Traditional Thai Facial at Thai Square Spa

Ever since my recent Oskia facial I’ve completely changed tact in the types of facials I go for.  Whilst I used to be all about the treatment facials – usually aggressive procedures that ‘beat’ the nasties out of my skin – I’ve instead started showing more of an interest in facials that are aimed at calming, cleansing and pampering my face.  I’ll still go for the hardcore treatment facials every so often (can’t change a habit of a lifetime) but I’ve noticed a huge difference in the way my skin reacts to gentle facial techniques.  I think it’s probably because I’m a little older now and I’m starting to consider taking action against the ageing process!

I booked in for a Traditional Thai Facial for two reasons; firstly, I’ve never had one so I was curious as to how it would be different to regular Western facials and secondly, I knew it would involve lots of massage and hot towels.  Massage and hot towels rock and there will never be enough massage and hot towels in my life.

When I arrived at the Thai Square Spa I was impressed by how themed it was; the minute you walk in it’s like visiting another country as everything is decked out as a Traditional Thai spa with lots of amazingly Zen additions such as beaded doors, flowing water fountains and gold bathes.  It’s an absolutely glorious looking spa that has a very calming effect from the moment you arrive.

I was taken downstairs to the treatment area and asked to get changed in the changing room where I was given a robe and some slippers.  Once I was ready, I was taken to the treatment room and given a foot bath using rose petals and gentle massage.  I was then asked to disrobe, get under the towel and lie down.  My facial included my decolletage and shoulders, all of which were thoroughly cleansed using various herby oils and balms.  The cleansing process occurred several times and in between each time a hot towel (yay!) was used to remove the product.  After the cleansing, I was given several massages, and eventually a massage apparatus was used made of herbs packed tightly in a muslin cloth and heated.  I have no idea what it’s called but this is what it looks like:

The whole facial lasted 75 minutes and was incredibly gentle, calming and therapeutic.  It was one of those experiences where you leave feeling relaxed and refreshed rather than zonked out and ready for bed, which was handy because I drove there!  After the facial, I got dressed and was given some tea and water in a lounge area that had magazines to read until I was ready to leave.  All in all it was a really lovely and pampering experience that I thoroughly enjoyed and the little additions like the foot bath at the start and the tea at the end made the whole experience feel much more luxurious.

Thai Square Spa is located at both 25 Shelton Street and 40 Earlham Street (two entrances) in Covent Garden.  The Traditional Thai Facial (T) I had costs £85 for a 75 minute treatment and more information can be found here.