Top facialists

I really struggle finding a good facialist. All that prodding, squeezing and buffing tends to wreck havoc with my complexion and makes me want to hide away. Post facial my skin is itchy, spotty and has a strange shine to it.

Yes, there is good news - there are a handful of very good facialists who work miracles on the skin giving it a clear and peachy appearance. There's the gorgeous Vaishaly whose signature facial is ideal pre any big event. Her products are gentle and her touch soothing, not abrasive. The charismatic Vanda at Neville's truly loves what she does and it shows - she is a whizz at customising facials to your needs using a range of brands and products to achieve the best results. John Tsagaris at Energy Bodies who is the master of needles and performs one of the best accupuncture facials in London. I know the thought of having 30 needles in your face does not sound like fun but the results are amazing. Skin looks younger, fresher and more plumped and not a spot in sight.

Next on my hit list is Anastasia at Home House's Method Spa. Reports from beauty insiders are glowing but she doesn't come cheap. Will let you know if she's worth it...

http://www.vaishaly.com/

http://www.nevillehairandbeauty.net/

http://www.energybodies.co.uk/

http://www.homehouse.co.uk/

* Image of facialist Vaishaly

Patch up

I'm sold on the benefits of acupuncture but after several sessions with various ( not mentioning any names) therapists I have to say Im too scared to go back. Although there are some who are very good and get my seal of approval including Gerad Kite ( Founder of the Kite Clinic) and Annee De Mamiel ( at the Method Spa), I was in search for a less painful option.

Enter LifeWave - a range of genius little patches that basically claim to do the same thing. The idea is that these clever patches gently stimulate acupuncture points - literally

improving the flow of energy in the body to help improve pain and discomfort or enhance energy or slow down the aging process. My Y Age patch ( the one for antiaging) is firmly in place and i'm awaiting small miracles....

Available from www.alchemythecentre.com