The 90-minute Winter Deluxe Facial at minuscule Maksim Spa is also intensely theraputic. Here, as at SkinCareLab, I sensed that I was undergoing serious, medical skin treatment - including peels, extractions and extreme cleansing - and not just a relaxing face massage. The session, performed by Lena Makushina (who left Bliss to open this spa with her sister), restored life to my face - more so than any other seasonal facial.

80 Fifth Ave between 13th and 14th Sts, suite 1208 (212-414-9434). Subway: L,N,Q,R,W,4,5,6 to 14th St-Union Sq.

Back on Track
"You need to exfoliate to get smooth, glowing skin," says aesthetician Lena Makushina, owner of New York City's Maksim Spa. She suggests a daily once over with a loofah and weekly extra-thorough buff using body polish applied to your loofah.

Banish "bacne."
After you've exfoliated, rub an oxygenated cream (Makushina likes Karin Herzog's potent 3% version) on trouble zones like the upper back and shoulders. The oxygen in the products helps fight acne causing bacteria and won't overdry the skin.

"If you want 75 minutes of undivided attention from your facialist, head to this peachy-clean two-room space in a midrise on the border of the Village and the Flatiron district. Your face will soon be shiny and happy. I leave looking like a teenager — minus the zits."

"The downtown crowd (OK, models) have followed Lena Makushina 20 blocks north for the gentle-yet-effective acne and antioxidant facials and microdermabrasion she offers in her unpretentious Flatiron space."

"Owner Lena Makushina opened her neat-as-a-pin day spa in January offering Bliss-like service minus the hip factor and the waiting list."

"Put this number on your speed dial. After six years at the Bliss Spa, Lena Makushina is going it alone. Her facials produce an otherworldly glow that even sex can't rival."