What is it? A 30-minute bath with essential oils followed by a 90-minute Mediterranean scrub and massage at Spa L'Occitane intended to soften skin and relieve stress.
What was it like? The treatment started with a quick foot bath and acupressure massage and then I slipped into a deep bathtub containing a blend of essential oils - lavender, tea tree and geranium - that are used in the foaming bath. As water jets soothed my feet, knees, lower and middle back, the therapist worked on the areas that weren't under water, massaging my head and shoulders. Then I was left alone for about 15 minutes to soak in the tub before the therapist returned to layer a Mediterranean scrub onto my entire body, including my tummy and backside. After showering off the scrub, the therapist gave me a combination of Swedish and Balinese massages and acupressure. The treatment ended with an inhalation of mint, pine and rosemary essential oils.
What's in the scrub? It's made of shea butter and wheat germ oil, which helps to replace the natural body oils lost mainly through showering. Tiny crushed walnut shells in the scrub remove dead skin cells and other impurities from the outer layers of your dermis to make it softer and smoother.
What were the results? For those who don't have a large tub at home, the jacuzzi filled with clouds of bubbles was heavenly. As the water jets massaged my body and the therapist loosened my muscles, I felt completely relaxed - even slightly light-headed by the end of it. With the deep warmth in my body, the walnut granules were just the right coarseness to leave my skin tingling. The massage sent me drifting in and out of sleep and my skin was softer for days.
What's the spa like? The spa is inspired by Provence, with a light, fresh atmosphere, and natural pebbles and wooden flooring. You can touch up your hair and face in the spa's grooming room and then chill out in the relaxation room complete with lounge chairs.
How much does it cost and where is it? It's HK$300 for the bath, and HK$950 for the scrub and massage. Spa L'Occitane is at Shop 3, Tower 2, Star Crest, 9 Star St, Wan Chai, tel: 2143 6288
