britt's picks // herbalist & acupuncturist

If you’re looking for an herbalist and/or acupunturist in NYC, I cannot recommend Paul Kempisty enough. I first started seeing Paul a few years ago, when I was struggling to regulate my menstrual and ovulation cycles in the hopes of one day becoming pregnant. He came highly recommended by multiple friends, and I’m so glad that I ended up going to see him at his practice in Soho. If you’re not familiar, acupuncture is the stimulation of sensitive and powerful acu-points around the body with filiform needles, and has been practiced for thousands of years. Modern science believes that the positive effects on health are achieved by stimulation of the nervous system which in turn regulates the immune system, hormone function, causes pain reduction and so much more.

I’ll admit that I was initially a bit wary of the entire process- I had never gotten acupuncture before, and didn’t know what to expect. But Paul is extremely passionate and knowledgable, and made me feel comfortable throughout the entire treatment process. I love that after meeting with a patient and determining their individual needs and goals, Paul works with you to construct a comprehensive treatment and education plan that works best for you. Not to mention his impressive resume- Before pursuing his formal acupuncture education, he studied aromatherapy and Reiki, eventually becoming a Reiki Master. Paul has a Master's Degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, studied advanced herbal medicine with a Daoist priest in New York City’s Chinatown, and even traveled to China to continue studying in the specialties of Oncology and Gynecology!

It’s Paul’s belief that what we put into our bodies makes a significant impact on our immediate and long term experience of life and health, and because of this, he has shared herbs, dietary advice and vitamin supplements with his patients from the very beginning of his career. I enjoyed getting to experience the effects of both acupuncture and herbs, and found them to work together in harmony for the body. It’s pretty remarkable how the right combinations can have such incredible results for so many different conditions.

Since herbs are clearly a passion of Paul’s, I’m happy to say that he recently launched his own line of herbal remedies, Peekay’s Herbs, which offer effective herbal formulations for the entire family. I’ve gotten the opportunity to try several of his custom blends, and from the Calm Down (provides stress, sleep & mood support) to the Eleven Mushrooms for Fun Guys & Gals (a great overall remedy for immune support, energy levels & mental serenity) to the Let’s Make a Baby (which provides fertility support for men & women) , there’s truly something for every ailment. Plus, he even makes gentle herbal remedies for kids, which came in handy when my son came down with a cold recently. The Kid’s Cold & Flu and Seasonal Support tinctures helped reduce his symptoms, and not to mention, he absolutely loved the flavor! Definitely check out Peekay’s if you’re looking to add some effective herbal remedies to your medicine cabinet!

britt's picks // dermatologist

A good dermatologist is crucial to any person's well being and overall skin health. I truly believe this. They aren't just there to treat annoying acne, but also check for cancerous moles and treat any problematic skin issues. So many people forget to protect their skin from the sun (I was one of them for longer than I'd like to admit), and although you may not notice the damage right away, this can cause some serious issues in the long term. I've been going to Wexler Dermatology in Manhattan for the last several months, and cannot recommend this practice enough. Whatever your skin concern may be, from rosacea to wrinkles to acne to filler, they've got you covered. I began a treatment with Dr. Eugene Wexler called Aerolase, which is a neo-laser treatment that helps with many issues including hyerpigmentation, tightening & rejuvenation, acne & scarring, collagen production, and redness/rosacea! The completely non-invasive treatment involves high-powered, short-pulse lasers, which are guided over your face and neck as they work their magic. I'll typically follow the short laser treatment with a few seconds of LED light therapy, which is great for fighting signs of aging as well. Aerolase generally needs 3-4 treatments every 3-4 weeks to be effective, and now that I've completed my 4th session, I can definitely tell a difference. My aesthetician also remarked how my skin is looking much brighter and more even overall. Success!

