As one of the first tasks after coming back from a tropical beach-side holiday, I booked myself into a pampering session at my favourite salon, Ella Baché West Lindfield. Initially, I was thinking of having a microdermabrasion session done. After my beauty therapist Talia looked at my (sun damaged, dehydrated) skin, she recommended me to go with a hydrating facial instead. I have always gotten good advice here so I had no hesitation to follow the recommendation.
Who is this for
Hydra Cellular Renewal Facial is an intensely moisturising facial treatment that saturates dehydrated and extremely dry skins with hyaluronic acid to visibly refine and revive skin texture.
The treatment
Cleanse and AHA resurfacing peel
As usual, I did not wear any makeup to the salon but Talia did a thorough cleanse of my skin anyway.
As part of a limited time bonus, I also got a professional 26% AHA resurfacing peel applied at no extra cost. The booster contains an intensive blend of AHA ingredients designed to stimulate cell renewal, smooth skin texture and diminish the appearance of lines and pigmentation. The AHAs exfoliate the surface layer dead skin cells, enhancing the efficacy of hydrating products applied afterwards. The exfoliant was applied with a gentle steamer switched on the whole time. Even though my skin is used to exfoliating ingredients, on my dehydrated skin there was a fairly high level of tingling discomfort (an indication that the ingredients are working), which lasted for about 2-3 minutes.
Serum and massage
After removing the exfoliant, Talia applied the Hydra Hyaluronic Cellular serum on my freshly exfoliated skin. This is a serum that I have used in the past and I could instantly recognise it by the scent. The serum itself is a 4-star product for me, which does a great job in hydration, with the only disadvantages being the price and containing quite a strong fragrance. The treatment was followed by an amazing facial massage by Talia - all the way down to the back of my tired shoulders. She is extremely skilled in her massaging techniques, easily in the top 3 that I have experienced. In particular, great massage skill is essential in this facial treatment as the facial massage made up most of the treatment time.
Hydrating mask
While a hydrating mask was applied, I was given a heavenly hands and arms massage by Talia. There was no "down time" in the whole treatment process - like the Signature Facial it was extremely hands-on.
Product application
Talia discussed with me what finishing products I would like to use to finish up the facial. While I am currently using the Hydra Jelly Moisture Shot, (a light moisturising gel with no greasy feeling), I decided to go with the Hydra Velvety Soft Cream this time to give myself a thicker layer of moisturiser this time. Although this cream is thicker, it did not feel greasy or heavy.
Results
My skin felt less tight and more comfortable. How my skin looks did not change dramatically immediately after the treatment, but I feel that the treatment has helped my skin to recover quicker after a week's worth of sun damage!
How often
This treatment can be used as needed.
How much
$135 for 1 hour. Until 19 October 2019 you will also receive a bonus AHA resurfacing peel booster (RRP $30) with the treatment.
Tips & pointers
If you are having the AHA resurfacing peel booster with the treatment:
avoid exfoliation for a few days prior to treatment.
avoid exfoliation for up to one week after treatment.
Always wear SPF 50+ broad spectrum sunscreen after and between treatments.
I purchased this treatment at full retail price. My opinion is honest. Referral link to receive $10 off your purchase: http://ellabache.refr.cc/stellal
About me
Makeup artist and hair stylist based in Sydney. Founder of the well-known award-winning bridal specialist team Faces Makeup & Hair. Beauty junkie with an obsession for skincare.