Whether you're living and working in the city full time, or are in need of a bit of downtime, the best facials in London should be on your radar. While a topical skincare routine is a must for day-to-day upkeep, facial treaments are a fantastic way to take things up a notch from your usual in-bath face mask session. Whether you're after something mind-soothing and relaxing, lifting and sculpting, glow-boosting and clearing or you're after something a little more intense to tackle a specific skin concern, sometimes our skin (and mind) can benefit from a more intensive treatment.
But, much like hair salons, there are simply so many to choose from in London alone. Luckily for you (and, let's face it, us) as editors, we spend our days putting every facial and skin treatment this city has to offer to the test. We've scoured the city from north to south and east to west to bring you a definitive guide to the top facialists and treatment options in the London.
With decades of experience between us, we've tried hundreds of facials over the years. But in 2024, it's safe to say the facial market has become somewhat saturated. So, in a bid to separate the wheat from the chaff, we decided to rip up everything we thought we knew and start again. Over the past few months (and for the rest of the year), we're committing to listing here only the very best facials that London (and its surrounding areas) has to offer, to make sure you're never let down by a facial appointment ever again.
The bar that these facials set is high—they must deliver both immediate and long-term visual improvements to the skin, they must do exactly as they promise it, they must be the very definition of bang for their buck and, most importantly, they must be notably more impressive than any other facials of their kind.
So, without further ado, these are the very best facials in London.
1. Omorovicza The Andrassy Skin Therapy Session
Need to knows
Best for: Relaxing luxury
Brand used: Omorovicza
Location: Omorovicza The Mayfair Institute, Mayfair
Overview: Cleanse, steam, extraction, mask, arm scrub and massage, facial massage, neck message, LED, moisturiser
Availability: You can book via the Omorovicza website.
Duration: 90 mins
Price: £250
Click here for more information
Setting
Just one casual stroll down Mayfair's South Audley Street is enough to fill up your luxury cup. Although an icon, finding yourself on South Audley Street always provides somewhat of a tonic—you find yourself removed form the hustle and bustle of Mayfair's streets, allowing space for a breather and for you to take in the beauty of the city without the stress. And nestled amongst the countless luxury boutiques that line the street is Omorovicza's Mayfair Institute. The definition of luxurious city escapism, the institute is a total haven—plus, the natural interiors provide all of the chic home inspiration you could possibly desire.
Review
"Anyone who knows me knows that I am an extremely uptight and tense person. Trying to get me to relax is a near on impossible task—my brain whirs at 100mph and every muscle in my body exists in a permanent state of rigidity. So, it's almost needless to say I am not the sort of person who falls asleep during beauty treatments. I spend most massages clenching my fists in mild discomfort (a game of necessary endurance for the relief I feel at the end), and am the sort who spends an entire facial reeling through the day's events in my head. And yet, I am pleased to announce that while experiencing the Omorovicza Andrassy Skin Therapy Session, I fell into a very, very peaceful slumber.
"From the moment you walk through the door of the institute, you feel an overwhelming sense of zen—it's like the place has been made specially to induce sleep. Upon climbing into the bed, I had already completed a questionnaire so that the facialist could create a bespoke treatment—so my treatment process might be different to yours. For my oily skin, there was nothing this facial missed off. A great cleanse, steam, effective and mostly painless extraction to tackle my blocked pores, glow-boosting masking and LED treatment, complete with a sensational arm scrub and some of the best massage I have ever encountered. It's not easy to fall asleep while having your face pummelled, but I managed it.
"Beyond all of this, my skin looked the best it has looked for a long time for days afterwards. It was glowing, clear, plump and smooth—it is, in my opinion, a total unsung hero on the London facial scene." – Shannon Lawlor, Executive Beauty Editor
2. Sarah Chapman Skinesis Bespoke Facial with LED Therapy
Need to knows
Best for: Targeted issues, glow and rejuvenation
Brand used: Sarah Chapman Skinesis, Environ
Location: Pavilion Road, Chelsea
Overview: A deep cleanse, a light skin peel, a clay mask, some extraction and LED light therapy, with Chapman's signature massages sprinkled throughout.
