We’ve rounded up 63 winners to soothe every kink. Use this guide to book your next skin, body or hair treat.
"We’ve rounded up 63 winners to soothe every kink. Use this guide to book your next skin, body or hair treat."
FACE
BEST DEEP-CLEANSING TREATMENT
EDITORS’ CHOICE: La Source Spa
Purifying Facial ($180 for 60min)
Perfect for those with oily or acne-prone skin, this facial uses products from Inni, the spa’s in-house, 100 per cent natural skincare brand, and includes a gentle face massage that improves blood circulation to ward off blemishes and breakouts. To top it all off : a 30-minute deep-tissue back massage, which targets pressure points and left us feeling recharged.
La Source Spa is at #01-03/04 Thong Teck Building (tel: 6732-1318).
READERS’ CHOICE: Bio Aesthetic Medispa
Hydrapeel Grease Pore-fection Facial ($68 for 60min)
This non-invasive, non-irritating facial utilises a supposedly painless micro-puncture technology to reportedly drive skincare ingredients deeper into the skin, thereby enhancing the effi cacy of the hydrating and purifying products used during the facial. What you can expect right after: better skin texture, and a clearer, brighter complexion.
Bio Aesthetic Medispa is at #04-56 Plaza Singapura (tel: 6333-4566).
BEST BRIGHTENING FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Heavenly Spa by Westin
Illumination Facial ($294.25 for 90min)
We’ll go for this before a big event. The treatment uses skincare with camomile, white lily extract and antioxidant-rich green tea extract to lighten dark spots and pigmentation, working towards a more radiant complexion. You’ll have complimentary access to the plush spa’s facilities – think a whirlpool with a view of the city skyline and an aromatherapy steam bath – so allocate some time pre- or post-treatment to enjoy them.
Heavenly Spa by Westin is at Level 35 The Westin Singapore (tel: 6922-6977).
READERS’ CHOICE: Skin Inc
Instant Glow Infusion ($218 for 60min)
Need something cooling on a hot day? This facial is just what you’re looking for. It starts off with a gentle blast of 99 per cent oxygen to the skin (a handheld jet applicator is used) that not only feels super soothing, but is also said to improve microcirculation. Skin Inc’s signature customised encapsulated serum and its Get Glowing’ Brightening Mask will also be used to give skin a rosy glow. Post-treatment, skin looks radiant and makeup glides on better.
Skin Inc is at #B3-43 Ion Orchard (tel: 6222-7428).
BEST OXYGEN-BASED FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: St Gregory Spa
Oxy Life Nova Anti-ageing Facial ($280 for 90min)
First, a microneedle wand is used to reportedly create channels deep into the skin (all you’ll feel are light, pin-prick-like sensations), so subsequent skincare can be better absorbed. Right after this, a jet spray will be used on the skin, delivering a blend of oxygen, vitamins and minerals to brighten and calm stressed-out skin. The result: a smoother, plumper complexion with less obvious pores.
St Gregory Spa is at Level 4 Pan Pacific Orchard (tel: 6831-6797).
BEST PEEL
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: Skinlab The Medical Spa
Gentle Almond Facial ($318.86 for 90min)
To get rid of acne scars and dull skin in a jiffy, this uses mild, almond-derived alpha-hydroxy acid to brighten skin. The minor stinging sensation was bearable, and the cooling strawberry mask applied afterwards sufficiently soothed the skin. There was some slight redness following the treatment, so don’t book this right before an event. The supple and clear complexion you get after a week? We like!
Skinlab The Medical Spa is at #04-04 Wheelock Place (tel: 6235-3246).
BEST HYDRATING FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Spa Esprit
Air Supply ($214 for 75min)
Dry and splotchy complexions will benefit from the gentle exfoliating cream and oxygen-infused cream used in this facial. To top it all off , a tension-relieving face, neck and shoulder massage. Since the spa is surrounded by lush greenery, we dozed off to the sound of birds chirping.
Spa Esprit Beauty Emporium is at Level 2, 8D Dempsey Road (tel: 6479-0070).
