Go on, treat yourself...

...with our guide to the hottest spas, the most stunning beauty retreats and the latest get-gorgeous treatments, all tried and reviewed by us at handbag.com

Enjoy!

Natura Bissé Citrus-A-Peel facial

Reviewed by Katie Corcoran
Natura Bissé do amazing products - their anti-ageing cream just won an award in our handbag.com Beauty Awards 2009 and John Gustafson swears by their skin brightening, rejuvenating properties. We recently tested their Citrus-A-Peel facial which turns out to be the perfect boost for tired, stressed-out skin.

With winter well and truly here I was in need of some serious skin TLC. The cold weather has been playing havoc with my sensitive skin which is prone to redness. Step up this Natura Bissé facial which I tested at the gorgeous and swanky Michael John salon in Mayfair, London. In 60 minutes of pure bliss it actually leaves skin looking brighter and firmer. They use 100% pure vitamin C in this facial, which will help to combat sun damage, environmental damage and premature ageing.

The treatment rooms are luxurious, with low lighting, comfortable treatment beds and warm super fluffy towels. First, your skin is cleansed and sprizted with their cooling toner. Your therapist may also deal with any further congestion here such as removing black heads, which can make your eyes water but is well worth the results.

They apply a light vitamin C scrub over the skin to decongest and remove any dead skin cells, which is great for those who live in the city. This is then removed and the concentrated treatment for your skin type is applied to your face and neck and a soothing green tea extract is applied to any spots or areas that need healing. Then a mask is smoothed over your skin to hydrate and boost the radiance, and finally you are treated to an amazing, relaxing - I completely dozed off - face and neck massage with their vitamin C boosting face cream.

You leave with a spritz more of toner and a dash of eye cream, as you dreamily head back home. It was bliss and so much more than just a relaxing facial as you do see results and skin is left feeling perky, clean and revitalised, which is just what many of us need at this time of year.

Best for: those that need some skin rejuvenation and want to fix the damage caused by living in the city.

Natura Bissé Citrus-A-Peel facial £90 for 60 minutes. Visit michaeljohn.co.uk to book and for more information.

Indulgent Africology Blessing at The Sanctuary Spa

Reviewed by Tamara Hinson
While I\'m no stranger to spas, I\'ve yet to have anything more than a facial, partly due to an irrational fear of prancing around in front of strangers wearing nothing but a pair of paper pants. For this reason an invitation to try out The Sanctuary\'s Indulgent Africology Blessing - a full body treatment and massage - seemed like the perfect opportunity to conquer my fears. The famous spa was refurbished earlier this year and after a particularly stressful month I was somewhat in need of a makeover myself.

Arriving at The Sanctuary on a busy Saturday morning, first impressions were good; the entrance hall looks more like the foyer of a five star hotel, with an elegant reception desk manned by immaculately turned out members of staff. The spa is actually located on the first floor of a five-floor building and spread throughout the floors there\'s an exercise pool, atrium pool - where you\'ll find the famous swing - a sleep retreat area, manicure and pedicure area, 45 treatment rooms, the Koi Carp Lounge for relaxing in and the restaurant, which serves everything from salads and deserts to fresh juice and champagne.

After my tour I changed into my fluffy robe and was promptly shown to a spacious treatment room by the lovely Danielle. Danielle instantly put me at ease by explaining the treatment before leaving me to undress and hop onto the bed. The treatment started with three deep breaths of a wonderfully relaxing Energy Charge Oil, which uses peppermint and eucalyptus to relax and soothe. I was then treated to a full body exfoliation using a heavenly scrub and exfoliating cream. I find many scrubs somewhat of a disappointment, but this one smelt amazing and I could literally feel the dead skin cells being sloughed away. A fragrant balm was then applied after being given the choice of warming cinnamon and or detoxing geranium, I\'d plumped for the latter, with traditional wooden tribal sticks used to massage in the balm. Bad posture and too many hours hunched over my laptop meant I was painfully aware my back muscles were somewhat tense, but I could feel the tension melt away.

The treatment finished with a facial. A fragrant cleanser was used along with an equally gorgeous rose serum with smaller versions of the tribal sticks used to work the cream into my skin. After the treatment came to an end, I relaxed by the spa\'s famous Koi Carp Lounge before floating blissfully out onto Floral Street without a care in the world.

The Sanctuary spa is a slice of heaven in the centre of London. Despite its stellar reputation, the spa maintains impressively high standards. The staff are professional, friendly and eager to please and the spa itself is well designed and surprisingly spacious, which is even more impressive considering its location in the centre of Covent Garden. The prices may be somewhat higher than those of other spas, but the fact that the cost of your treatment also allows full use of the impressive facilities certainly takes the sting out of parting ways with your hard earned cash.

Best for: A girly pamper in the heart of London\'s West End. Treatments, food and champagne - bliss!

Visit thesanctuary.co.uk for more information, treatments and spa day packages. The Indulgent Africology Blessing treatment from £90. General spa admissions start from £45.

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The Stress Exchange

Reviewed by Bridget March

Coming into autumn I was in serious need of a post-summer pamper and this one stop beautifying shop for gals and guys in the heart of London Bridge offered all the treatments I could want.

From eyelash extensions to Reiki and everything in between, I opted for a traditional full body massage (£65) and wasn\'t disappointed.

The 70 minute deep tissue treatment from the lovely resident Massage Therapist, Kieran Feetham, was everything it should have been; relaxing, revitalising and effective in alleviating my common complaint of ‘super sore shoulders\' (carrying an unnecessarily heavy handbag, sitting incorrectly at a computer... sound familiar?).

The hair and beauty salon-come-clinic has just undergone a huge refit and boasts a smart, spacious new look, efficient website and irresistible special offers.

If you work or live around that area it\'s definitely worth rediscovering. There\'s pretty much something for every beauty need - however big - with smallish price tags to make the experience even sweeter!

Best for: city dwellers in need of some down time or a beauty boost.

Visit stressexchange.co.uk for more information and to book.

Hair&Jerome salon

If you\'re looking for a top quality hairdresser in the capital without a corporate coating, Hair&Jerome is a fabulous find. Tucked away in the passages behind Spitalfields in London\'s trendy East End, it\'s a charming boutique salon boasting real assets.

Far from being too-cool-for-school (like some Shoreditch salons), the oldie-worldie vintage interior is elegant but easy.

Owned by Jerome Hillion, the British Avant Garde Hairdresser of the year 2006 and boasting France\'s \'Newcomer of the Year\' amongst the tight team of four stylists, an expert and personalised experience is on the menu for all.

My lovely hairdresser served up all full courses herself including a thorough consultation, wash, cut and style using beautifying Bumble & bumble products.

I left fully satisfied with in-depth product and styling advice, as well as fabulously fixed tresses. This is bespoke hairdressing at its best.

Best for: Those that need hair advice as well as a cut and of course, those that lurve all things vintage.

Visit hairandjerome.co.uk for more details

Errol Douglas\' hair salon

Errol Douglas is a familiar name in our offices, he\'s not only been fronting our hair trend videos for the past year but he\'s also stylist to numerous celebrities and he\'s Cosmopolitan\'s Man of the Year. For the hair fanatics in our office he is a bit of a hair hero, so an invite to visit his swish Knightsbridge salon was not going to be turned down.

The salon sits on the cobbled Motcomb Street just a stone\'s throw from Christian Louboutin and of course the mighty Harrods. It\'s a hair sanctuary that sits among some of fashion\'s biggest designers.

In keeping with this fashionable area the décor is white, trendy, clean and inviting, and of course the staff are as friendly as they are knowledgeable. My hair was coloured by colour specialist and Errol\'s right hand woman Jasmine; she is straight talking, super fast and of course a complete colour expert. My hair went from being bright blonde, verging on white and severely over coloured, to a sophisticated natural shade with slightly darker caramel blonde highlights breaking up the look.