Availability: Anyone can book a facial, but do be prepared to do so in advance, as the waitlist can get pretty long.
Duration: 90 mins
Price: £210
Click here for more information
Setting
Despite being world-renowned and having celebrities like Meghan Markle, Victoria Beckham and Anne Hathaway on her clientele list, Chapman's clinic in Chelsea is unassuming, tucked away on Pavillion Road next to an Ottolenghi deli. While all of Chelsea is nice, this particular part of Chelsea is picturesque, historic and high-end, with quaint cobbled pavements, lush greenery and Union Jack bunting in summer and a stunning festive display come winter. It's just a few short minutes walk from Sloane Square, making it easily accessible yet still veiled from the flurry of Central London. Downstairs, shop the brand's ready-to-buy skincare products, and upstairs, meet her dedicated team of experts for your in-clinic experience.
Review
"To say I was excited for my Sarah Chapman facial would be an understatement. She's widely regarded as one of London's most sought-after facialists, you see, with extensive cosmetic science training, a signature massage technique and an impressive 20 years of industry experience under her belt. She's so well regarded that she has, reportedly, had her hands insured for a casual 1million pounds.
"Known for her unique massage style and science-backed approach to skincare, Chapman combines massage, state-of-the-art technology and top-of-the-range cosmeceutical products. Entering my treatment room, the space was light, white and immaculately clean, with chic interior touches that made you feel instantly relaxed.
"I had Barbara for my appointment, who spent ten minutes talking through my current skincare routine, skin issues and aims prior to starting. For the rest of the appointment after that, I enjoyed a deep cleanse, a light skin peel, a clay mask, some extraction and a finishing round of LED light therapy, with Chapman's signature massage techniques sprinkled throughout. What I loved most about the facial was the effortless combination of effective, science-backed techniques with sleep-inducing relaxation that left me feeling like a floaty cloud. Truthfully, I've never nodded off in a facial before, but dozed off around 45 minutes into my 90-minute treatment - a testament to how soothing and grounding the whole experience was.
"Clients have called Chapman's facials transformative and they really weren't lying. I've had plenty of facials in my time, but this was without a doubt the best. I left feeling mentally and physically lighter and with seriously soothed skin, too (I'd been struggling to manage a hormonal-related breakout, prior to going). While the effects were noticeable immediately, nearly a week on, my skin is still radiant, glowing and blemish-free. If you're struggling with any skin issues or just want to treat yourself to your best-looking skin, I can't recommend it enough." – Ally Head, Senior Health & Sustainability Editor
3. Re:lax Pregnancy Facial
Need to knows
Best for: mums to be
Brands used: Evolve, Nini Organics and others
Location: re:lax Skin Studio, Borough Yards
Overview: Soothing cleanse and massage using pregnancy-safe products
Duration: 60 or 90 minutes
Price: £89 or £119
Click here for more information
Setting
Nestled in contemporary Borough Yards near London Bridge Station, the location is super easy to get to after a busy office day or while on a trip to the city. The treatment rooms are supremely cosy and warm, complete with uplifting music and super-friendly staff on hand to help with anything you might require.
Review
"At the time of writing, I’m eight months pregnant, and it has become somewhat necessary for me to wind down and take time out for myself to properly relax, and pregnancy massage and facials have been a huge help in doing just that.
"When pregnant, there are certain styles of facial treatments that you can’t partake in—Hydrafacial, laser treatments and anything overly exfoliating, to name a few. In my experience, the best pregnancy facials aim for a soothing experience above all else, focusing on cleansing and massaging the face using gentle, pregnancy-safe skincare products. The Pregnancy Facial at re:lax did just that.
"It was a super tailored experience from start to finish. My facialist discussed my skincare concerns with me beforehand before taking a closer look at my skin to make the final decision on which products and techniques she would use. I’m usually quite acne-prone, but my skin has been pretty clear in recent months (thank you pregnancy hormones), saying this, I’ve experienced more sensitivity and redness than usual, so my facialist Lina was sure to tailor the facial to suit my needs.
