Why Do I Need To Get A Regular Facial? (Plus The Top Three Places To Go In London)

Facials have long been perceived as an infrequent indulgence that's often the result of a gift, spa day or skin emergency. As they can be quite expensive and require a couple of hours out of your day, they often slip to the bottom of our priority list. However, a regular facial will not only provide an enforced few hours of relaxation and pampering, but provide you with targeted and invaluable advice for you to continue implementing yourself at home. There's nothing quite like an hour with an incredibly experienced skin expert, listening to them diagnose any issues and provide advice on products or routines; if you've ever suffered with breakouts, dryness, enlarged pores or uneven tone, then they could provide bespoke recommendations that only an appointment with a dermatologist could provide.

Not only does a great facial help to get deep down and remove residue you'd rather be rid of, but the equipment they have on hand will simply never be rivaled at home; from LED light therapy, oxygen suction and steam machines, a fifty quid gadget from Argos will just never be as good as someone with years of training. I try to have a facial every couple of months and it really helps to treat my skin, tackle any issues I'm experiencing and set me up for the coming weeks when I'm going it alone; an infrequent expense can really help your skin in the long-term so it's really worthwhile integrating them into your routine. If you're confused as to where to turn, then I've narrowed down the endless appointments I've experienced to three perfect locations that will have you looking spiffing in no time at all.

1. Antonia Burrell (Portobello Road, Notting Hill)
The first time I visited Antonia's hidden away treatment room I wasn't quite sure what to expect; although she operates in a teeny tiny room that's lacking in the glamour you may expect, her expertise is second to none. She really listens, looks and gets hands on, massaging and pummeling skin to stimulate bloodflow while unblocking pores by squeezing the nasty bits out by hand. Her products are gorgeous and provide incredible results, meaning the second you step out and back to reality you feel like a new woman. Every visit results in glowing, radiant and plump skin that's never looked better, so it's no surprise she's booked up months in advance. If you've never had a facial before, this is the ultimate place to start.

2. Liz Earle (Duke of York Square, Chelsea)
Although there's a portfolio of specialists on hand to offer a range of facial options, an appointment with their resident treatment expert Abigail is something a bit special. Abi gets to grips with your lifestyle, needs, product reportoire and so much more before embarking on a bespoke facial that evolves as she goes; I love the fact she doesn't follow a recipe, but decides upon the best treatment after discovering how your skin reacts. Her treatment room is absolute devine, having been designed like an apartment that has everything you need - it instantly puts you at ease and ensures you're in for a treat. If you're a fan of Liz Earle products, then this is a great way to experience them on a new level.

3. House of Fraser Oxford Street (Westminster)
Who would have thought that one of the busiest stores, on London's busiest streets, would hold a haven of treatment rooms on the Lower Ground level that offer every kind of facial you can imagine? From Murad and Elizabeth Arden, to Decleor and Clarins, there are so many brands that offer treatments as an extension of their beauty counter. The Murad treatment is one to check out if you're concerned about the first signs of ageing, while the Elizabeth Arden facial is free when you make a purchase over £25.00 on counter; it offers a 'time out' from the world and leaves you feeling pampered, perfect after a long day of shopping. It's well worth checking out the brands available in store and requesting a treatment to experience the products first hand too.

Do you try to invest in regular facials, or do you see them as an unnecessary expense? Have you ever visited any of my three favourite locations for a treatment?
*Pictures of Liz Earle, Duke of York Square

Features PR samples unless otherwise stated. To read my full disclaimer, click here.

SIGN UP TO THE LBQ FORTNIGHTLY NEWSLETTER HERE!
BLOG POSTS, NEWS, EXCLUSIVE OFFERS & COMPETITIONS DIRECT TO YOUR INBOX.