Miguel cut and blow dried my hair effortlessly, I\'m not sure I even noticed he was cutting until the end of the session, can one person be so quick and light handed? My ends were chopped off, the back of my hair given a slight graduation for added style and my side-sweeping fringe softened. Even though I was the last customer in the salon, Miguel never hurried.

If you are wondering where to get your next colour and cut done then there really is no excuse not to be booking in with Errol and his team. This is top notch hairdressing in the heart of London.

Best for: Those that want to make-sure their hair is in the most capable cutting edge hands.

020 7235 0110 / reception@erroldouglas.com

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Hair cuts from £50 and highlights from £95, erroldouglas.com

James Brown salon, London

Iconic hair stylist and friend to Kate Moss, James Brown threw open the doors to his new salon in London this summer. We ventured down to check it out for ourselves.

Walking into James Brown\'s long awaited salon was not at all the experience I was expecting. Discreet, compact and incredibly stylish (OK, the last one I expected) I almost walked straight past its doors were it not for its coincidental location, on the corner of Wigmore and St James Street. The salon resembles someone\'s front room rather than the workplace of a stylist who counts Daisy Lowe, Lily Allen and Sienna Miller among his long list of devotees.

Recovering from my initial surprise I sat myself down in front of one the giant gilded mirrors and explained in detail what I wanted from my cut and colour that evening to stylist, Toby and colourist and long-time friend of James, Anthony. Several hours and much hilarious banter later and I was left with the best cut and colour of my life and surprisingly none of the anxiety I usually feel when going for something a little different. My frizzy, split-ended curls had been replaced with a shorter, healthier, and bigger version or my former style and my gone-yellow-with-too-much-washing colour had been traded in for a spattering of incredibly natural looking high and lowlights. Basically, I had everything I had envisioned in my head but which you rarely get when you go to the hairdressers. It\'s no wonder that the A-listers continue to flock here, all the stylists and colourists selected by James are miracle workers.

I\'ll definitely be making this salon my new regular and, if you\'re looking for an incredibly flattering cut in unpretentious surroundings, this is the place for you.

Prices start at £37 for a blow dry and £55 for colour, jamesbrownlondon.com

Benefit\'s Fake Bake spray tan

When we heard that make-up gurus Benefit had teamed up with fake tanning experts Fake Bake we were super excited. With numerous salons on numerous high streets over this UK, kitted out with professional staff and in convenient locations it finally means there is no excuse not to get that holiday glow minus the sunshine.

I visited their cute boutique in Coven Garden in London to test this new spray tan. Of course upstairs you have your usual Benefit shop full of every product you\'ve ever wanted to try, the latest offers and experts on hand to answer all your questions, but downstairs is home to the new Fake Bake spray tan suite.

It\'s small, compact, totally private and a haven for those in need of some colour - quickly, this only takes 10 minutes. After several funny fake tan positions I\'m leaving fully clothed looking and feeling great.

The following morning you rinse off the excess tan in the shower and your delicate golden glow is fully revealed. No streaks and no orange marks, this is the quickest way to feel utterly fantastic.

Fake tans, manicures and eye brow threading have to be my top three feel good beauty treatments - don\'t delay you can thank us after.

Best for: Those just about to go on holiday or anyone who wants a feel good pick-me-up.

Find your nearest Benefit salon here benefitcosmetics.co.uk
Fake Bake spray tan for half body £15 and full body £25.

Minx manicure at Lost in Beauty

Reviewed by Katie Corcoran

I must admit I didn\'t realise the impact going for a Minx manicure at Lost In Beauty would have on my nails. It was hailed as the latest celebrity craze from America and I honestly thought it was another A-list fad which wouldn\'t live up to its expectations. Shiny nail stickers - doesn\'t sound too glamorous. I was wrong, very wrong. Lost In Beauty is one of the few salons that offer the Minx manicure, and when word gets around they are soon to be very busy indeed!

Minx is the latest celebrity nail craze; metallic nail stickers are professionally applied to give your nails a mirrored effect and some serious wow factor. I chose to go for a metallic silver which suited my pale skin colour, but the more daring among you can opt for metallic zebra print, leopard print or polka dots, which all come in a chip resistant shiny finish.

There are several benefits of a Minx manicure, firstly it\'s fun to say your wearing the same nail colour as Beyoncé and Lilly Allen. Secondly this treatment incorporates a full manicure which leaves your nails looking and feeling fantastic. Thirdly, there is zero drying time and they last for up to 10 days, chip free. Yes, that\'s 10 days without having to repaint. I\'m in heaven!

The Lost In Beauty salon is a treat in itself to visit, it is similar to a vintage boudoir, with its upstairs littered with niche brands like Dr Hauschka, Jurlique, Bumble and bumble, Dr Alkaitis, BECCA and more. The downstairs is much like a ‘50s style backstage dressing room with large mirrors, sequined vintage clothes on the walls and antique dressing tables.

I seriously recommend visiting this salon and getting the Minx manicure, you honestly won\'t be disappointed. There are many plus points to this fab chip-free metallic nail colour but the best are that it makes you feel great and its stand-out-in-a-crowd beauty treatment leaves you smiling all the way home.

Best for: Those that need wow factor nails for an event or... what the hell, you don\'t need an excuse for these beauties!

Get your set of Minx nails done at Lost in Beauty, from £35 lostinbeauty.com

Redchat salon

Reviewed by Tamara Hinson

As a fan of Aveda products I\'ve always been curious about the brand\'s collaboration with Redchat spas. Redchat\'s four salon and spas - located in Bristol, Kingston, Richmond, and Chiswick - are the brainchild of husband and wife team Sonia and Toni Byrne and offer a wide range of treatments ranging from full body massages to bespoke facials, all using Aveda products.

The Redchat website boasted of a ‘holistic approach to well being\' and, after an incredibly hectic week, I decided a visit to the one nearest me, situated in shopper\'s paradise Kingston upon Thames.

I arrived tired and worn-out after cycling there, but was promptly greeted by the lovely Joanne, who offered me a cup of Aveda herbal tea before leading me to a treatment room for a relaxing foot massage.

I\'d opted for a bespoke facial; as someone with oily skin I\'ve always loved Aveda\'s cleansers so was keen find out what the rest of the range had to offer. After three deep breaths of a wonderfully relaxing ayurvedic essential oil, Joanne started by cleansing my skin with a gel cleanser then with a crème cleanser, before using an exfoliator and skin refiner to scrub away dead skin cells.

The treatment also includes a wonderfully relaxing face, neck and décolleté massage using a fragrant beautifying oil, then a series of masques are applied - a herbal one to deep cleanse my skin and a tourmaline once to boost skin radiance - for a wonderfully fragrant cooling mask. Three drops of a balancing oil were then used to help calm my oily skin - as this is a bespoke facial it was designed exactly for my skin\'s needs.

Finally after a spritz of an aromatic toning mist, Joanne used an eye crème to reduce my dark circles and Aveda\'s Outer Peace Blemish Spot Relief and Blemish Relief Lotion were strategically applied before the treatment finishes with a heavenly hand and leg massage. All in all, a wonderfully through facial which was exactly what my neglected skin needed.

Despite being located on the top floor of the bustling Bentalls department store, this spa really is a haven of tranquillity. All dark wood, barely there-lighting and soothing music. The treatment rooms are large and spacious, and the thoughtful layout means the spa certainly feels a thousand miles away from the bustling shop floor. The spa offers a wide range of treatments, from bespoke facials to a wide range of full-body treatments.

After a particularly hard day, I\'d arrived somewhat stressed, but I left rejuvenated, relaxed and with visibly clearer, calmer skin that was still glowing with health several days later.