"I can best describe the experience as an incredibly soothing, relaxing facial with all the trimmings: cleanses, masks and plenty of facial massage to boot. As the name suggests, it was one of the most relaxing facials I’ve ever had (I’m pretty sure I fell asleep at least three times on the thoughtfully elevated bed).
"In terms of pregnancy modifications, I was incredibly comfortable. Though I had to lay on my back, I had plenty of support from cushions and towels under my knees and head. I also asked my facialist to elevate the top half of the bed a little more so that I wasn’t lying completely flat on my back for a full hour.
"As my feet were feeling swollen and sore that day, I was offered a foot massage while the hydrating mask worked its magic. My facialist washed them with a warm wet towel before going in for a quick massage, which was a lovely touch. I left the treatment room feeling serene, revitalised and with positively glowing skin." – Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
4. Oskia Revitalising Super C Facial
Need to knows
Best for: An antioxidant glow boost and sculpt
Brand used: Oskia
Location: The Laslett Hotel, Notting Hill
Overview: Cleanse, exfoliating balm, hydrating serum, vitamin C serum, vitamin C mask, moisturiser, facial massage throughout
Availability: Email or phone The Laslett to book in. Booking in advance is recommended.
Duration: 60 mins
Price: £145
Click here for more information
Setting
Despite being just seconds away from the chaos of Notting Hill Gate, The Laslett boasts a beautifully cosy and serene atmosphere—ideal for a replenishing facial. The treatment room is in the basement of the hotel and is spacious, airy and minimalist with absolutely no noise (despite facing the road).
Review
"As someone whose skin is very acne prone, facials have always slightly daunted me. But since I had used (and loved) Oskia's products for years at home, I was confident that this treatment would work for me—and I was proven right. Oskia's award-winning products are designed to keep skin healthy and radiant with a signature blend of vitamins, omegas, proteins and the brand's secret ingredient MSM, a natural form of organic sulphur, so it is the ideal brand for a winter complexion pick-me-up.
"The facial I went for, the Revitalising Super-C Facial, is described as a non-surgical facelift, but don't let that fool you into thinking it's an intense or aggressive treatment. It was easily one of the most relaxing beauty treatments I've ever had, and the results speak for themselves.
"The treatment began with a soothing cleanser, followed by a gentle physical exfoliant, hydrating serum and vitamin C serum, before a brightening mask was applied and worked into my skin for several minutes. This was easily the part of the treatment I enjoyed the most, as I was given an incredible facial massage whilst the product melted into my face.
"That was followed by a fantastic arm massage using Oskia's rose massage candle and a serene scalp massage that I wish could have lasted all day. What I loved about this treatment is how indulgent and hydrating each product felt on my skin, which is exactly what I needed on a cold, dry December day. At the end of the facial I was served a delicious cup of tea which was the perfect thing to revive me from my relaxed haze.
"This is a treatment for those who are after an intensely relaxing facial that also works to brighten, sculpt, and reduce the appearance of fine lines without irritating the skin or causing any breakouts. My face afterwards looked even more bright, even and glowy than it had when I walked in in a full face of makeup, which is really saying something. Plus, there was noticeable lift around my forehead and eyebrows which I have only ever managed to achieve with microcurrent tools.
"Now, 24 hours after the treatment, my skin is still undeniably smooth and radiant. Both the location and the facial made for a truly pampering afternoon which I will undoubtedly be returning for." – Amelia Yeomans, Acting Junior Shopping Editor
5. Teresa Tarmey Advanced Skin Resurfacing/Alma Opus Plasma
Need to knows
Best for: Smoothing texture, evening pigmentation and scar tissue and tightening the skin.
Brand used: Alma
Location: Teresa Tarmey Clinic, Notting Hill
Overview: A non-invasive treatment which promoted new collagen stimulation to tighten, resurface and refine the contours of your skin.
Availability: Book your consultation and treatment through the Teresa Tarmey website. Note that online bookings with Teresa are limited, so be sure to call the clinic for more information.
