A Gentle Touch, Raleigh

Smooth, oblong, and flat, the stone would be perfect for skipping across the surface of a lake. Instead of bouncing off water, however, this heated rock slides over skin, its warmth relaxing stressed muscles in the hands and feet. Hot stones are just one type of tool used to pamper paws during mani-pedi services at A Gentle Touch, a full-service nail salon. Exfoliating scrubs, hot towels, and honey-scented callous creams also conspire to lavish soles in luxury without lining Air Jordans in ermine.