HOLISTIC approach

New treatments harness the power of mushrooms to heal, and we try some bespoke therapies that work on the body and mind

Oto Kinoko Ki Treatment

Based around the healing powers of mushrooms, this new face and body treatment from specialist CBD skincare brand Oto merges ancient Japanese wisdom with modern techniques to help boost circulation and collagen production as well as helping to rebalance the body’s energy and revitalise the skin.

It begins with myofascial release, targeting tension around the spine, followed by dry body brushing, promoting lymphatic stimulation and circulation. The face and body are then gently exfoliated to remove dead skin cells. Oto’s Mushroom Ki Oil – a blend of maitake, reishi, cordyceps and chaga mushrooms – is massaged onto both face and body, to replenish and revitalise skin. The treatment concludes with a Shiatsu massage, where geothermal mushroom spheres are used to help realign the body’s energy. A nature soundscape is played during treatment, using the frequencies of the mycelium network to help to deeply relax the client.

Oto recommends that spas set their own pricing. otowellbeing.com

Tried and tested…

Sensory Retreats x Myndstream Sound Escape massage

The lowdown: Myndstream, the music platform for salons and spas, has partnered with Shared Beauty Secrets to launch an immersive new Sound Escape massage treatment at The Intercontinental Park Lane spa. This 60-minute treatment aims to restore a sense of calm and balance by combining hands-on massage with a bespoke Myndstream soundscape, elevated with scent.

The experience: The treatment was done by spa training consultant and Sensory Retreats therapist Alex James, who I had previously met at Professional Beauty London. Her warm and calming demeanour is a constant, in and out of the therapy room. She guided me to the changing room to derobe, before settling me on the heated bed.

The Myndstream music was already playing without being particularly noticeable, adding to the tranquil vibes. The company’s founder Freddie Moross had previously explained to me his philosophy that spa music should never take a client out of the moment but rather help create a seamless experience. Myndstream’s soundscapes are crafted by musicians, scientists and wellness practitioners.

The full-body massage itself was wonderful. James’s years of experience could be felt in her hands. It was enhanced by Sensory Retreats’ aromatic scents. It was just the right amount of firmness to ensure me that the massage was having positive effects on my tissue while still being able to drift off and relax.

After the massage, James guided me into a room next door where a dry flotation bed awaited. Now wearing a lovely fluffy robe, I was settled into the bed which was like a giant engulfing beanbag filled with water. I was given a Sensory Retreats warming jasmine sleep eye mask and some headphones with more of Myndstream’s music and for 20 minutes I was suspended and weightless in the bed.

The verdict: I found it hard to fully relax, thanks to my ADHD and thinking about work, but my body felt a lot better for it. The massage was one of the best I have had and I loved trying the dry float, which is said to provide the equivalent of three hours’ rest in 20 minutes.

Business benefits: Multi-sensory experiences are becoming increasingly valuable to clients and this protocol triggers the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting health benefits including healing, stress reduction and blood pressure management. It is a great way to learn the benefits of music with massage and pairing sounds to experiences.

Tried by Kezia Parkins

Sensory Retreats recommends charging £170 for a 60-minute massage with 25-minute flotation bed. 01295 235511 / sensoryretreats.com

Tried and tested…

bespoke treatment at Smita London

The lowdown: Smita Ahluwalia offers bespoke facials that combine advanced technology with luxurious techniques to target specific skin concerns at her home-based business, Smita London. Each treatment is tailored to the client’s needs, addressing issues such as dehydration, pigmentation and signs of ageing. My facial incorporated a combination of manual and device-led techniques, designed to stimulate cellular energy and enhance the penetration of active ingredients, promising rejuvenated, glowing skin with minimal downtime.

The experience: During a consultation, Ahluwalia discussed my skin concerns and goals before tailoring the treatment to suit my slightly dehydrated and tired skin, with a particular focus on my eyes, which were showing effects of a few late nights.

The facial began with a double cleanse using Guinot’s Lait Hydra Fraîcheur and Guinot Lotion Hydra Fraîcheur, followed by exfoliation. Next came an AlumierMD Radiance 30 lactic acid peel, which was mildly tingling but comfortable.

Ahluwalia then used Guinot’s Hydradermie device to push three serum gels deep into my skin using galvanic iontophoresis: Serum Gel Hydration for my face, Anti-Rides for my eyes, and Fermeté for my neck and décolletage. Oxygenation followed, with an Oxygenant serum to purify and calm.

The highlight was the sculpting face massage, using lavender and neroli oils alongside Guinot Serum Modelage. Ahluwalia’s expert hands worked on my facial tension while promoting circulation. The treatment finished with an Allskin Med Growth Factor Mask and a calming scalp massage, then Guinot Bioxygene moisturiser and Heliocare SPF to protect.

The verdict: My skin looked instantly plumper, more hydrated and glowing, with dehydration lines softened and a noticeable improvement in overall texture. The combination of hands-on techniques and advanced technology felt indulgent yet effective. This treatment is ideal for anyone seeking visible results alongside a pampering experience.

Business benefits: Offering a bespoke facial treatment can elevate your menu, appealing to clients who value customisation. Technologies such as galvanic iontophoresis and oxygenation ensure tangible results, encouraging repeat bookings. Incorporating premium brands like Guinot and AlumierMD can also boost retail sales.

Tried by Ellen Cummings

Smita London charges from £250 for a bespoke treatment. smitalondon.com

Tried and tested…

Pladuo facial

The lowdown: The Pladuo is a plasma device that uses two gases – nitrogen and argon for advanced skin treatments and rejuvenation.

The experience: I arrived at the beautiful Dr Preema clinic for the Pladuo launch event where I was greeted by the brand’s team. After a thorough cleanse and consultation, the brand’s clinical trainer Rebecca Jones adjusted the device to “argon mode” as my hormonal acne was up to its usual tricks. Argon energy penetrates skin, lowering inflammation, killing bacteria and shrinking sebaceous glands. The device emits nitrogen plasma gas too while in argon mode, but in lower levels, and vice versa. The treatment feels like a blast of air is being blown onto the skin and the aftereffects are tingly, which surprised me.

The Pladuo machine’s patented “spin-shot” technology allows practitioners to tailor the energy delivery based on the patient’s skin, with levels 1-15. Therapists can choose between low-energy treatments with no downtime and high-energy delayed ablative treatments for those looking for more dramatic results. This flexibility allows clinics to cater to both the cautious patient and those seeking intensive skin transformation.

The verdict: Right after the treatment my skin was glowing vibrantly with a “glass skin” shine. But in the following days I started to develop some patches that looked a bit like windburn. My skin also felt very tight almost as if I had just had a peel. After this stage I did experience a bit of shedding and peeling but my skin looked incredible and textureless a few days after.

Business benefits: Having both nitrogen and argon mode makes Pladuo customisable, plus it can be combined with treatments like microneedling. This flexibility means clinics can cater to cautious clients and also those wanting a more dramatic skin transformation.

Tried by Kezia Parkins

Pladuo recommends charging £350-£500 per treatment, dependent on region. 01477 536015 / acrepharmacy.co.uk