We all know that our beauty routines are more than just a daily chore – they’re a form of self-care, leaving us feeling restored and revitalised. And with our ever-busy daily lives, there’s something to be said for beauty treatments that make the day-to-day that little bit easier.
We’ve put three of London’s leading beauty clinics to the test, and tried out treatments that we believe every beauty lover should try at least once.
Keratin blow-dry at Inanch London
Summer brings not only warm weather and beach days, but also the challenge of maintaining frizz-free, runway-ready hair. For a luxurious salon experience, look no further than Inanch London, situated on Great Portland Street. With a global reputation and an impressive list of services that includes colouring, extensions, and hair loss solutions, Inanch London is a haven for those seeking top-notch care for their tresses. The salon’s celebrity clientele further cements its status as a leading destination for all things hair.
As someone with exceptionally thick, processed hair, I couldn’t wait to try Inanch London’s Keratin treatment – a potential game-changer for my unruly locks. The salon provides an almost spa like experience; the wash basins are in a dimly lit side room, encouraging you to put down your phone, and truly relax.
The staff are friendly, knowledgeable and professional and everything was very slick with very little waiting time. Post wash, the Keratin treatment is put through each section of your hair before being blow dried-in and then locked in further with straightening irons. Considering the amount of hair I have, the experience was only a couple of hours long, and the staff were so friendly the time flew by.
Before leaving, I was instructed to leave the treatment in for 24 to 48 hours before washing it out as usual, allowing the formula to work its magic.
Since my visit, I’ve washed my hair three times, and I’m delighted to report that the results have completely transformed my hair. A process that once consumed hours of my time now takes a mere 15 minutes, and my hair is now completely frizz-free and significantly more manageable. Inanch London’s Keratin treatment has indeed delivered on its promise of effortlessly gorgeous hair all summer long.
Treatments start from £300.
Lymphatic drainage by Elayne Gullis
Lymphatic drainage has rapidly gained traction in the beauty world, capturing the attention of A-listers like Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Aniston. This increasingly popular treatment boasts an impressive array of benefits, including de-puffing, reducing cellulite, and boosting circulation. It’s no wonder that lymphatic drainage has become a must-try for those seeking to enhance their overall well-being and beauty regimen.
Beneath the surface of our skin lies the intricate lymphatic system, a vital network responsible for transporting waste and toxins to be processed and removed from the body. By promoting efficient lymphatic drainage, you can experience myriad positive effects, such as feeling lighter, more energised, and reducing the appearance of cellulite.
Elyane Gullis is paving the way in the UK when it comes to the treatment with influencers like Bryony Derry amongst her clientele. Elyane combines lymphatic drainage with ‘the light method’. This phototherapeutic technique known as ILIB Therapy consists of a continuous and direct application of red therapeutic laser on one of the main arteries of the human body, triggering sequences of beneficial physiological effects. This therapy acts directly on the immune system, energising the defence cells, combating free radicals (responsible for premature ageing, weakening of cells and tissues, and the development of diseases). It also promotes increased microcirculation and the supply of oxygen and nutrients to organisms and tissues, playing a fundamental role in the efficiency of metabolism.
Catering to clients in the comfort of their homes in South-West London or at the prestigious Until clinic, located next to London’s Selfridges, Elyane offers a bespoke experience for those seeking the transformative benefits of lymphatic drainage.
I recently had the pleasure of experiencing Elyane’s signature treatment first-hand, hoping to achieve a more defined appearance. As someone who struggles to unwind, I was pleasantly surprised by the instant sense of relaxation that washed over me upon meeting Elyane and discussing my concerns. The serene atmosphere and calming music set the stage for a truly rejuvenating experience.
The treatment began with a breathing technique using soothing oils, followed by the most relaxing massage I’ve ever had. Contrary to my expectations, there was no discomfort – only the comforting knowledge that the treatment was promoting internal and external well-being. After an hour, Elyane presented me with before and after photos, revealing a remarkable reduction in water retention that had previously hindered my desired leg definition.
But it was the aftereffects of how the treatment left me feeling that I was most surprised by. I experienced improved sleep quality and an internal sense of calm that lingered for days. The combination of physical and emotional benefits made Elyane’s lymphatic drainage massage an unforgettable experience that left me feeling lighter and more at ease with all factors in my life. It’s no wonder that Elyane has become a go-to practitioner for influencers and individuals alike seeking a transformative and soothing experience.
Prices start from £220.
A luxury manicure and pedicure at Pre-
There is something so nice about having an amazing manicure and pedicure, it’s one of life’s feel-good things! But a manicure that stays chip-proof for three weeks and helps even the weakest of nails is something short of a miracle. Let me introduce you to Pre- and their Lux BIAB manicure and pedicure.
London based Pre- provides treatments for all of life’s moments, from Pre-weekend to Pre-holiday, multi-service salon Pre-, has two London salons, in Angel and, most recently, Parsons Green. Launched three years ago by female founder Mimi Gaston-Kennedy, Pre- is on a mission to redefine the premium beauty offering in London, making everything from aesthetics to high-tech facials accessible, whilst maintaining the highest standards from the practitioners administering to the products used.
I was lucky enough to experience their signature Lux BIAB manicure and pedicure. This all-treatment salon is drippingly cool with the most calming atmosphere. It’s warm yet muted tonal décor is as inviting as the treatments on offer.
On my recent visit, I had the most relaxing two hours as my experienced therapist talked me through the benefits of BIAB and how it works to allow your nails to grow effortlessly. An acronym for Builder In A Bottle, aka BIAB, is a salon-only product which gives natural nails a tough, snap-resistant coating, also known as an overlay.
At Pre-, their LUX offering includes shaping and buffing before the application of a hydro-thermal exfoliant effectively banishing impurities and dead skin cells, leaving my hands feeling silky smooth. A prebiotic-enriched moisturising mask followed, infusing my skin with deep hydration, and a soothing hot towel wrap enhanced the absorption of these nourishing ingredients.
I struggle to enjoy a manicure and pedicure, as often find salons too busy to really switch off but there’s something very magical about Pre- that calms all your senses. I had no desire to scroll on my phone but instead just ‘be’ as my therapist worked her magic on my paper-thin nails.
Two solid weeks in since my appointment and my nails are still going strong. With two children, and working on a laptop all day, bashing away at my keyboard, this is usually unheard of, but thanks to Pre- and their expertise, I am still left with the best mani and pedi I’ve ever had – go visit!
BIAB manicures start from £75, and pedicures start from £67.
