Danuta Mieloch embodies “the art of the genuine.”

The sought-after esthetician first trained as a nurse in Poland before moving to Paris to work under Biologique Recherché founder, Dr. Yvan Allouche. Next, she traveled to New York to study further at Atelier Esthetique and the International Dermal Institute, working at several Manhattan spas. Eventually, in 2004, she opened the first Rescue Spa, defined by its individually curated, holistic approach to skincare. Today, both the Philadelphia and New York locations draw a dedicated clientele, addicted to her clinical and intuitive treatments.

Here, Mieloch explains why holistic health—and an attitude of gratitude—is the true root of beauty:

Live The Process: To what do you attribute your passion and gift for skincare?

Danuta Mieloch: Skincare is my calling. I’ve been interested in it since I can remember. As a child, instead of playing with dolls, I always had my apothecary.

LTP: How did you develop your intuition for how to help people improve their skin?

DM: I understand how skin functions and, with years of experience touching people’s skin every day, I’ve honed my skill in diagnosis. I can take one look at someone and know what to do to help improve their skin. Since it’s a magical and visible organ that regenerates itself, there’s always room for improvement—at any age. My trademark is, “Beautiful skin is a matter of choice, not chance.”

LTP: How did you come to launch the first Rescue Spa and, later, the New York City location?

DM: Rescue Spa Philadelphia opened in 2004. I had previously lived and worked in New York, so returning was a natural move for me. The location is easily accessible from any part of New York, surrounded by beautiful restaurants. The architecture in the Flatiron District is amazing, and there is a sense of openness within the city. Our building dates back to 1890 and has amazing high ceilings, columns and original character.

LTP: There’s a waiting list to see you. To what do you attribute your popularity?

DM: Our facials are not just facials; they are treatments—customized to each individual’s needs. We incorporate different modalities (microdermabrasion, electric currents, oxygenation, LED, RF etc.) combined with our amazing manual lifting massage technique. It bridges the best of old and new—timeless. We go to extremes to deliver natural results.  

LTP: Do you have wellness rituals or obsessions that keep you feeling balanced and relaxed?

DM: I try to practice what I preach. Over the years, I have created healthy rituals, starting with my skincare regimen. I practice yoga and healthy eating habits daily. Gratefulness and appreciation go a long way. I call it, “the art of the genuine.”

LTP: What does happiness look like to you?

DM: You have one life; live it fully and beautifully. 

LTP: What does it mean to you to “Live The Process” and how can we all do that more each day?

DM: Create happy rituals and practice them. The Chinese proverb says that from the moment you plant the seed, it takes 100 days to harvest. I try to encourage all of my clients to try a beautiful skincare regimen that we can design for them and, in 100 days, they will have healthy glowing skin.