Star Treatment: A Certain Je Ne Sais Quoi

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What's the French secret to perfect skin? If only we knew... They're subjected to the same environmental assaults as others—smoke, pollution, dirt, heat and cold. Yet, they’re revered the world over for their picture-perfect complexions.

Good genes help, but so do culturally sanctioned regular facials at luxurious spas such as the Dior Institut at Plaza Athénée in Paris. The new Dazzling Radiance Facial (50 min./$165), introduced last month, utilizes oxygenating methods to breathe new life into listless skin.

The de-puffing, line-smoothing effects are instant—as if there were never any flaws at all.

The Protocol:

1. The esthetician gives each client a detailed skin consultation to fine-tune the treatment and offer maximum benefits.

2. Makeup and dirt are removed with a gentle cleanser.

3. A light exfoliant is applied—toner or scrub—to prep skin.

4. A customized serum is applied, infusing cells with collagen-building ingredients.

5. Follow with a custom moisturizer, massaged in the face using the "stress-free facial method," which stimulates lymphatic drainage.

6. After the esthetician applies a skin-specific mask, she gives a shiatsu massage to the head, shoulders and neck.

7. Finishing eye, face and neck cream is applied to seal-in moisture for a fresh-faced glow.

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