Two new London spa treatments

Escape writer Gaby Lane tries out two new spa treatments at top destinations Rosewood London and Akasha in Hotel Café Royal.

The super-facial

We were tipped off that the Face Place Signature facial is the treatment most likely to make you look like you’ve had a relaxing weekend break – and the rumours are true. For the first time outside the US, the brand has opened a treatment room at glamorous hotel Rosewood London and it’s already earned a list of enthusiastic regulars.

The facial is packed full of indulgent steps like mini massages, meanwhile it’s an enthusiastic clinical approach that gets results. At one point you’ll be wearing a leather mask while an electric current is passed through it to tone and firm the skin. At another, the therapist performs an ‘extraction’ – and mechanically de-clogs your pores. All steps are backed up with wonder ingredients like vitamin C and zinc.

This unique facial is a great experience for both men and women (and a completely painless process). Arrive early and you can enjoy the Rosewood’s sauna and steam room too.

252 High Holborn, WC1V
rosewoodhotels.com

The relaxation-booster

In town for business? It’s handy to know that there’s a 1,200 square-metre spa hidden under the hustle and bustle of Regent Street. Akasha is one of the slickest day spas there is – whether you fancy a dip in its showstopper of a pool, peace and quiet in its relaxation lounges – or working up a sweat in its state-of-the-art gym. There’s even a hammam, should you fancy trying the traditional cleansing experience that includes a salt scrub and steam.

We were invited to test Akasha’s latest treatments by luxury brand Aromatherapy Associates and opted for ‘We Relax’, a dreamy pampering session focused on the back, scalp, face, neck and shoulders, with essential oils. Start-to-finish, the treatment is designed to soothe and slow the mind – think deep breathing, heated compresses and gentle kneading that left us feeling sleepy and content.

Our top tip is to visit on a Friday evening – and take advantage of the fact that you’re out of mobile range in this basement spa.

Hotel Café Royal, 68 Regent St, Soho, London W1B 5AS
hotelcaferoyal.com