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From achieving skin-smoothing to collagen renewal, these are the high-tech bookings to make now, as recommended by Bazaar's beauty team Cavitation Hifu Slim Machine
The best facial to book now? Well, that depends on your demands: today, the industry's most innovative destinations offer so much more than a simple spa-style pamper, allowing you to tailor your experience to your most specific needs.
In 2024’s most talked-about clinics, manual massage meets innovative technology, with protocols now available to brighten, tighten and visibly lift – crucially, without you emerging red or raw.
For the exceptional Fatma Shaheen – likely London’s most in-demand facialist right now – "it's integral that in every treatment we carry out, our client's skin is bathed with technology that works, without the need for downtime".
For achieving her signature red-carpet glow, Shaheen recommends microneedling and radiofrequency as two technologies to know. "Both of these will provide an instant transformation, as well as working on long-term skin health for results that last beyond the treatment." Indeed, we can attest that they do.
For quick radiance-boosting and skin-healing, LED light is another common protocol you’ll see featured in the best facial treatments. This non-invasive therapy uses a spectrum of focused light wavelengths to prompt repair processes in the skin cells. And for cheekbones that could cut glass? The brilliantly satisfying microcurrent is the tech to choose: working by stimulating the muscles beneath the skin, a single, swift session can bring about visible results in time for that big event. And of course, sometimes, only a sublime facial massage will do: happily, there are plenty of magical manual treatments in our little black book too.
So, whether you want a powerful pick-me-up for a special event or to embark on a journey for a complete skin overhaul, we made it our mission to test the very best. Here, see the top-rated facials in London, according to the beauty team that has truly tried them all...
An hour with Fatma Shaheen, the founder of Skin Design London, grants you clinical-grade results without the downtime.
Her face-changing techniques use a combination of science-led skincare with state-of-the-art aesthetic tech. Think: gentle resurfacing peels, regenerating microneedling, contour-refining radiofrequency and collagen-stimulating light therapy, all of which she tailors to your skin needs (and, mercifully, none of which cause discomfort).
As Shaheen explains, "The SDL Face Lift combined with The Vitamin Skin Peels work beyond the surface by targeting deeper layers of the skin without challenging the barrier, delivering results that continue long after the treatment itself." Indeed – the effects go beyond temporarily bringing back the bounce and imparting glow, though your skin will demonstrate both right away. You’ll also notice a reversal of gravity to rival injectables, and a renewed clarity as if sun damage has been erased. No wonder it can be hard to bag an appointment.
Shaheen holds a coveted position in-house at the Matches townhouse on Carlos Place, with her private clinic room tucked away above the floors of designer fashion. Now, you can also find her in the treatment space at Selfridges, where the exclusive cryotherapy-based The Freeze facial can be experienced.
Skin Design London treatments with Fatma Shaheen and the SDL Team start from £250.
Offered at John Bell & Croyden, Wigmore Street; 180 Health Club, Temple; Selfridges, Oxford St.
‘Minimal by Hadda’ is the professional moniker for Hadda Akrim, the celebrity facialist who takes a holistic approach to skincare. Her belief that good skin starts from within doesn’t mean she isn’t at the forefront of science and tech though; Akrim employs the likes of cold lasers, microneedling devices and advanced peels to get instant and long-lasting results from her massage-laden treatments. Unlike a traditional facial, an hour in her care is very much a comprehensive experience – and one that’s tailored to your personal needs and preferences. For example, you might wear a Slimyonik Air Bodystyler meanwhile, activating your lymphatic system while you rest. Promising body contouring and immunity-boosting benefits, the compression therapy suit stimulates your natural drainage and detoxification processes, so you leave feeling lighter and looking brighter – not to mention sculpted from head-to-toe.
Hadda Akrim treatments start from £255
Minimal by Hadda studio, Knightsbridge.
As the joyful interior indicates, Salon C Stellar does things a little differently. Founder Andrea Pfeffer has brought some of the wellness industry’s most revered experts together to create a truly holistic self-care clinic, where how you feel receives as much consideration as how you look.
Ancient therapy meets modern science in the clinic’s facial menu, which is uniquely advanced and perhaps surprisingly techy. Start with the team’s signature facial, which is entirely personalised to your needs on the day and goes far beyond many salon’s entry-level offerings. Here, you can expect the usual skin maintenance – steam, extractions, even milia removal – as well as a combination of electrical protocols, with microneedling, microcurrent, radiofrequency and Dermalux LED all on the menu.
