Facialist Ingrid Raphael is north London's best kept beauty secret. The waiting list for an appointment is four-to-six weeks, and that's purely down to word of mouth – Ingrid doesn’t advertise and keeps a low profile on social media. Why so in demand? Simple. She gives the best facial in town. If you've ever found the experience of facials disappointing – your skin glows for a few days before the usual problems flare up again – try Ingrid.
After more than a decade working in Knightsbridge spas, she converted the light-filled top floor of her house into a tranquil therapy suite. (Don’t be alarmed when Google Maps leads you on to a suburban street – you’re in the right place.) Ingrid offers the full range of treatments, from manicures to massages, but her passion is facials.
With the philosophy that every skin is different, her focus is your skin and what makes it individual. Taking a holistic approach, the facial begins with an analysis of your skin and skincare routine. In my case Ingrid advised switching cleanser, believing that my skin’s dryness was being caused by over-harsh products. She’s also religious about using facial sunblock daily to prevent ageing.
Then it’s down to business – a deep cleanse, exfoliation, pore extraction and massage – with pointers for how to DIY it at home. A believer in the art of the ‘hands on’ facial, throughout the session Ingrid consistently works the muscles, increasing the blood supply. Even after applying a mask, she massages in the product – dipping into her ‘apothecary cupboard’ of tried and test skincare brands. After 90 minutes my skin felt refreshed and my complexion looked brighter. Crucially, a month later – using the products Ingrid recommend – it’s still smoother with no dryness.
Prices start at £33 for a 30 min facial.