Last week, I took myself down to The Chelsea Day Spa's boutique branch on Hollywood Road, a fifteen minute walk (or five minute cab journey for the lazy) from Earl's Court. I'd had a long, tiring week full of unfeasible deadlines, late night calls with Americans, and endless meetings. I really, really needed some down time, and was very much looking forward to the half hour mini-facial and half-hour massage I had booked in.
The spa itself is pretty compact - despite occupying a space as small as your average high street beauty parlour, it still manages to feel upmarket. The reception area was small, but contained a pretty sofa for waiting, complete with a basket of oranges (for the healthy) and a jar of biscuits (for me). The ubiquitous nail bar was secluded but still flooded with light - whilst it was still in the same room as the reception, it was boxed in with massive windows, to give privacy without making you feel like you're in a tiny, lightless room.
I was questioned pretty comprehensively about my tastes and health before I was led into a compact treatment room. The bed was heated, and a vapouriser sat in one corner, giving the room and delicious lemon scent which was at once refreshing and relaxing.
My treatment started with a half hour massage - I'd asked for firm, deep pressure, as I don't really feel a massage has worked unless my usually tense muscles are forcibly relaxed with a good pummelling. My therapist, Noemi, told me that she could sort my muscles out without pain, and she was as good as her word. Using just her fingertips and elbows, she dug deeply into my muscles without making me yelp or tense up further - I drifted off into a relaxed trance, enjoying every minute. Half an hour flew by, and before I knew it, I was rolled over onto my back, with my shoulders given a final stretch.
My half hour facial was surprisingly effective for being quite short - it included a cleanse, exfoliation, massage and application of various creams. My eye makeup was left intact, which I really appreciated - I dislike travelling home on the tube with a completely bare face. The facial massage was the stand out part of the experience - Noemi used her fingertips to gently but deeply manipulate my facial muscles, and I was left with skin which looked firmer and felt plumped up, and absolutely glowed.
Overall, I was very impressed with The Chelsea Day Spa's boutique on Hollywood Road - after just an hour I floated off home feeling super relaxed and with skin which looked like it'd had hours spent on it, rather than just thirty minutes. I'll definitely be going back for more of Noemi's magical massage.
The thirty minute Chelsea Girl mini facial costs £45, and the thirty minute back, neck and shoulder massage also costs £45. Find out more at The Chelsea Day Spa website.
Disclosure: treatments provided free of charge for review purposes
This post originated at www.londonbeautyreview.com. If you're reading it elsewhere, it's been stolen, violating my copyright.
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