For those who want something more soulful, the Astro Facial works on the mind-body connection with a guided meditation element, while at the other end of the spectrum lies the new, industry-leading Exosomes needling treatment.
And it’s not just an industry-shifting approach to facials you’ll find in this Soho hideaway: the clinic offers everything from lymphatic massages to Reiki, sound therapy and body microneedling, meaning you can truly take your MOT from head to toe.
Salon C Stellar treatments start from £145.
19B Beak St, Carnaby, London W1F 9RP
You only need to look at the skin of Jasmina Vico's clients – who include Jodie Comer, Sienna Miller and the cast of Barbie – to know she gets results. But the skin health expert isn't only accessible for the A-list.
From her Fitzrovia clinic she treats visitors to bespoke skin and wellbeing treatments which can combine her signature Vico Glow Laser, LED therapy, lymphatic drainage, cold laser, and pressure point massage. Then there's her 'gut x skin protocol': while you sip on her organic milk thistle tea, expect supplement recommendations and advise on following an anti-inflammatory diet which shows on the skin.
She's testament to the fact that luminous, bright and tight skin is an inside and out job – and she'll inspire you to make lifestyle changes that maintain the results of her knock-out handiwork in the longterm.
6 Percy Street, Fitzrovia, London W1T 1DQ
Therapist Katharine Mackenzie Paterson works from a beautiful Georgian townhouse in Mayfair, with a plush treatment room that feels pampering just to look at.
Her heavenly bespoke facials combine a fusion of efficacious products from a plethora of advanced brands, with intuitive manual massage and skin-restorative modalities, such as LED light therapy and microcurrent technology. No two facials are alike, but we can guarantee her healing touch is both face- and spirit-lifting: within an hour you can expect to look brighter and tighter, as well as feel lighter thanks to her soothing persona.
If you want something specific, she also offers results-driven skin treatments such as peels and microneedling, and will tailor any visit to what your skin needs at that precise moment.
Another bonus: Mackenzie Paterson can offer home visits in addition to treatments at her spa room, so you can get the glow without leaving the house.
Dr. Barbara Sturm has become the go-to skincare brand for the A-list and beauty editors alike, and now you can experience the aesthetic doctor's anti-inflammatory ethos in a sublime facial treatment.
Now on Mount St, the brand's flagship boutique and spa offers a curated selection of treatments, each one tailored to address a specific issue – be it congestion, dark spots or dullness. Minimally invasive microneedling, circulation-boosting cryotherapy and sculpting massage are all on the menu, alongside a hefty dose of those inimitable serums. True to the doctor's gently-does-it blueprint, you'll leave looking fresh and glowing with no downtime to endure.
Whether you're new to the brand and want help choosing a routine, or are a loyal fan looking for a treat, this is a must-try.
Dr. Barbara Sturm treatments start from £180.
125 Mount St, London W1K 3NS
Chelseé Lewis' tailored signature facial pairs rejuvenating and detoxifying massage with deep skin cleansing and a AHA/BHA micro-peel for complete complexion renewal. Evening tone and targeting lines and wrinkles is what this facial excels at, while Lewis uses her exemplar skincare knowledge to identify internal and external wellbeing factors which contribute to skin's overall health long-term.
The results of this facial speak for themselves; a brightened complexion with thorough extractions, leading to a radiant, visibly decongested and even tone in the days that follow.
Lewis offers a curated menu of clinically proven technologies in conjunction with her signature technique, from a five-star, seven-in-one 3D-HydrO2 treatment to a non-surgical 3D-HIFU facelift, all hosted from within the intensely relaxing setting of her Wigmore Street clinic.
Chelseé Lewis Signature Facials start from £170.
124 Wigmore Street, Marylebone, W1U 3RY
Chapman's facials are so good they can elicit a gasp of joy when one looks in the mirror. Her brand's mind-bendingly relaxing mix of hi-tech wizardry and hands-on massage is superb, as her A-list clientele (and the Bazaar beauty team) can testify. At her Chelsea clinic, choose from a menu of skin rejuvenation treatments, which include stem cell collagen therapy, peels, radiofrequency, IPL and Fractional laser. It’s also the destination for eye-specific treatments, offering a firming eye treatment which includes a gentle peel and specialist massage and an advanced lifting treatment with a techie triple-pronged approach.