Best for: Weary shoppers in need of a relaxing skin rejuvenating pit stop

Facials start at £60 for half an hour, discover more treatments at redchat.co.uk

Rush hair salon, Baker Street

Heads up ladies, a new salon has arrived and, if you\'re bored or stuck in a hair rut, the stylists contained within its impeccably stylish doors hold the answers to all of your follicle prayers.

You might think you know all about Rush salons but the latest addition to its chain of young, hip salons on Baker Street is a million miles from the usual style with a contemporary, slick design and a luxurious Shu Uemura spa tucked away at the back, Rush has everything you need to sort out all of your hair dilemmas.

I popped in to see stylist Nicola Rose and to get my inch of split ends and poodle-like curls lopped off. It didn\'t take her long to assess the damage and I was prescribed a full head of highlights, a Shu Uemura intensive conditioning treatment complete with a session in the massage chair to relax my aching shoulders and a special kind of cut that would dramatically transform my thick unruly barnet. Being a beauty journalist I\'d thought I\'d seen it all when it comes to hair-cuts but Nicola left me lost for words when she described a cut which would involve chopping underneath my hair to create a rounder shape to even out my style and make my mid-length hair appear longer. Basically, everything I could ever want from a hair-cut. As if that wasn\'t enough to leave me feeling blissfully smug on my way home afterwards, the Shu Uemura treatment was like stepping into another world, who knew something situated in the middle of a busy, noisy hair salon could be so relaxing?

Needless to say I left Rush with the best hair cut and colour of my life. The stylists there don\'t just ply you with hopes of a great hair cut and style, they actually deliver on their promises and I\'ll definitely be back to maintain my new sleek do\'.

Visit Rush for more details

Himalayan Day Spa

By Becky Taylor

Trekking into the bustling centre of London is never a good start to a relaxing spa trip so forget about heading into the West End, the latest luxurious haven to open its doors to the capital is situated in leafy Chiswick allowing you to lay back and forget about your week without the sound of traffic interrupting your session.

Upon entering the compact but delightful spa off the High Street in Chiswick, visitors are greeted with relaxing Eastern chimes in a peaceful idyllic surrounding. Every inch of the spa is dedicated to living up to its name with traditional ornaments and treasures from Nepal, China and India on every surface and relaxation rooms named after the different mountains in Nepal.

I indulged in a blissful cleansing facial using Pevonia products, which contain only natural and organic ingredients. Loved by celebrities all of the products smell divine and will transport you far away from London to an idyllic spot nestled in the Himalayas. Afterwards, my skin was left looking bright, clear and healthier than it has done in many months.

As well as plenty of treatments for you to road test, the spa also has a Couples\' Treatment Room so you can lay back and enjoy a treatment with your partner.

Best for: Anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Himalayan Day Spa is open 7 days a week, from 10.00 am to 9.00 pm.  For more information visit himalayanspachiswick.co.uk or telephone, 020 8994 3495. 

Elemis face and body sensation

If you\'re looking for a serious pampering session but can\'t decide whether your face or body needs some TLC the most, Elemis has come up with the ultimate solution, the face and body sensation treatment now available at its luxurious day spas.

Combining one of Elemis\' legendary massages with a prescribed booster anti-aging facial, the face and body sensation is the ultimate treat for a stressed out mind and body. Choose from an ice-cool thermal massage which relieves tension and eases aching muscles or opt for a more relaxing thermal soothing massage involving hot stones to force knots and tension into submission. Follow this with an anti-aging facial specific to your skin type and you\'ll leave feeling, and looking like a new woman.

We opted for the thermal soothing massage followed with a Tri-Enzyme Resurfacing facial (great for combination skin prone to breakouts) and left feeling blissfully spaced out, the perfect antidote to a long and stressful week.   

Face and body sensation, 55mins, from £65 at spas nationwide. Visit elemis.com for more information.

Liz Earle back massage

Reviewed by Bridget March

The newly opened Liz Earle Treatment Rooms are perfect pampering havens serving the skin guru\'s complexion perfection facials, as well as other mind and body balancing treats.

One such star service we trialled is the bespoke back massage; a de-stressing treatment that works to dissolve tension both inside and out.

Starting with a personalised consultation, a Liz Earle trained therapist identifies how to get the most out of the luxury massage which begins with a guided relaxation to introduce the therapist\'s touch and help you switch off. The remainder of the 45 minute treatment untangles muscles and restores balance leaving you with a supple back and a soothed spirit. Divine!

Best for: those needing some instant relaxation and rejuvenation

£38.00 (45 minutes), Liz Earle Treatment Rooms, Duke of York Square, Kings Road, London, SW3. lizearle.com, 0207 881 7750

Hair help!

If you are in need of some hair TLC and you\'re in north London then this is the salon for you. Set off a small cobbled side street in the über trendy Hampstead, Gary Ingham\'s salon is welcoming, full of enthusiastic stylists and is smaller than your average high street salon, meaning less noise and a super relaxing atmosphere. What\'s more they use the fantastic Bumble and bumble hair products which will help to ensure you leave with super glossy locks.

I went to see Gary in a state of panic; I had dark roots, dull colour and generally neglected hair - it\'s been a busy start to the year! After listening to what I was after and talking through some magazine styles that gave us both some more inspiration, Gary gave me his expert analysis of what we could achieve. Phew, it was good news!

Suddenly foils are being applied and I\'m half way to hair heaven as I lay back for a soothing head massage. More than anything Gary\'s enthusiasm for hair is loud and clear throughout my appointment.

One hour later and I\'m leaving with the most amazing blonde locks, a fab bouncy blow-dry and now I definitely know I\'m in hair heaven. Thank you, Gary...

Best for: Hip trendy people in need of some serious hair help

Highlights from £65. Gary Ingham is at 9 Perrin\'s Court, Hampstead, London NW3 1QS. Appointments: 020 7431 0777 / garyingham.com

A complete fragrance experience

Reviewed by Katie Corcoran

Sometimes, just sometimes, you may find that there are other beauty experiences you want to enjoy rather than a spa treatment, and for me this comes in the form of perfumery. Luckily I was able to spend a delightful hour at the perfumery shop Al Qurashi, recently. This is the first time Al Qurashi has brought their Middle Eastern inspired oils, fragrances and exotic raw ingredients to London and let me tell you, these fragrances are not the woody, heavy incense filled scents you may have been lead to believe were a core part of Arabic perfumery, they are in fact extremely sensual, light and often floral.

In fact you can lose yourself in this Aladdin\'s cave is full of beautiful hand crafted bottles and amazing smells. I was lucky enough to be talked through the amazing oils and unique fragrances by one of the world\'s leading perfumers, Roja Dove, but you can simply enter this shop for a complete fragrance experience with the expert help that is always on hand. Here you can smell, blend and create a unique scent which will leave you smiling from ear to ear.

Start by smelling their wonderful rich essential oils such as the Royal Jasmine, which is breathtakingly beautiful and richer than any jasmine I have ever smelt before. Or perhaps the Rose of Taif which is one of the most expensive, rare and exotic rose oils in the perfume world.

This is indeed for the serious perfume lover, but the good news is, unless you want to mix their 100-year-old Aouds (a fragrance resin harvested by hand over many years) then you don\'t have to leave here penniless, prices can start from as little as £25.

What were my favourites? Well, I simply adored the Royal Jasmine essential oil from India, which can be worn alone or blended. I also found that the lily essential oil was the incredibly sensual and exotic and would be wonderful on the skin in the evening. Finally, I loved the mixed scent Whisper, which was a refreshing blend of Turkish rose and fresh orange blossom - perfect for spring.

Now is definitely the time to enjoy a new fragrance that empowers you and evokes feelings of happiness that you may have long forgotten, and this is the place to do just that.