Duration: 45 minutes
Price: £520 for a full face
Click here for more information
Setting
The Alma Opus Plasma treatment is available in a few different settings, including Skin by Sarah and Nurskin clinics. However, Teresa Tarmey’s Notting Hill clinic was, hands down, our destination of choice. Tarmey’s clinic is probably the most chic and contemporary beauty space we’ve ever set foot in. Spacious and minimalist, the decor resembles that of an expensive art gallery, complete with soothing music to get you in the mood for your treatment.
Review
“As someone with texture issues, acne scarring, pigmentation and redness, when I heard about the Alma Opus Plasma facial, I was intrigued to say the very least. The non-invasive treatment promotes new collagen stimulation to tighten, resurface and refine the contours of the skin. The result? Smooth, plump skin with the most incredible glow. Yes please.
"My facial was performed by Teresa Tarmey, super facialist and Alma’s Skincare Expert, at her Notting Hill clinic. Kate Hudson, Alma’s global brand ambassador, says, 'With aesthetics, it’s important to seek out the right environment, the right clinic, [and] the right doctor who can actually do the procedure'— and I couldn’t agree more. As a facialist to the stars, countless celebrities have trusted Tarmey with their skincare concerns, so I knew I was in excellent hands. Hudson, who has been a fan of Alma’s devices for 10 years, has seen impressive results from the facial herself: stating, 'For me, this is the great splurge for your skin. If you really want results, Alma treatments go just that bit deeper, and you can see the results instantly versus skin care that could take 3 to 6 months before you see an effect.' It goes without saying that I was excited to try the facial out for myself.
"So how does the facial actually feel? First, Tarmey applied a numbing cream for around 10 minutes before the treatment started, so I didn’t actually feel any pain or even discomfort. If you’ve ever had laser hair removal on your body or face, expect a similar experience—you will get up close and personal with your facialist and you will need to wear protective goggles. Once the numbing cream wore off, my skin felt sensitive and a bit raw – a bit like having sunburn – for a few hours.
"As I have pretty sensitive skin, Tarmey avoided the bonier parts of my face for my first session, focusing on my cheeks alone. My initial healing process was quick and without complications, so she went in over my forehead for my second treatment—and I definitely noticed a difference.
"Be warned: there is a little down time with this facial. Expect to look a bit like a tomato for the first few hours (the redness does go down sooner than you’d think though, promise), and you’ll need to avoid direct sunlight, exercise and hot showers for at least 24 hours. You might also have some *slight* scratches and texture for the first few days, but this fades away surprisingly quickly. The Alma Opus Plasma facial can be done on the face but also the chest and décolleté—but you should know that there’s more down time (and potentially more pain) with less ‘meaty’ areas of the skin.
"As for the results, I was astounded. After my first treatment, my texture issues were more than halved and after the second, almost nonexistent. My acne scarring and redness had been reduced significantly and I had a glow that I’d genuinely not seen since I was about 10 years old. I wasn’t just getting people who had known me for years telling me ‘how much better’ my skin looked, I was getting genuine strangers complimenting my skin, quite unprovoked. As somebody who has never considered themselves as having ‘good skin’, this was something I had never experienced. I've worked in beauty for years and no skincare product or facial has ever had quite this effect on my texture, scarring and pigmentation. I positively glowed, and the results haven’t faded with time.
"This is not a relaxing facial to fall asleep to by any means, but if quick and impressive results are what you’re after, the Alma Opus Plasma facial is the one for you.” – Valeza Bakolli, Junior Shopping Editor
6. Mortar & Milk Consultation With Bespoke Skin Treatment
Need to knows
Best for: A total skin overhaul
Brands used: Exuviance, Mortar & Milk
Location: Hoxton, London
Overview: A full skincare/lifestyle analysis with tailored advice, a bespoke treatment for your skin's needs, a recommended skincare regimen to follow
Availability: Pamela doesn't take on new clients often, but if you are lucky enough to nab a consultation, don't sleep on it—follow @mortarandmilklondon for updates on availability
Duration: 120 mins
Price: From £500 for your first appointment
Click here for more information
Setting
Situated inside a beautiful townhouse on Hoxton Square, Mortar & Milk provides a welcome haven in the middle of the city. Slip inside and experience an immediate sense of calm—as soon as you step through the door you feel right at home.