Her latest treatment is The Iconic Facial which in addition to her signature 'gymnastics massage', double-cleanse and mask application, combines radiofrequency and electronic microneedling utilising stem cell technology. It's the ultimate ticket to collagen renewal and improved skin smoothness.
Sarah Chapman The Iconic Facial, £350
259 Pavilion Rd, London SW1X 0BP
There’s a reason Dr Sebagh and his treatments have garnered a plethora of celebrity fans and clients. His Facial Room, which sits on the top floor of Chandos House Marylebone, offers a number of treatments to revitalise, rejuvenate and transform your skin – but it’s the UltraLift facial that is most requested.
The non-surgical treatment specifically targets the deep foundation below the skin, without disrupting its surface, giving instant lifting results that improve over the three weeks following. And the results speak for themselves. After just half an hour skin appears firmer and more lifted thanks to the ultrasound wave technology (HIFU) which stops the ageing process from gaining momentum. Not only that, the treatment stimulates the growth of new collagen over time to strengthen and tone your skin from within, making sure the results continue to improve weeks after you've left your appointment.
You’ll be surprised to hear there is no downtime, aside from some possible redness which soon disappears. Dr Sebagh’s UltraLift facial is the perfect prerequisite for a wedding or similar special occasion.
Dr Sebagh The Ultralift™ LP (HIFU) facial, £350.
The Advanced Ultralift Facial (with additional 10 minutes of HIFU) is also available.
Chandos House, 2 Queen Anne St, London W1G 9LQ
Keren Bartov, the ultimate glow giver and reigning skin machine queen, has landed in London, with a state-of-the-art clinic comparable to the wonderful Tel Aviv flagship in her native Israel where she treats local A-listers like Gal Gadot, Bar Refaeli and Adi Himelbloy (above).
With a no-menu approach to treatments, each visitor receives a custom-created facial that's truly advanced. Whatever your skin type and goals, Bartov and her personally trained team incorporate her own potent skincare with technologies such as radio-fractional, ultrasound, IPL and lasers to treat conditions and concerns such as sagging and wrinkling, acne and post-spot scarring, pigmentation, rosacea and dermatitis.
From giving the skin back its spring to restoring radiance and clarity – and even guaranteeing a total transformation over time – the results are very impressive.
The Super Facial starts from from £250,
Keren Bartov Advanced Clinic, 25 Kensington Church Street, W8 4LL.
It’s not commonly known that only around five per cent of any topical formula will be effectively absorbed (and therefore put to good use) by the skin – and that is exactly why laser expert Natasha Clancy’s cult Baby Face treatment is in such high demand.
Clancy was the first to bring the non-ablative, lutronic LaseMD laser to the UK, and has since been in high demand for the intensive, effective resurfacing treatment. Dubbed the Baby Face, this unique laser works like no other, in that it creates micro-channels in the skin to facilitate up to 90 per cent absorption of a custom-blended serum, which will contain either retinol, tranexamic acid, vitamin C or resveratrol, depending on your skin’s needs.
The treatment itself begins with a 20-minute LED session while your numbing cream sets to work – and truthfully, that’s where the relaxation ends (you’re here for results, not a nap). Clancy will tailor the intensity of the laser to your skin’s requirements, before treating your entire face and neck for around three minutes (it’s prickly, but over in a flash).
While there’s no downtime involved, you can expect to be red in the face for around an hour after. In the days that follow, your skin will feel very dry as the resurfacing occurs – make-up is also off the cards. Aftercare is simple: apply your custom serum (store it in the fridge, as it’s preservative-free) and stay away from all other actives. Within seven days, pigmentation, acne scarring and even fine lines fade away – and the glow is incredible.
Kichi Baby Face starts from £350.
8A West Halkin St, London SW1X 8JE
Founded by dermatologist Dr Stefanie Williams, Eudelo is considered by those in the know as the ultimate destination for serious skin support.
Taking a research-driven, solutions-based approach, you won’t find any traditional spa-style pampering here – but if you’re looking to treat a tricky skin issue, you couldn’t be in better qualified hands.