Best for: Those that aren\'t afraid to try something new

Al Qurashi, 94 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London, SW3 1ER. 020 7589 1315 alqurashi.co.uk

Celebrity favourite

Reviewed by Katie Corcoran

Tucked away off the fashionable King\'s Road in Chelsea, is the small yet perfectly formed Chelsea Day Spa. Not your average dimly lit, water trickling, pan-pipe playing spa - this is for ladies on the go, those that mean business and most importantly who want good skin.

So what\'s the current big hitter at this new spa? It\'s Madonna\'s favourite, the Intraceuticals O2 facial of course! Loved by a whole heap of A-list big wigs this non abrasive facial is perrrfect before any glamorous night out.

You don\'t have to take off your clothes, put on a robe or remove your jewellery - it\'s all very simple. Off with your shoes, onto the bed and lie back for some total skin rejuvenation. What makes this treatment so special is that they apply a heavy vitamin infused serum to your skin using a hand-held electrical jet spray to penetrate the serum deep into the skin\'s dermis using oxygen. When this mixture of vitamins, antioxidants and peptides are infused into the skin it helps to plump, hydrate and smooth - instantly.

Although this isn\'t a typical pampering spa treatment and the spa itself isn\'t flickering in candle light, it is an effective treatment that left my skin looking noticeably smoother and firmer. What\'s more I found the effect got better a couple of days after the treatment and results are said to last for up to a week! Hurrah! So if you have a party, wedding or big social occasion where you want to look your best, this could be the quick fix you need - Madonna has one machine in each of her houses, so it\'s got to be good!

Best for: A quick-fix celebrity style

Intraceuticals O2 facial £125 each, Chelsea Day Spa, 2nd-3rd floor, 69a King\'s Road, London, SW3 4NX. 020 7351 0911

Privately styled

By Katie Corcoran

Every now and again visiting your hairdresser can prove a little stressful. We\'ve all been there: too much noise, hot stuffy salon and an over-talkative stylist. Even after the most relaxing day this can sometimes prove a little too much.

I like the buzz of a busy salon, but that\'s not to say I didn\'t jump at the chance of trying The Ritual Rooms on for size, where you get your hair done in your own private room. Suddenly those silly hair questions weren\'t so embarrassing to ask (there are no gasps of horror at this salon) and the soothing lighting and relaxing music was thoroughly de-stressing. I could get used to this...

The Ritual Rooms have one (rather busy) stylist, Matt, who is on hand to talk you through your style, wash your hair, colour, cut or simply blow dry it to perfection. Easy to talk to, full of style inspiration and clearly a devoted hairdresser it was a rather relaxing experience. All this and not one broom sweeping salon attendant in sight!

Every room has a shower, so if you book your appointment before a glamorous night out, you can shower, wash your hair then get it styled before making your fantastic entrance looking and feeling oh-so relaxed.

So if you are in need of some me time, a pampering pit-stop in the bustle of London, or perhaps a one-on-one session with a stylist to talk new season looks to suit you, then The Ritual Rooms will tick every box.

Best for: Those that like minimal fuss but total pampering.

The Ritual Rooms, 13 New Quebec Street, Portman Village, London, W1H 7RR. 020 7724 3884, ritualrooms.com. Hair Rituals with Matt Clabani start from £80 for a redesign cut and blow-dry.

Brow-tastic!

Reviewed by Katie Corcoran

If you are anything like me you will often let your eyebrows get on the messy side of groomed - the \"I will deal with them tomorrow\" feeling seems to become a daily occurrence. Well not any more! With brows making a huge comeback for spring/summer, now is the time to get them ship shape. Plucking can be eye-watering and waxing can be harsh on delicate skin - so opt for threading.

I recently put my eyebrows in the hands of the ladies at Blink, which really is your one-stop shop for amazing brows. Threading is an ancient technique where a cotton thread is twisted and rolled against the surface of your skin whipping out those unruly hairs as it goes. Yes, it can be a little painful but when it comes to your brows - what isn\'t?!

Thankfully Blink also offer a soothing brow massage afterwards and finish off by using a cool grooming gel (a must-have product of theirs, by the way) to keep your new wonderful eye brows in position. They are almost obsessive about eyebrows and, boy, does it show with their constant attention to detail - I\'m not sure I would go anywhere else now.

Phew - that\'s one trend for spring/summer well and truly ticked off my list!

Best for: Those that simply never find the time to pluck.

Blink eyebrow threading plus mini soothing massage, £17. To find you\'re nearest Blink bar visit blinkbrowbar.com

Reflexology at Fortnum & Mason\'s

Reviewed by Katie Corcoran

If you\'re not a massage or facial lover but you still want to get some spa style pampering, then Reflexology might just be the answer. What\'s more, not many places get more iconic than Fortnum and Mason\'s in London so, whilst shopping in the city make a pit stop for some essential R&R.

For those who don\'t know, reflexology is a foot treatment which works by applying massage and pressure to areas of your feet, that in turn releases tension from the corresponding areas of your body. For example, the back of your big toe relates to your thyroid gland.

This is a highly relaxing treatment, all you need to do is lay back in the comfy chair and unwind - no clothes are removed and no hot stones applied! Phew! After an hour, my therapist (Shelia) was able to help decongest knots in my upper back by massaging my feet and advised me of areas that need attention, such as my digestive system and the sciatic nerve.

I did feel tired after my reflexology session but I also felt completely relaxed and stress-free. What\'s more, the good news is that when you keep up regular sessions you can see a real improvement in certain problem areas of the body. It\'s a blissful treat that sees results as well as offering good advice...relax and learn more about your body with this specialist treatment.

Best for: Those that don\'t want a traditional spa treatment and want to get to know their body.

Reflexology at Beauty A La Carte at Fortnum & Mason, 181 Piccadilly, London W1A 1ER. 020 7973 4094, fortnumandmason.co.uk

The Organic Pharmacy Rose Crystal Lymphatic Facial

Reviewed by Katie Corcoran

There is nothing quite like a super relaxing facial to finish the week off with and if you are feeling a little under the weather then now is the time so get some pampering with a capital P. What\'s more if you want something organic, free from any nasty chemicals as well as super relaxing, then we think this facial from The Organic Pharmacy is just what you need.

All you have to do is - lay back, relax and feel the benefits of this re-energising facial - simple! Enjoy a deep cleanse, a gentle exfoliation and a facial steam to rid your skin of any dead skin cells, blocked pores and daily grim. Then unwind as your therapist applies a face mask infused with natural ingredients and collagen to rejuvenate the skin, whilst you have your hands, feet, arms and scalp massaged. What\'s more the lymphatic massage movements and the rose crystals used in this facial lift, firm and bring life back to flagging skin.

I went into their salon feeling uptight, stressed and mobbed by the festive shoppers on Oxford Street. I left feeling utterly relaxed, calm and with skin looking better than I\'ve seen it in a long time - thank you The Organic Pharmacy...this was just the ticket my flagging skin and mind needed.

Best for: Those that love organic natural beauty

From £75 for 60 minutes, call 020 7351 2232 to book an appointment. Shop online at theorganicpharmacy.com for products

Purify Holistic Facial, The Metropolitan London

Reviewed by Alaina Vieru

Times are tough, so even if you can\'t afford a spa break with white sandy beaches, it\'s still possible to have the exotic spa break brought to you. No airport queues, no grief from the bank manager - hey, no problem!

The new COMO Shambhala Purify Holistic Facial at the Metropolitan London is not only full of ingredients native to COMO Shambhala\'s famous retreats (wild orchid from Bhutan and Japanese mannan, both chosen for their ability to hold water in the skin) they also leave you looking like you\'ve just returned from your own private island paradise.  

