What’s new in the capital’s spa scene? This week the Abu Dhabi Week team put five enticing treatments to the test
Golden glow
Awazen Spa and clinic has one of the most comprehensive ranges of services on offer in the UAE. We visited the clinic and spa for a little rejuvenation and to find out the benefits of this all-encompassing health retreat.
To start our session, the specialist sat with us to discuss what results we wanted. Every session at Awazen is tailor-made to each individual client; a youth glow radiance facial was recommended.
The hour-long treatment, starting with a cleanse; using a powdered pearl and silk combination for exfoliation and collagen regeneration. It’s a gentle and nutritious experience.
Next a honey-based facial massage, with gold and caviar extract loosened up wells of tension we never knew we had, with antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-ageing benefits.
A collagen mask with caviar extract and marine lotion was then applied for nourishing and toning, giving our skin a vibrant feeling. We then had a grape-seed mask applied. This soothing mix was cooling and comfortable, rehydrating and gave our skin antioxidants.
The application of elixir with gold and caviar extract gave us rejuvenation and moisture before a fundamental emulsion to finish. This ensured our skin’s elasticity and hydration so we left the spa looking fresh.
The end product, a glowing face with no redness – a rarity in post-facial appearance. This treatment had us looking radiant for days.
Details
What? Youth Glow Radiance Facial
Where? Awazen Clinic, Al Wahda Commercial Tower
Cost: On request
We say: Reveal that radiance!
Contact: 02 441 1944
Bath time
We were curious about Anahata’s Ceremonial Bathing Ritual after reading the menu description: ‘A form of purification to cleanse impurities combined with lavender to awaken the crown chakra, clearing negative energies and promoting happiness.’
There were many steps to this treatment, involving an array of lavender lotions and potions. Our therapist Saha began the treatment using a Moroccan black soap. She lathered our skin – focusing on one side of our body before we were we flipped over onto our back. Once our skin was suitably soft and soapy our therapist left us enveloped in a cocoon of steam; thankfully the temperature was just perfect.
After ten minutes or so we showered and were treated to a full body exfoliation. Saha methodically scrubbed our body wearing a mitt using firm strokes to remove dead skin without causing discomfort. We rinsed again and were amazed by how baby-soft our skin was.
Next up our body was smothered in lavender-scented moisturiser. Saha massaged the cream onto our skin, kneading out any knots leaving us delighted by this surprise mini-massage.
After the treatment we were shown to the relaxation room and were served laban and local dates. It was one of those surreal occasions where we felt lucky to live in Abu Dhabi and have experiences like this.
Details
What? Ceremonial Bathing Ritual (Moroccan bath)
Where? Anahata Wellness Spa
Cost: AED 450
We say: This one is great for improving the mood and silky soft skin
Contact: 02 557 7722
Triple treat
Talise Spa at Jumeirah at Etihad Towers promises to be ‘a haven of tranquillity, privacy and personalised care for those seeking a journey of self-discovery and deep relaxation’.
Deep relaxation, is, of course the target for most spas, but what is unique to the Talise Spa is their ‘Signature Treatment’.
On arrival at the gorgeously appointed establishment, I was shown to a relaxing waiting area, presented with a glass of crystal-infused water, and filled out a form to ascertain my requirements for the coming treatment.
The Talise signature treatment is a combination of Swedish (soothing, tapping and kneading), Balinese (focusing on pressure points and basic stretching) and Thai (pressure points, energy lines, breath and basic body forces) techniques, all geared to give the guest the maximum relaxation experience.
Shown to the luxurious Treatment Suite, each one of which is fully equipped with specialised treatment areas, wet areas, changing room and free standing African rosewood plunge baths, I was given a cleansing foot ritual from my personal therapist, Vikram, during which a choice of oils were offered to me for the coming massage. All products and product combinations are individually selected following consultation to match your skin type and the desired effects required.
After the foot cleansing, the massage started. Accompanied by soothing tunes and ambient lighting, the combination of different techniques made sure that my every sinew and fibre was focused on and any stress was simply kneaded into oblivion. Including guided stretching, pressure point therapy, warm oil application and use of hot water bag, the massage was perfect for releasing muscle tension.
At the end of the 60-minute session, all tension had ‘left the building’; the spa promised, and delivered, an ultra-luxurious way to relax and unwind.
Details
What? Talise Signiture Treatment
Where? Jumeirah at Etihad Towers
Cost: AED 450 for 60 minutes (90 minutes for AED 620)
We say: An all-encompassing treat
Contact: 02 811 5858
A special touch
Have a special occasion coming up or just fancy a make-over? Either way the girls at Classic Touch will sort you out.
We don’t always have time to go for regular manicures and fancied a low maintenance nail-look, so signed up for acrylic tips. Firstly our therapist Grace manicured our nails before gluing artificial tips on top. She then got to work filing away the joint, clipping the tips to our desired length and painstakingly painting on topcoats of acrylic gel. The end result – natural looking, glamorous new nails. The whole process took two hours and will last for around three to four weeks before we need a touchup.
Meanwhile, hairdresser Rosie attempted to bring some life back into our dull, frizzy locks using SynergiCare Immediate Repair products; deep care shampoo, intensive care mask and multiactive serum. We are always a bit dubious about hair repair treatments that promise the world. But this one – we are happy to say – worked! Our hair is auburn but we leave with shimmering gold streaks, this treatment actually revived our own natural colour, which had dulled itself down and also smoothed out split ends.
Details
What? Acrylic nails and SynergiCare hair repair
Where? Classic Touch Beauty Spa
Cost: SynergiCare from AED 80, arcylic tips AED 250
We say: Great for reasonable prices and results
Contact: 02 445 5621
Fresh faced
It’s great to see that there is a treatment designed for the busy man. Whether your eyes are transfixed on technology or you’re constantly traveling the globe, us men of the city deserve to recharge more than just our gadgets.
We started with a thorough consultation, which allowed the spa team to advise us to visit the steam room and shower first to help loosen our aching muscles. Our therapist explained in detail how the Elemis Skin IQ treatment is tailored to meet the needs of a hectic lifestyle – we knew our face was in good hands.
The first cleanser allowed our skin to feel revitalised and fresh as the anti-ageing balm, a deep exfoliation and facemask helped to clear away dead skin. The impressive part was how the products focused on the layer of skin underneath our epidermis, preparing it for the weeks to come; an ultimate overhaul of our pores. This allowed our tired eye area and those nasty nose blackheads to get some well-needed attention.
With a secondary mask applied, our therapist tended
to the areas our body had been hit most by the elements; our feet and our shoulders. The precise application of pressure felt as if stress was being released via a gasket – just what we needed.
The treatment finished with the removal of the mask and a final application of moisturiser; gents don’t worry, all the products are masculine scented so you will leave with an impressive aroma.
We must admit it was difficult not to fall asleep. This we believe is a sure sign that this treatment can help you switch off.
Details
What? Men’s facial
Where? Anantara Spa, Eastern Mangroves Hotel
Cost: AED 600 per session
We say: A perfect way to recharge after a heavy week of work
Contact: 02 656 1146