Williams’ team of medical aestheticians and dermatologists eschew zeitgeist-y treatments and high-street trends, instead tackling issues such as sensitivity, pigmentation, acne and rosacea head-on via the most advanced, proven methods.
So far, so practical – but that’s not to say there’s no relaxation to be had. The clinic’s dermatology-grade Supreme Age Decelerator facial uses a unique abstract sound machine to coax the brain into a hypnotic state. While you’re blissfully half-asleep, your medical aesthetician will use a personalised combination of skin peels, microneedling, mesotherapy and heavenly manual lymphatic drainage to target your specific needs.
Following your first appointment, you’ll emerge with a comprehensive post-treatment plan, including a non-biased list of product recommendations from a range of brands, and a clear path to the best skin of your life.
eudelo.com or arrange a free phone consultation here
Dr. Anita Sturnham’s Decree skincare line can be found in the bathrooms of many a beauty expert, and now you can experience its effectivity alongside an astounding line-up of technology in the exclusive Radiance Reset Facial.
Performed at Dr. Sturnham’s Nuriss Clinic on Wimpole Street, the treatment is an all-encompassing overhaul for every skin type, with smart tweaks to target your specific issues.
The treatment begins with a thorough cleanse and gentle peel to exfoliate and prep the skin for a personalised Hydrafacial. Then, things get really technical: the non-ablative Clearlift laser bypasses the stratum corneum to stimulate the lower layers of the skin, prompting collagen production while breaking up pigmentation and melasma, bringing down redness and even minimising pores.
Next, near-infrared skin tightening further bolsters the firming efforts, using light energy to heat and contract the skin’s collagen fibres. Finally, a cocktail of replenishing Decree masks is layered beneath an LED device to calm, soothe and deeply hydrate the skin.
With zero downtime (even for the very sensitive) and absolutely no pain involved, this very much feels like the future of medical facials.
Nuriss Radiance Reset Facial starts from £450
8 Upper Wimpole St, London W1G 6LH
Skin tightening and body sculpting using cutting-edge tech may be what advanced aesthetician Sadaf Jaffari is best known for, but facial rejuvenation is her forte, too.
The Red Carpet Ready Facial – available at her chic, discreet clinic in Chelsea – is perfect for achieving lifted, glowing skin before an event. Device-driven yet non-invasive, it combines a Hydrafacial treatment (to deeply cleanse, extract and exfoliate), radiofrequency (to tighten and lift) and use of a nonablative laser (to improve texture, radiance and collagen production). Customised to each client, consider it the do-it-all facial, whatever your complexion concerns.
With her extensive knowledge of the skin and active ingredients, Jaffari can also advise on a bespoke home skincare plan, too.
Sadaf Jaffari The Red Carpet Ready Facial starts from £450
South Kensington's Santi spa describes itself as 'a premier aesthetic sanctuary', and it specialises in high-end cosmetic treatments and holistic therapies. One of its most popular treatments is the Santi Glow Facial (Yasmine Naghdi, principal ballerina of The Royal Ballet is an ardent fan), which combines microdermabrasion with oxygen jet stream therapy to leave your skin feeling clear, renewed and visually revitalised.
The treatment begins with an in-depth pre-treatment consultation so that everything can be tailored specifically to your skin's needs. Unlike other clinics or spas, the Templar Skin Lab can be harness here, which is the only system in UK able to measure skin parameters such as hydration, pH, collagen levels and skin elasticity allowing for a scientific approach to skincare.
Next, you undergo microdermabrasion to remove excess buildup and dead skin cells, instantly improving the texture of your skin. Your clinician then applies a firming mask before the oxygen therapy begins, which helps tackle dryness and dullness. Overall, results include a brighter, tighter and far less dehydrated appearance immediately.
The Santi Glow Facial costs £125 for 60 minutes (or £500 for a course of five).
33 Thurloe St, South Kensington, London SW7 2LQ
Dr Joney De Souza is a specialist in natural results when it comes to volume, texture and tone of the skin – and the clinic offers a number of different treatments, including laser and injectables, but we recently tried the Brazilian Zero Downtime Facial, which was excellent for transforming a tired, dry complexion.