For a full 75 minutes my face was gently cleansed, toned, exfoliated, and treated to not just one, but two face masks. Lymphatic massage (good for detoxifying) and Asian-inspired techniques are used to massage the face, including the use of herbal boluses, a compress made of Asian herbs and muslin. The heady scent was intoxicating, and took me away from a cold, rainy London in autumn to somewhere exotically far-flung. Although extraction was done on spots (horrible, but necessary), my sensitive skin that usually goes beet-red from a facial looked calmed and relaxed. Skin that was previously parched was now plump and hydrated, which I\'m still seeing two weeks on with the help of COMO Shambhala\'s skincare range, which is available online. So even if you can\'t make it to the Maldives, or even London, there\'s still some winter sun for you.

Best for: Those who like a wellbeing and holistic approach to their pampering

£80 for 75 minutes at London\'s Metropolitan Hotel. For more information on COMO Shambhala treatments or to buy the skincare products online visit comoshambhala.bz.

The Spa at Sofitel London Heathrow

By Shruti Thacker

Imagine you\'ve just landed at Heathrow Terminal 5 after a long flight - you feel tired and drained. Thankfully help is at hand in the form of The Spa at Sofitel London Heathrow, providing the perfect way for you to refresh and bounce back to a more rejuvenated you!

The minute you step in this hotel, all the hustle-bustle of the busy airport slips away. The spa, situated in the basement of the stunning Sofitel, has a calming atmosphere that lets you instantly feel that you will be in good hands. This is a no-fuss, luxury spa complete with marble flooring, simple wooden décor and enchanting water features. The spa features a gym and, best of all, a Vitality Pool with enough space for you to relax without anyone invading your space - bliss!

The Relaxation Room, with its lime green comfy loungers and dim lights is where I relaxed before I had my massage. The treatment itself was simply heavenly. Partnered with one of the industry\'s top spa brands ESPA, this is a truly divine holistic treatment. I opted for the ESPA Skin Hydrator Wrap which involved body brushing, exfoliating and being wrapped in foil allowing your skin to breathe leaving it baby soft. Don\'t forget to opt for the Oriental Head Massage that comes with this treatment. It\'s the icing on the cake, relaxing your muscles and inducing a much needed sleep!

If you\'re rushed for time you can choose a facial or the holistic finishing treatments, which will make you feel totally relaxed and pampered. Add this airport treat to your to-do list and feel like you\'re on a holiday before boarding the plane!

Best for: Jet-setters in need of some pampering

The Spa Sofitel London Heathrow, Terminal 5
London Heathrow Airport, TW6 2GD
020 8757 7742

Gielly Green

By Katie Corcoran

As London starts to fill with crowds of festive shoppers, it\'s no wonder we need a sanctuary to escape to and this new pampering salon just behind Selfridges on Oxford Street is perfect. Take a load off your weary feet enjoy anything from a fab new haircut to a pampering facial.

Gielly Green is owned by super stylist Fred Gielly and supreme colourist & sylist Shai Greenberg and this is their first venture in London. They know all about the latest hair trends and the best colours to shine your way through the year. The salon is luxurious but not pretentious, the staff are attentive but not annoyingly over-talkative and the hair wash and massage is one of the best I\'ve ever had! This salon however seems to have a touch of magic that most other salons don\'t - get your hair washed while you lie flat on the electric bed (so relaxing!), get your manicure done at the same time your hair is trimmed, then step downstairs into the spa like oasis for a range of Organic Pharmacy treatments, all while feeling welcomed and right at home!

Fred cut my hair in an instant and made such a difference to my bland style you\'d have thought I\'d been there for hours! A few snips here and there managed to create a new me and the blow dry was amazing. You feel completely at ease in this salon, where you can pop in for a fantastic new cut or an hour-long massage. Or with all that tiring Christmas shopping, why not both?!

Best for: City lovers who want stylish relaxation

Gielly Green
42-44 George Street
London
W1U 7ES
giellygreen.co.uk

Fred Gielly cut my hair and Zehra Mehmet was the beautician who did my manicure

Ushvani Spa

By Katie Corcoran

Set in the heart of Sloane Street and rubbing shoulders with some seriously cool designer shops this is a city spa with a difference. The difference being that from the moment you step through the heavy wooden doors you feel like you have stepped into an oasis somewhere in South East Asia. Carved wood panelling, towering fish tanks and layers of soft flowing material adorn the walls. Am I in London?

This spa really does manage what a lot of others don\'t, which is to mix tradition with modern day technology. Treatment rooms are designed with a soft Malaysian feel yet if you want to plug in your iPod and listen to your favourite heavy metal tunes while having a massage, you can! Or if you fancy a therapeutic shower then you can enjoy their Experience Shower - a room full of soothing and awakening jets to treat your skin. However this shower works with water and light! As well as water for your skin, enjoy the various coloured lights to relax the mind. So make sure when you book in for a treatment at this spa, you take time to enjoy the many facilities - one of which is also a relaxing Asian style tea room serving up delicious herbal teas.

Treatment-wise, I was lucky enough to try the Balinese Massage (by therapist Julia) which was simply amazing. Combining strong massage movements to loosen and help tight aching muscles, it is also highly relaxing, I came out after an hour and half with my body feeling revitalised and my mind relaxed - bliss! But if this isn\'t for you then Ushvani do a range of South East Asian therapies such as Malay, Balinese and Thai massage including full body wraps, scrubs and facials.

This is the perfect mix of traditional Asian relaxation alongside the use of modern technology, which is subtly stitched into the seams of this South East Asian oasis. The only warning I give you is the disappointment that when you leave the spa you are not in Asia... can\'t have it all I suppose!

Best for: Those in need of some five-star holiday style pampering

USHVANI, 1 Cadogan Gardens, London, SW3 2RJ
020 7730 2888, ushvani.com

The Jo Malone Body Treatment

Reviewed by Katie Corcoran

We love finding a little oasis right here in the heart of London and this Jo Malone salon is no exception. Finish your shopping in the trendy Mayfair area and then treat yourself and your weary body to some really luxurious pampering with Jo Malone\'s new body treatment. Walk out with your skin silky smooth and your mind relaxed.

From the moment you step into their beautiful shop and salon you instantly start feeling the woes of the day slip away...This treatment starts with a consultation and then a full body scrub using their Vitamin E body exfoliator. Shower off the body scrub and then lay down for a full body massage using their super moisturising Vitamin E body oil. The warm oil is drizzled over the skin and you are then treated to a divine full body massage, leaving your skin nourished and your mind balanced. It\'s a pure pampering treat at its best with great conditioning results for your skin. Now who said a day shopping in London can\'t have its plus points!

Best for: A pure pampering \'me treat\'

£125.00, 1 hour 30 minutes stores nationwide, 0207 720 0202 or shop online at jomalone.co.uk. See therapist Sara Carr at the Brook Street salon in London

Need more ideas for what to do in London? Then check out Harper\'s Bazaar\'s going out guide

Toni & Guy Salon, Regent Street London

Reviewed by Katie Corcoran

Sometimes, and often at the most unexpected times, you get the urge to just do something about your hair. Maybe you want to look fab for a night out, just get a bit of pampering in the form of a cut and blow dry or try one of the new statement up dos that are all over the autumn winter catwalks! Either way there is no excuse not to come in from the crowds of Regent Street and visit Toni & Guy for some professional hair help!

This salon is lovely and you get a real feeling of escapism as you walk in. Small flat screen TVs adorn the walls and give you the chance to see the latest must have styles! Flick through look books, chat with the super experienced stylists and enjoy a lovely cup of tea! From colour to cuts and hair treatments to amazing blow dry\'s its all here in this lovely central London salon. Another gem from this trusted hair brand.

