Skeyndor facial at Glow salon
The beauty industry is a seemingly complex maze of products, practices and promises. Without engaging a team of experts to monitor subcutaneous changes, most of us have to resort to simply looking in the mirror to see if a cream or treatment is effective.
At Glow salon, the underlying premise of its Skeyndor Eternal facial is a dizzying mix of science. Glow says the facial's Skeyndor products contain a plant stem-cell preparation that stimulates and rejuvenates the skin's stem cells. Apparently, Skeyndor researchers have extracted active stem cells from an apple species and done something quite scientific to allow them to be effectively absorbed into the skin. For full effect, Glow's technicians recommend four Eternal facial treatments, preferably one a week for four weeks, which will then suffice for a year.
The Eternal facial starts with a cleanse and tone from the Skeyndor Aquatherm range, followed by an enzyme peel that's a deep exfoliant. The stem-cell treatment is next: a serum is applied to the skin with a so-called Meso Science machine (basically a hand-held device that gently presses a small disc on the face). Apparently, the machine creates an electro-magnetic current that opens and closes pores in the cell walls to stimulate new cells. While a fairly odourless mask then sits atop the serum for about 20 minutes, the technician gives an efficient head, neck and shoulder massage.
We didn't do a full course and then submit to scientific testing; we're simply looking for surface results. The science is still a mystery, but the skin is definitely brighter and smoother for many days. One drawback is the venue. It's a small salon focusing more on treatments than on luxurious surroundings. The small foyer doubles as a nail station and waiting room. Rooms are basic, with enough space for a bed, a chair and the technician's equipment. There it's all about the results rather than a lingering spa excursion - although a bit of a science lesson is folded in for those interested.
Skeyndor Eternal facial at Glow with Ceri Silk, 60 minutes, HK$900; 9/F, Parker House, 72 Queen's Road Central; www.cerisilk.com