Why it works … Sundari Express Neem Facial

Created in conjunction with supermodel Christy Turlington, the Sundari product range uses plant extracts and Ayurvedic principals to create prescriptive treatments that can be tailored to the individual … Bowood Hotel and Spa’s Deputy Spa Manager, Hailey Cervi explains … 

What exactly is the Sundari Express Facial?

It’s a 25 minute facial including a cleanse, tone, exfoliation and a mask.  We start all treatments with a bindi touch to relax the client, and we also put a Dosha oil on our hands and encourage them to take three deep breaths.  The treatment targets pressure points and includes some gentle massage on the arms and hands.

Where does it come from?

We use the Sundari products which are from India - they were actually created by Christy Turlington and two colleagues - the name means ‘beautiful woman’ in Sanskrit, and they include all natural ingredients made from plant extracts.  The use of pressure points has been around for a long time and works on Ayurvedic principles, which literally means ‘life knowledge’.

What is it supposed to do?

We tailor the treatments to the individual based on a consultation form that you fill in before your treatment - overall however the treatment is very prescriptive - the cleanse will help the therapist to feel the skin and see what it needs.  We tend to use the Neem range within the Sundari collection as they are very healing.

Is there anything you do to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment?

We always have Sundari music in the background and the room is filled with scented Sundari candles; the lighting is low and we have heated blankets on the treatment beds to stop clients from getting cold.

Is there anything you recommend clients to do pre or post-treatment to get the most out of it?

Try not to go straight into the pool or sauna after a treatment as you will wash off all the products before they have a chance to work … we always give clients a Sundari herbal tea after their treatments as well which is a citrus infusion and compliments the brand philosophy of being beautiful inside and outside.

Is there anyone you particularly recommend the treatment for?

Because we adapt it for different skin types it really is suitable for everyone over the age of 16, particularly if they have a problem with their skin but are not sure why.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t have this treatment and why?

Anyone under 12 weeks pregnant should avoid it because of the essential oils that are used, and anyone using steroid creams for extreme acne are also not advised to try it.  There are some types of massage in it as well so anyone undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy should check with their doctor before they come and provide a note ensuring it’s suitable for them.

What Bonnie thought …

This treatment is something of a sensuous onslaught - the smells and textures are really decadent, and the personal touch that stems from the consultation form makes it feel personal to you.  Ordinarily I would say 25 minutes is not enough but you really do get a lot out of that time combined with the consultations - so it is definitely good for someone looking to adapt their routine or find a solution to a minor chronic concern.  Plus, my skin felt noticeably smoother for a full day afterwards which was a wonderful way to start the weekend!

To visit Bowood Hotel and Spa visit Spabreaks.com or contact the team on: 0800 043 6600.