Patch Picks: Spas to Make You Say Aaaaahhhhhhh

Spring fever has hit, and we’re all looking for a day off. Take time away from your regular responsibilities in favor of a day at one of these local spas.

, Northbrook

The Canadian-born founder learned about skincare at the New York pharmaceutical company where she worked as a bookkeeper at the turn of the century, and later in the salons of France. Fifty years after her death, the salon offers a variety of massages, skin treatments and beauty treatments that would make Ms. Arden (her real name was Florence Nightingale Graham) proud.

Spa packages are assembled with brides, pregnant mothers, gentlemen, or just general luxury (Champagne and Rose Facial, anyone?) and relaxation in mind. Several services have “time saver” in the name, when you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up on busy days.

 , Glenview

If your commute takes you down Waukegan Road, the temptation to stop at Panacea is inevitable. Certified massage therapists are trained to treat soreness and pain, release stress, and put the spring back in your step. Massage is all they do here, making it the ultimate in peace and quiet. Ask about current specials when you call for your appointment.

 , Glenview

This family-run salon in the Glen offers nearly every service you could want to keep you feeling beautiful from head to toe: hair and nail styles, sports massage to prepare for (or recuperate from) your last marathon, flow wrap to improve circulation, or eyebrow threading for Hollywood glamour, just to name a few. The licensed staff asks what ails you before any treatment begins. Ask for the spring specials package services for price savings Monday-Thursday. And when time is a precious commodity, ask about a tune-up massage for as a few as five minutes.

 , Northbrook

Hair style and color, nail care, waxing, skin care and massage therapy services fill this spa’s brochure – a little something for everyone. Three special seaweed facials round out the menu of services. The salon also offers clinical skin care, including microdermabrasion and acid peels, by professionals trained in medical aesthetics.

 , Northfield

Teddie Kossof’s list of services seems endless: hair and nails, massage, acupuncture, skincare and make-up, wellness and rehabilitative services, and on and on. Bargain hunters should look online for special pricing on select services.

While you’re online, note the spa’s commitment to the community. Staff has worked with pediatric patients (and their mothers) from the Midwest Children's Brain Tumor Center of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, and also served as a drop-off point for hair clippings during the Gulf Coast clean-up. Human and pet hair was collected and turned into oil-absorbing mats following the 2010 oil spill.

Next week's Patch Picks: Great recipes for Passover. Please put your suggestions in the comments box or e-mail them to jenniferf@patch.com, and be sure to come back next week!