Spa Radiance has partnered with CocoaBella Chocolates, the city’s newest chocolatier offering the finest chocolates from around the world. The two San Francisco neighbors have whipped up the Spa Radiance Chocolate Decadence Facial, an artisanal chocolate and organic raspberry-infused indulgence guaranteed to delight spa goers with a taste for luxury.

“Chocolate is hot and getting hotter,” says Spa Radiance Vice President Randy Schreck. From the plethora of new books paying homage to the mystique of chocolate, to the latest chocolate tastings craze, the popularity of “the food of the gods” is as alive and well as it was when the ancient Mayans reverently treated cacao as an offering from the gods to man. What better place than Spa Radiance to offer guests a bit of heaven on earth?

After relaxing in the spa’s plush reception area nibbling on a chocolate raspberry confection, guests are quietly ushered into a soothing treatment room. Guaranteed to whet their appetite and pack a skin-beautifying punch, the 75-minute facial begins with a brightening bilberry extract cleansing followed by a rosehip, maize and cocoa steam treatment. Next, an aromatic raspberry toner is applied followed by a blueberry milk mask infused with CocoaBella’s coveted Valrhona chocolate powder imported from France.

Rich in antioxidants called flavanoids, the chocolate neutralizes potentially skin cell-damaging substances known as free radicals. According to Yale School of Medicine nutrition expert Dr. David Katz, “Cocoa has more flavanoids than green tea.” Additionally, cocoa is a natural stimulant, bringing fresh oxygen to the skin’s surface for a rosy, healthy glow. Packed with Vitamin C and phytochemicals, the raspberry toner and blueberry mask help deter the aging process, keeping skin younger-looking. Finally, spirit restored and skin radiant, guests are treated to a mini keepsake box of CocoaBella chocolates.

For those with more decadent tastes, Spa Radiance also offers add-ons including their signature Lifting treatment for an additional $150 or the Diamond Peel Microdermabrasion for $100.

Available beginning May 2005, the cost of the facial is $140. For Spa Radiance reservations or gift cards, please call (415) 346-6281 or visit online at www.sparadiance.com.

About Spa Radiance

With an A-list roster of celebrity clients including actresses Sharon Stone, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Rosario Dawson, it’s no wonder that Spa Radiance owners Angelina Umansky and Galina Rovner are some of the country’s most sought-after skincare experts. The duo’s unmatched ambition to deliver dazzling results, state-of-the-art treatments and the crème de la crème in products dates back to their origins in Moscow.

Recently named by Allure magazine as “one of the beauty pros the A-listers adore,” Spa Radiance is renowned for its highly trained estheticians and therapists who provide the latest in innovative and healing spa treatments. Conveniently located steps from Union Street’s fashionable boutiques, Spa Radiance is a charming Victorian that has been beautifully transformed into a chic and cozy haven for spa goers who know the importance of life’s little luxuries. For treatments and products, please call (415) 346-6281 or visit online at www.sparadiance.com.

About CocoaBella Chocolates

CocoaBella Chocolates is located on Union Street in San Francisco, near the corner of Webster Street. Opened in late 2004 with the mission of creating a 'chocolate lifestyle store,’ the shop was designed and built in the old world, European tradition featuring warm wood cabinets and marble slab counter tops. Cocoa Bella carries more than 200 individual chocolate flavors, from more than 15 different chocolatiers. For details, please visit www.cocoabella.com or call (415) 931-6213.