Health: Feeling worn out? A facial spring clean will put a new complexion on things

If you have the same meltdown, somewhere in the middle of, say, Ocean Terminal shopping centre in Leith, then we have the solution.

First of all, find your way to Debenhams. It’s in there – up an escalator to the second floor and right at the back – that you’ll find the haven that is Allure Medi Spa, which opened just last year.

It’s a vision in glowing Persil white, with a quiet reception that’s set back from the shopping area.

They specialise in treatments using Murad products, which are designed by dermatologist to the stars Dr Howard Murad. In other words, these therapies are results-driven. But never fear, they don’t scrimp on the relaxation element.

As my traumatic shopping experience had left my complexion looking rather grey, crinkly and drawn, I decided to opt for the 60-minute Murad Vitamin C Infusion Facial (also available as a 30-minute Express Vitamin C therapy, if you are strapped for time). They also recommend this treatment for those who have a lot of uneven pigmentation, as they claim that it can help fade the signs of environmental ageing (including sun spots).

“I can feel the congestion in your skin already,” said my therapist, Lindsay, as she patted gently at my puffy face.

While I lay underneath the white duvet, out came a steaming machine, which had been puffing away in the corner. Then a pipe on the end was gently run across my face to open the pores (I felt as if I was being dry cleaned).

After this, a frothy cleanser was rubbed all over my face, before the lightly tingly Vitamin C mask was applied. Once this had been removed, my skin was massaged all over. My therapist wore what seemed to be latex gloves for this element of the treatment, which felt slightly odd, but not particularly unpleasant (perhaps this was to protect her hands from some of the more abrasive potions).

Then another mask came along. This time it was a soothing version with avocado and honey. “A drink for the skin,” as Lindsay put it. While this creamy preparation was moisturising my epidermis, my scalp was gently massaged (without oils).

Afterwards, and my visage felt smooth. “No sunbeds for a while,” prescribed my therapist, as my skin had been sloughed and exfoliated (I don’t go on sunbeds anyway).

But she didn’t forbid sale shopping, did she? Just as well, as I felt refreshed and ready to re-enter the fray. Bargains, here I come.

• Allure Medi Spa, Debenhams, Ocean Terminal, Edinburgh (0131-553 8148, www.alluremedispa.co.uk)