Jurlique at Agua Spa

There are few spas that can take your breath away, before your treatment even begins. Agua Spa at the 5* The Sanderson Hotel is one of these places, where Jurlique offer gorgeous treatments.

Agua Spa is stunning. At 10,000 square feet with 14 treatment rooms, chill-out zone and meditation beds, this place has an amazing ambience. Luxurious in every way, the spa is an absolute joy to visit; a total indulgence. With its abundance of white curtains (there are miles and miles of curtains dividing up the vast space) and beautiful furnishings, you won’t want to leave.

My therapist came to greet me in the waiting area and led me to my treatment room. The place is noticeably quiet, so calming and tranquil. The treatment matched the surroundings- not surprising when you consider that Jurlique skincare focuses on nature, science and innovation to offer effective, natural skincare products with proven results. My skin felt so pampered and soft, the treatment clearly delivered.

My favourite product used was the Jurlique Skin Balancing Face Oil (£31.50), lightweight and non-greasy to help soften, protect and nurture skin, with such a yummy scent. Both the spa and Jurlique are worth trying if you haven't already. Treat yourself to some pure indulgence!

Buy the range here: Jurlique

The OSKIA Experience

When stepping out of bustling Covent Garden tube station, it is hard to believe that nestled away is somewhere as peaceful as the OSKIA Boutique Spa. Upon entering, you wouldn’t believe that lively Covent Garden is literally just outside. I wanted to try for myself the range described by Grazia as “taking the skincare world by storm”, and what better way than with their signature treatment.

The space is intimate, with gorgeously decorated treatment rooms and a calming aroma. After completing my brief consultation form, my treatment- the OSKIA Signature Facial- could begin. Georgie Cleeve, OSKIA Founder, says "Lots of clients come in for our Signature Facial to repair stressed-out summer skin. We concentrate on deep exfoliation and using products such as the Oskia Renaissance Mask to balance skin tone and reduce pigmentation spots, while our facial massage and acupressure techniques are perfect for prepping the skin in readiness for Autumn." Great for me as I had just returned from holiday and my skin needed some urgent TLC.

The Facial didn’t disappoint. In fact, it exceeded expectations. The brilliant Therapist took the time to explain problem areas she would be addressing throughout the treatment, which gave a really bespoke feel to the whole experience. In addition to the excellent facial massage, every single product used felt divine on my skin, and smelled beautiful. One favourite was the Oskia Micro Exfoliating Balm (£46). I adored the Peppermint smell and the gentle yet refining texture of this product is incredible. 

Another favourite was the Oskia Skin Smoothing Massage Candle (£34.50) I have never experienced anything like it. The Therapist lights the wick and after a few minutes, the warm melted blend of oils and waxes are applied directly onto the skin using a fan brush. The ingredients used have been chosen for their skin healing properties and the Rose de Mai perfume is something else- I am not a big fan of most Rose scents, but this I could smother myself in; you can use the product as a Body Oil too. I left the treatment room feeling utterly pampered and could not believe how amazingly soft and glowing my skin was.

It is hardly surprising, then, that building on the success of their own Boutique Spa, OSKIA is launching at the 5* Langham Hotel in London and will be announcing further luxury Spa partnerships very soon. This brand is a perfect match for places like the Langham; OSKIA simply screams luxury.

Buy the full range here: Oskia

Weleda Wins Again

We were absolutely thrilled to hear that Weleda have won 2 ‘Janey Loves’ 2012 Platinum Awards!

Janey Lee Grace, natural living guru and author, has awarded the beautiful Weleda Wild Rose Pampering Body Lotion (£16.95) ‘Best Natural Body Lotion’.  This indulgent product has recently been repackaged and is a winner with our customers.

The Weleda Birch Cellulite Oil (£16.99) was also ‘Highly Commended’ by Janey. This dermatologically proven treatment nourishes skin and visibly improves skin appearance, toning down cellulite and supporting your skin’s overall health.

A massive well done to Weleda too for their win in Harper’s Bazaar Beauty Hot 100; their fabulous Weleda Skin Food (£7.65) was voted ‘The feel-good all-round beauty hero’. This celebrity favourite intensively nourishes and deeply hydrates. With such affordable pricing and such positive feedback, these are products worth trying.

Buy the full range here: Weleda

NEW Caudalie Vinexpert Range

When clinical tests prove to be as exceptional as they have for the new Caudalie Vinexpert range, you know the formulations must be good. Caudalie have got it so right.

Resveratrol-Oleyl is the star active ingredient, and ‘stimulates the production of collagen and elastin, stops at the source the glycation responsible for deep wrinkles, and redensifies the skin.’  The 5 treatments that make up the range tackle skin ageing at the source, combining science with nature to deliver top results.

The Caudalie Vinexpert Radiance Day Fluid SPF15 (£35) is a great moisturiser for day, suitable for all skin types and designed to fight the first signs of ageing, fine lines and wrinkles. The texture is so smooth and moisturising yet quite light. Plus it contains pearlisers and light-reflecting pigments that leave skin glowing. For dry skin, the Caudalie Vinexpert Radiance Day Cream SPF15 (£35) is richer in consistency and therefore a better option. 

The two serums in the range can be used morning and evening, in conjunction with the day creams and the Caudalie Vinexpert Night Infusion Cream (£35), an intensive night treatment for all skin types. We even have selected Caudalie samples available if you want to try before purchasing the full size. Give it a go and see the results for yourself!

Buy the full range here: Caudalie

Ila Spa: A Brand Beyond Organic

Ila Spa is a brand I admire. With the maxim ‘beyond organic’, Ila far exceeds what many of us may expect from an organic brand. With a focus on delivering luxurious skincare to bring ‘purity, energy and balance into everyday life’ says Founder Denise Leicester, Ila Spa also works extremely hard to ensure that each formulation used ‘retains the earth’s purest natural vibrations: the energy of Ila.’

In Oxfordshire the barn where every product is blended overlooks the Cotswold hills; this is a truly stunning setting. The smell in the blending room is so comforting; both calming and uplifting all at once. In seeing the products made so carefully by hand, one can appreciate just how powerful the Ila philosophy is, and just how much every member of the Ila team is committed to that philosophy. The products, completely free from any nasty ingredients, are so lovingly made and contain the finest raw ingredients.

The great thing about Ila Spa is that now, with the addition of the new Essentials range, it really can be for everyday use, for the whole family. The Ila Body Wash for Toning Skin (£9.60) is perfect for all skin types with an uplifting scent designed to cleanse and pamper. Follow with the Ila Body Lotion for Nurturing Skin (£9.60) to nurture, regenerate and smooth. The shampoo and conditioner are great for a deep cleanse and nourishment, suitable for all hair types.

My star product from this new Essentials range is the Ila Bath Soak for Pure Relaxation (£9.60) This is an affordable product and has such a divine scent. Following Ila instructions, simply pour a small amount into a warm bath and immerse yourself in complete bliss.

Learn more about Ila Spa and buy the range here: Ila Spa