Spa Lab

Over the last decade or so, veteran massage therapist Larry Costa has created spas in New York City, Miami and Brazil, each one offering both treatments and effective house-brand products. With his latest venture, NYC's SpaLab, Costa's taking his passions for products—and the concept of customization—to a whole new level. The space itself is like Willy Wonka's Beauty Factory: rows of colorful jars and bottles cover nearly all the wall-space, while in the front, kitchen equipment is used to churn out skincare potions and soaps shaped like fortune cookies and candy. In the back, raw ingredients—most organic or natural—and dozens of essential oil blends are on hand for customers that want to personalize their goodies.

Navigating the vast range is made simpler by the organization: items are separated by the principle ingredient, like caffeine, acai, olive and bamboo, or by theme, like "Gin and Tonic", "Seaside", "Green Fairy Absinthe" and "Ahhh, Refreshing." Standouts include the homemade bubble baths, the bamboo-infused body scrub, leather-infused body lotion and "The Only Thing That Works," a cooling gel that works wonders on sore muscles.

The in-house products are also used in the massage and facial services, which are performed in a row of quiet rooms behind retail area. Like the skincare, the treatments can be customized, with therapists choosing the appropriate products for each client's needs. Facials brighten, tighten and fight acne, while massages—particularly the Signature technique—work to stretch and soothe tight spots. Regular spa combo deals help make pampering yourself a guilt-free experience.

For more on SpaLab treatments, and to order products, visit www.spalabnyc.com.