Susan Ciminelli is a world renowned holistic health guru and celebrity facialist, with an unrivaled approach to skincare and skin health. Susan gets to the root of any skin concern with her expert lifestyle coaching and results driven tactics for skin that glows from head to toe, which include massage, lymphatic drainage, reflexology, reiki & energy work, dietary advice and a tailored approach to skincare. Seriously: the woman can tell what’s wrong with your skin (and your body) simply by looking at your face or feeling your feet: she’s a diamond in the rough. She is also the founder of The Susan Ciminelli Skincare and Mineral Makeup line, which is derived from a precise blend of science and nature’s most healing ingredients, that together produce optimal results for skin health and skin appearance. Here are this skincare guru’s haute secrets to Los Angeles.
Where were you born: Buffalo New York
How long in LA: 10 years
Neighborhood: Beverly Hills
Occupation: Skin care expert, facialist, reflexologist, author, life coach, pioneer in holistic health and beauty
Favorite Restaurant: I love the IVY – fantastic food complimented with brilliant service
Best Sushi: Yamashiro – amazing Sushi with breath taking views of the city. It has an old Hollywood feel to it
Best Italian: I discovered recently a fabulous Italian called Osteria La Buca. The pasta is made fresh daily, the ingredients are fresh, seasonal and cooked to perfection. I’m Italian – so my standards are high
Best dessert: See above and order the Salted Caramel – you won’t regret it
Best place for a romantic date: The Getty Villa – the ambiance exudes romance. Stop by Moon Shadows for a sunset cocktail by the ocean afterwards.
Best Sunday brunch: I love the Sunset Marqis Hotel for brunch
Best place for a power business meeting: Cecconi’s for a power breakfast meeting – get business done at the start of your day!
If you have out of town guests, which hotel would you recommend? Mondrian
Favorite shopping venue/boutique: I enjoy the Sunday Flea Markets; Fairfax or Rose Bowl for truly unique finds!
Favorite place to buy jewelry/watches: You’ll have to ask my husband
Best Spa: Mine, of course! The Private Sanctuary
Favorite Charity Event: I love the work Look Good Feel Better does. They host workshops events for women battling the effects of cancer; and use beauty as a way to make them feel like themselves again. Very powerful.
Favorite Cultural Event: I adore the summer Shakespeare Festival at Griffith Park
Favorite Cultural Institution: LACMA
Best Steakhouse: BOA – the steak melts in your mouth like butter
Best Pizza: Terroni’s has yet to let me down
Best Lunch: I enjoy a very healthy diet, so my superfood go-to destination is Gracias Madre for lunch.
Best Gym/Athletic Facility: Nature! I walk or hike, the best gym is the great outdoors – I like to get fresh air and take in my city when I exercise! Runyon is a favorite of mine.
Best Massage: Well – that would be me! My lymphatic drainage massage will not only make you feel fabulous, it will lead to great and clear skin too. It’s a relaxing and results driven experience.
Best Limousine/Driving Service: My husband. Can I say that?
Best Museum/Exhibit: The Getty or The LACMA
Describe your city in three words: Beautiful, Magical, Inspiring
Favorite historic/legendary place to see or explore: The Getty Villa is special to me, it takes you back to another time and place; and does so in the most beautiful way. A must-do when in LA!
All-around favorite spot in Los Angeles: The ocean
Best Aspect of Los Angeles: You can’t beat the weather!