From skin-lifting technology to cheekbone-chiselling massage, these are the bookings to make now, as recommended by Bazaar's beauty team
Sometimes we want spa-style pampering with a top-to-toe treatment; sometimes we want natural-looking tweakments by way of carefully administered injectables. But when it comes to facials specifically, we always want to improve the health and quality of our skin as well as reaping visible results (hello glow!). For this, a combination of holistic rituals, manual techniques and high-tech gadgetry can deliver the desired outcome. 1.5 Microneedle
For the exceptional Fatma Shaheen – likely London’s most in-demand facialist right now – "it's integral that in every treatment we carry out, our client's skin is bathed with technology that works, without the need for downtime".
"Key technologies you should look out for, and an essential component in my treatments, include microneedling and radiofrequency," she says. "Both of these will provide an instant transformation, as well as working on long-term skin health for results that last beyond the treatment." We can attest, they do.
And when it comes to timeless facial methods, the likes of manual massage and pore-clearing extraction can also have transformative results, albeit for different reasons.
So, whether you want a powerful pick-me-up for a special event or to embark on a journey for a complete skin overhaul, we made it our mission to test the very best. Here, see London's top facial treatments that employ pioneering technology with time honoured techniques and a heavenly healing touch for the ultimate results.
An hour with the founder and CEO of Skin Design London – her ‘designer cosmeceuticals clinic’ and brand of luxury active products – grants you clinical-grade results without the downtime.
Shaheen’s face-changing techniques use a combination of science-led skincare with state-of-the-art aesthetic tech. Think: gentle resurfacing peels, regenerating microneedling, contour-refining radiofrequency and collagen-stimulating light therapy, all of which she tailors to your skin needs (and, mercifully, none of which cause discomfort).
As Shaheen explains, "The SDL Face Lift treatment combined with The Vitamin Skin Peels work beyond the surface by targeting deeper layers of the skin without challenging the barrier, delivering results that continue long after the treatment itself." Indeed – the effects go beyond temporarily bringing back the bounce and imparting glow, though your skin will demonstrate both right away. You’ll also notice a reversal of gravity to rival injectables, and a renewed clarity as if some sun damage has been erased. No wonder it can be hard to bag an appointment.
Skin Design London treatments with Fatma Shaheen from £400. Offered at John Bell & Croyden, Wigmore Street; 180 Health Club, Temple; Matches Fashion, 5 Carlos Place. Visit skindesignlondon.com
‘Minimal by Hadda’ is the professional moniker for Hadda Akrim, the celebrity facialist who takes a holistic approach to skincare. Her belief that good skin starts from within doesn’t mean she isn’t at the forefront of science and tech though; Akrim employs the likes of cold lasers, microneedling devices and advanced peels to get instant and long-lasting results from her massage-laden treatments. Unlike a traditional facial, an hour in her care is very much a comprehensive experience – and one that’s tailored to your personal needs and preferences. For example, you might wear a Slimyonik Air Bodystyler meanwhile, activating your lymphatic system while you rest. Promising body contouring and immunity-boosting benefits, the compression therapy suit stimulates your natural drainage and detoxification processes, so you leave feeling lighter and looking brighter – not to mention sculpted from head-to-toe.
Treatments with Hadda Akrim from £255 at the Minimal by Hadda studio, Knightsbridge, London. Visit minimalbyhadda.com
You only need to look at the skin of Jasmina Vico's clients – who include Jodie Comer, Sienna Miller and the cast of Barbie – to know she gets results. But the skin health expert isn't only accessible for the A-list.
From her Fitzrovia clinic she treats visitors to bespoke skin and wellbeing treatments which can combine her signature Vico Glow Laser, LED therapy, lymphatic drainage, cold laser, and pressure point massage. Then there's her 'gut x skin protocol': while you sip on her organic milk thistle tea, expect supplement recommendations and advise on following an anti-inflammatory diet which shows on the skin.
She's testament to the fact that luminous, bright and tight skin is an inside and out job – and she'll inspire you to make lifestyle changes that maintain the results of her knock-out handiwork in the longterm.
