There's good news for fans of French beauty brands! Parisian label Darphin has opened its first flagship spa in central London.
The sensorial skincare brand, first launched by Pierre Darphin in 1958, has been introduced at Mayfair's Spa Illuminata as well as Danesfield House in Buckinghamshire. Loved for their botanical ingredients and essential oils, spa-goers can now enjoy the products through both the body and face treatments.
So, what's on offer? From facials aimed at anti-ageing and lifting to brightening and refining, there's something on the menu for every skin type. But is it worth paying for a professional to apply the brand's powerful lotions and potions when you could simply invest in a few of the best-sellers to use at home?
If you're a sucker for spas, then yes. I tried the Deeply Nourishing facial from the 'Essential' range, designed to rehydrate and leave the skin glowing. After too much cold weather mixed with stuffy central heating, this was just the thing for getting a glowing complexion in mid-February.
The hour long treatment left my skin feeling softer than it had in months, and with a focus on neck and shoulder massage too, this was one of the most relaxing facials I've ever experienced.
I was treated to the brand's Intral cleanser and toner followed by the gentle but effective Mild Aroma Peeling exfoliator. Next up was a massage using a brilliant blend of rose oil, Fibrogene cream and serum before moisturiser was applied to finish.
As with most French skincare brands, the products worked wonders at targeting my specific skin problems, sensitivity and dryness. The downside? Booking in for a facial in Mayfair is most definitely an expensive luxury - but this new addition at one of the capital's best spas is a welcome one.
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