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Facials That Are Totally Worth Spending Your Money On

Facials That Are Totally Worth Spending Your Money On

If the world of facials sounds about as daunting as stepping into a Chanel boutique on Bond Street, then you've come to the right place.

Sorting the game-changing facials from the 'not really worth it' ones, we've rounded up the best facials that are actually worth spending your hard earned money on (and asked the questions you really want to know the answers to as well).

De Mamiel’s Digital Fatigue Facial, NoMad London, £250 for 75 mins

The Vibe?

Located in a Grade II-listed building, previously known to locals as The Bow Street Magistrates’ Court and Police Station and opposite Covent Garden's Royal Opera House, it’s no surprise Nomad London is quickly becoming one of the ‘It’ places to be seen in the capital.

As you enter the building you’ll walk through its black, gold and emerald-hued interiors, red curtain-draped library and dimly lit lobby and pass its open-plan two-tiered restaurant. You’ll then be led to a room upstairs for the treatment. With its soft magnolia-hued furnishings and soft lighting, the treatment room feels like a world away from the vibe downstairs.

Is It For My Skin?

The facial has been devised by renowned skin health specialist Annee de Mamiel with every client’s skin in mind. De Mamiel’s products and treatments are all based on scientific studies informed by the anatomy, physiology, aromatherapy, acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine.

What Does It Do?

If you’re in need of a moment of calm and relaxation, both for mind and skin, then this is the facial for you. The facial’s aim is to infuse natural antioxidants to tackle inflammation and boost skin cell metabolism which will hydrate and create a dewy glow. It’s ideal for those who suffer from tired, lack lustre skin as well as acne and rosacea.

At the beginning of the treatment, you’ll take part in a short moment of breathwork and inhalations followed by a thorough massage of your facial muscles and ligaments to get rid of that unwanted stress and tension by encouraging the lymphatic system. A gentle exfoliation with an ultrasonic spatula comes next, followed by a serum and LED treatment, additional massages, an oxygen dome mask and it’s all topped off with a final few moments of inhalations. Relaxing enough for you?

Best Part?

The facial massage, without a doubt. Throughout the treatment you’ll feel your face gradually lose its tension (no doubt as a result of hours sitting at a desk, clenching your jaw all day during Zoom meetings) and feel calmer. The lymphatic drainage might sound slightly disgusting, especially as it’ll make you want to swallow several times but it’s more than worth it.

Can You Actually See Results?

Yes, immediately. The second you look in the mirror you’ll notice your skin not only appears to be glowing and hydrated but any inflammation, red pigmentation and acne scarring noticeably fainter. We were seriously impressed by how youthful our skin looked at the end.

Downtime?

Contrary to some facials which leave your skin slightly red, you’ll walk away from this treatment with but a slight shiny glow. Just be careful if you’re wanting to apply a face mask straight away – we suggest leaving it a good 10-15 minutes before applying one if you’re getting on public transport or going shopping.

Bang For Your Buck?

While this might be at the higher end of the price bracket for a facial, we can't sing its praises more. If your skin is feeling tired after a year of working from home, dull from a lack of Vitamin D and in need of a good pummelling, hydration and TLC, then this is the facial for you.

The Prager Hydrogen Facial, The Prager Clinic, £125 for 45 mins

The Vibe?

Known for their seriously considered and classy approach to aesthetic transformations (that's injectables to you and me), The Prager Clinic is one of the most trustworthy skincare destinations in London, backed by leading cosmetic dermatologist Dr Michael Prager himself. Whether you're going for lip fillers or their new Hydrogen Facial, you'll be in expert hands.

Is It For My Skin?

If totally detoxed, super clean and refreshed skin is what you're after then yes. More of an all round pollution purge for your face than a targeted treatment, it's suitable for almost everyone.

What Does It Do?

Once your face has been thoroughly cleansed, the Hydrogen Facial treats your skin with hydrogenated water via a techy wand-like device that 'jet cleans' your complexion. More than just a power shower for your face, the hydrogenated water clear pores of dirt, excess sebum and accumulated environmental aggressors such as pollution. You can even ask your facialist to show you all the grime they've collected once the facial is finished. We can confirm it's surprisingly satisfying and only a little gross.

Weirdest Part?

If you haven't had a tiny jet of hydrogenated water fired at your skin before then it might feel a little unusual at first.