During my first appointment, Dr. Patricia Wexler suggested I start using the three products above (SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic Antioxidant Treatment, SkinMedica HA5 Rejuvenating Hydrator & Elta MD UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46) immediately, and after several months of consistent use, I'm totally sold. I'd heard about the C E Ferulic before- it has a serious cult following- and this stuff is no joke. It's a lighteight serum containing l-ascorbic acid, alpha tocopherol and ferulic acid that works to prevent signs of aging. Basically, it's the vitamin C serum of your dreams that also helps fight the environmental effects of free radicals. Any signs of photodamage or hyperpigmentation been bugging you? This stuff helps lighten and brighten as well! The HA5 Hydrator contains an impressive five forms of hyaluronic acid, our body's natural hydrator that diminishes over time, and helps keep our skin super smooth and fully hydrated. It's also oil-free, fragrance-free, and noncomedogenic, so you don't have to worry about it clogging your pores. Elta MD is known for being one of the best sunscreens out there and comes highly recommended by dermatologists alike. Their UV Clear SPF 46 uses zinc oxide to protect from the sun, and also calms sensitive skin types prone to breakouts, rosacea, or discoloration. High purity niacinamide, hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid promote overall healthy-looking skin. Speaking of, I need to stock up on another bottle of these, stat! Dr. Wexler also makes her own line of products, and I've been reaching for the overnight acne repair lotion whenever a pesky blemish arises. If you live in NYC, or even if you don't, and are looking for a reliable, intelligent, and helpful dermatologist, I highly recommend you seek out Wexler Dermatology! 

 * This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, it won’t cost you a penny more, but I’ll earn a small commission. This allows me to continue to generate content for you, and helps keep the site up and running. Thanks for your support! 

britt's picks // hair stylist

 

Ever since I got a platinum blonde pixie cut for the Balenciaga show several years ago, which was so fun & different by the way, I've been slowly but surely growing out my hair. Jae Manuel Cardenas at Sally Hershberger Downtown keeps my locks looking clean & healthy, while giving a subtle shaping & cut every few months. Frequent trims are the key to keeping your hair looking its best, and Viviscal supplements don't hurt either!

 

britt's picks // dentist

 

Dr. Nicholas Toscano of Manhattan Periodontal Associates has a cult following, and for good reason. He has made a name for himself as an elite periodontist, and serves as the official dentist to many of the top modeling agencies in New York City. Dr. T is charismatic and extremely knowledgable, offering helpful information while working to make your smile the best it can be. Whatever it is you need to improve your smile, Dr. T has got you covered. Book your consultation now!

 
 

britt's picks // hair colorist

 

 

I frequently get stopped & complimented on my hair. People want to know who does my color, and as much as I'd like to say it's au naturel, all credit goes to Dana Ionato at Sally Hershberger Downtown. She is my go-to girl for the perfect blonde, and has been doing my color consistently for over two years now. Dana uses the balayage technique (no foils!), and we like to keep some darker bits at the root mixed in with the lighter blonde highlights. This adds depth and really makes the color blend together in a natural way. I'd recommend Dana to anyone looking to spruce up their color! Scroll through below for some of my fave fresh-from-the-salon shots!

 
 

britt's picks // aesthetician

I started going to Hillery Sklar for facials a few years ago, and quickly become a devoted customer, as have many others. From cleansing to steam to extractions to mask to the final massage, it's a good 'ol classic facial from start to finish. But one that continues to leave my skin glowing time after time. I make sure to schedule my next appointment as soon as we finish my current treatment, as Hillery books up way in advance. She also uses highly effective products I love, from Mario Badescu and OSea, and treats both men & women! I especially love the high-frequency machine, which can improve the skin's complexion, reduce fine lines & wrinkles, and help to treat & prevent acne. My skin never fails to look (and feel!) fresh & rejuvenated after a facial treatment with Hillery. It's always a relaxing & enjoyable experience, and I'm glad to call her a friend.

 * This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, it won’t cost you a penny more, but I’ll earn a small commission. This allows me to continue to generate content for you, and helps keep the site up and running. Thanks for your support!