light, feminine touch, but make no mistake: She’s serious about skin; sessions include lots of extractions and purifying with Sothys products. As Schottner massages the face, neck, and arms with deep, deliberate strokes, it’s easy to forget that human hands are at work. Afterward, a complimentary makeup application nicely accents your newly rosy, detoxed complexion. In addition to her vast traditional facial repertoire, Schottner has peppered her menu with a paprika version (an homage to her homeland), plus spray tanning, endermologie, and a host of body wraps and scrubs. Her Brazilian colleague also brings a gift of beauty from her own country of origin: an impeccable bikini wax. — Molly Noonan

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