Review
"Mortar & Milk is known as the destination to visit for beauty editors who are disgruntled with their skin. Time on the treatment bed with Pamela Marshall is considered a total golden ticket—and Mortar & Milk has that sort of chilled out vibe that makes you want to stay and hang out all day.
"If you’re looking for a gigantic spa with pool and robe to change into, you’re in the wrong place, but if leaving with brighter, bouncier, clearer skin and a greater understanding of what's really up with your complexion then you’re in for a treat. Pam is the Queen of skin, what she doesn't know isn't worth knowing—specially if you experience acne, which would most definitely be Pam's Mastermind specialist subject. As a clinical aesthetician, her treatments are not so much beauty therapy, but are far more focused on the science of skin.
"Not for the faint hearted the consultation starts with a lifestyle analysis covering how often you wash your bed sheets to how regular your bowel movements are—and it’s this attention to detail that allows Pam to tailor the treatment to your specific needs. She believes gut health is the key to happy skin, and after spending time with her, I couldn't agree more! Don't be surprised if you start making notes on your phone as I did when she talks you through where you're going wrong with your skincare routine.
"After the chat, expect thorough scans and photos, showing everything from how dehydrated your skin is to existing damage and pigmentation. The whole consultation will blow. your. mind.
"Once it's time to jump on the treatment bed, you can expect something relaxing, sure, but also the sort of facial that really gets down and dirty—I'm talking extractions, acids and masks a plenty. Pam talks you through each stage in the most kind and calming way, making you feel totally at ease.
"You’ll come away with thorough notes on a recommended bespoke (but simple) skincare routine and much happier skin. It truly is a facial like no other—and I’ve had more than my fair share, let me tell you. Yes, the experience is on the expensive side, but it’s a completely bespoke treatment that is results-driven. The only downside is it sets the bar very high for any future facials you have—don’t say I didn’t warn you.' – Lucia Debieux, Freelance Fashion Editor
7. Su-Man Skin Reborn Sculpting Facial
Need to knows
Best for: Targeted massage, tension release and sculpting
Brand used: Su-Man Skincare
Location: Sofitel London St James
Overview: Full facial routine heavy in massage techniques to sculpt, minimise fine lines and boost glow
Availability: Wednesdays-Saturdays at Sofitel St James
Duration: 60 mins
Price: £260
Click here for more information
Setting
Su-Man is currently based at the spa inside London luxury hotel, Sofitel St James. With a Turkish Hammam, a jacuzzi, a relaxation room and treatment rooms, the spa is a haven in the centre of the city.
Review
"'Su-Man's facial is legendary' – that’s the opening line on the about section of Su-Man's website. Punchy? Yes. Hyperbole? Absolutely not. In fact, it's impossible not to verge on hyperbole territory when talking about this facial. 'This was a life changing experience,' 'Su-Man has magical hands/is a wizard' – all words that have left my mouth after having this treatment.
"That’s it for me now. I keep thinking, ‘How will I ever go to a normal facial ever again?’ I’m truly done for.
"Su-Man’s background is in Shiatsu, dance and pilates. So as you’d imagine, the facial is peppered with targeted massage and relaxation tailored to your individual needs. After my neck and shoulders were worked on – all the tension builds up to your neck and jawline – my ears were massaged to stimulate lymphatic drainage, using the most beautiful products. It was all divine.
"Su-Man gives you a mirror to marvel at the results yourself. It’s like time stops still. And, if you’re anything like me and hate looking in the mirror, you’ll take the mirror with reservation. But anyway, there you sit, mirror in hand and you really look at yourself. Like, really look at yourself. Part of the Su-Man philosophy is not only looking good but feeling good. Maybe it was her super-calming and caring nature rubbing off on me, or maybe it was because she told me my skin is great, but looking in the mirror I think: Okay, I look alright. Actually, scratch that, I look good.
"On the day of my great awakening, I did a double take after walking past my bathroom mirror. Hang on, does my jaw look more defined? I stroke my jawline to make sure it’s real. Later I’m sitting at the dinner table and my hand grazes my chin. 'What has she done to my face?' I think to myself. 'Maybe she is a wizard?' Can a facial be a life changing experience? I think so…" – Sunil Makan, Editor
8. Wildsmith Radical Botany Facial
Need to knows
Best for: Deep relaxation and seriously increased skin radiance with clinically-trialled results.