VicoSkin treatments start from £250. Visit vicoskin.com
South Kensington's Santi spa describes itself as 'a premier aesthetic sanctuary', and it specialises in high-end cosmetic treatments and holistic therapies. One of its most popular treatments is the Santi Glow Facial (Yasmine Naghdi, principal ballerina of The Royal Ballet is an ardent fan), which combines microdermabrasion with oxygen jet stream therapy to leave your skin feeling clear, renewed and visually revitalised.
The treatment begins with an in-depth pre-treatment consultation so that everything can be tailored specifically to your skin's needs. Unlike other clinics or spas, the Templar Skin Lab can be harness here, which is the only system in UK able to measure skin parameters such as hydration, pH, collagen levels and skin elasticity allowing for a scientific approach to skincare.
Next, you undergo microdermabrasion to remove excess buildup and dead skin cells, instantly improving the texture of your skin. Your clinician then applies a firming mask before the oxygen therapy begins, which helps tackle dryness and dullness. Overall, results include a brighter, tighter and far less dehydrated appearance immediately.
The Santi Glow Facial costs £125 for 60 minutes (or £500 for a course of five). Visit santilondon.com
Chelseé Lewis' tailored signature facial pairs rejuvenating and detoxifying massage with deep skin cleansing and a AHA/BHA micro-peel for complete complexion renewal. Evening tone and targeting lines and wrinkles is what this facial excels at, while Lewis uses her exemplar skincare knowledge to identify internal and external wellbeing factors which contribute to skin's overall health long-term.
The results of this facial speak for themselves; a brightened complexion with thorough extractions, leading to a radiant, visibly decongested and even tone in the days that follow.
Lewis offers a curated menu of clinically proven technologies in conjunction with her signature technique, from a five-star, seven-in-one 3D-HydrO2 treatment to a non-surgical 3D-HIFU facelift, all hosted from within the intensely relaxing setting of her Wigmore Street clinic.
Chelseé Lewis Signature Facials from £170. Visit chelseelewis.co.uk
Therapist Katharine Mackenzie Paterson works from a beautiful Georgian townhouse in Mayfair, with a plush treatment room that feels pampering just to look at.
Her heavenly bespoke facials combine a fusion of efficacious products from a plethora of advanced brands, with intuitive manual massage and skin-restorative modalities, such as LED light therapy and microcurrent technology. No two facials are alike, but we can guarantee her healing touch is both face- and spirit-lifting: within an hour you can expect to look brighter and tighter, as well as feel lighter thanks to her soothing persona.
If you want something specific, she also offers results-driven skin treatments such as peels and microneedling, and will tailor any visit to what your skin needs at that precise moment.
Another bonus: Mackenzie Paterson can offer home visits in addition to treatments at her spa room, so you can get the glow without leaving the house.
Bespoke Facials from £200 at 24 Hanover Square, Mayfair. Visit kmpskin.com
Keren Bartov, the ultimate glow giver and reigning skin machine queen, has landed in London, with a state-of-the-art clinic comparable to the wonderful Tel Aviv flagship in her native Israel where she treats local A-listers like Gal Gadot, Bar Refaeli and Adi Himelbloy (above).
With a no-menu approach to treatments, each visitor receives a custom-created facial that's truly advanced. Whatever your skin type and goals, Bartov and her personally trained team incorporate her own potent skincare with technologies such as radio-fractional, ultrasound, IPL and lasers to treat conditions and concerns such as sagging and wrinkling, acne and post-spot scarring, pigmentation, rosacea and dermatitis.
From giving the skin back its spring to restoring radiance and clarity – and even guaranteeing a total transformation over time – the results are very impressive.
The Super Facial from £250, Keren Bartov Advanced Clinic, 25 Kensington Church Street, W8 4LL. Visit kerenbartov.co.uk
It’s not commonly known that only around five per cent of any topical formula will be effectively absorbed (and therefore put to good use) by the skin – and that is exactly why laser expert Natasha Clancy’s cult Baby Face treatment is in such high demand.
