Hello Dolly, goodbye dull skin

Published on Wednesday 3 June 2009 13:52

I've never had a facial before. There, I've said it. This is because I think it's akin to an exam you can only fail. I'll get told I've got old skin, smoker's skin, bad skin, a bad face maybe. So it is with trepidation that I walk into Dollyleo, the independent apothecary in Stockbridge owned by one Sadie Jean Sloss.

First, I fill out an extensive form that is, oh dear, a bit like an exam. I choose three things I want out of the facial: rehydrated skin, reduced scars, even skin tone. Sadie comes out and asks whether I want relaxing candles or reviving. Relaxing, definitely.

There are two great things about the Dollyleo facial: first, Sloss mixes and matches product ranges, making it a totally personalised experience. This means you really learn about your skin as well as discovering all sorts of amazing products. For example, Sloss tells me my skin is unbalanced rather than combination, which doesn't sound revelatory but means I've been letting my cheeks dry out and making my scars worse. For 30 years. Really, I had no idea.

The facial begins with Nude cleansing oil, a gorgeous natural cleanser which is rubbed in and then removed with hot flannels. Then another cleanser, Rodial Glamotox Night, which, apparently, is like collagen without the needles. Then I'm scrubbed with a rich Luzern organic exfoliator, which is surprisingly gentle, and get a Rodial natural peel, which feels a bit nippy. After that, a lovely intense mask with skin-specific serum is applied, during which Sadie massages oil into my hands and forearms. Finally, I'm moisturised, eye cream is applied, and Sadie's work is done.

It's not the most relaxing experience because most of the time Sadie is telling me what she is using and why, but this is precisely what I like about it. Plus, my skin has never looked this good.

And here is the second great thing about a Dollyleo facial. Afterwards, Sadie takes me out to the shop floor and does my make-up. It's a lovely complimentary extra that means when I walk out I can show off my dewy skin immediately. I feel great and what's more, I think I passed the exam.

• The Ultimate Dollyleo Facial, 80, one hour, 22 Raeburn Place, Edinburgh, 0131-315 2035, www.dollyleo.co.uk