Natural Selections
Spa treatments that keep it real
When it comes to unwinding, there’s nothing better than being cocooned in honey and milk or getting a facial massage—complete with hot stones—while you soak in Waikiki’s gorgeous setting. If a spa session isn’t on your list of things to do while in paradise, we hope you’ll consider revamping your itinerary and booking one of these indulgent offerings. Taking their cue from nature, the following three treatments all use natural or nature-derived ingredients. And not only are these spa sessions oh, so relaxing, you’ll come out with softer skin, a brighter complexion and disposition.
Recovering from a chemical peel is certainly not the smartest way to spend your vacation time. But trying to make that inner-glow become more apparent is doable at Serenity Spa (Outriggger Reef on the Beach, 2169 Kalia Road 866-926-2882 or www.serenityspahawaii. com). Book a Tourmaline Gem Facial and get treated to smoother skin, smaller pores and more radiant skin. Thanks to the properties found in tourmaline, skin can absorb nutrients more efficiently, and this particular facial—available in 50 or 80 minutes—mimics the effect of microdermabrasion sans the use of harsh chemicals. Serenity is the only Aveda Exclusive Destination Spa in the area.
AVEDA’S TOURMALINE CHARGED SKINCARE LINE IS AVAILABLE AT SERENITY SPA.
If you’re looking for something local and organic, the Moana Lani Spa, a Heavenly Spa by Westin (Moana Surfrider, 2365 Kalakaua Ave., 808-237-2535 or www.moanalanispa.com) has an 80-minute Kona Coffee & Vanilla Facial. Using Kona coffee, Kaua‘i clay and vanilla, the treatment helps detoxify the skin and fights free-radicals. The result? Clearer skin that’s soft, moisturized and less congested. Aside from your face, your back is also treated to a gentle exfoliation and our personal favorite—a facial massage using miniature hot stones. Skin feels re-invigorated with each pass of the heated stones and makes for a one-of-a-kind indulgence. Speaking of invigorated, guests are also given a shot of antioxidant beverage KonaRed for an extra boost for your body. If you’re pressed for time but still long for a little TLC, check out the recently revamped Moana Lani boutique, which offers foot treatments for a quick respite between shopping and sightseeing.
For a full body experience, try an ‘Awa, Honey and Milk Wrap at Paul Brown’s Spa Olakino (Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, 2552 Kalakaua Ave., 808-924-2121 or www.spaolakino.com). Since ‘awa or kava—a root long used by Hawaiians to treat weary muscles and other ailments—is used in this wrap, the treatment is perfect after an active day of surf lessons, a hike up Diamond Head or snorkeling. And if you’ve been out in the sun all day, the addition of milk and honey brings some much-needed moisture back to your skin—leaving it smoother and more supple. Available in 50 and 75-minute sessions (the lengthier treatment comes with a 25-minute lomi lomi massage).
