Find your beauty twinkle, sparkle, flash and flair at Shimmer Spa

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Shimmer Spa’s nail department has earned a reputation in the area for trending manis and exquisite nail art. Owner Melanie Rongone suggests people bring in a photo of what they want or send it in advance so the techs can prepare. L-R: Shimmer Spa’s Self-Care Professionals: Samantha T, Emery, Melanie, Sammie M. and Maria. (Photography: Felicia Vargo)

By Patricia Nugent

The Merriam-Webster definition of “shimmer” is to glisten, twinkle, sparkle, scintillate, flash and flare. There’s plenty of that and more happening at Shimmer Spa in Strongsville, which, over the past two years, has become a go-to for those seeking natural and organic skincare and massage services, nails and hair.

“Our bespoke services are customized to each guest,” says owner and skincare cosmetologist Melanie Rongone. “We’ve been blessed with a loyal clientele from the beginning and decided to reward them by creating a Body Work Membership Program. For $60 per month, they get a 60-minute massage or facial, along with a curated gift box of full- and sample-sized products we pick out for them, individualized to their specific skin type.”

“We realize what an important role self-care plays in our guests achieving their best level of physical and mental wellness,” she adds.

Reflexology Joins the Service Menu
“We look at holistic therapy as being largely preventive,” says Melanie. “We like to prevent wrinkles rather than treat them, and help your body operate at its optimal level. Reflexology is part of that. This is one of those services that, once you have it, you realize the benefits and keep coming back.”

The massage technique pinpoints areas of the feet and lower leg to correspond to organs and body systems. Applying pressure to these points is said to keep the body in better balance and prevent disease.

Packages for the Perfect Spa Experience
One of the most popular packages is The Sanctuary. It includes a mani/pedi, one-hour massage, and facial with complimentary aromatherapy. The Be Still package includes a massage and facial.

And a new package that’s only available on Tuesdays is a combination Reflexology massage and facial. While the esthetician works on your face, a reflexologist works on your lower legs and feet.

Rose Pedicure
Though Shakespeare was born a few centuries too early to enjoy the unabashedly luxurious Rose Jelly Pedicure, he probably would’ve appreciated the decadent aromatherapeutic sensation of being transported to an English rose garden.

“We’re in the height of sandal season,” says Melanie. “For anyone who has not experienced a jelly pedi, I strongly recommend you do. During the soothing soak, we add aromatherapy oils for intense hydration and exfoliation. As the temperature rises, the essential plant oils come together to form a jelly. It feels divine. We offer other scents, too, but the Rose Jelly Pedi has become a signature service this spring.”

Fanciful Nail Art
And the nail department has earned a reputation in the area for trending manis and exquisite nail art. Melanie suggests people bring in a photo of what they want or send it in advance so the techs can prepare.

“A fun new trend is to mix pale neutral shades with pops of neon,” says Melanie. “Lots of ladies are also asking for thermally conductive color-changing polish, that changes shades while you are wearing it, when the temperature changes. The new Kiara Sky collection is like a mood ring for your nails. We’re also using aurora borealis crystals that create a rainbow effect, refracting colors from light.”

Shimmer Spa is located at 20884 Royalton Road in Strongsville. Hours are Tuesday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 440-783-1473. You can book appointments online at ShimmerNaturalSpa.com.