Brand used: Wildsmith Skin
Location: Liberty, Fortnum & Mason and Heckfield Place
Overview: A seriously deeply relaxing treatment carried out by clinically-trained therapists that targets both mind and skin. Expect cleansing, exfoliation, myofascial release, craniosacral holds and breathwork.
Availability: This facial in hot demand, and you can't book them via any form of online booking form. However, following the booking link on the website to email the team, who will get back to you with their availability.
Duration: 60 minutes
Price: £220, with a non-refundable £120 booking fee to be redeemed against Wildsmith Skin products.
Click here for more information
Setting
The best place to experience a Wildsmith treatment is, without doubt, at the brand's home of Heckfield Place. However, a stay at Heckfield can really dent the bank balance, and the Radical Botany Facial is how to get a slice of relaxation in the city.
Review
"Wildsmith Skin is, without question, one of my favourite skincare brands out there. Not only does it feel luxurious, sensorial and perfectly marry up the links between mind and skin, but they really work, and are scientifically and clinically backed. It is, in essence, the perfect example of skincare that leans on both nature and science to deliver unbelievably good results. My favourite thing about Wildsmith, though, is the treatments.
"Ask any beauty editor lucky enough to have tried one of the brand's treatments and they will absolutely agree with me that they are some of the best (if not the best) that money can buy. And while the brand's treatments at Heckfield Place are, indisputably, in a league of their own, the London-based Radical Botany Facial is still my favourite facial in London—without a shadow of a doubt.
"I'm not claiming that this facial is going to totally change the state of your skin forever (no topical facial will), but it is the single most relaxing and soul-restoring facial I have ever experienced. A combination of breath work, gentle lymphatic massage, pressure point focus and full-body stretching takes your mind to another planet, all while the therapist gets to work on your skin.
"Each Wildsmith product has seriously impressive claims, and your complexion is left radiant beyond compare and oozing good health. In fact, the reset it delivers to both mind and skin is so impactful that I remain glowing for weeks afterwards. Every time someone asks me which relaxing facial I can recommend in London, this one always wins." – Shannon Lawlor, Executive Beauty Editor
9. Sunday Riley Ice Lift Facial
Need to knows
Best for: Cryo, sculpting, depuffing, glow
Brand used: Sunday Riley
Location: Hershesons, Fitzrovia
Overview: Cleansing, vitamin C massage, lymphatic drainage, LED therapy, cryotherapy, moisturiser
Availability: Monday-Saturday
Duration: 60 mins
Price: £145
Click here for more information
Setting
Hershesons Fitzrovia is a one-stop shop for all things luxury beauty. Sprawled across a huge salon floor, you'll find some of the top hairstylists in the game seeing clients, a The Hagen Project café offering delicious food and drinks, a small DryBy nail salon and, hidden away, some wonderfully cosy treatment rooms—one of which is occupied by Sunday Riley. While the salon itself is bustling and exciting, the treatment rooms are beautifully secluded, peaceful and cosy, feeling a far cry away from the busyness of the West End, just the other side of the wall.
Review
"There are two reasons why you should go and get a Sunday Riley facial at Hershesons salon. 1) Because you walk out with skin so happy, bouncy and glowy that it’s practically singing. 2) Because this is the only place in the world (yah huh) where you can get a Sunday Riley treatment.
"This facial gives good – no, GREAT – results, but I have to tell you that the therapist had me at hello. She asked me about every product that I use, wanted to know the brand name, how often I use them and when. She does this because she wants to know what your skin is used to and what it can and can’t handle.
"The facial itself is part relaxation – the cleansing, the mask, the lymphatic facial massage, the hilarious chatter with my therapist, and part punch – a combination of red light LED and cryotherapy. Don’t worry at all about the LED, which boosts collagen – you can’t feel a thing, and while went going on, the therapist is at the bottom of the giant bed relieving all of the tension from my toes.
