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It's that time of year again—the annual Updating of the Beauty 38, Racked New York's highly subjective rundown of the city's best beauty stores, salons, and more. We cast a wide net, and only chose spots at the top of their game, so don't be surprised to find an organic apothecary alongside a hair extension bar or a niche fragrance boutique.

To keep the list manageable, we've come up with a few exclusions. Since NYC is home to so many hair salons, we've left them out (check out our favorites here, instead), although blowout bars are fair game.

Single-brand retailers only made the cut if they're New York-centric (like Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics) or have a huge following (Nars, M.A.C., etc.). And, in keeping with our blowout-manicure-makeup theme (a.k.a. the basic beauty triumvirate), you won't find extras like tanning, waxing, or eyebrow threading.

Without further ado, let's get to it. And oh, if you disagree, let us know in the comments or via email to ny@racked.com.