Best for: City slickers in need of some hair TLC

Toni & Guy Regent Street, London. Colour with John Paul starts from £50 and cuts with Katie from £50. To book an appointment call 0207 434 2700

Summer Strawberry Facial - The Mayfair Spa

Reviewed by Jessica Hopper

Wimbledon may have started but even if you\'re not getting to see any live matches this month, you can still get your strawberry fix with a beauty-boost thrown in - what more could a gal ask for come summer? The new Summer Strawberry facial at the beautiful Mayfair Hotel is not only 100% natural, it leaves your complexion brighter, more radiant and buzzing with health and vitality.

This fruity beauty treatment begins with a cooling cucumber and strawberry cleanse, followed by an mmm-inducing facial massage and an antioxidant mask of strawberry and papaya. The salicylic acid found in strawberries helps improve the skin\'s texture, as well as tightening and toning, whilst the antioxidant qualities of strawberry and papaya help protect the cells from any skin-nasties that can cause a lacklustre complexion and premature ageing. Papaya also contains enzymes that gently exfoliate to banish any dead skin cells, and the cucumber extracts help reduce puffiness and any unwelcome redness. You can just simply lie back, relax and enjoy while this skin-smoothie goes to town on your skin. What\'s more, the oh-so sweet treats made up from these super-fruits smell seriously divine. Yummy!

Best for: Fans of fruity beauty

£99 for one hour - For bookings and further details on the May Fair Spa and Health Club, please contact 020 7915 2826 or log on to www. mayfairspa.com

Elemis Cooling Hot Stone Body-Facial

Reviewed by Jessica Hopper

The temperature\'s certainly been rising of late (about time too!), so cool down the decadent way with the ultimate in summer-friendly pampering, courtesy of beauty giants Elemis. Surely a contradiction in term - but hey, we\'re open to suggestion - the new Cooling Hot Stone Body-Facial lets ladies experience a whole new sensation of ‘cool\' whilst giving the face and bod a well-deserved beauty boost.

With an Ice-Cool Thermal Massage followed by a Hot Stone treatment, the combination of hot and cold leaves the body tingling all over. Next, you get to reap the rewards of an intensive anti-ageing signature facial of your choice. With all this pampering, you\'re guaranteed to leave refreshed, revitalised, and glowing - for all the right reasons.

Best for: Pamper junkies looking for the latest in beauty-boosting

From £65, www.elemis.com.

Chelsea Harbour Club

Reviewed by Jessica Hopper

Generally acknowledged as one of the finest health club in our nation\'s capital - and for good reason! This gem, situated near the picturesque harbour bridge houses a luxury spa and clinic, home to best of British brand Elemis and the many indulgent yet effective treatments they offer. This Beauty Ed was lucky enough to venture into this recently refurbished haven of relaxation and wasn\'t disappointed, with nine treatment rooms, a hairdressing salon and state-of-the-art wet spa, offering a mix of both beauty-boosting and medically beneficial treatments, this club certainly takes ‘spa\' to the next level.

There\'s a chic melange of treatments available here, from the clinical to the downright decadent, but we\'d wholeheartedly recommend the Harbour Club Signature Facial. This unique treatment is the ultimate in pre-party beauty-boosting, delivering instant smoothness, plumpness and radiance. What\'s more, you get to enjoy an oh-so blissful neck and shoulder massage whilst the many masks take effect. Heaven!

Best for: Yummy mummies needing some time-out

Harbour Club Signature Facial, £125 for 60mins.

For more information, visit harbourclubchelsea.com

Eleven Salon

Reviewed by Tracey Lea Sayer

To say I am faddish about my hair is an understatement. Firstly the colour, I am a brunette that needs a little help with the odd stray grey. This, however, is not my bone of contention. No, my main peevish concern is the amount of red in my hair. I hate the word henna but it kind of describes my natural hue. Brunette with a hell of a lot of warmth.... Arrrgggg!!!!

Every time I go into a salon for a colour I explain that I want to cover the grey and PLEASE lose the red. Does anybody listen? Not really. I always end up nodding and smiling and giving a huge tip for hair that looks, well a little titian. Not so now that I have found Jason Welch. I have achieved the perfect colour and two weeks on it hasn\'t even faded. Understandably he is one of only fifteen people to hold the Redken Colour Certificate. It is easy to see why women fall in love with their hairdressers, especially the gay ones.

My afternoon at Eleven on Blenheim Street, W1 was just what I needed on a grey November day. A glass of wine, some celebrity gossip, the latest news in plastic surgery and good hair..... What more does a girl want?

Best for: Top-notch colour

Eleven, 11 Blenheim Street, London W1
020 7491 2390

Bovey Castle Spa, Devon

Reviewed by Julia Neel

Maybe it was the eeriness of the scene or out of anticipation of the massage and facial I was about to receive, but as we drove through the bleakly beautiful landscape of Dartmoor, and seeing the imposing shape of Bovey Castle appear on the horizon, I could feel the hairs on the back of my neck standing on end.

Bovey Castle is the perfect place to come for a couple\'s weekend getaway - you can be revived in the Elemis spa while he works on his golfing handicap. Or like me, you can schedule a couples treatment to fit in to a day exploring on the moor. So since we were just popping in for a rejuvenating treatment, we parked up and were politely ushered to the relaxation room and introduced to our therapists.

The spa has a broad range of treatments available. From a simple manicure to a deluxe hot stone ritual, you can be as pampered as you like. We opted for the Elemis Deep Tissue Back Massage (£50 for 25 minutes) followed by the Elemis Booster Facial (£45 for 25 minutes) for a quick and relaxing treat.

Best for: A couples treat

www.boveycastle.com

Rae Palmer salon

Reviewed by Jessica Hopper

Situated on the sunny South Coast, Hampshire\'s Rae Palmer salon is chic, stylish and, best-of-all, just 20minutes from my home town! If you\'re looking for an appointment with just that little bit extra (be it extra indulgence or extra attention to detail), then Rae\'s is the hair haven for you.

After years of wondering why my locks would never go the delicious creamy blonde colour I covet and why I was always left with brassy tones, Rae herself gave my mane an in-depth consultation, diagnosing my hair as consisting mainly of yellow pigments and therefore more prone to brassiness. She then recommended shades she felt would work well with my skin tone and eyes colour, and would result in a creamier blonde - brassy-free. Talk about hair science!

Following my colour, I was treated to the most decadent shampoo ever. In the ‘Hair Spa\', I relaxed into a top-of-the-range massage chair whilst being treated to a lengthy head massage and deep conditioning treatment. Pure bliss. I stepped out of Rae Palmer\'s a sunny, stylish blonde with a feeling of total relaxation after my perfect post-colour pampering.

Best for: Southern belles

Rae Palmer, 76 Palmerston Rd, Southsea PO5 3PT
023 9242 6622
www.raepalmer.co.uk

U.R. Beautiful at Boots, Kingston

Reviewed by Yanar Alkayat

Spas have finally gone high street as Boots in Kingston is the first to receive the professional touch from the peeps behind Urban Retreat in Harrods. On the first floor of the store, you will find a secluded beauty haven with hair salon, eight spa treatment rooms, manicure and pedicure stations and a retail area stocking the most delectable brands from Abhana to Darphin.

Treatments encompass everything from contouring wraps and prescriptive facials to massage and maternity treatments. There are also signature treatments from beauty experts Anastacia Achilleos (skincare), Leighton Denny (nail care) and Joanne King (body care).

For the serious beauty lover, there\'s also a medi-spa delivering skin analysis, nutritional profiling and non-invasive facial rejuvenation procedures. A one-stop shop for all.

Best for: A daytime spa stop
U.R. Beautiful, 1^st floor, 42 Union Street, Kingston Upon Thames, London
www.ur-beautiful.com or 020 8247 0388  

Thermae Bath Spa, Bath

Reviewed by Bridget March

Bath\'s hot springs and Roman Baths have always been a magnet for tourists, but only since the opening of the Thermae Spa, have visitors been able to bathe in those naturally warm waters as the Celts and Romans did over 2,000 years ago. Britain\'s original and only natural thermal spa encased in its stylish Grade-1 Listed exterior sits well at home here, providing the perfect meeting of the ancient and modern.