Clancy was the first to bring the non-ablative, lutronic LaseMD laser to the UK, and has since been in high demand for the intensive, effective resurfacing treatment. Dubbed the Baby Face, this unique laser works like no other, in that it creates micro-channels in the skin to facilitate up to 90 per cent absorption of a custom-blended serum, which will contain either retinol, tranexamic acid, vitamin C or resveratrol, depending on your skin’s needs.
The treatment itself begins with a 20-minute LED session while your numbing cream sets to work – and truthfully, that’s where the relaxation ends (you’re here for results, not a nap). Clancy will tailor the intensity of the laser to your skin’s requirements, before treating your entire face and neck for around three minutes (it’s prickly, but over in a flash).
While there’s no downtime involved, you can expect to be red in the face for around an hour after. In the days that follow, your skin will feel very dry as the resurfacing occurs – make-up is also off the cards. Aftercare is simple: apply your custom serum (store it in the fridge, as it’s preservative-free) and stay away from all other actives. Within seven days, pigmentation, acne scarring and even fine lines fade away – and the glow is incredible.
Kichi Baby Face, £350. Visit Kichi.studio
Founded by dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams, Eudelo is considered by those in the know as the ultimate destination for serious skin support.
Taking a research-driven, solutions-based approach, you won’t find any traditional spa-style pampering here – but if you’re looking to treat a tricky skin issue, you couldn’t be in better qualified hands.
Williams’ team of medical aestheticians and dermatologists eschew zeitgeist-y treatments and high-street trends, instead tackling issues such as sensitivity, pigmentation, acne and rosacea head-on via the most advanced, proven methods.
So far, so practical – but that’s not to say there’s no relaxation to be had. The clinic’s dermatology-grade Supreme Age Decelerator facial uses a unique abstract sound machine to coax the brain into a hypnotic state. While you’re blissfully half-asleep, your medical aesthetician will use a personalised combination of skin peels, microneedling, mesotherapy and heavenly manual lymphatic drainage to target your specific needs.
Following your first appointment, you’ll emerge with a comprehensive post-treatment plan, including a non-biased list of product recommendations from a range of brands, and a clear path to the best skin of your life.
Eudelo, POA, visit eudelo.com or arrange a free phone consultation here
Aesop Regent Street is a memorable beauty destination in itself, with its nod to Regency architecture, and sleek curvatures, bronze metalwork, portland stone and pitted plaster interiors. Beyond the oversized, stately basin central to the store, visitors can descend for a facial in the hidden, hushed treatment rooms below.
Available in durations from 45 to 75 minutes, the facials are tailor made though centre on cleansing, balancing and hydrating the skin combining rhythmic, cursive massage.
The whole experience feels dreamlike, from the nurturing scents to the cloud-like bed and heavenly hands-on touch, making it the perfect facial to gift a loved one. Especially is they're a fan of the cult skincare brand, or–frankly–of anything chic.
Aesop Facial, from £110, visit aesop.com
Dr. Anita Sturnham’s Decree skincare line can be found in the bathrooms of many a beauty expert, and now you can experience its effectivity alongside an astounding line-up of technology in the exclusive Radiance Reset Facial.
Performed at Dr. Sturnham’s Nuriss Clinic on Wimpole Street, the treatment is an all-encompassing overhaul for every skin type, with smart tweaks to target your specific issues.
The treatment begins with a thorough cleanse and gentle peel to exfoliate and prep the skin for a personalised Hydrafacial. Then, things get really technical: the non-ablative Clearlift laser bypasses the stratum corneum to stimulate the lower layers of the skin, prompting collagen production while breaking up pigmentation and melasma, bringing down redness and even minimising pores.
Next, near-infrared skin tightening further bolsters the firming efforts, using light energy to heat and contract the skin’s collagen fibres. Finally, a cocktail of replenishing Decree masks is layered beneath an LED device to calm, soothe and deeply hydrate the skin.
With zero downtime (even for the very sensitive) and absolutely no pain involved, this very much feels like the future of medical facials.
