It may be a national chain, but bluemercury's refined selection of skincare, bodycare and cosmetics make it a more luxurious option to beauty emporiums and department store beauty counters.

If Sephora is the general store for all things beauty, then this is the more exotic boutique. Though it stands only few yards from Sephora inside the Westfield Century City mall and carries some of the same lines (Frederic Fekkai, Fresh and Bliss), bluemercury differs in its approach and display. Enveloped in neutral tones, the store is large enough to view its shelves of luxury skincare, bodycare, cosmetics and perfumes without becoming too overwhelmed. Skincare takes up the most real estate, with lines like Skinceuticals, Darphin and Remede coming highly recommended by the knowledgeable staff. Haircare by Bumble and Bumble and Philip B., candles by Tocca and Diptyque, scents from Creed and Acqua di Parma, as well as products for babies and men fill the rest of the space. Unlike most other beauty stores, bluemercury also houses a spa that features facials, waxing, massage and body care services for those who need some pampering after a day at the shops. —Enid Portuguez