If first impressions last, then consider your face your entry ticket to the finer things in life. That is, if you've been taking good care of it. When times get rough—and cold and stressed and hormonal--count on these facial ambassadors to give your skin the best TLC Chicago has to offer.
1.The Peninsula gives world-weary skin heavenly relief with a choice of two facial menus: Advanced, which uses super-active ingredients to target and relieve specific conditions, or Intensive, which targets specific skin types. If you can afford to splurge, get a full-day spa journey. Packages start at $520, and include two treatments, lunch, a Peninsula Tea Ceremony, a foot ritual, plus full use of the spa, fitness facilities, and swimming pool. The Peninsula Spa by ESPA, 108 East Superior Street Chicago (at Superior Street and Chicago Avenue); (312) 573-6860.
2. LillieAnn's is actually famous for its massage, but the facials are totally turning heads. The hour-long hydrating facial ($80) soothes winter-weary skin, while those plagued by scars, fine lines and hyper pigmentation will benefit from a glycolic smoothing facial ($90). Booking is easy with their online appointment service and if you're feeling generous, you can easily purchase and print a customizable gift certificate online. LillieAnn's, 1260 West Washington Boulevard, Suite 102 (at Washington Boulevard and Elizabeth Street); (312) 243-1940.
3. A quick search of the Absolute Precision online scheduler revealed that the next available opening for a facial with Kelly Mack, owner and head aesthetician, is a week from now. If that doesn't work, you have to wait till February to get your skin fix. Yes, she is that in demand. We could go on about the sleep-inducing massages that come with each facial, or the raves your skin will get afterward, but we suggest going online stat to make an appointment to find out for yourself. Absolute Precision Skincare, 1471 West Irving Park Road (at Irving Park Road and Greenview Avenue); (773) 320-1376.