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: Skin Inc
Pure Serum Mist (Onsen) Healing Infusion ($188 for 45min)
Good for sensitive skin, this facial starts off with a double cleanse, followed by the application of an exfoliating gel to leave skin feeling supple. Then, a calming serum mist is spritzed on liberally to soothe redness and irritation, while boosting hydration. The coolest part of this facial? The use of a sci-fi -looking LED machine (in the shape of a facial mask) said to aid healing and boost radiance, which was placed over our visage. Our skin felt softer, smoother and looked brighter post-treatment.
BEST PRE-PARTY FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Prive Aesthetics
Vita C Facetherapy ($236 for 75min)
Vitamin C is delivered to the skin via a handheld microcurrent device that is glided over the face. The device is also said to stimulate collagen production, boost radiance and reduce the look of fine lines. We felt a mild tingling sensation during the process, but there was no downtime. Post-facial, our glow lasted a good four days.
Prive Aesthetics is at #03-02 Palais Renaissance (tel: 6737-0755).
EDITORS’ CHOICE: So Spa
Cinderella Facial ($258.94 for 60min)
The nature-inspired So Spa made us feel like we were on holiday in Bali – we even heard real birds chirping during our treatment! Swiss-made skincare and a lymphatic drainage face massage worked to give our skin a lifted appearance. Top up $80 for one of the couple spa suites – a private beach villa with a jacuzzi to relax in – and you can enjoy some couple time with your man.
So Spa is at Sofitel Singapore Sentosa Resort & Spa, 2 Bukit Manis Road, Sentosa (tel: 6708-8358 ).
READERS’ CHOICE: The Sloane Clinic
Go Glow Facial ($294.25 for 60min)
A crystal microdermabrasion scrub and pumpkin-enzyme peel get rid of surface dead skin cells, after which an oxygen-infused mask is applied to brighten dull skin. Next up is an antioxidant-rich green-tea-and-ginger mask, which is used to tackle the look of signs of ageing. Expect a glowy, well-hydrated visage immediately after.
The Sloane Clinic is at #03-14A Ion Orchard (tel: 6509-8108).
BEST LIFTING FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: La Source Spa
Signature Age-defying Facial ($286 for 75min)
A deep cleanse and peel revealed brighter skin. This was followed by a face massage designed to tone the skin and relax tired muscles – we fell asleep after a few minutes. When we woke up, we were wowed by how youthful our complexion looked. Plus, the plush spa lobby is the perfect place to take a breather before and after the treatment.
READERS’ CHOICE: Estheva Spa
Matrix Lift with DEP Therapy ($761.84 for 105min)
A microcurrent device is used to massage the face, reduce the look of wrinkles and infuse collagen into the skin. Expect a slight tingling sensation during the process.
Estheva Spa is at #01-30/31 Raffles Hotel Shopping Arcade (tel: 6338-3318).
BEST FIRMING FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: The Luxe House
Advanced Facial ($320 for 90min)
Our attentive therapist performed an exfoliation before applying a serum with a cocktail of vitamins and stem cell extracts (said to spur tissue renewal). Then, all the goodness was sealed in with a booster mask that reportedly protects the skin and enhances the benefits of subsequent skincare. We felt no pain during the facial. Post-treatment, there wasn’t any redness and our complexion looked more taut, with less-visible lines. We loved the spa’s ornate decor – think dark marble and velvet sofas.
The Luxe House is at 7A Dempsey Road (tel: 6479-9997).
READERS’ CHOICE: Kew Organics Facial Bar
Bespoke Organic Skin Gym Facial ($260 for 120min)
This “workout” for the skin includes a therapeutic firming massage and an acupressure massage, both of which target tired muscles and have reported skin-lifting effects. The facial uses products from Canadian organic skincare brand Yum Gourmet Skincare, so it’s a good choice for green beauty lovers.
Kew Organics Facial Bar is at #01-47, Block 2 Everton Park (tel: 6534-8225).
BEST DO-IT-ALL FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Skin Inc
Optimizer Voyage Tri-light Treatment ($118 for 30min)
This quick pick-me-up left us feeling relaxed, thanks to a therapeutic face-and-shoulder massage done in tandem with a tri-light treatment, which uses a combination of red, blue and yellow lights to reportedly boost skincare penetration, lighten blemishes and dark circles, and improve skin elasticity.
