Spa spy Gentle introduction

Learn about fragrance combining during a gratis massage at Jo Malone, Edinburgh

The treatment

A free 20 minute Hand & Arm Massage, along with an introduction to Jo Malone’s new Honeysuckle & Davana Cologne (from £47 for 30ml), at Jo Malone, Edinburgh. Book at www.jomalone.co.uk/bookappointment

Why go?

For a bit of gratis relaxation. Also, this is a great way to be introduced to their new scents and the concept of fragrance combining. Although this store is celebrating its 18th birthday, this is the first time I’ve experienced one of their signature paw massages.

Our spy says

Before we get started on the rub down, I try out the newest fragrance from Jo Malone. It’s a crowd pleaser – sweet and floral, with rose, moss, patchouli, the bee-enticingly warm smell of honeysuckle and the aromatic, slightly citrussy herb that is davana (no, I hadn’t heard of it before now either).

This scent is launched today, and is perfect for an Indian summer. If Jo Malone are in denial that autumn is coming, then I am too.

According to the in-store expert this launch goes perfectly alongside their Grapefruit Cologne (from £45 for 30ml), or, for evening, Oud & Bergamot Intense Cologne (£115 for 100ml).

As I can’t decide between the two, we do one day arm, and one evening.

She foams up some of the Grapefruit Body and Hand Wash (£30) in a cup with a sort of latte whisk. Then, while my arms are placed on the fluffy white towel on top of the fragrance bar, I am freshened up with this frothy scented soap.

This is dabbed off, then on goes some of their rich Grapefruit Body Creme (£52).

My surprisingly knobbly wrists and forearms are rubbed. “Are people’s arms usually this crunchy and tight?” I ask, and she reassures me that it’s perfectly normal for keyboard warriors and desk workers.

Finally, I get a few spritzes of Oud & Bergamot on one arm, underneath a layer of the Honeysuckle & Davana.

This transforms my right limb into the glamorous one that’s probably off to a film premiere or going to a Michelin star restaurant. I love the blend of woodyness and zest from cedar and citrus, with a topping of nectar-infused warmth.

So that lefty doesn’t feel like Cinderella, it’s layered with Grapefruit Cologne, which cuts through the sweetness of a Honeysuckle & Davana topping. I think I like this side best, for its simplicity. Lovely.

The results

When I get back to the office, I get wafts of fragrance as I type. It may be slightly chillier outside, but as long as my arms smell like sunshine, it’s still summer. n Jo Malone (93 George Street, Edinburgh, 0370 192 5161)