Experience the spa by being gently glided around the mineral-rich silky warm waters and massaged in the whirlpool Jacuzzi in the lower-ground Minerva Bath. Then infuse your pores with aroma oils in the dramatically lit glass steam pods before being stunned by rich displays of the City in the open-air rooftop pool, picturesquely displaying the Cathedral in focus above rising steam.

And if you want something a little extra, there are a range of treatments to indulge every temptation. From facial and massages to vichy showers, dry floatations and hot stone spa therapies. Be sure to plan treatments early though, as they get booked up well in advance. 

To avoid a crowded spa experience visit in the morning for an invigorating wake-up call, or try the Twilight Package, perfect for romantic rooftop star-gazing.

Best for: a de-stressing beauty boost between Bath\'s shops and sight-sees

www.thermaebathspa.com
Reservations: 01225 33 1234
General Enquiries: 01225 33 5678

Natura Bisse at One Aldwych, London

Reviewed by Yanar Alkayat

The One Aldwych may be located in the heart of the hustle and bustle of London, but now that Natura Bisse is on board for spa treatments, expect nothing but top-end luxury to take you away to another place.

Treatments include the standard Natura Bisse menu but the Luminous C Ritual Face and Body treatment is an exclusive for the hotel. It may be a long one (almost two hours), but there is no chance to get twitchy. The full body, top to toe polish is an invigorating one, followed by a heavenly facial lasting almost an hour. Whatever state you walk in (it\'s a perfect hangover cure - tried and tested!) face, body and soul will be left feeling brilliantly bright and glowing from within.

Best for: Sunday afternoon pampering

Luminous C Ritual Face and Body, £120 (one hour 45 mins)
One Aldwych Spa, London, 020 7300 0600 or
healthclub@onealdwych.com
www.onealdwych.co.uk

Amanda Lacey Boutique, London

Reviewed by Yanar Alkayat
From the facialist that brought you cult favourite beauty product Cleansing Pomade, comes her own delightful boutique with treatment room in the heart of West London. Decorated with signature floral motif, the little store is effortlessly chic and stocks all the Amanda Lacey beauty delights.

Book in advance for a bespoke facial with one of two therapists personally trained by Amanda herself and enter a sound-proof room for an hour of pure bliss. No two facials are the same and expect to come out walking on air...

Best for: special me-time

Amanda Lacey bespoke facials, £130 (one hour)
46 Walton Street, SW3 1RB, 020 7584 0500

Spa InterContinental

Reviewed by Yanar Alkayat

Step inside one of the most desirable hotels in London and you will find a dark and mysterious spa area with Elemis and La Therapie Paris treatments. Decked out with cutting edge lighting, deep mahogany, chocolate brown leathers and flash dashes of bright fabrics, it easily appeals to both sexes. The rooms have been designed to mimic the cocoon-like comfort felt in the womb and many treatments are especially designed to fit around time-short schedules of busy clientele.

There are five therapy rooms, dry flotation room, steam temple and not forgetting the VIP Suite, which is where the pure blow-out indulgence is at. Hire out the VIP Suite for a luxurious afternoon with a loved one or special group and be waited on with champagne, lunch, exclusive use of private therapy rooms and there\'s even a chauffeur for your next destination. Sounds like heaven!

Best for: Blow-out decadence

Spa InterContinental, 1^st floor, 1 Hamilton Place, Park Lane, London
www.spaintercontinental.com

Don\'t forget to check back regularly - we\'ll be updating Destination...Beauty as often as we can.

In the meantime, check out our 31 new year beauty ideas and the 2007 handbag beauty Awards

Benefit boutique, London

Reviewed by Jessica Hopper

Located just off London\'s cool and quirky Carnaby Street - picture it if you will; the most deliciously kitsch deco, an all-girls-together atmosphere, bright (flattering) lighting and funky background music, not to mention the wall to wall array of get-gorgeous goodies to play with. You\'ll feel like a kid in an úber-cool candy shop. It\'s basically my idea of heaven!

London\'s flagship Benefit Boutique is a beauty sweet shop for grown-ups, with ‘50s dressing table-style counters home to all the their must-have make-up and skincare creations, four brow stations for facial waxing, brow shaping and lash tinting, and a gorgeous little treatment room playing host to full body and bikini waxing. Why not treat yourself to a makeover from a Benefit make-up magician, who has made my eyes look bigger and better than I ever could? Or just grab a cute little basket and fill, fill, fill with Benefit\'s best-sellers.

Yes, this is a truly magical place.

Best for: Girly-girls wanting a spot of fun and flirty me-time

9 - 11 Fouberts Place, London W1, 0207 287 8645

The Thermal Spa at Ragdale Hall

Reviewed by Kate Creasey

After years in the planning, 18 months of building and millions of pounds later the thermal spa at super-spa Ragdale Hall has arrived - and it was certainly worth the wait.

Come rain or shine you can enjoy bathing outdoors in the Waterfall Pool (pictured) which is kept nice and toasty so even England\'s worst weather can\'t spoil the experience. The Candle room is a sunken haven of heated water softly lit with calming candles. Other heat experience highlights include the Rose sauna, the Scented room, a Colour Flow cave and a Thought zone. You can drift between the different rooms at your leisure and enjoy warming - or, for the brave, ice cold - showers in between.

All this of course comes on top of Ragdale\'s other award-winning facilities and exclusive treatments from Decleor and Elemis.

Best for: treating your mum

www.ragdalehall.co.uk

The Health Spa, Sheen Falls Lodge, Kerry, Ireland

Reviewed by Acting Beauty Editor Jessica Hopper

Situated beside the breath-taking falls and amongst stunning woodland and wildlife; upon approaching Sheen Falls Lodge, you know you\'re in for a world of luxury.

Entering The Health Spa is no different. A 5-star haven of tranquillity allowing visitors to relax and unwind in truly special and oh-so scenic surroundings, I really felt a million miles away from the bustling rat-race of London life.

After a blissful swim in the lagoon-like indoor pool and a half hour\'s unwind in the spacious Jacuzzi, both myself and my fella headed off for a truly tension-zapping massage tailor-made to meet our needs. And if massage isn\'t your thing, then don\'t fret, because The Health Spa specialises in signature YonKa treatments, from facials to aroma stone healing - the single objective to help your skin preserve or rediscover balance and beauty. What better a brand for a location that suggests peace, nature and escapism above all else?

Best for: Escaping the city

For more information on The Health Spa or a stay at Sheen Falls Lodge, visit:
www.sheenfallslodge.ie/health_spa
www.sheenfallslodge.ie

Pacifica Day Spa

Reviewed by Yanar Alkayat

Nestled in the gorgeous residential streets of Notting Hill, this home-like day spa treats the beauty woes and worries of its discerning clients with professionalism and expertise. Decked out in down-to-earth Balinese style, it\'s almost like stepping into someone\'s pan-Asian house for a quick beauty treat.

Alongside Elemis and Dermalogica treatments, there is The Pacifica Signature Massage, a Swedish style treatment exclusive to the spa. Tweaked to suit client needs, the therapist can incorporate anything from lymphatic drainage techniques to deep tissue massage, depending on your desires.  It\'s a blissful one hour using Elemis oils and skilled hands (all therapists at Pacifica are CIDESCO trained - the highest international beauty therapy training) and once finished, limbs are so relaxed it\'s almost impossible to leave!

