[Image: Courtesy of Four Seasons]The service was developed in collaboration with locally based (and internationally renowned) brand iS CLINICAL. A multistep modality that showcases some of the line’s most potent products, it’s designed to supercharge dull, dry post-flight complexions. Even thought I wasn’t going anywhere further than the Valley over the holidays, let alone planning an acceptance speech, I gladly said yes to an invitation to sample the new offering. My skin was already starting to show the effects of too many cookies and candies, with daily breakouts appearing on my face and chin. Jetsetter or not, I needed help.
PHOTOS: The Spa at Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore
I was shown into a lovely, light-filled treatment room with a view of swaying palm trees, and within seconds I was fully nestled in the warm bed. My therapist began by thoroughly cleansing my skin with a cleanser containing papaya enzymes and honey, then applied a foaming enzyme exfoliating mask (the first of three), which combined papaya and pineapple enzymes with clinical grade glycolic acid. I was concerned that my sensitive skin might not be able to handle the acid’s potency, but I needn’t have worried: all I felt was a slight tingling sensation around my nose, a normal reaction that showed the mask was working its magic.
After removing the mask, my therapist applied a clarifying, anti-inflammatory algae mud mask aimed at boosting moisture levels, protecting skin against oxidative damage, and encouraging healthy cellular metabolism. It also helps draw out toxins and impurities—just what the doctor ordered after too many holiday parties followed by skimpy bedtime skincare regimens. While the mask penetrated, she performed a super-relaxing massage, focusing on my head and décolletage.
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Next came the application of an intensive cooling gel mask featuring a cocktail of antioxidants, including centella asiatica (a herbaceous Asian herb), resveratrol, green tea, aloe vera and rosemary, balanced with botanically sourced hyaluronic acid. The final step was serums and a sunscreen (vital in L.A., even in winter).
Post-treatment, I marveled at my fresh complexion in the mirror. And although I wasn’t slipping off to an awards ceremony, my skin felt luminous, hydrated and, yes, red carpet ready!
–by Lesley McCave
