StyleNest writer and Dad-up blogger, Frazer McGlinchey reviews the latest Elemis Power Booster facial for the modern man.
There are some things which prove the increased evolution of women over men. I have recently discovered another, with a trip to my first ever facial, with Elemis at Harvey Nichols.
My wife had long since advocated the benefits of such a treat, but I had remained quietly sceptical, and likely a little jealous.
As such, my experience with the wonderful Hollie at Elemis was little short of a revelation. Initially I sat with her for a brief yet thorough, and surprisingly informative consultation. She took a picture of my old, beaten visage, and analysed my skin using a number of criteria, in order to determine the best course of action treatment wise, short of the scrap yard. Mercifully I am relatively light wrinkle wise despite my ever-encroaching years, and it seems that my skin doesn’t actually have the properties of an aged chesterfield sofa, or a chamois leather left out in the sun.
The one area of consternation in the entire day came as Hollie left me to prepare myself ahead of the major work required in a luxurious treatment room; changing into a sarong left me a touch confused as to where to tie said item (a la Beckham), but mercifully she came back to explain, and share both of our potential blushes.
From there the facial proper commenced, and my only complaint is in the description, as to my ignorant mind ‘facial’ implies a markedly less holistic experience that than one I had. The soothing music does exactly that, while the massage chair I was in throughout was surprisingly effective, and worked as a great counterpoint to the treatment itself, especially for one who normally only experiences massage or treatment when in large amounts of pain.
The next part of the ‘review’ is innately flawed, though; as I lay with my eyes closed I was aware of various potions, masks, massage, hot stones and general witchcraft over the course of the piece although the detail is, suffice to say, lacking. As is Hollie had plumped for the Modern Skin rather than the Only for Men of the six options; of course my skin is as sensitive as the soul it covers (or as fussy and awkward as me at my most recalcitrant).
Such was the experience that I attempted to put my shirt on inside-out, so relaxed and removed was I from the day-to-day. Having regained my bearings, Hollie then recommended a few tailored lotions and potions while never resorting to the hard sell, and taking into account the usual lack of attention we men can take with such matters; some I had, some may be spirited from my wife’s cabinet from time to time, and likely an addition to be procured.
The power booster facials are advertised as anti-ageing and, crucially, last a mere 30 minutes, making them a perfect treat. I am undoubtedly a convert to the whole experience following my trip to Elemis, and have no doubt they will garner more fans of both sexes. Ladies, get your inferior half signed up secure in the knowledge that he will be more evolved, softer and more glowing, while falling short of running off with your eyeliner. Gents, get involved.
For more information and to book your appointment visit Elemis.com