Nuriss Radiance Reset Facial, £450, visit Nuriss.co.uk
Skin tightening and body sculpting using cutting-edge tech may be what advanced aesthetician Sadaf Jaffari is best known for, but facial rejuvenation is her forte, too.
The Red Carpet Ready Facial – available at her chic, discreet clinic in Chelsea – is perfect for achieving lifted, glowing skin before an event. Device-driven yet non-invasive, it combines a Hydrafacial treatment (to deeply cleanse, extract and exfoliate), radiofrequency (to tighten and lift) and use of a nonablative laser (to improve texture, radiance and collagen production). Customised to each client, consider it the do-it-all facial, whatever your complexion concerns.
With her extensive knowledge of the skin and active ingredients, Jaffari can also advise on a bespoke home skincare plan, too.
Sadaf Jaffari The Red Carpet Ready Facial, £450, visit sadafjaffari.com
Dr Joney De Souza is a specialist in natural results when it comes to volume, texture and tone of the skin – and the clinic offers a number of different treatments, including laser and injectables, but we recently tried the Brazilian Zero Downtime Facial, which was excellent for transforming a tired, dry complexion.
The facial centres around the antioxidant ingredient derived from Brazil nuts, selenium, which has been used for centuries but is growing in popularity within the beauty industry. First, dead skin cells are removed, so that a new, brighter layer below is exposed, and then the selenium is applied, penetrating deep into the skin so that cell turnover is increased. The skin on your face and neck will be resurfaced and look refined, resulting in more hydration, a glowing tone and a reduction in hyperpigmentation.
Dr Joney De Souza's Brazilian Zero Downtime Facial, £250, visit Drjoneydesouza.com
Back on our shores, Californian laser specialists Skin Laundry have clinics in Soho (Newburgh Street), Chelsea (King's Raod), and Hampstead (Heath Street).
They offers two quick and easy, zero-fuss facial therapies (or a supercharged combination of both). The Signature facial employs a Nd:YAG laser that bypasses the skin surface to target inflammation and bacteria in the dermis, while simultaneously prompting collagen production. The treatment lasts just 15 minutes and there's minimal pain (although expect a hot sensation).
For more advanced issues including acne scarring and hyperpigmentation, opt for the Thermo Fractional Facial. Using a resurfacing thermo device, it targets everything from tone and texture to fine lines and sun damage.
Skin Laundry works on a membership basis, with several tiers to suit your specific demands and added benefits such as product discounts and treatment add-ons.
Skin Laundry first signature laser facial, £75, visit Skinlaundry.com
Few facial experiences are as unique as a session spent with Sarah Bradden, where the holistic therapist performs a combination of treatments which leave you feeling not just relaxed, plumped and refreshed, but oftentimes even emotional.
Her signature cosmetic acupuncture treatment – which has been touted by some as a natural alternative to Botox – begins with a full consultation, including a tongue diagnosis where Bradden identifies any issues you may be dealing with. She then works the treatment around these observations, tailoring it to your particular needs.
Most experience a combination of the following; a healing cleansing ritual, followed by acupuncture on the face and body, an oxygen treatment, LED light therapy, reiki and reflexology. You will then have a full facial massage including cupping and gua sha, and finally, the application of ear seeds which continue to stimulate acupressure points while worn post-treatment. The entire ritual is fully enveloping with real physical and mental benefits.
For those short on time wanting more than a quick-fix she's developed The Bradden Boost, which in 40 minutes grants overall health and wellbeing benefits, plus a next-level glow. The same elements as the signature treatment are incorporated (except for the body acupuncture and reflexology), plus Bradden uses a Declèor Aromessence face oil serum for massage which helps to sculpt and lift the skin.
Prices start at £120 for The Bradden Method Boost (includes complimentary at-home 24 carat Bradden Method Ear Seeds) at Hershesons Belgravia
Dr. Barbara Sturm has become the go-to skincare brand for the A-list and beauty editors alike, and now you can experience the aesthetic doctor's anti-inflammatory ethos in a sublime facial treatment.
