Could this be the best facial ever?

I like a facial, especially after the excesses of winter cold. As we move towards spring it seems to be a good time to renew and refresh - what better way to do it than by striping off a few dead skin cells!

Decléor facials are available in spas and salons throughout the UK and the brand is well-known, being in existence for over 35 years. And if you thought the ‘natural skincare and plant extracts' obsession was a recent one, think again - it's been the guiding ethos of the Decléor brand since the start.

I had my facial at Spa Illuminata in Mayfair, it's the perfect place for a bit of spring renewal - the large high-ceilinged reception is light and airy and there's an interesting Roman theme going on, with lots of columns and stone carvings and a striking wall mural of girls in togas. In fact my therapist, when she arrives, is dressed in something of similar design, complete with open sandals.

And the verdict?

I think this may be the closest I've come to a full-body facial. There's plenty of back and shoulder massaging as well as some work on my feet and calves, and this is possibly, just possibly, one of the best and thorough facials I've ever had. There are a few reasons for this:

It's utterly relaxing: It starts with a firm back and shoulder massage to identify ‘trouble' spots in my body. These are the areas that emanate more heat, signalling areas of stress. This allows my therapist a better understanding of problems in the body that may manifest in skin problems.

The science is interesting: My ‘trouble spots' are my heart - possibly a result of poor circulation which has been highlighted for me before - and my bladder, which could be down to dehydration. And yes I have cut down my water intake since Christmas, probably because it's cold and I don't enjoy drinking cold water. So how does this all relate to the face? Well, for example, the area along the jaw line relates to the large intestine and digestion problems, the edge of the face relates to the kidneys and dehydration issues. Any problems in these organs may manifest themselves in breakouts or other irritants in these areas of the face.

It works very deeply: After my analysis it's on to the facial proper - starting with a dry exfoliation as the therapist works deep into my problem spots, particularly around my nose and on my forehead. A few relaxing minutes with hot steaming cloths, then it's onto the face mask, which is completely natural and without parabens. While the mask does its work I'm treated to a relaxing arm and hand massage and I'm already blissed out even before she moves to work on my feet - first of all applying hot clothes, then firm hand pressure for a deep massage, working all the way up my calves with smooth firm strokes.

Decléor therapists are highly trained to have a very holistic view of the body and I found my therapist's knowledge to be very in-depth which was useful when it came to talking about after-care for my face - and of course, getting ready for that all important spring into spring! This is a facial I would definitely be keen to try again.

More information and booking

Decléor facials are available in salons and spas throughout the UK, prices start at £45, for more information and to find your nearest salon visit the website at www.decleor.co.uk.

Visit Spa Illuminata at 63 South Audley St, London, for more information phone 020 7479 7777or see www.spailluminata.com.

See last month's spa review with a taste of Scottish history

Spa with a view: two to try

Sicily: Newly opened with a view to die for, the Verdura Golf & Spa Resort is designed by famous Forte hotelier Olga Polizzi, with 1.8km of private coastline, a huge thalassotherapy spa and three (!) golf courses (to keep him happy when he gets tired of all the pampering). For more information and booking, phone 00 800 7666 6667 or visit www.verduraresort.com.

Cornwall: High on the clifftops, looking out over the North Cornish coastline, the Scarlet Hotel offers unique and sustainable design and an Ayurvedic spa using 100% organic products. Two outdoor hot tubs with beach views make sure you don't miss any of the gorgeous scenery. For more information and booking phone 01637 861800 or visit www.scarlethotel.co.uk.