HydraFacial at Skin Science Clinic: an oasis of calm

My appointment today included the HydraFacial Deluxe:

17th February 2022 – Review by a local client

Our faces matter because without a face it is very difficult to arrive at a concept of you and me. So, from time to time we need to give our skin a break and what better way to look after our face than to visit a qualified dermatologist?

Skin Science Clinic in the heart of central London provides the answer.

Skin Science Clinic was founded in February 2018 by Dr. Adil Sarwar (MBBS, BSc, MRCGP) who worked previously at the award winning, globally acclaimed Harley Street Clinic in London. Dr. Sarwar treated thousands of patients before opening his own clinic to pursue his vision of dermatological excellence.

Having heard only positive things about Skin Science Clinic, I decided to book an appointment to experience the full benefits of a HydraFacial treatment for myself.

Arriving at 12 o’clock on Thursday 17th February, I receive an immediate and warm welcome from Rachel Clarke, the Clinic Manager. As one steps from the din of a busy street, the first thing you notice is a ubiquitous sense of calm, and a world of quietude. The reception area is marked by stillness and relaxation which sets the tone for the remainder of my experience. This is all down to the atmosphere and décor which has been thoughtfully designed to strip all noise and distractions.

I have some time to relax before I meet my therapist, Freya so, Rachel offers me a drinks menu. I opt for my old favourite, English Breakfast tea, which is beautifully presented, accompanied by a small biscuit.

Inside the treatment room Freya talks me through what to expect during today’s HydraFacial. I then answer a basic medical questionnaire focussing on my skin and any allergies I might have. Freya guides me through the steps and various options available. This informal discussion is also designed to tailor the experience to me as an individual rather than subjecting clients to a pre-set menu of treatments. The whole idea is to offer bespoke treatments to clients which can be adjusted over time as circumstances require.

After my consultation, I take off my shoes – highly recommended! – and leave my belongings on a chair. I was not concerned with security because the sense of comfort and safety at Skin Science Clinic is far from imagined; it is very real.

I lie down on the fabulously prepared treatment bed which has a choice of a blanket which suits me as am wearing a loose-fitting T-shirt. Having had facial treatment in the past, I can recommend dressing lightly as you want to relax as much as possible and not make yourself uncomfortable by wearing too much clothing.

Now onto my treatment! Freya makes sure I am at ease and ready to begin and talks me through each step as we go. I ask a few questions here and there but my therapist proceeds with such assuredness that I have complete confidence in her.

Step 1 – Initial cleanse – removes makeup, impurities

Step 2 – Lymphatic drainage – removes toxins, improves blood circulation Step 3 – Deep cleanse & exfoliation – removes dead skin cells

Step 4 – Acid peel – prepare the skin for extraction

Step 5 – Extraction – removes dirt and excessive oils

Step 6 – Hydration – the skin is infused with antioxidants for added protection Step 7 – Lip perk – optional and available for anyone though I did not try it today Step 8 – LED light therapy – red and blue LED light, red light stimulates oestrogen and collagen production and blue light helps control oil production and has anti-bacterial benefits

Step 9 – Moisturise – a final, light moisturisation to set me on my next journey

My treatment leaves me feeling revitalised, rejuvenated and my face feels fresher than before.

The skin on your face has not just been ‘worked on’ but it has been given a full spa treatment. This is more than mere beautification and it is in fact a form of holistic medicine. Therapy is also relaxed, unhurried and Freya is communicative at all times.

If you are new to such treatment, please give it a try as the results are truly worth it. You will feel replenished and recharged and you can see the benefits for yourself in the hours following. It leaves you looking and feeling radiant. You just have to look in the mirror!

Looking after our bodies, our faces, our inner and outer wellbeing should be a regular item on one’s calendar. I look forward to my next appointment at Skin Science Clinic, a true oasis of tranquillity in central London with the friendliest staff.

Until next time.

Acknowledgements: HydraFacial by Freya, a wonderful warm personality and world-class professional. Highly recommended for anyone and with much gratitude to Freya, Rachel and Dr. Sarwar. Photos by myself and Freya.