Now on Mount St, the brand's flagship boutique and spa offers a curated selection of treatments, each one tailored to address a specific issue – be it congestion, dark spots or dullness. Minimally invasive microneedling, circulation-boosting cryotherapy and sculpting massage are all on the menu, alongside a hefty dose of those inimitable serums. True to the doctor's gently-does-it blueprint, you'll leave looking fresh and glowing with no downtime to endure.
Whether you're new to the brand and want help choosing a routine, or are a loyal fan looking for a treat, this is a must-try.
Dr. Barbara Sturm from £180. Visit drsturm.com
Hidden at the end of a quaint Mews in Fitzrovia, Pfeffer Sal’s stone-walled, impeccably designed clinic is surely the chicest beauty destination in London. That’s not why you need to book though – they’re also the warmest, most welcoming team around and, of course, deliver the most remarkable results-driven treatments.
Start off with the bespoke, 100-minute long Essential Facial, in which your facialist will identify your skin’s condition and concerns before setting you off firmly on the right treatment path. Enzyme exfoliation and extractions keep things clear, while smart (and needle-free) machinery is used to open temporary channels in the dermis, infusing your custom blend of low molecular-weight actives deep enough into the skin to effect real, lasting change. LED (using the industry-leading Dermalux, no less) clarifies and calms, completing what will certainly be your first of many visits.
Be sure to pick up a bottle of the brand’s outstanding Essential Serum before you leave, and keep an eye on your inbox for a detailed, thoughtful debrief following your appointment, including personal (and non-biased) product recommendations as well as DIY hacks and lifestyle tweaks to consider. Really, they’ve thought of everything.
Pfeffer Sal The Essential Facial, £185, visit pfeffersal.com
Dr. Maryam Zamani has long been considered the go-to surgeon for oculoplastic work, and now she has opened the doors to her very own space.
Situated on the Kings Road, The Clinic is home to Maryam herself, alongside her team of consultant dermatologists and aestheticians. Here, the options are wide-reaching: from natural filler to pigment-banishing laser, expect the buzziest and best therapies for a range of concerns.
A great starting point, the Signature Glow facial serves as an introduction to the MZ Skin line, combining active-led formulas with Hydrafacial and collagen-boosting microneedling.
The Clinic Signature Glow Facial, £400, visit drmaryamzamani.com
Chapman's facials are so good they can elicit a gasp of joy when one looks in the mirror. Her mind-bendingly relaxing mix of hi-tech wizardry and hands-on massage is superb, as her A-list clientele (and the Bazaar beauty team) can testify. At her discreet Chelsea clinic, choose from a menu of skin rejuvenation treatments, which include stem cell collagen therapy, peels, radiofrequency, IPL and Fractional laser. It’s also the destination for eye-specific treatments, offering a firming eye treatment which includes a gentle peel and specialist massage and an advanced lifting treatment with a techie triple-pronged approach.
Sarah Chapman Bespoke Luxury Facial, £170 for 90 minutes, visit sarahchapman.net
Despite having only opened earlier in 2022, The Clinic Holland Park has already become a prime destination for its discerning Notting Hill clientele. The space offers aesthetic, cosmetic, and wellness procedures in a luxurious, elegant setting. Think a Harley Street level of knowledge and experience in a relaxed, stylish environment. We came for its much-hyped facials led by celebrity facialist and skincare expert Emma Brown (she has previously worked with both Poppy and Cara Delevingne, Salma Hayek and Gemma Arterton).
Brown combines cutting edge techniques with holistic procedures to create bespoke facials that are tailored to the client’s wants and needs. She truly listens to any concerns or goals you might have and adapts the treatment accordingly. Her signature advanced facial involves cleansing, skin polishing, a light peel, extractions, dermaplaning and a lifting and contouring massage. The results leave skin feeling hydrated and soft, while looking brighter, dewy and healthy. The care continues afterwards – Brown also sends personalised recommendations of products.
A combination of science and luxury, clinical and classic beauty approaches, The Clinic Holland Park is about creating a restorative experience as well as visible, lasting results.
EB Signature Bespoke Advanced Facial With Dermaplaning, from £250, visit theclinichollandpark.com
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