"But the cryotherapy? The cryotherapy took my breath away. Not because it was painful, but because it’s so damn cold and my body does this funny thing when it’s super cold – it’s like it's confused and forgets how to work. I’ve done cryotherapy chambers before and the same thing happened then, I couldn’t regulate my breath. I had to close my eyes and tell myself to breathe in and breathe out. But don’t panic, because the therapist is there the whole time making you laugh and making you feel so comfortable.
"Once she’s finished blasting your face with sub–zero air, give your face a little touch, you won’t believe how cold it is. But that chilliness fights signs of inflammation, so it’s all good. She then applies your favourite Sunday Riley products and you’re good to go. When you sit up, you’ll notice the change. You’re a little pinker (in a good way) and a little tighter. And you’ll be smiling." – Katie Thomas, Senior Beauty Editor
10. Aesop facial
Need to knows
Best for: A tailored skincare ritual in an immaculately chic environment, perfect for those who find facials intimidating.
Brand used: Aesop
Location: Regent St, Mayfair
Overview: Cleanse, steam, extraction, mask, arm massage, foot massage, scalp massage, moisturiser
Availability: Book ahead via the Aesop website.
Duration: 75 mins
Price: £170
Click here for more information
Setting
Situated on what is, hands down, one of the busiest streets in the city, Aesop's boutique provides a welcome space of relaxation. Step in through the shop doors and be greeted by what is easily the most beautiful beauty store the city has to offer. But, it's what lies beneath the store that really holds the magic. Head down in a secret lift to venture into pure skincare paradise. As the lift doors open, you are faced with the chicest seventies-esque reception area for the treatment rooms. It is so peaceful, calming and downright cool, you totally forget where you are.
Review
"If I had to guess, I'd say I've probably had over 20 facials this year alone—it's my job to test them out, after all. And in all of my years as a beauty editor, I have long waited to nab an appointment at Aesop's Regent Street store. Last year, I was given a tour of the treatment rooms and fell in love instantly. I can honestly say that the Aesop treatment area is the most beautifully designed, luxurious space that London has to offer—and you really feel like you're being given a personal, bespoke experience.
"The Aesop facial menu is streamlined and to the point—each of the three facials on offer promise the same thing: a totally bespoke treatment, just for varying times. I, of course, opted for the longest on offer—75 minutes of pure bliss.
"Before the treatment, I filled out a very in-depth questionnaire on my skin and its needs while cradling a cup of mint tea in the painfully chic reception area. Then, my facialist guided me through to a separate private sitting area to discuss my skin and what the treatment would entail. The attention to detail was exceptional, and you are left entering the treatment room fully clued up on what is to come and with no questions left to ask.
"When the doors were pulled back to reveal the treatment room, I melted into myself. It was pure heaven. My facialist showed me to the private changing room and told me to wrap myself in the provided sarong (I told you it was chic) and climb into the bed. She also explained exactly what to remove clothing wise, making it a truly stress-free experience for those who find the whole process of facials a bit awkward. The sarong also means you're covered up under the sheets and blanket of the treatment bed, which I know is something lots of people would appreciate.
"Once I was settled under the bed, the treatment began. I was already briefed that because we had established my skin was going through a bit of a rough patch in terms of sensitivity, we might end up skipping the extraction process (which we did), so we started with a cleanse, went straight into a steam (which, again, I had been prepped for) and then a couple of different masks while I was treated to an arm, hand, foot and scalp massage. By the end, my skin felt happier than ever, and I floated back to the changing room to make myself look somewhat alive with the Aesop goodies provided for that exact purpose (after having spent over an hour fighting the urge to drift off).
"You even get a post-facial debrief to discuss how your skin is looking and some recommended products and ingredients. At no point did I feel pressured to invest in Aesop products afterwards, and instead was pointed towards specific types of products and ingredients, some of which Aesop had great suggestions for (and I was sent home with sachet samples of these to try before I buy).
"All in all, I can't recommend this treatment more highly for those who want to understand their skin better, want a fully transparent and professional luxury facial in the heart of London, or simply just want to feel spoilt rotten for an hour or so. My skin is equally as grateful as my soul, and you better believe I'll be going back."