Can You Actually See Results?

Our skin felt immediately cleaner, de-clogged and overall less grey.

Downtime?

Although it fades after a few hours, our face was a little red directly after the facial so it's possibly not one for a post-clinic dinner date. But, it's totally understandable when a year's worth of grime has been blasted out of our pores.

Bang For Your Buck?

If a total face refresh in under an hour is what you're looking for then this is the best facial around. Think of it as a power hour for your face, rather than a relaxing spa experience. For less than £150 your skin will thank you.

ESPA Glow From Within Facial, The Corinthia, £195 for 60 mins

The Vibe?

Nestled below The Corinthia Hotel in arguably London's most luxe spa, this facial might be the closest you get to a true escape from the traffic above. We can't think of a better word to sum up the glass vaulted ceilings, all white interiors and stone fireplaces than exquisite. And that's just the reception. Come for the facial, stay for the boujiest retreat you can get without leaving Embankment.

Is It For My Skin?

In short, yes. Designed to give your skin a much-needed post-lockdown glow with a dose of relaxation, this facial is all about using effective products and techniques without going too hardcore. Think results minus the slightly scarier acid peel/dermaplaning/microneedling that can be too harsh for more sensitive or acne=prone skin types.

What Does It Do?

We'll get straight to the point: this facial gives good skin. Like, really good skin. Like, go straight out without make-up on because your skin looks plump and clear as heck. A combination of deep cleansing with the techy FOREO Luna 2, face steaming and ESPA enzyme peels gently slough away dead and dull skin ready for a hit of hydration from a mix of face masks. So far, so great. Then the gua sha happens. We're not just talking gua sha face massage, but across your arms, chest and, most importantly for our WFH posture, down your neck too.

Weirdest Part?

Not necessarily weird but definitely unexpected, ESPA's Pink Hair and Scalp Mud is applied to your roots to soothe and condition your hair while your skin gets a good overhaul. So that's our faces, posture and scalp sorted. Is there anything this facial doesn't do?

Can You Actually See Results?

Definitively, yes. Our facialist used a skin scanner to show up areas of sun damage and dehydration before the facial. After? Let's just say the bad patches were significantly smaller.

Downtime?

None whatsoever. If anything go out immediately and show your new glowy fresh face off to anyone who'll look.

Bang For Your Buck?

Between the next level spa setting, the indulgent ESPA products, the face steaming, gua sha neck massaging and clay scalp treatment, this facial delivered over and above our expectations. We even snuck in a little nap between masks.

Su-Man The Advanced Oxygen Awakening Facial, W Hotel, £300 for 75 mins

The Vibe?

After travelling up through the disco ball-bedecked W Hotel lobby, arriving in the seriously zen Away Spa is a welcome escape from the manic Leicester Square location. The treatment room is your typical all-white slightly clinical situation but Su-Man's fun personality immediately puts you at ease. Although this is a major investment facial, Su-Man's legendary status and face transforming powers make a must-try. Think a facelift minus the needles.

Is It For My Skin?

Su-Man is the queen of facial massage and skin sculpting, rather than treating specific skin concerns, which means it works on everyone. Because who doesn't want higher cheekbones and less post-lockdown puffiness?

What Does It Do?

Although a teeny tiny person, Su-Man's hands hold serious strength, which is ideal for massaging and sculpting your face into its most gravity-defying self. A combination of her unique Shiatsu movement technique, from the Skin Reborn facial, as well as the powerful oxygen therapy to penetrate the deeper layers of the skin with the active ingredients from her skincare line, will leave your face looking firmer, lifted, luminous and seriously healthy.

Best Part?

In short - all of it. There's nothing better than the feeling of someone who truly knows what they're doing cleansing, massaging and generally pampering your face. Su-Man's holistic approach even includes a stomach massage. Yes, really.

Can You Actually See Results?

If brighter, smoother, firmer skin is what you're after, then it's a strong yes. De-puffed, glowy and with a stronger jawline than Allison Williams, we set off through Leicester Square completely make-up free.

Downtime?

None at all. If anything, our sudden lack of eye bags and fresh complexion made us want to go for drinks, if only to show off our lack of concealer.

Bang For Your Buck?

