Take care of body aches, the look of cellulite and tense muscles with these pampering treats.
Take care of body aches, the look of cellulite and tense muscles with these pampering treats.
BEST ANTI-CELLULITE TREATMENT (non-machine-based)
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: Contour Shaper Tri-active Body Treatment
($185 for 60min)
Clarins’ signature massage technique, which combines long and short strokes, works together with its salon-only products boasting highly concentrated plant extracts that are meant to firm skin, improve microcirculation and reportedly hasten fat removal. The Thermo-activated Contouring Mask, applied on the legs to tighten skin, may feel warm or cool, depending on the individual. The session left our skin looking supple and smooth, with cellulite appearing diminished.
Clarins Skin Spa, #05-05/06/07 Wheelock Place (tel: 6838-5060)
BEST ANTI-CELLULITE TREATMENT (machine-based)
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Z Wave Pro
($428 for 10min)
We spent the first 10 seconds getting used to the loud, rapid ticking noise as high-energy sound waves were delivered into the skin, targeting connective tissue to supposedly improve skin’s firmness and elasticity, and speed up collagen regeneration. All we felt was a mild tingling – much like tiny ant bites – even on sensitive areas such as the inner thighs.
Prive Aesthetics, #03-02 Palais Renaissance (tel: 6737-0755)
READERS’ CHOICE: Acoustic Radial Therapy
($430 for 35min)
Radial waves and vacuum technology aim to help break down fat cells and boost lymphatic drainage respectively, reducing the look of cellulite while improving skin firmness and elasticity.
Marie France Bodyline; visit http://www.mariefrance.com.sg or call 1800-777-7111 for outlet locations.
BEST AROMATHERAPY MASSAGE
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Aromatherapy Massage
($149.80 for 60min)
We dozed off during this oh-so-relaxing session. The massage features grapefruit essential oil, said to aid detoxification and protect against inflammation. Its citrusy scent, coupled with the therapist’s deft fingerwork and tranquil surrounds, made this a soothing experience for wearied senses.
Spa Symphony, #B2-50/51, 313@Somerset (tel: 6636-8878)
READERS’ CHOICE: Classic Scentsational Massage
($117.70 for 60min; $160.50 for 90min)
Pick from 16 essential oil blends with calming, detoxifying and rejuvenating properties. The massage started with gentle stretching, after which the therapist employed long, flowing Swedish strokes, kneading Indonesian movements, and relaxing Hawaiian techniques that combine rubbing, pressing and squeezing motions, to relieve tired muscles and help improve oxygen, blood and lymphatic circulation. Super blissful.
Spa Esprit, #05-10 Paragon (tel: 6836-0500)
BEST DEEP-TISSUE MASSAGE
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Stress Relief Massage
($175.37 for 60min; $234.22 for 90min)
This invigorating massage uses acupressure techniques, where medium and hard pressure are applied to pressure points to provide relieve from stress and tension. The spa’s spacious, resort-like decor and facilities – including a heated pool, an onsen, a steam room and a gym – gave us plenty of reason to linger post-treatment.
Spa Retreat, Level 6 One Farrer Hotel & Spa (tel: 6705-7850)
READERS’ CHOICE: Anma Deep Tissue Massage
($171.20 for 60min; $214 for 90min)
The therapist applied just the right amount of pressure and used firm strokes to loosen knots in the body. Our tense back muscles, in particular, benefited from the session. We enjoyed a rested, feel-good buzz for the next few days.
Ikeda Spa Prestige, #05-22 Clarke Quay Central (tel: 6388-8080)
BEST HOT-STONE MASSAGE
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Hot Lapis Stone Massage
($235.40 for 60min; $329.56 for 90min)
Heated lapis lazuli stones, a massage oil and the therapist’s deft strokes made this a truly indulgent, relaxing massage that relieved sore, tired muscles.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Level 1 The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore (tel: 6434-5203)
READERS’ CHOICE: Alicante Hot & Cold Stone Massage
($200 for 75min)
Hot stones were used to kick-start the lymphatic system, and cold stones – used in the later part of the massage on the legs – helped improve circulation. The massage loosened all our kinks and left us feeling recharged.
St. Gregory Spa, Level 4 Pan Pacific Singapore (tel: 6336-8111)
BEST RELAXING MASSAGE
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: Heavenly Massage
($188.32 for 60min; $258.94 for 90min)
Comprising a warm foot ritual, a scrub using Dead Sea mineral salt and mint, a heated compress, and a full-body massage that draws on Swedish techniques, this left us blissfully rested.
Heavenly Spa by Westin, Level 35 The Westin Singapore (tel: 6922-6977)
