Monday 8 October 2012

Facial sceptic? Meet Decléor heaven.



Like lots of women I know, I can count the number of facials I’ve had on one hand. It’s the cost that’s put me off having them more regularly in the past. That, and an inbuilt scepticism that they actually make a real difference to my skin. But I find as I get older - and particularly since becoming a makeup artist – I can really see the effect they can have.

I was recently invited to try out the 75 minute Harmonie Extreme Facial (£50) at The Orchid Retreat in Barnet. Admittedly not a hugely convenient location - unless you happen to live in zone 5 of North London, which I don’t - but I’ve been working hard in recent weeks and decided it was most definitely time to treat myself! 





And what a treat it was! I was placed in the care of Seri for the duration of the treatment. Her manner was professional and friendly throughout and I liked the fact that she humoured my desire to chat for the first ten or so minutes until I was able to relax.

The best thing about the Harmonie Extreme Facial (designed for sensitive skins) is that it begins with a wonderful back, shoulder and neck massage. Seri was careful to adjust the pressure whenever I said it was too much and by the time I rolled over for the facial part I was almost falling asleep I was so relaxed (no mean feat!)




The facial itself involves targeted massage, together with the use of Decléor cleansers, oils and exfoliators. It ends with a 10 minute mask which was freezing cold when applied but didn't stop me drifting off when Seri left the room.

The setting overall was comfortable, with background music the right side of plinky-plonky and at the right level. My only gripe was that the treatment room was noticeably cold when I went in and it was a job to keep warm an hour or so into the treatment, particularly when the mask went on. 

Walking out of the salon I felt quite hazy and could have done with a glass of water (which was never offered) and although I was half expecting it, my hair was very oily which made my shopping trip to Waitrose on the way home a tad embarrassing ;)

Best thing about facials at The Orchid Retreat? Why that'll be the price! £50 for 75 minutes (or £60 for 90 minutes) is pretty bargainous in my opinion and although it's not the most convenient of locations to get to, I'll definitely be going back.

Rating: 9/10
Summary: A fabulously pampery 75 minutes at a recession-friendly price. Book yours today!


Harmonie Extreme Facial (£50, 75 Minutes)
See also: Orchid Facial (£60, 90 minutes)


All images courtesy of Decléor.