The Hong Kong humidity, pollution, and general chaos, as every Sassy Mama knows can really cause havoc with your skin. Add in the additional glow, ahem (sweat) that comes from days spent traipsing up and down stairs, on and off the MTR, up and down the escalator, back and forth to work, and juggling my kids, of course, and I made an executive decision to take some well-earned time out and get a facial at Iyara.
Tucked away among the “orphan” trees on the blissfully tranquil Prince’s Terrace in the Mid-Levels sits Iyara, the chain of centrally located day spas with over six years’ experience in offering luxurious, indulgent and personalised day spa treatments to women and men in Hong Kong.
The spa prides itself on the concept of its “home away from home” atmosphere that’s deliberately much more calm and serene than the average Hong Kong nail salon or beauty therapy spot. Iyara certainly delivered on this promise during my recent trip, where from the warm welcome through to waving me off, I felt truly pampered, cleansed and ready to take on the world (well, at least a presentation, homework, bath time and a cranky husband…).
Upon arrival at Iyara, I was welcomed by one of the skin care therapists and invited to take a seat and relax with a cup of lemongrass tea before discussing my skin care routine, my beauty objectives and what I’d like to change most about my skin. Though small, the space felt particularly inviting and calm; lots of earthy colours, dark wood, heady essential oils and quietly calming music to get me de-frazzled and ready to zen myself (is that a verb? It is now).
Post-consultation, my therapist discussed the benefits of various treatments, before recommending the Microdermabrasion Oxygen Facial (read up on the benefits of Oxygen facials here!). I was informed that while my skin was in pretty good condition, microdermabrasion is a very beneficial way to treat aging and sun-damaged skin, blemishes, fine lines and wrinkles (and even some types of acne and acne scars).
Inside the treatment room, which was a peaceful haven of green light and quietly bubbling machinery (the oxygen machine) I changed into the treatment gown and relaxed on the big, comfy treatment table. My therapist began with gentle cleansing, toning, and massage of my face, neck and shoulders, before the microdermabrasion, and extraction was completed. I was expecting a little discomfort during this process, but it was entirely pain-free, and surprisingly soothing. My lovely therapist explained that the microdermabrasion process removes dead surface skin cells and initiates cellular turnover, which helps to improve skin tone, leading to fewer breakouts, diminished appearance of scars, refined skin pores and a healthy glow. Wow! That’ll do me.
When the microdermabrasion stage was complete, my therapist began the oxygen stage of the facial, where an organic plant serum was applied during the oxygen infusion. This entailed application of a nourishing face mask, and gentle suction which stimulates blood circulation and revitalises collagen production, (hopefully!) leading to the regeneration of younger-looking skin. I was informed that the oxygen also helps to speed up collagen production and soothe the newly exfoliated skin for a great anti-aging treatment. As the oxygen mask worked its magic on my skin, I was pampered further with a neck and shoulder massage, before another gentle cleanse and I was done!
Feeling uber relaxed and not so keen on returning to the real world just yet, I decided to opt for a quick mani-pedi before leaving. The quality of the treatments and level of care felt luxurious yet nurturing, and I was delighted to hear that children are welcome (space permitting!) in the larger treatment rooms.
This hidden gem is a real find. It’s perfect for any mama needing a little R&R, and offers a full range of day spa and beauty treatments from waxing to body wraps to value day spa packages. For mid-levels mamas, it’s the perfect pit-stop on the way home; for the rest of us, it’s well worth the trip, and while you’re there, pop in to Another Fine Day for a delectable Victorian afternoon tea to top up that feel-good factor!
Sassy Mama Discount: Mention “Sassy Mama” to receive 15% of all services excluding nails, valid weekdays only (excluding holidays), until 31 December. The Microdermabrasion Oxygen Facial is $1,500 for a 90-minute treatment.
Iyara, G/F, No. 5 Prince’s Terrace, Mid-levels, Hong Kong, 2530 1666, www.iyarabeauty.com