Synchronised spa treats for speedy pampering

An afternoon facial is one of my favourite treats. It's one of those very few opportunities during a busy week when time, as well as sweet smelling products, are lavished only on you. So when I was asked to try the Speedy 30 minute Cowgroom treatment at the newly opened Cowshed Carnaby spa, I couldn't help but wonder if such a quick session really could deliver on relaxation. The location of Cowshed's new spa, nestled behind the hustle and bustle of Carnaby Street, is convenient for a lunchtime pit-stop or an after-work spruce and both are catered for on the menu of speedy treatments.

How it works

Designed to create an indulgent yet efficient experience, my speedy Cowgroom session will be carried out by two therapists performing a facial, eyebrow tidy and a manicure in synchronisation. Perfect for pampering in a hurry, it allows you to enjoy the treatment in half the time.

On entering the chic yet welcoming spa, my first task was to decide on the nail colour for my manicure from an array of Essie lovelies ( I opted for Fishnet Stockings the brightest of bright reds) whilst sipping iced water with a slice of lemon; stage one complete it was time to meet my therapists. Walking downstairs to the new treatment rooms I was impressed with the quirky design, creating a sense of fun with sheer luxury. This carries through the products - Knackered Cow massage oil anyone? Worn wooden sideboards house fluffy white towels and robes, the lighting is kept soft with tea lights and the accessories are low on chrome, high on ceramic-jug-vases.

I then discussed my skincare needs with the facialist and the nail shape I wanted with the manicurist before slipping under the towels and waiting for the synchronised pampering to begin. 

The facial and the manicure

A Cowshed treatment is a good-for-you indulgence, its products are all naturally based, and contain a high ratio of 100% natural pure essential oils, which as well as being beneficial to the skin, create therapeutic effects with their scents.

Starting with the Lavender cleanser and the refreshing Chamomile toner, my skin felt invigorated and I loved how the circular motions on my skin were being shadowed by similar strokes on my hands. After each product a warm scented towel was wrapped around my face, gently steaming my skin, a stage that was intensified with the use of a facial steamer, before the Calendula Refining Facial Scrub and Palmarosa face mask were applied. The final application of rich Rose Replenishing moisturiser and an incredible head and shoulder massage only left my painless and precise eyebrow tidy to squeeze in as my nails lay drying in my lap. It was such a wonderful suprise to emerge from the towels to find perfectly painted nails waiting for me, normally with a manicure I watch intently for any stray cuticles or slips with the varnish, it made for a refreshing change to just open my eyes and see the finished result.

I would highly recommend this swift spa session, although if you are returning to the office or heading out afterwards it might be better to pick the leg and foot massage, the delicious oils left my hair more than a little messed up. But I left the spa convinced that pampering needn't suffer from speeding up; if anything it takes away the excuse of never having enough time to indulge.

More information

The Speedy Cowgroom treatments are priced from £75 for a 30 minute session and are available at the Cowshed Spas at Babington House and Notting Hill as well as the new Cowshed Carnaby. For Cowshed Carnaby call 0207 534 0870 and for all other information visit www.cowshedonline.com

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