Making a facial so much more than just a facial, Fota Island resort explains why this treatment from Kerstin Florian is so special!

What exactly is the Deluxe Organic Aromatherapy Facial?

It’s a 90 minute treatment which starts with a eucalyptus foot soak.  Then we put three drops of Calm Mind mixed aromatherapy oils into the client’s hand so they can take three deep breaths of the oil.  We scrub the feet with a Turkish body scrub which also contains eucalyptus and then get the client onto the bed for the hand and nail treatment which is the start of all Kerstin Florian therapies.  For this we use Calm Mind body lotion for the arms, and a nail oil to condition the cuticles while asking the client a few questions about their skin to decide which products will be best for the facial.  The facial itself then starts with a cleanse to remove any make-up using warm mitts soaked in lavender oil so it smells wonderful!  We do a double cleanse and then spray the face with neroli or rose water to tone.  Then we use an enzyme peel as an exfoliator which is gentle and suitable for all skin types.  While that’s on, we massage the face with a balm containing menthol which makes the face feel cool and is good for fluid retention.  Then we remove the peel.  We then do a massage with different oils for different skin types – eg neroli for dehydrated skin, lavender for oily skin – we use sunflower oil on the décolleté and shoulders and perform a deep cleansing facial massage for around 20 minutes.  In all facials we also do a pressure point massage for five minutes to relieve tension on the face.  Then we apply the Spirulina Mask which is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and protein.  That stays on for 10-15 minutes, and while it’s on we place a warm rose towel under the neck and do a scalp massage.  We also fill out a consultation form at this point to recommend products and advise about skin type.  Then we remove the mask, spritz the face again with the toner and apply either a clarifying raspberry extract for combination or oily skin, or a hyleronic serum for dehydrated skin.  We then place gauze on the face and spray the face again with the toner and role cool beauty globes across the face to close the pores and lock in the products.  Finally we apply a cream with an SPF or add an SPF to a moisturiser, depending which one the client needs. Then eye cream and lip balm.

Where does it come from?

It is a Kerstin Florian treatment.  She is Swedish and works with her daughter.  The products are made in USA, but it’s an international brand and is only available in spas.

What is it supposed to do?

It improves skin tension with a pressure point massage, helps to clarify the skin and improves skin texture and colour.  It’s a re-hydrating facial suitable for all skin types as we all tend to need more hydration in the skin!

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

Kerstin Florian facials all include a pressure point massage and a hand ritual at the start.

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

Afterwards, try to leave the products on the skin overnight as I think you do see results more the next day rather than straight afterwards.

Is there anyone you particularly recommend the treatment for?

It really has something for everyone although some people are not so keen on aromatherapy blends, in which case we would advise a different one.  The oils and pressure point massage mean it is a great for someone who is stressed out – you really feel the release in tension, and you can really see a change in high colour and tension afterwards.

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

Pregnant women should avoid the treatment because of the essential oils.