Relax for a spell at the Sleeping Beauty Salon
I think we all feel like we’re owed spring now. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work like that. There are still a few weeks to go before we can start to think about shedding our bulkiest knitwear.
For now, we just have to survive it any way we can, and that may mean a visit to Sleeping Beauty to try their Winter Wellness package, which is available until February 28.
Over the course of 60 minutes, it incorporates a scalp, neck and shoulder massage, a hot stone signature facial and a warming hand wrap.
I’m trying it out at their one-year-old Alva Street salon in Edinburgh, though you can also visit them in the Radisson Blu hotel on the city’s High Street, in two Inverness locations, or in Lerwick, Aviemore or Fort William.
On my visit, I’m led down to one of the basement level treatment rooms in this former Georgian townhouse. Then, once I’m lying face up under a blanket, a headband goes on and my make-up is removed using the salon owner’s own product line, Luxe. After a double cleanse, there’s a bit of exfoliation using a light acai and goji micro dermabrasion scrub, then a spritz of rose aloe toner, before a creamy face mask is applied, along with lavender-scented eye pads.
My desiccated paws are next in line for some therapy. My therapist slathers a thick lotion on, then they’re slid into heated mitts.
Next is the oil-free scalp massage element, before the mitts are removed and my therapist examines my revitalised fingers.
Now to finish the facial. The face mask is whipped away using hot flannels, then tiny, smooth hot stones are rubbed across my epidermis.
After a series of symmetrical lifting moves, there’s a thick application of moisturiser, and I gather the strength to heave myself off this comfy table.
Winter Wellness package is £59.50 for 60 minutes, see Sleeping Beauty Salon, 4 Alva Street (0131-202 7559, www. sleepingbeautysalon.com)