Best for: A lunch-time treat for peeps on the go

Pacifica Signature Massage, £60 for one hour

1 Courtnell Street, Notting Hill, London

www.pacificadayspa.co.uk

020 7243 1718

Fortina Spa Resort, Malta

Reviewed by Beauty Editor Jessica Hopper

Brace yourself, beauty lovers. This 5 star hotel houses the world\'s first ever therapeutic spa bedroom suites. Need I say more? Well, okay. The Fortina is the ultimate place to indulge in every way, from the mouth-wateringly tempting treatments on offer in the four, count ‘em, four spa centres to the excellent examples of worldly cuisines in the six stunning restaurants - and why not stop for a cocktail along the way!

The second myself and my delighted mum stepped into our suite, we were excitedly running from room to room to delight at the array of wow-inducing spa equipment on offer from the comfort of our own hotel room. And with a shower/sauna, a top of the line massage bath and a Jacuzzi awaiting us, I was out of my shoes and in my bikini with a frozen margarita in hand in no time! These suites even feature a private roof garden with seaweed plunge pool and an exclusive, state-of-the-art DermaLife machine, where you can increase your oxygen intake, lose pounds or banish back ache. Bliss.

The Fortina is also home to my new favourite haven of escapism; the Spa Santé, where my mum and I enjoyed traditional Balinese Massage, top-to-toe pampering in the form of their signature Trilogy treatment and beauty-boosting facials of a new breed. Spa Santé is a one ticket pay all spa experience where sea water, algae and ‘dead sea\' bathing is key. Be sure to try the experience showers - tropical rain storm anyone? - and the gorgeous Ice Grotto after your sauna.

Best for: Treating special mums or girlfriends.

5* Tower Room - 140 Euros (Spa Bedroom supplement 116 Euros per night additional to the cost of the tower room). For more information, visit hotelfortina.com.

GB Airways operates BA flights to Malta from London Gatwick and Manchester.  One way all-inclusive fares start at £39.  For more details visit gbairways.com.

Renew Medica

Reviewed by Yanar Alkayat

Despite being slightly wary about highstreet beauty treatments, I was highly impressed with Renew Medica. The therapist was very knowledgeable and skilled in all things anti-ageing and almost felt like I was in a science lesson but actually learnt something instead of falling asleep!

The peel I tried didn\'t pretend to be pampering - they are high tech, results focussed facials suitable for all skin types, but particularly good for problem skins.

After a potent berry concoction filled with antioxidants and fruit enzymes, was applied to my skin, results were noticeably smooth skin with a glimmering glow.

Their other specialist offerings, include Laser treatments and wrinkle-busting procedures.

Berry Smoothie Facial, £85

Renew Medica have 14 centres around London with the latest opening at Urban Retreat, Harrods, www.renewmedica.com 0800 027 2029

The Lounge Soho, London W1

Reviewed by Beauty Editor Jessica Hopper

With an important event on, where camera\'s will be a\' flashing, a quick desk-to-dancefloor make-over just doesn\'t cut it. So when myself and handbag Editor Natasha found ourselves with an after-work awards ceremony and a ‘bad hair day\' to boot, we hotfooted it down to The Lounge Soho - without doubt W1\'s coolest boutique salon.

Buzzing with new business following the recent revamp, The Lounge Soho is oh-so laid back and hip it hurts. An urban interior with contemporary styling and a chilled out ambiance, a session with the stylists feel a lot like a girly chat over a glass of wine, whilst owner Joe Mills adds to the atmosphere by alternating weekly music play lists created by him and his lovely wife. It\'s the personal touches that make this salon truly unique.

While I opted for a full cut and colour, Natasha dropped in for a quickie glamour-on-the-go style make-over, where the lovely Lounge ladies even suggested hair accessories and popped out to purchase one for her new ‘do.  We both went to the awards happy and looking fabulous!

Best for: Turning a salon trip from a chore to an enjoyable experience

www.theloungesoho.co.uk

26 Peter Street, London, W1F 0AH

020 7437 3877

Chocolate Body Wrap at May Fair Spa

Reviewed by Bridget March

Despite being a complete chocoholic I substituted Easter eggs this year in favour of all-over Chocolate Body Wrap at London\'s May Fair Spa. As if stepping into the Japanese-inspired beauty haven wasn\'t enough to provide tranquility, the hour-long treatment ensured a delicious experience not far from bliss.

My body was completely exfoliated with a natural sea salt and poppy seed scrub before being stimulated and moisturised with pure organic chocolate. Whilst relaxing in the warmth of my own cocoa cocoon, I was also treated to a rejuvenating scalp and foot massage before the mask was washed off and replaced with cocoa body oil leaving my newly-smooth skin the softest I remember it being.

It may not have satisfied my sugar craving but it more than a substituted a sweet treat this Easter - and I haven\'t even put on a pound.

Best for: A chocoholic\'s calorie-free Easter! 

Chocolate Body Wrap, £99.00 (60 minutes)
The May Fair, Stratton Street , London W1J 8LT, 0207 915 2826
www.mayfairspa.com

ZenZone SPA, Gran Hotel La Florida, Barcelona, Spain

Reviewed by Lifestyle Editor Alaina Vieru

Despite their laidback demeanour and fondness for siesta, the people of Barcelona haven\'t quite caught on to the relaxing idea of spa. Finding one for my girlie weekend in Barcelona with handbag Editor Natasha ended up proving difficult, but thankfully the gods at Google kept flashing a name at me over and over: Gran Hotel La Florida.

Perched high in the mountains overlooking the city, stunning doesn\'t even describe the views we encountered when finally reaching the hotel after the long and winding road upwards. Part of the chic Leading Small Hotels of the World chain, the La Florida is a mix of classic luxury and impeccable design and the ZenZone SPA was no exception.

Our therapist was the tall, dark and handsome Boris (sorry ladies, he\'s married) who apologised for running late and sent us to the very cool poolside bar outside for a complimentary drink to make up for our very minimal wait. A few moments later my body was being treated with a mix of much needed tough love and gentle soothing with the Relaxing massage, which left my muscles and mind soothed and my body soft as a newborn baby\'s thanks to Boris\'s generous use of Natura Bissé products. Natasha meanwhile, had a facial that left her looking like a glowing, fresh faced teenager. It\'s worth noting that they also do custom treatments if you don\'t fancy what\'s offered on the menu.

The spa also has a pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, Hammam, ice fountain and power shower which helped prolong our post-treatment flush. All we can say as the locals don\'t know how good they have it.

Best for: The ultimate in turning back the hands of time

For more information or to plan a visit to Gran Hotel La Florida visit...
www.lhw.com

Spa at Bluebird

Reviewed by Yanar Alkayat 

It\'s rumoured that Ole Henriksen personally created this super-polishing skin treatment for Donatella Versace to condition her sun-soaked skin. If that\'s not enough star connection, then Halle Berry is a firm favourite of his products and is often spotted at his LA spa.

The clientele at the sleek and minimalist Spa at Bluebird in Chelsea, London are usually savvy spa goers and style-loving fashionistas - The Bluebird Shop, after all, is a haven for London\'s label lovers; and the spa can be found in the back corner.

The Salt Butter n\' Mango Body Treatment involves a scrub made up solely of organic brown sugar and almond oil (and nothing else!) and Ole fans can take comfort in seeing the concuctions mixed up from scratch. This was rubbed up and down every inch of my limbs, fairly vigorously, working wonders on skin condition and glow.

A Vichy shower sprayed directly over me as I lay flat on the bed reduced me to fits of laughter but a long-stroke massage, with mango butter, then followed, which sent me close to sleep. I was then cocooned into a foil blanket (to let the nourishing butters soak into my skin) and treated to a scalp and head massage (at which point i really did fall asleep!)

This thorough scrub-down is guaranteed to get skin glowing, particularly good for pre-holiday skin prepping, as well as post-sundrenched skin.

Best for: a glistening glow to show off summer skin

Salt Butter n\' Mango body treatment, £115

The Spa at Bluebird, 350 King\'s Road, London, 020 7351 3873