We'll never known the secret of all those flawless movie star complexions but I do know that while they are in Cannes for the annual film festival they could do a lot worse than visit the sublime spa at the
Hôtel Majestic Barrière located on the Croisette Boulevard, facing the sea. The historic hotel itself has long been a part of the glamorous history of Cannes. Lately it has become more stellar with the addition of an impressive
Spa My Blend by Clarins.
The Ambiance: Walk along the thick carpets of the recently-renovated hotel, along its elegant corridors and you will come upon the
Spa My Blend by Clarins in a burst of light. The impressive 450 sq. metre spa has a light, airy reception decorated in cool bright white and cool creams; my skin feels fresh and clean just walking in. Knowing this is a spa run by one of France's most respected beauty companies only makes the anticipation stronger. This area is a cocoon encompassing 4 treatment rooms (including a couples' room and a special pedicure-manicure room ) and a sauna, a hammam, a multi-sensory shower experience and a rest room . Attached to the spa there are also fitness facilities and a gym where you can make appointment for a sport assessment, or try out a variety of group lessons from yoga to zumba.
The Treatments: The name
Clarins, particularly its exclusive the My Blend offerings, means I can expect innovative treatments and the ultimate combination of science and nature.
Clarins is also known for its unique application methods and attention to detail, so I'm in good hands. The high-tech beauty treatments of
My Blend were created by Dr Olivier Courtin (son of the founder of
Clarins). Apart from the innovative ingredients part of the art of My blend is to offer an ultra-personalized treatment and precise diagnosis so you really feel you (and your skin ) are being viewed as an individual with a treatment that really is tailor made.
With the uses of a special analysis tool that precisely measures the state of my skin (wrinkles, dryness and all) my 'Beauty Coach' is able to create the blends that are most suited to me (apparently more than 400 combinations are possible). These are then applied with special hand movements that feel feathery and firm all at the same time.
There is also a range of 10 different massages - from remedial to holistic - on offer. Over the years
Clarins has developed 'the art of touch' incorporating rituals from various cultures, especially Asia, a region known for its expertise in body relaxation.
The Ultimate Indulgence: My Blend by Clarins has developed two special
celebrity-style treatments especially for
Hotel Majestic Barriere. The Red Carpet Signature Treatment is designed to 'reveal the aura of a star' with a special A radiance-boosting and custom makeup . Croisette Signature Treatment is especially for sunbathing beauties who have had a little too many rays and offers intense repair for both face and body, which compensates for the drying effects of the sun and moisturising that 'ensuring a radiant, long-lasting tan'.
The Result: At the end of my facial I glance in the mirror; it may be the lighting but my skin looks almost a luminous as the lobby of the spa and, strangely, its contours look more defined the puffy jet-lagged look is gone and I feel fresh and fabulous.
OK, I'm ready for my close-up now. Lights, camera, action.
Hilary Doling 10/2/14 |