North Texas Spas of Distinction

The ladies who lunch are envied for their impeccable coifs and nails, perfect arches and poreless skin. And, despite a whirlwind of business, civic and social activity, they also appear enviably composed. That glow doesn't just come from a great glass of Pinot; the talent at local spas helps keep them beautiful inside and out. With the plethora of spas in North Texas, where do the discerning go? It takes more than the standard massages and mani-pedis to build a loyal following. Devoted guests seek some special amenities.

Spa-goers appreciate classic luxury with a modern twist. Successful spas offer fantastical ambiance without sacrificing serenity. Stellar cuisine, an irreverent culture, services which make a mind-body connection, as well as services tailored to Texas, are all worthy of bonus points.

The Greenhouse in Arlington balances aesthetics, fitness and mental clarity in an inarguably luxurious setting. As one pleased guest remarked, "Everything was so good, and hard to believe it was legal!" Guests spend three days to one week transforming from the inside out. Special theme programs with celebrity speakers make The Greenhouse truly a destination spa.

Local spas also address total wellness through Eastern-influenced services. East Meets West Therapies at The Wood House Day Spa in Plano include reflexology, energy balancing and scalp massage. The Indian Shirodhara massage, for example, begins with a concentration of essential oils on the third eye and melts into a therapeutic head and scalp massage. The Spa at Crescent Court takes exotic inspiration from Java. The Exotic Spice Boreh Ritual and Javanese Lulur Royal Treatment are two of the most addictive services.

The Four Seasons in Frisco pampers guests with close-to-home ingredients: prickly pear cactus body glaze, ruby red grapefruit glow, red river mud or great-smelling pecan body polish with crushed nuts, oil and antioxidant Vitamin E. There's even a Cowboy Shiner Soak and Massage for the men. With on-site childcare, parents can also relax and enjoy the Texas treatments.

Themed packages offer a replenishing afternoon. Whimsical treatment names, yummy treatment ingredients and good-natured spa techs keep the whole experience from getting too clinical. The Hangover Herbie at the new Bliss Dallas is an easy-going mix of body boosters and anti-migraine massages. The hip atmosphere makes even the Brazilian wax sound fun.

Royal Treatment

Carole Stephens, Spa Operations Manager at The Crescent Court, gives the dreamy details on the popular Javanese Lulur Royal Treatment. "The concept comes from Central Java, originally for brides 40 days before marriage," says Carole. "Tumeric spice gives a traditionally gave a golden glow for the big day, and now it's used for pampering." The service starts with a Bali massage created especially for The Crescent, using strokes that work with the energy flow of body. A tumeric and jasmine full-body scrub with rice powder exfoliates. Yogurt is then hand-warmed and rubbed over the full body to moisturize. The guest showers off with a jasmine frangipani gel. A rose and orchid soaking bath using only fresh flowers follows. Table fabrics and robes also infused with jasmine and frangipani add to the last light Bali massage. "The soft strokes and fragranced lotion ends the treatment in a way that's quiet, peaceful and grounded," says Carole. "Our guests just adore it."

When searching for your own perfect haven, choose a spa that values personalized care, privacy and a pure desire to renew body, mind and soul.