There is a truth universally acknowledged that French women don’t get fat. They also don’t age. I’m pretty sure they look amazing in all kinds of light, and they are impeccably dressed, ALL THE TIME. My aspirations to be a French woman might only be achieved by changing my name when I’m married, but in the interim, I may have discovered the secret to the French skincare regime.
The French Facialist, Christine, is the epitome of fabulous. A skin expert, she has won awards and written books on the topic, and now practises her unique facials in Prahran, which is conveniently local for me. Someone who not only has the ability to treat you like a queen, Christine takes the time to analyse your skin and educate on little changes we can make to improve the appearance of our skin well into the ageing process.
I arrived on a rainy Tuesday afternoon, after a weekend away at the races where much makeup was worn and much alcohol consumed. I shuddered at what I thought I’d be told off about, having just turned 30 and probably not giving my skin the attention it deserves.
Christine was divine, in asking questions about my routines and providing subtle suggestions as to what I might do to improve my skin care. Based on her dewy complexion, I felt she must be onto something, and listened attentively.
We then commenced the Soin de Peau Royal – the Le Royal Facial. This signature treatment lasts 90 minutes and used LED light therapy to encourage skin detoxification and cellular rejuvenation. There was cleansing, hot towels, steam, creams, exfoliants and MASSAGE. Yes, MASSAGE. Hands, feet, scalp – this treatment really is the works. I suspect I even fell asleep at one point.
Following the treatment, Christine advised some products that would be good for my skin – my biggest problem is hydration (drink your water too, ladies!!) and I learnt that many of the over the counter products, while adequate, are not enough to provide the levels of hydration my ageing skin needs. I’ve been using my Auriège Paris products for a week now, and they are divine.
I immediately rebooked for a month from now, and are counting the days until I get to experience this wonderful treatment again. A must for anyone who cares about their skin and wants a ‘proper’ treatment, rather than a quick fix facial.
My thanks to Renault for this lovely gift! Visit Christine at First Floor, 296 Malvern Road, Prahran in Victoria, Australia (enter from Essex Street) or call 0410 556 557.
