Located in the 5-star Sofitel St James Hotel, the serene So Spa has become renowned as a haven of peace and tranquility next door to London’s Piccadilly Circus. With treatments that focus on results, there is unquestionably a lot of substance behind their effortlessly chic style (think marble table tops, intricate cornice stone and delicate wrought iron detailing throughout). Using two brands, either Cinq Mondes or Carita – both French – they manage to perfectly combine the latest in expert anti-ageing technology with traditional healing massage. The result – an hour of unearthly relaxation where you come out looking 5 years younger than you did going in.

I opted for the signature facial, which used the brand Carita. After a few questions about my skin health and habits from my therapist (do I cleanse daily? Yes. Do I drink enough water? Probably not. What is my favourite brand? I have so many – can I have them all?) she got straight to it. Deep cleansing my face with a massage that nearly sent me to sleep.

Then it was for the scrub, which I was assured smelt disgusting (true) but if I could handle it, she promised me it would be worth it. For someone willing to try just about anything natural all in the name of shaving a few years off their face I was more than willing. Amazingly, I have never felt my skin so smooth once the scrub was removed and I am sure it was here that most of the magic took place.

A mask was then applied and I was given an arm and hand massage – my favourite part. The delicious concoction of aromas was more than enough to send me to another world entirely. Next the mask was removed and the therapist applied the serum and moisturizer to my face and was shocked to see how quickly it was absorbed. So quickly that she insisted on reapplying some more. My face was clearly incredibly dehydrated and I was told to make sure I was applying a thick enough cream. Plus, I took it as a sign that I need to drink more water.

It was a perfect treatment for winter when you need something calming, restorative and centred. The signature facial is £100. Book at http://www.sofitelstjames.com/sospa

By Sadie Reid

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