The spa at the Landmark Mandarin Oriental Hotel is difficult to fault. Its vitality area with steam rooms and a hydrotherapy pool, heated marble beds and a relaxation area makes the experience last longer and feel like more of an escape. Once in the room, the therapist does the usual cleanse before starting a facial massage targeting key pressure points to help eliminate toxins and water retention and revive lacklustre skin. She uses a 'lifting' massage on the neck, jaw line and expression lines, and then applies a face mask. There are no gimmicks of time-wasting extractions, so the facial massage lasts a little longer than most and sleep came easily. The therapist's technique was gentle and soothing, yet the 'lifting' part gave the sensation of sagging skin being remodelled back to its former glory.

What about the products?

Ivo Pitanguy is new to Hong Kong and the Landmark Mandarin Oriental, and is created by a well-known Brazilian cosmetic surgeon. His latest creation is the PreVious Lifting formula, designed to smooth lines and help skin regain its tightness and vitality. It doesn't have a strong scent and the facial was more practical than luxurious.

Any cons?

Despite the product being backed by a doctor, don't expect a facelift. Nothing but a cosmetic procedure is going to produce that kind of result. But you can expect to come out with a refreshed, cleaner complexion.

What else is new?

The Cosmetic Body Lift (HK$1,450/90 minutes) is also offered using Pitanguy's products. This is a full-body treatment focusing on firming, lymphatic drainage and bust lifting. It begins with a full exfoliation and is followed by a massage designed to reduce water retention, soften stretch marks and smooth body contours.

How much is the facial?

The Cosmetic Face Lift is HK$1,600. It's at 5/F, 15 Queen's Rd Central, tel: 2132 0188.