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Spa Rael
Diamond Life Infusion Ritual ($642 for 90min)
This started off with a gentle peel to rid the skin of impurities, after which a magnetic massager was used to give us a face massage – this supposedly reduces cellular inflammation and improves microcirculation. We were also treated to a relaxing Ayurveda-inspired massage meant to stimulate blood circulation and ease muscle tightness. The best bit is that the products used in the treatment are designed to reduce pigmentation and improve skin laxity, so our complexions looked fresh, clear and lit-from-within post-treatment.
Spa Rael is at Goodwood Park Hotel, beside the main building (tel: 6732-9633).
READERS’ CHOICE: True Aesthetics
Babor Reversive 360 Premium Care ($290 per session)
This holistic, completely manual facial comprises massages – including soothing head and hand massages – and the use of skin-smoothing products from German brand Babor. These products work on countering free-radical damage, and keeping the complexion smooth, bright and younger-looking.
True Aesthetics is at #06-18 Orchard Central (tel: 6884-4072).
BEST RADIO-FREQUENCY TREATMENT FOR LIFTING
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: DrGL loves DrSpa
DrSpa Lift ($480 for 90min)
This didn’t just give our skin a lift; it also reduced puffiness. If you’re pain-averse, you’ll be pleased to know that we only felt some bearable heat from the radio-frequency device. The cooling gel mask applied at the end of the session lent our complexion a radiance that lasted for the next two days.
DrGL loves DrSpa is at #11-06 Pacific Plaza (tel: 6465-8880).
BEST EYECIAL FOR LIFTING
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Kew Organics Facial Bar
iFine Advanced Eye Treatment ($130 for 60min)
This painless radio-frequency treatment targets the look of fine lines, crow’s feet and saggy eyelids by reportedly stimulating blood circulation and collagen production. It made our eye area look brighter and more “awake” post-treatment.
EDITORS’ CHOICE : Estheva Spa
C-Matrix for Eyes with Caviar ($112.35 for 45min)
A serum formulated with caviar extract is used to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and wrinkles. The cooling effect was a welcome relief after a long day at work, and the skin in our eye area looked firmer and brighter after.
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: The Sloane Clinic
Eye-fabulosity Facial ($117.70 for 30min)
A gentle peel with pumpkin enzyme was applied to the eye area, then wiped away after about 10 minutes. Our therapist also used an ultrasonic therapy machine to deliver hyaluronic acid into the skin to reduce the look of fine lines and perk up a tired-looking eye area.
BEST EYECIAL FOR DARK CIRCLES
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: Lush Aesthetics
Thermal Lift for Dark Eye Circles ($388 for 40min)
A radio-frequency treatment and an acupressure-type massage brightened up our dark circles and lifted the skin around our eyes – it was like having a good night’s rest! Plus point: our therapist was gentle, so the entire treatment was relaxing and painless.
Lush Aesthetics is at #06-11 Tanglin Shopping Centre (tel: 6737-4964).
BEST DECONGESTING FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: La Source Spa
Rebalancing Facial ($222 for 75min)
This is great for “resetting” post-breakout skin. Our therapist deftly pressed acupressure points along the nose and temples to relieve congestion around the nasal passage. This also reportedly improves blood circulation to prevent future acne breakouts and dullness. We left the spa feeling refreshed (sans a blocked nose) and with clearer, brighter skin.
EDITORS’ CHOICE: The Sloane Clinic
Clear Blue Facial ($235.40 for 60min)
This comprehensive yet speedy treatment involves the use of a scrub with pineapple enzyme to rid the skin of impurities and dead skin cells. Then, blue light therapy and a fruit acid peel are used to reduce the look of pores. Finally, our therapist applied a cooling collagen mask to soothe skin. The result? A hydrated and calmer complexion.
BEST MEDISPA BRIGHTENING FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: The Sloane Clinic
Illumi Facial ($353.10 for 60min)
This offers the benefits of a laser treatment without the pain. Infra-red light was used to improve skin laxity and lift saggy skin, after which an antioxidant-rich mask was applied to calm skin and reportedly promote collagen production. Post-facial, our skin looked lifted, especially around the jowls, and we had a dewy, K-celeb-worthy glow that lasted a week.
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: Lush Aesthetics
Almalase Laser Facial ($288 for 30min)
The laser used in this treatment was pain-free (all we felt was a slightly warm sensation). It lightened stubborn brown spots and made enlarged pores look more refined.
