The interesting thing about the facials at the ARCONA Studio in Santa Monica is that they do not include extractions.  Arcona, chemist and pioneer in holistic skin care (way before it was trendy) believed that extracting is not only uneccessary but that it can draw harmful bacteria to the surface of the skin and cause infection to erupt.  (This actually happened to me once at a spa that shall remain nameless.  I am still scarred from it.  Note to self:  Don't get a facial at a Palm Springs resort, no matter how chic the joint is.)  

The woman behind the lovely spa and extensive skin care line believed that a good enzyme peel is all that's needed to draw dirt from it's evil dwellings and that anything lurking deeper than the immediate surface will work it's way out in it's own good time.

Being an extraction junkie, when I went for a His and Hers facial as an early Valentine's Day double date treat with my hubby, I went for the beyond amazing Signature Facial Contouring (and enzyme peel as well) and my hubby went for a full hour of cleaning, masking and peeling. 

The facial contouring is something you just have to experience.   Developed by ARCONA as an effective natural alternative to cosmetic surgery, this proprietary treatment includes lymph drainage and deep facial massage to work the fifty-five muscles of the face. It tightens the facial muscles to offset the affects of aging.

Uh, sign me and my bodacious jowls up.

And for a man, this extraction-less facial turned out to be a great thing.  

Have you ever picked your man's face only for him to emerge looking like a teenager on steroids after a night of bong hits?  Hideous, yah.

Jay was in the hands of the talented Debbie Moss (both of us were) and he emerged from his facial glowing, fresh faced, relaxed with pores like a baby's tush.  And making it known, that he wants more facials.  Like all the time.

Looking for a cool gift for Valentine's Day for the dude in your life and tired of the same old crap? Watch him go bananas with a facial from Debbie.  He wont freak out and look horrible after.  Only problem may be, that he'll be clamoring for me.

Can't make it? 

They have a line of amazing products for men.

Here's the deets on the Facial Contouring which is the most amazing facial massage I've ever had.  I only wish I had spent the entire 50 minutes doing this only.  

ARCONA Signature Facial Contouring $85
This proprietary deep muscle facial massage incorporates acupressure and lymph drainage to provide a great antidote to gravity and a viable alternative to facial surgery. The ARCONA Facial Contouring exercises, tones and tightens the muscles of the face, leaving it looking years younger. Contouring brings out the cheekbones and relieves puffiness for a finer, contoured look. Relaxes and tones the face and whole body. Cumulative treatments equal deeper, more profound results.

ARCONA Customized Fruit Enzyme Peel Treatment (50 min) $145
The ultimate in instant gratification, this organic fruit enzyme treatment renews and resurfaces the skin in a single session. Enzyme complex mask works gently but deeply to remove dead cells and cleanse pores, restoring the skin’s natural clarity and balance. These enzymes also stimulate natural production of collagen and elastin, so long-lasting benefits are dramatic. Customized serums rich in anti-oxidants promote circulation, helping dissolve cell debris to restore softness, smoothness, and suppleness. Skin immediately looks more alive, luminous and fresh, with none of the harsh side-effects of a chemical peel. Repeat treatments will help reduce fine lines and discoloration, as your body generates new, pliable, younger-looking skin. Includes relaxing scalp and foot massage. Go for the glow. Excellent for all skin types except clients undergoing Retin-A therapy.

The ARCONA Studio // 425 Broadway, Santa Monica, CA 90401 • Tel 877.272.6620 310.458.3800 • Fax 310.458.3811