One Cream Studio: A skincare destination in Millerton

One Cream Studio: A skincare destination in Millerton

Virag Mate-Kovacs at One Cream Studio in Millerton.

Natalia Zukerman

Located in the warm and welcoming multi-use building at 1 John Street in Millerton, One Cream Studio offers a personalized approach to skincare and self-care, led by Virag Mate-Kovacs, a highly skilled aesthetician with years of international experience.

Mate-Kovacs began her career in Budapest after graduating from a prestigious beauty academy in 2006. After years of honing her craft, she moved to Manhattan in 2010 to expand her skills and experiences.

“It was always my dream to come here (to the States), to make my life more interesting,” Mate-Kovacs recalled. Her time in New York City was busy and fulfilling, working in upscale spas with a variety of clients, including notable celebrities.

In 2021, Mate-Kovacs and her family relocated to Lakeville, seeking a quieter lifestyle. This change gave her the opportunity to open One Cream Studio in 2023, combining her expertise and passion into a business that reflects her vision for customized, thoughtful skincare treatments.

One Cream Studio offers a range of skincare services, from rejuvenating facials to advanced treatments using state-of-the-art machines. Mate-Kovacs takes pride in tailoring her services to individual needs. Her early work in Hungary focused on men’s skincare, which gave her a deep understanding of diverse skin concerns. “European men really take care of their hair, facials, nails—it’s a priority for their lifestyle,” she explained.

Over time, she has expanded her expertise to focus on women’s skincare as well, blending her knowledge with a unique perspective on holistic care. “People aren’t coming just for skin problems—they’re coming for their mental health as well. It’s a time for rest and personal conversations,” she shared.

Her approach has resonated with clients, from mothers in need of self-care to teenagers exploring skincare for the first time. Mate-Kovacs also understands the challenges of adapting treatments to local conditions. “People’s skin here is a lot drier. People spend a lot more time outside here so there’s more eczema and rosacea because of the temperature differences,” she said, recommending heavier creams for hydration during the winter months.

Opening her business in Millerton has brought new opportunities and strong connections. “1 John Street is such a great spot,” said Mate-Kovacs, praising the Millerton Business Association and a local women’s business network started by Abigail Horace of Casa Marcelo in Salisbury for their support. “We’re helping each other, sharing information, and building each other up.”

Mate-Kovacs is no stranger to personal challenges. Born with hearing loss, she communicates mostly through lip-reading and text. Her speaking voice is clear, however, and she takes care to make sure she is communicating accurately. Her space is incredibly calming and welcoming; one wants to curl up and take a long, herbal-scented nap. “My favorite thing is when clients fall asleep during a treatment. It makes me happy because they’re finally relaxed,” she shared.

One of Mate-Kovacs’s biggest goals is to encourage clients to make time for themselves in their busy lives. “You are being touched, which is really so important,” she said. Her focus is on creating an environment where clients feel cared for and with services designed for both regulars and weekend visitors, One Cream Studio continues to grow as a go-to destination for expert skincare.

Bookings can be made on Instagram (@onecreamstudio) or www.onecreamstudio.com

Latest News

Amenia officially accepts gift of restored 1825 charcoal kilns

An old-fashioned handshake finalized the transfer of ownership of the Gridley charcoal kilns to the Town of Amenia on Thursday, July 3. Restorer of the kilns Bernie Leighton represented owner Eric Bommer at the event. He is shaking hands with Town Supervisor Leo Blackman. Town Historian Betsy Strauss, center, spoke of the history and unveiled a new permanent sign detailing the site’s importance to the iron industry of the 19th century.

Photo by Leila Hawken

WASSAIC — Under sunny morning skies on the eve of July 4 Independence Day celebrations, a long-anticipated gift to the town of the historic Wassaic Charcoal Kilns became official. The transfer of the two restored 19th century stone kilns is now official after an on-site ceremony on Thursday, July 3.

The kilns, expertly restored by local resident Bernie Leighton, have been transferred to the town as a gift from Eric Bommer, owner of the Deep Hollow Preserve adjacent to the property.

Keep ReadingShow less
Millerton renews emergency declaration for burned Water Dept.

The burned remnants of the Millerton water department building near Eddie Collins Park on Route 22.

Photo by Aly Morrissey

MILLERTON — A State of Emergency notice posted to the Village of Millerton website on Thursday, July 3, referenced “a fire at the Village Highway Garage” and stated, “such conditions threaten the public safety of the citizens and residents of the Village of Millerton.”

Mayor Jenn Najdek clarified that the document is in reference to the February incident and that there was no new fire — the alert was simply a renewal of a 30-day emergency declaration approved by the Village Board in March.

Keep ReadingShow less
NECC Farmers Market kicks off picnic month

Louis W. Watterson, known as L.W. “Blue Water” Watterson, set the tone with folk, soul and blues music.

Photos by Aly Morrissey

MILLERTON — The North East Community Center Farmers Market drew another big crowd on Saturday, July 5, just one week after Main Street buzzed with activity during the first-ever Millerton Street Fair, hosted by The Millerton News.

“Since the sun has been out, we’ve really seen an increase in folks coming out to join us,” said Katie Cariello, NECC’s food program coordinator. Cariello runs the weekly market and has brought her own flair to Saturdays in downtown Millerton.

Keep ReadingShow less
Amenia Housing Board announces new ADU program
Amenia Town Hall
Photo by John Coston

AMENIA — For residents considering adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit within their homes or perhaps converting garage space to create an apartment, the Amenia Housing Board has announced a new grant program to begin soon.

The new program titled PlusOne ADU being introduced in Dutchess County will become active on July 14. Residents can complete an interest form by visiting the Town of Amenia website. The program is administered through Hudson River Housing.

Keep ReadingShow less