BEST SKIN-SMOOTHING/EXFOLIATING TREATMENT
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: Skin Inc
Oxy Miracle Infusion ($208 for 60min)
The brand’s super-gentle and non-stinging Oxy Miracle Peel (made up of 99 per cent oxygen and 1 per cent saline) was sprayed onto the skin to dislodge dirt and debris, while infusing it with oxygen. One of the most gentle exfoliating facials we’ve tried, this left our skin looking at least one shade brighter.
BEST MEDISPA HYDRATING FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Scinn Medical Centre
Hydrabooster Facial Programme ($374.50 for 45min)
We fell asleep during this soothing, no-machine facial that included deep-cleansing, extraction and the application of products chock-full of antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and peptides. We woke up to plump, healthy-looking skin sans redness. Pores were also significantly less obvious and there was no downtime.
Scinn Medical Centre is at #05-22 Ngee Ann City Tower B (tel: 6235-8066).
READERS’ CHOICE: Haach
Hydro Complex 10kDa ($620.60 for 90min)
This treatment includes an acupressure massage, which is said to improve blood circulation and boost moisture levels in the skin, as well as the application of the brand’s Hydro Complex 10kDa Serum. The latter, which is packed with hyaluronic acid, reportedly protects and heals tired skin. What you can expect: smoother, well-moisturised skin. You’ll notice some slight redness post-treatment, which typically vanishes within the hour.
Haach is at #03-10/11 Orchard Central (tel: 6238-0123).
BEST MEDISPA LIFTING FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: ClearSK Medi-aesthetics
Twinlift Program ($425.86 for 40min)
This luxe space looks like a posh hotel. The facial utilises two technologies: high-intensity focused ultrasound, which tightens skin and supposedly stimulates collagen production, and Thermage, which reduces sagginess. While the treatment was prickly and uncomfortable – though the numbing cream applied beforehand helped slightly – we say it’s worth it for the firming and lifting effects it affords.
ClearSK Medi-aesthetics is at #10-01 Novena Medical Center (tel: 6100-6868).
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Dream Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery
Seong Yeong HIFU Facial Treatment ($950.16 for 60min)
This treatment promises to lift a sagging eye area as well as saggy jowls and cheeks, while hydrating and brightening the skin. It involves microdermasion, and the use of a small jet-like device to deliver ingredients such as hydrating glucosamine and clarifying salicylic acid into the skin. A high-intensity focused ultrasound machine is also used to reportedly firm the visage – this felt like a deep toothache but resulted in a more defined jawline and lifted skin.
Dream Plastic Surgery is at #17-03/04 Paragon (tel: 6871-8888).
READERS’ CHOICE: Jean Yip Beauty
R6 Trilogy Detoxification Face Therapy ($522 for 90min)
This treatment focuses on detoxifying and calming the skin with a face-and-neck massage designed to encourage lymphatic drainage. It also involves the use of a fine, cool oxygenated mist to soothe the stressed skinon the neck.
Jean Yip Beauty is at #B2-31/32 Nex (tel: 6634-6185).
BEST MEDISPA FIRMING FACIAL
EDITORS’ CHOICE: The Aesthetics Medical Clinic
Puro Laser ($760 for 30min)
Puro Laser (a combination of two lasers: a non-ablative one and intense pulsed light) is used to reportedly tighten and brighten the skin, improving the look of acne scars and stretch marks while refining skin texture. Post-treatment, we noticed less-visible pores, flatter scars and a more V-shape face.
The Aesthetics Medical Clinic is at #27-01 Shaw Centre (tel: 6235-8770).
READERS’ CHOICE: Bio Aesthetic Medispa
HIFU AgeTite Facial Therapy (from $480)
This procedure (it’s very popular in South Korea) utilises ultrasound technology to reportedly tighten the muscles in the face for smoother, more refined skin. Expect some warmth and a slight tingling sensation during the treatment, and flushed cheeks after. The promised results? Less obvious pores and laugh lines in two weeks.
BODY
BEST TOTAL BODY TONING TREATMENT
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Marie France Bodyline
Venus Freeze ($406.60 for 60min)
This treatment uses radio-frequency technology and electromagnetic pulses to target fat cells, tone the skin, and reduce the look of cellulite and stretch marks. It wasn’t painful at all, and felt like a relaxing hot-stone massage. Post-treatment, the skin around the tummy and thighs looked less dimply, and love handles were reduced.
