A personalised approach to skincare using luxurious Chanel products, the treatments combine Eastern and Western massage techniques and light and sound therapy, taking what would traditionally be considered a beauty treatment, into a sensorial realm.
“We talk of skincare treatments, but what about moral treatments? Beauty treatments should start with the heart and soul.” Gabrielle ‘Coco” Chanel
The menu
Revitalisation: Sublimage (1h: R2 300; 1h30: R2 800)
Pinch-roll movements work to reactivate and re-oxygenate the skin. Results: Hydrated, firmer and smoother skin, radiance
Deep hydration: Hydra Beauty (1h: R2 300)
The microcirculation technique stimulates the skin to visibly replenish. Results: Plump, hydrated and ‘refreshed’ skin.
Soothing and firming: Le Lift (1h: R2 300)
The massage movements help drain toxins, and smooth and tone the skin. Results: More defined contours and a lifted effect, making the skin appear firmer.
The brightener: Brightening & Detox Treatment (1h30: R2 800, exclusive to the Chanel Skincare Cabin at the V&A Waterfront)
A refining AHA scrub is followed by lymphatic drainage paired with facial reflexology to eliminate toxins, while a cooling massage tones and lifts the contours of the face. Results: A brighter, smoother, lifted and more even toned complexion.
The anti-ager: N°1 de Chanel (1h: R2 300)
Targeting the appearance of the five signs of ageing, this is to smooth the skin, refine pores, increase radiance and boost elasticity. Results: Highly revitalised skin.
Targeted add-ons (all R230 for 15 minutes) include The Look, which treats the eye area; The Hand, a deeply nourishing, exfoliating and stress relieving hand massage; and Deep Cleansing – manual extraction to reduce impurities.
The encounter: Le Lift
A consultation with aesthetician Hannelie Du Plessis, who enquired about my skincare needs, routine and preferences, was followed with an opening ritual using shiatsu techniques to relax the senses. After removing make-up and double cleansing, a sugar scrub was applied under a steamer, the heat emulsifying it for a very pampering and hydrating exfoliation (yes, the two can go together). Massage cream was then applied for the start of a sublime facial massage. Each treatment has a unique massage technique, specially developed for Chanel, and Le Lift includes lifting and kneading motions that help firm and tone, while aiding circulation and lymph drainage. It also helps release tension in the face (it’s surprising how much tension is held in the jaw and around the temples) – there’s a reason it’s referred to as the art of touch. While the marine collagen cellulose sheet mask released plumping and hydrating ingredients in the skin, I was treated to a hand and arm massage (there is an option of a scalp massage). The final step (after a second moisturisation) was an awakening ritual in which Hannelie slowly brought me out of my blissful stupor by ‘chasing’ energy to get it flowing again.
If a truly luxe and exclusive skincare experience makes you glow, book your spot – it’s well worth it.
Chanel Les Soins is available at Chanel boutiques in Menlyn, Pretoria, the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town and Sandton City.
