There's a wealth of new, pricey, pampering products in London, writes Melanie Morris
PRODUCTS
StriVectin SD This stretch-mark cream, distinctly clinical in appearance, and at £133 per tube, has become popular as an anti-wrinkle cream. However, those who have used it religiously, two or three times a day, notice significant improvements to skin tone/texture and diminishing of lines and wrinkles - within weeks. Another product in the wave of "Botox alternatives", this one is worthy of the moniker. Outside the US, it is only available in Harvey Nichols (Knightsbridge, London SW1).
Becca Why this range of highly effective and super-cool cosmetics hasn't appeared on Irish counters yet is beyond me. Becca, Rebecca Morrice-Williams's make-up range, is worth a trip to London. Take the Prescriptives excellence in foundations, add Laura Mercier's desire for the perfect canvas, a bit of Bobbi Brown's flattering shades plus a bit of Nars stylish packaging, and you'll be on the right track. Her products are clever and sensible - like the "Compact Concealer" that includes medium and extra-cover variations (34 shades) in one compact. The full range can be found in Fenwick, New Bond Street, London W1. Becca will open her own beauty boutique in Brompton Cross around March.
SHOPS AND BOUTIQUES
Roja Dove Haute Parfumerie, Urban Retreat, Harrods, London SW7 Roja Dove is one of the world's truly unique characters. More than a "nose", he's a fragrance profiler who, in his ultra-luxe salon on Harrods' fifth floor, will take clients on a sensory journey to find their personal, perfect perfume. One hour costs a non-redeemable £200, although a similar session with one of his staff - costing £50 - can be redeemed against purchase. Those who simply want to browse and admire the displays of Lalique and Baccarat will find the best perfumes and candles in the world.
Pout, 32 Shelton Street, London WC2 This Aladdin's cave of beauty is a fun place to wander around and even the most jaded eyes will fix on a "must have" purchase - something from Jessica Simpson's "Dessert" range of lickable body products, or "Frownies" - a box of sticking plasters that are worn overnight to guide facial muscles and so reduce lines and wrinkles. There's a beauty bar for make-overs on the move, a superb range of accessories and underwear and, of course, Pout's own collection of colour cosmetics. A make-up junkie's heaven.
Miller Harris, 21 Bruton Street, London W1 The candles, room sprays and perfumes created by Lyn Harris have a restrained style. Whether selecting from the core range, sampling a seasonal special or commissioning a bespoke fragrance (prices from £2,000), all are derived from premium ingredients with lingering scents. New recruits should check out the signature favourites: Terre De Bois, Fleur Oriental or Citron Citron.
Also recommended: Kiehls (Monmoth Street, London WC2) for cult skincare, especially good for men; Space NK Apothecary (various locations) the original cosmetics store with more; Shu Uemura (Neal Street, WC2) for great colours and a downstairs salon for Japanese-inspired treatments; Fenwick (New Bond Street, W1), Harvey Nichols (Knightsbridge, SW1); and Selfridges (Oxford Street, W1) for excellent cosmetics halls.
TREATMENTS
Crème de la Mer, The Urban Retreat, Harrods, London SW7 This white leather cocoon is the only Crème de la Mer salon in the world, and as you lie back alongside a wall of tropical fish with your toes in an integrated footspa, you feel like a character in a Bond movie. Whether opting for a face or body treatment, the special la Mer miracle broth (flown in from the US) is incorporated into the therapy. It's the perfect antidote to a session of stressful sales shopping. Die-hard fans will also find Crème de la Mer foundations and powders exclusively on sale here. For appointments, call 00-44-207-8938333, prices from £95.
DDF Facial, The Berkeley Health Club and Spa, Wilton Place, London W1 The Berkeley Spa has long been renowned for both pampering and pioneering treatments, and for its excellent therapists. They have recently introduced the DDF range from the US, with a series of treatments and aftercare products. Perfectly combining efficacy with luxury, the facial incorporates detailed analysis, targeted work and plenty of blissful massage (00-44-207-2011699).
Honey and Milk body treatment, Agua @ The Sanderson, Burners Street, London W1 On first view, Agua is intimidating - it's all silence and billowing white curtains - but persist. Don a robe and sit in the Philippe Starck-designed spa and you'll think you're in heaven. The treatments are similarly divine. The scrub 'n' polish is a favourite and messy. After dry brushing, the body is massaged with a honey and oil emulsion and washed with warm milk. A layer of nut oil is applied and the result is skin that's so super soft, you will never want to shower again (00-44-207-3001414).
SPA.NK 127-131 Westbourne Grove, London W2 4UP Nicky Kinnaird started a beauty revolution when she opened her first Space NK Apothecary in 1993, selecting the best and newest brands. Cosmetics stopped being simply about hope, and started to become fun. The Spa.NK salon echoes Nicky's retail philosophy with an evolving treatment menu offering everything from regular maintenance to the most indulgent massages and facials. Here's where to try an oxygen facial (as favoured by Madonna), or a session with "pressomed" boots to alleviate fluid retention. www.spacenk.com ).
Shu Uemura Lash Bar, Harvey Nichols, Knightsbridge, London SW1 Cult Japanese cosmetics house Shu Uemura is always quick off the mark with the latest trends, and since November, its Tokyo Lash Bar in Harvey Nichols has been doing a roaring trade. Simply select and pay for the lashes of your choice and one of the trained make-up artists will apply them for you at no extra cost. You'll also be advised on the right way to wear them, and what shadows, liners and glosses will complement them.