A Guide To Self Care In San Diego

Finding your go to nail salon, masseuse or aesthetician in a new city can be hard- especially when it’s one as big as San Diego. Take a peek at some of my favorite spots for self care across the city to make your life easier.

So, Who Really Gives the Best Facial IN SAN DIEGO?

Well, it would be hard to pick just one- so I’m not going to. The reality is, there are so many lovely spaces and estheticians in San Diego that specialize in different experiences and treatments. Living in North Park, there are so many amazing options for skincare - and I’ve selected a few of my faves.

ANGELICA B BEAUTY

The first time I stepped foot into Angelica B Beauty I felt as though I transported into the home of that one Cool Girl who has a keen eye for posh decor and a knack for making you feel empowered. The walls are lined in the most practical yet hip products: everything from the life-changing Fur Oil to the chicest of vibrators (yes, it’s totally a thing). But the real magic lies in their treatment rooms. For $150, you can be treated to the absolutely to-die-for 50 minute Eminence Facial. This facial used products that were so clean and natural that I literally had to ask my esthetician halfway through if she was just putting honey on my face. Well, she wasn’t - it was just the superfood rich Honey Berry mask from Laurel. All of this to say- if you are looking for a clean yet results-driven facial in a chic and feminine environment, Angelica B Beauty in South Park is a must.

Skin Habit

Skin Habit in North Park is truly a gem. Be aware though, that this is not the place to go if you’re looking for a zen spa-like atmosphere to unwind and refresh. Rather, this is the place to go when you are hyper-focused on solving some sort of problem with your skin. For me, that was congestion along my cheekbones. The atmosphere in Skin Habit is far from quiet, and it feels more like you’re in an aesthetically pleasing clinic than a spa. You will stay fully clothed during the treatment - so make sure to come wearing comfy clothing to make the most of your experience. While the treatment menu at Skin Habit is short and sweet, I highly recommend the 50 minute ‘Glow & brightness’ facial. At $95, it is cheaper than many other facials in the area- and well worth the price. And if you’re a fan of extractions, then you are in for a treat: they easily delivered the most thorough extraction sesh I’ve ever had in my life.

Shop Good

For all of my clean beauty mavens in San Diego - Shop Good is bound to become your second home. Currently, there are two locations in both Del Mar and North Park. Not only is it your one stop shop for all nature-powered skincare, makeup, and supplements, but their spa services are the crème de la crème. A full service facial at Shop Good will run you anywhere from $135-175, and is guaranteed to be a luxe experience. What I love the most about getting a Shop Good facial is that they are all highly customized and plant based. If you’re looking for a treatment to start with, may I recommend the Botnia Facial. It is a gentle yet hard-working treatment that will leave your skin with a healthy and happy glow. Best of all, all ingredients for the facial are sourced from the Botnia farm in Sausalito, CA. It’s one of the loveliest facials in town, infused with care from beginning to end.

Mixed Esthetics

If you’ve ever wondered what if felt like to get a facial done by a best friend - then I couldn’t be more excited to introduce you to Mixed Esthetics. Ashley, the head woman in charge of this Mission Valley gem, is as skilled in facials as she is in making you feel warm and welcomed. Her comforting presence lets you know she genuinely cares about her craft. And speaking of her craft- if you’re looking for the spot for an amazing Hydrofacial, this is it. A facial at Mixed Esthetics runs anywhere from $140-$200 and you will leave seeing a noticeable clarity in your skin that lasts for weeks.

My Favorite Bodywork in San Diego

Your body is a temple, baby! And sometimes it needs a bit of of extra love. While there are tons of massage studios and bodywork practitioners in San Diego - there are two that have stolen my heart.

Zen Sanctuary

A massage haven located in Kensington, Zen Sanctuary is truly a dream. Truthfully, I don’t often opt to spend money on a massage because I never feel like I get my money’s worth. You know what I mean? Well- that is far from the case here. While their massage menu is extensive and has something for everyone - I urge you to go with the Kumanisha Deep Tissue massage. My God. I leave that massage wanting to cry because I feel so much immediate relief. Physical and emotional. The attention to detail and true desire to make you feel better that the whole team at Zen Sanctuary possesses is unreal. Can’t recommend this gem enough.

Source Empowered Wellness

The day I discovered acupuncture was like getting an unexpected cheat code for life handed to me. You mean to tell me that putting needles into my body can make me feel less anxiety? Sure enough, it works - and better than I could have ever hoped. Source Empowered Wellness in Pacific Beach is my acupuncture studio of choice. Not only do they have a beautiful community acupuncture room- but their private sessions are food for the soul. An hour private session costs about $80 and also includes cupping (arguably my favorite part). The wellness center is nothing fancy - but each practitioner is highly skilled at making you feel amazing.

Where To Get Your Nails Done Near North Park

Getting a fresh mani is one of the easiest mood boosters there is. Since I was a teenager it always felt like such a special treat and that hasn’t changed at all. Obviously we are not at a shortage of salons in San Diego - so let’s focus on the key nail salons in North Park.

Hello Birdie

Hello Birdie is a one of a kind nail salon in North Park whose true strength is their nail art skills. No matter how intricate the design - there is an artist that can meet your expectations with ease. Now, it isn’t cheap, with a manicure running anywhere from $50-100+. For that reason I really only come here for a special occasion (think Vegas girls’ trip or Tulum vacay). It’s also important to note that there are no acrylics done here, gel and paint only.

L3o by Liv

Another bougie North Park nail salon, L3o by Liv is my favorite spot for pedicures. This salon is a totally peaceful environment that has put so much intention into every part of their business. Most of their nail polishes are non-toxic and free of harsh chemicals - and they even allow you to pick an essential oil to personalize your hand or foot massage. It’s an ultra-feminine spot that raises the standard for what a nail salon should feel like. Keep in mind, they also don’t do acrylics - regular paint and Shellac only.

Pink & White Nail Spa

My most recent discovery, Pink & White Nail Spa in North Park is where I go for affordable and reliable nail services. Priced cheaper than the previously mentioned salons - Pink & White is most reminiscent of the nail salons that you and I probably grew up with. Massage chairs, an ample selection of hot pinks and glittery polishes - you get it. The staff is friendly and accommodating, and each service comes with a complimentary glass of your choice of Barefoot Wine. While making an appointment in advance is recommended, this is probably one of the only nail salons in North Park that can easily accommodate walk-ins.