The facial centres around the antioxidant ingredient derived from Brazil nuts, selenium, which has been used for centuries but is growing in popularity within the beauty industry. First, dead skin cells are removed, so that a new, brighter layer below is exposed, and then the selenium is applied, penetrating deep into the skin so that cell turnover is increased. The skin on your face and neck will be resurfaced and look refined, resulting in more hydration, a glowing tone and a reduction in hyperpigmentation.
Dr Joney De Souza's Brazilian Zero Downtime Facial, £250
49 Blandford St, London W1U 7HH
Back on our shores, Californian laser specialists Skin Laundry have clinics in Soho (Newburgh Street), Chelsea (King's Raod), and Hampstead (Heath Street).
They offers two quick and easy, zero-fuss facial therapies (or a supercharged combination of both). The Signature facial employs a Nd:YAG laser that bypasses the skin surface to target inflammation and bacteria in the dermis, while simultaneously prompting collagen production. The treatment lasts just 15 minutes and there's minimal pain (although expect a hot sensation).
For more advanced issues including acne scarring and hyperpigmentation, opt for the Thermo Fractional Facial. Using a resurfacing thermo device, it targets everything from tone and texture to fine lines and sun damage.
Skin Laundry works on a membership basis, with several tiers to suit your specific demands and added benefits such as product discounts and treatment add-ons.
Skin Laundry first signature laser facial, £75
Hidden at the end of a quaint Mews in Fitzrovia, Pfeffer Sal’s stone-walled, impeccably designed clinic is surely the chicest beauty destination in London. That’s not why you need to book though – they’re also the warmest, most welcoming team around and, of course, deliver the most remarkable results-driven treatments.
Start off with the bespoke, 100-minute long Essential Facial, in which your facialist will identify your skin’s condition and concerns before setting you off firmly on the right treatment path. Enzyme exfoliation and extractions keep things clear, while smart (and needle-free) machinery is used to open temporary channels in the dermis, infusing your custom blend of low molecular-weight actives deep enough into the skin to effect real, lasting change. LED (using the industry-leading Dermalux, no less) clarifies and calms, completing what will certainly be your first of many visits.
Be sure to pick up a bottle of the brand’s outstanding Essential Serum before you leave, and keep an eye on your inbox for a detailed, thoughtful debrief following your appointment, including personal (and non-biased) product recommendations as well as DIY hacks and lifestyle tweaks to consider. Really, they’ve thought of everything.
Pfeffer Sal The Essential Facial, £185
The Stables, 10B Warren Mews, London W1T 6BY
Dr. Maryam Zamani has long been considered the go-to surgeon for oculoplastic work, and now she has opened the doors to her very own space.
Situated on the Kings Road, The Clinic is home to Maryam herself, alongside her team of consultant dermatologists and aestheticians. Here, the options are wide-reaching: from natural filler to pigment-banishing laser, expect the buzziest and best therapies for a range of concerns.
A great starting point, the Signature Glow facial serves as an introduction to the MZ Skin line, combining active-led formulas with Hydrafacial and collagen-boosting microneedling.
The Clinic Signature Glow Facial, £400
110-112 King's Rd, London SW3 4TX
Despite having only opened earlier in 2022, The Clinic Holland Park has already become a prime destination for its discerning Notting Hill clientele. The space offers aesthetic, cosmetic, and wellness procedures in a luxurious, elegant setting. Think a Harley Street level of knowledge and experience in a relaxed, stylish environment. We came for its much-hyped facials led by celebrity facialist and skincare expert Emma Brown (she has previously worked with both Poppy and Cara Delevingne, Salma Hayek and Gemma Arterton).
Brown combines cutting edge techniques with holistic procedures to create bespoke facials that are tailored to the client’s wants and needs. She truly listens to any concerns or goals you might have and adapts the treatment accordingly. Her signature advanced facial involves cleansing, skin polishing, a light peel, extractions, dermaplaning and a lifting and contouring massage. The results leave skin feeling hydrated and soft, while looking brighter, dewy and healthy. The care continues afterwards – Brown also sends personalised recommendations of products.
A combination of science and luxury, clinical and classic beauty approaches, The Clinic Holland Park is about creating a restorative experience as well as visible, lasting results.
EB Signature Bespoke Advanced Facial With Dermaplaning, from £250
142-144 Holland Park Ave, London W11 4UE
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