If there’s one thing New Yorkers know how to do, it’s chase glow, and in a city overflowing with beauty bars and wellness spas, finding a place that offers real results with real medical backing can feel overwhelming. My search led me to Forbidden Well, an intimate medical spa in Manhattan that’s quickly becoming known for blending science-driven treatments with a holistic approach to beauty and health.

Founded by Jake McFadden, Forbidden Well offers a carefully curated menu that goes beyond the basics combining regenerative medicine, medical aesthetics, and modern wellness under one roof. Treatments include:

• Injectables (Botox, fillers) for smooth, sculpted, natural-looking results
  
  
• PRP microneedling and injections, using high-volume, growth factor–rich plasma for advanced skin regeneration
  
  
• Peptides and hormone optimization therapies to support energy, metabolism, and longevity from the inside out
  
  
• Prescription GLP-1 medications for medically supervised weight loss and metabolic reset
  
  
• EBOO (Extracorporeal Blood Ozonation & Oxygenation), a cutting-edge therapy that oxygenates and filters the blood for full-body detox and vitality
  
  
• Custom IV vitamin infusions, formulated to restore hydration, boost immunity, and replenish essential nutrients
  
  
• Infrared sauna and targeted body therapies that combine detoxification with deep physical restoration
  
  
• Advanced facials and holistic skin treatments, blending luxury with results-driven skincare innovation

It’s a one-stop destination for anyone serious about longevity, beauty and full-body optimization.

A Different Approach to PRP Microneedling

I booked their signature microneedling with PRP (platelet-rich plasma therapy), often nicknamed the “vampire facial.” While the term has a certain drama, the treatment itself is grounded in science. Microneedling creates micro-injuries to stimulate collagen production, while PRP, derived from your own blood, accelerates healing and enhances results.

I learned at most spas, just 20ml of blood is drawn for PRP. At Forbidden Well, they take 60ml, yielding more of that nutrient-rich golden plasma. This means more growth factors, more potency, and ultimately, a deeper, longer-lasting glow.

The Treatment Experience

My session began with Nurse Jake Tinsley, who drew my blood with precision and gentleness. From there, I was guided by esthetician Shelby Israel, who brought both warmth and expertise to the process. She walked me through each step, ensuring I felt informed and comfortable.

With numbing cream applied, the microneedling was far more manageable than I expected, slightly prickly with light pressure, but never painful. Shelby’s gentle technique and constant check-ins reshaped the treatment into something restorative rather than clinical.

Post-treatment, my skin was definitely flushed but not raw. Within two days, the results have been undeniable: smoother texture, tighter pores, and a natural brightness that stood out from my regular skincare results.

Beyond Skin Deep

​​While PRP microneedling was my introduction, Forbidden Well’s offerings extend well beyond facials. Their IV therapy is customized to restore hydration and energy, and they’ve recently added CBD-infused drips to the mix for added relaxation and inflammation support. The infrared sauna provides detox and deep relaxation in equal measure, and they even offer EBOO, a cutting-edge ozone therapy that filters and revitalizes the blood. Injectables and facials are approached with subtlety and artistry, while peptide and hormone therapies reflect the spa’s deeper commitment to helping clients feel as good as they look. They also offer GLP-1 weight loss treatments, which I didn’t try, but were clearly part of their whole-body, long-term approach to beauty and wellness. As a treat to my mom, she tried out an infrared sauna session. She shared that she left feeling deeply revived, with her muscle soreness noticeably relieved.

‍

Final Impressions

In a city filled with quick-fix beauty treatments, Forbidden Well stands apart by prioritizing intention, science, and care. Their approach to PRP microneedling in NYC is more refined, more effective, and more thoughtful than most, and it left me with results I could see and feel.

For anyone seeking a glow that lasts longer than a few days and a wellness experience rooted in expertise, Forbidden Well is a destination worth knowing.

Learn more and book services at forbiddenwell.com.