Feature: Which are the best spa-range beauty and body products?
By: Alexa Williamson
Some may think that going to a spa is a waste of time. However for those of us who like to be pampered and get our bodies and skin rejuvenated – and most importantly, relax – then having good products used is very important. And, it’s also good to know what’s worth bringing home for continued use.
A lot of people say that expensive products won’t keep your skin/body healthy. However, that is bullshit – as long as you choose the right ones.
My overall opinion, is that they’re good for maintenance on top of what is now called ‘non-invasive’ techniques such as botox, mesolift, fillers, Green Peels, soft lights (such as Epilight), radio waves, etc. Although I’m not endorsing over use of these, either.
So with this in mind, here are a few of the spa ranges that I recommend:
My favourites – I would bring these home:
Dermalogica
Rating: **** (out of 5)
Reason: good, natural-based products with lots of sea elements/minerals. I have had various facials, with results that last for days.
La Prairie
Rating: ****1/2 (out of 5)
Reason: only, as far as I know, a few of the top salons that A-listers visit use these products – particularly for their famous ‘caviar’ facial. I am a big fan of La Prairie as I find that the range of products, at least 4 out of 5 times, ‘does what it says on the tin’.
Guinot and Gatineau
Rating: *** (out of 5)
Reason: again, both good brands that actually produce reasonable results. However, I’d say that they’re for younger skin.
Darphin
Rating: *** (out of 5)
Reason: again, another fantastic brand that left my skin glowing for ages and worked wonders for my eyes. However, I think Darphin range is more suited for people with normal skin. I’m right on the border of not recommending this for take home. Yet, it is, overall, a high-quality range.
Nice at the salon, feels and smells great, but I wouldn’t take it home:
Espa
Rating: *** (out of 5)
Reason: ‘natural’ and ‘aromatherapy-based”, the products are nice, but aren’t going to work wonders on your skin. I experienced them when I went to Rookery Hall at the New Year – and unfortunately, the results, in some cases, wore off hours later.
Decléor
Rating: *** (out of 5)
Reason: I really like this line, which is also very plant and aromtherapy-based – even more than Espa. However, the range doesn’t have long-lasting results and would only recommend it for younger skins. Yet, it smells great!
Don’t bother with:
Elemis
Rating: ** (out of 5)
Reason: After trying this range in St Lucia at LeSport, I was not impressed with the products – less so than Espa. The salt scrubs were nice. However, I didn’t really notice any results from the facials (and one was very specialist – including oxygen and a silk mask). I don’t know why some people like this range, but am always open to hearing about their good experiences and why they do.
