Margy’s facial

The signature treatment on offer at Alba Spa not only caters to your face, but also sees the oft-forgotten neck and décolletage area attended to as well. Alba therapist Marina says, “The first signs of ageing appear on your neck.”

The facial began with an application of an extra rich firming mask that was then removed using warm towels. Then it was time for a facial, neck and chest massage using the “lift up technique” (think upward strokes) in an effort to drain toxins from the body. Afterwards there were a few more serums used before special algae patches, almost like stickers, were stuck on to our face. A light steam helped to dissolve the product into the skin before a thick, brightness revealing mask was applied. Another face/chest massage, and the treatment was done.

Gentle and really quite relaxing, this facial is suitable for all skin types as it can be personalised quite easily. But does it actually work? The next day our typically uneven complexion looked brighter and our skin felt silky soft.

Royal Rose Hotel, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, daily 10am to 9pm, Dhs475. Tel: (02) 6724000. Taxi: Royal Rose Hotel, Electra Street. royalrosehotel.com

24-CARAT GOLD RADIANCE FACIAL

Get a golden glow – literally – with a decadent facial at Emirates Palace Spa that sees micronised 24-carat gold sheets massaged into your skin.

Emirates Palace, Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi, daily 10am to 11pm, Dhs1,890. Tel: (02) 6909000. Taxi: Emirates Palace. kempinski.com