Francesca Londono-Brasington experiences the new Facial Massage Treatments that uses oils to balance the skin…
I love facials, in particular a good facial massage as part of the treatment which is rare to come by. I was therefore thrilled when an exclusive offer from the Recentre in Balham winged its way into my inbox offering an alternative Facial Massage Treatment by Elaine Tomkins, Head of Massage training for Neal’s Yard Remedies. Promising a completely unique facial using massage as a tool to promote a clear complexion, I was keen to sign up! I grind my teeth at night so I always find my jaw muscles particularly tight each morning which causes headaches and general discomfort, I was excited to see whether Elaine’s Facial Treatment made a difference. Luckily I wasn’t disappointed! This is so much more than just a facial, as Elaine aptly terms her facials as a Facial Massage Treatment, this is the best way to describe it. Elaine managed to work her way into all the little bones in my jaw and face area finding areas I didn’t realise existed or were causing tension. The effects of the massage not only help to ease tension but to also boost circulation, encourage lymphatic drainage and smooth out lines for a more even complexion. All treatments are tailored to your own needs after an initial consultation in order for Elaine to understand and address any underlying issues or health problems.
Throughout the treatment Elaine uses essential oil which has been scientifically proven to help rejuvenate and balance the skin. She has now teamed up with Rosalena to offer the most beautiful, plant based oils as part of the treatment. For those oil phobics out there, don’t be scared off by this – these oils are simply moisturisers in the form of an oil rather than a cream. They are incredibly light and blend easily into the skin without any greasy residue. Plus the molecules in the oil are much smaller than those in a cream so they’re able to penetrate the skin cells in order to protect and nourish the skin from within. Elaine gives you an oil suited to your skin to takeaway with you and I am now a huge fan and use it everyday. I’ve found the oil has really balanced out my combination skin and I no longer have dry patches or clogged pores.
Be warned that this isn’t always a relaxing treatment, some areas in the face are worked deeply and therefore it can be a little painful. However for me, it was exactly what I needed. I came away feeling soothed and my jaw certainly felt easier and I had a great night’s sleep. I’d definitely recommend this for anyone who suffers from tension headaches and/or clenches their jaw.
Image by: Hush-uk