Although the location isn't necessarily the most luxe for the amount of money you're paying, what you do get is Su-Man's years of experience and a pair of hands that work wonders. Make the most of the splurge by getting Su-Man to prescribe a bespoke skincare routine for you whilst she's doing her thing.

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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Mesojet Signature Rejuvenation Facial at the Recharge Rooms, The Laslett, £190 for 60 minutes

The Vibe?

Far away from the bustling streets of Notting Hill and Portobello Market is the seriously luxe hotel The Laslett and its Recharge Rooms – a haven for those looking for a slice of R&R in the capital. Clients are immediately welcomed into a home-from-home wellness space with fresh water and green tea on arrival (if you feel so inclined, surrounded by plush grey and dark wood interiors, splashes of colourful artwork, plants and soft furnishings.

Is It For My Skin?

Yes, and not only that, the Mesojet technology can be applied across the body, from scalp to thighs. Unlike other facials, Mesojet can be tailored to any skin type. You'll have time to discuss your individual skin requirements, dermatological history and desired results during the pre-procedure consultation with the therapist. This is the perfect time to flag your concerns, whether you want deep wrinkle reduction or sun and age spot lightening

‘We have formulas for all skin types and for various skin conditions, and formulas for scalp as well - it’s a very important part of the skin that needs to be looked after properly,’ says Mikhail Tabakov, founder of Recharge Rooms.

What Does It Do?

The signature rejuvenation facial is a needle free anti-ageing procedure which is perfect in the winter months if you often find yourself struggling with hydration issues, oxidative stress, lines and wrinkles (the results of working from home in a pandemic, anyone?).

A session will commonly involve lymphatic drainage, cleansing and gentle exfoliation with glycolic acid or mandelic and salicylic acids.

During the procedure, the therapist will use a handheld ceramic Mesojet head which works by using radio waves to make the skin temporarily permeable (stimulating collagen and elastin in the process), while the jet infuses a combination of minerals, vitamins, acids and anti-aging ingredients 4.5mm deep into the skin on the face and body.

The rejuvenation procedure is based on a complex mix of five hyaluronic acids and peptides, which works to keep the skin look glowing and hydrated. The hyaluronic acids help reduce vaporisation and plump the skin with deep hydration, while the bio-peptides improve the skin’s natural biological functioning.

Better yet, the Mesojet can be applied to the face, chin, neck, hands, thighs and arms (the Recharge Rooms really are a one-stop shop for full-body tightening) and you can ask for additional booster infusions (think Vitamin A+E, Vitamin B5, Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid).

Best Part?

Lymphatic drainage might sound disgusting but it’s oh so glorious when the therapist is working across your face with light, rhythmic strokes to reduce the body of toxins.

Can You Actually See Results?

As with all facials, your face will look a bit red on first glance post-procedure. But on closer examination you’ll see your skin looks instantly smoother and more hydrated. Think of it as a much-needed spa break in Iceland without the faff or quarantine and traveling outside Zone 2.

Downtime?

It’s advised clients refrain from wearing make-up for a couple of hours post procedure, and avoid exercise for at least 12 hours. After all, when you’ve had a hydrating, rejuvenating facial, the last thing you want to do is cover your skin in beads of sweat and foundation.

Bang For Your Buck?

The facial isn’t exactly the cheapest compared to its competitors, especially if you were to book for weekly Mesojet facials at the Recharge Rooms. That said, the care and attention the therapists take to understand your skin concerns is second to none, which is essential if you’re concerned as to how your face might react to a good bit of heat, massaging and hyaluronic acids.

La Mer The Signature Facial at the Spa de La Mer, Harrods, £200 for 90 minutes

The Vibe?

La Mer, La Mer and more La Mer. Step down to Harrods' recently opened oasis under their Knightsbridge store and you'll find a spa haven complete with private treatment rooms dedicated to the best beauty brands in the biz. Trust us, the La Mer room doesn't disappoint. Larger than our London flat with more marble orbs and plush furnishings in La Mer's signature shades of green and gold, we could stay here all day.

Is It For My Skin?

We're yet to meet someone who's skin doesn't love La Mer to be honest... But, rest assured your face will fall head over heels with the full roster of La Mer's iconic skincare that feature in their Signature Facial. Designed more to soothe than to gain visible results, if you're looking for a high-tech all singing all dancing facial complete with lasers, this isn't for you. But, if you're up for over an hour's e

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