AS someone who’s struggled with acne throughout my teenage years and into my adult life, I’ve always been strict about what products I use on my face.
I never step outside the box and try new products or treatments for fear they will create more problems for my skin. That’s why, when I got the call from the team at Vanilla Browns Spa about their resident skin consultant Eve, I decided it might be time to put my fears aside and pamper myself under the careful guidance of someone in the know.
The spa, located in the city’s Savoy Hotel, has recently launched a new specialist skin analysis consultation service, so I thought what better time to be bold and try something new.
From start to finish, I felt relaxed, and more importantly, understood by Eve. For me, the facial started with an honest conversation with the skin consultant where we discussed my concerns about my skin and what my goals were going forward. We also discussed my current skin care routine and products I was using. This really put me at ease as I knew this wasn’t going to be a one-size-fits-all treatment that would wreak havoc on my acne-prone skin.
Eve started the treatment with a lymphatic drainage massage – this is great for boosting circulation, increasing collagen production, and reducing puffiness. Pro tip: You can do this at home with a Gua Sha or even your fingers. Still, I was delighted to have it done by a professional who knows what they’re doing.
Eve and I identified a damaged skin barrier and sinus congestion as two problem areas in my skin, as well as a lack of exfoliation. Exfoliating is something I’ve always avoided for fear of introducing anything too harsh, so it was great to get this recommendation and reassurance.
For the all-important facial, we started with a double cleanse and moved on to an AHA exfoliator and glycolic acid. Eve then went in with an emulsion mask and a concentrated serum, as well as a bit of toner and an acid cream.
I can say my skin was visibly glowing after the treatment and it was a great confidence boost as someone who’s always been wary of braving the no makeup look.
Nearly two weeks on from the treatment, my skin has not broken out in the slightest and still has a bright complexion. All credit to Eve on that one.
Vanilla Browns Spa operates in both the Savoy and Absolute Hotel. Their new skin consultation is run exclusively by skin specialist Eve and covers things like acne, rosacea, and aging. Treatments with Eve also include an in-depth analysis of the skin and product recommendations for building your own routine. For just €30, and redeemable against products, it’s a hearty recommendation from me.
