The promise
To improve micro-circulation of the skin and enhance lymphatic drainage using purely organic products.
The experience
A busy schedule has caused us to neglect our skin regime and health in recent weeks. A dull complexion and large bags under our eyes were becoming cause for concern so we visited the Shangri-La’s Chi the Spa to remedy the problem.
The low lighting, relaxing music and ginger tea all immediately provide the setting for a calming experience. The spa has 11 treatment rooms, including facilities for Moroccan hammam, Turkish baths and rainforest showers, with a separate spa section for men and women.
We start with a cleanse followed by a gentle exfoliation, massaging tension out of our face. Chi uses all organic products, our therapist explains – the products are top-of-the-line and gentle on the skin. They don’t use any machines, everything is done by hand and organically. A rose-scented toner is applied next to purify our skin.
A hot compress relaxes and warms our face, followed by a face and eye serum to soften our skin.
Next, the therapist applies a mud mask to our face – a soothing natural mix that cools and was thick but lighter than a typical mud-mask. While the mask is setting, she proceeds to apply light pressure to different points on our face, neck and chest. It is a little unusual at first, but after a few minutes we feel our body seem to open and flow. We get a little sleepy during this, the soft music and lighting with the warm pressure lulls us gently into a state of tranquillity.
The therapist explains that our chest had a build-up of iron deposits and she had focused on working this out and loosening our tensions. To finish, we have a rose-scented moisturiser to further soothe and nourish our skin.
After the treatment, we feel like we are floating on a cloud – the treatment has given us energy but we are feeling serene at the same time. We are very happy with our vibrant complexion.
The results
Our skin became taught and fuller – the bags under our eyes were gone and our blood-flow through our body felt healthier.
Pros
It’s more than just a facial – we felt soothed yet energised after this treatment. A few hours later we were bouncing with energy. We love the organic products – good for us and the environment.
Cons
There are pros and cons to doing everything organically. It’s all done by hand which makes it more relaxing though not necessarily as thorough as clinical facials.
3/5
Rejuvenating facial, Dhs650 for 75 minutes. Chi the Spa, Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Bain Al Jessrain (02 509 8900).