Marie France Bodyline is at #01-200 Marina Square (tel: 6222-0188).
READERS’ CHOICE: Slimming 101
Divine Firming ($695.50 for 150min)
Utilising massage techniques used in traditional Chinese medicine and a thermal body wrap, this treatment targets flabbiness around the tummy and thighs. It is also designed to tackle bloating and waterretention. You’ll definitely feel more relaxed and refreshed after the treatment.
Slimming 101 is at #05-01 Hougang Mall (tel: 6737-3101).
BEST BODY SLIMMING TREATMENT
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Clarins Skin Spa
Stubborn Curves Solution ($185 for 60min)
This works on stubborn fat using deep-tissue massage techniques (the massage is performed manually) and signature Clarins products, such as its Contouring Body Oil, Body Shaping Cream and Pro Contouring Supplement, all of which are formulated to break down fat. The massage left our muscles feeling a bit sore (like we just did a core workout), but it was effective – our tummies definitely looked flatter after.
Clarins Skin Spa is at #05-05/06/07 Wheelock Place (tel: 6838-5060).
READERS’ CHOICE: Shou Slimming
Fat Buster Treatment ($192.60 for 30min)
Meant to imitate a workout, this high-tech treatment stimulates specific muscles with electrical pulses with the aim of busting fat, improving blood circulation, promoting lymphatic drainage and boosting metabolic rate. Some soreness is typically experienced afterwards, but it’s worth it for the appearance of a leaner-looking bod – a result that reportedly lasts two weeks!
Shou Slimming is at #03-37/38 Velocity@Novena Square (tel: 6252-5822).
BEST CRYOTHERAPY/FAT-FREEZING TREATMENT
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: Dr Haach
Dr Cryotherapy ($500 for 60min)
Problem areas are exposed to sub-zero temperatures to freeze fat (apparently, this is done without affecting the skin or muscles in the areas), which will then be passed out naturally over the next few weeks. It sounds insane, but it actually works – we got compliments from friends on a slimmer-looking silhouette. It’s not the most comfortable treatment though – you have to remain in the same position for an hour and the treated area feels numb afterwards, although the sensation wears off eventually.
Dr Haach is at #04-09 Novena Specialist Center (tel: 6334-7884).
BEST TRADITIONAL MASSAGE
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Aramsa–The Garden Spa
Aramsa Ritual ($223.63 for 90min)
The treatment rooms in this spa are garden-inspired, and include a private courtyard and outdoor shower – so luxe. The therapist used a mix of meridian techniques, long strokes and cupping therapy to loosen up tight knots in our shoulders and backs. The best bit is, thanks to the relaxing massage, we slept like babies that night.
Aramsa–The Garden Spa is at 1382 Ang Mo Kio Ave 1, Bishan Park 2 (tel: 6456-6556).
READERS’ CHOICE: Banyan Tree Spa
Banyan Tree Asian Blend ($258.94 for 60min)
Traditional Thai massage techniques will relieve aching muscles without post-massage soreness. The massage is done without the use of massage oils – the therapist will use only her thumbs and palms – and targets pressure points to loosen tense muscles. Those with stiff shoulders and backs will definitely benefit from this treatment!
Banyan Tree Spa is at Level 55 Marina Bay Sands Hotel Tower 1 (tel: 6688-8825).
BEST ACUPRESSURE MASSAGE
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Korea Beauty Centre
Kyung Rak Body Treatment ($300 for 120min)
The ultimate solution for deep-seated muscle tension: two well-coordinated and determined therapists who aggressively knead away all the knots in your body. A radio-frequency machine (which felt like a hot-stone massage) was also used to improve blood circulation and clear any blockage that might be the cause of our aching muscles. We felt like we’d been put through a wringer, but it was worth it for looser shoulders.
Korea Beauty Centre is at #05-05 Cuppage Plaza (tel: 6734-6037).
READERS’ CHOICE: Nimble/Knead
Tuinasaurus ($76 for 60min)
This uses tui na techniques to help regulate the flow of chi, which supposedly helps boost the body’s natural self-healing ability. The claim is that it’ll leave you feeling lighter and more energised, so if you like strong-pressure massages, this is a must-try.
Nimble/Knead is at #01-28, 66 Eng Watt Street (tel: 6438-3933).
BEST MASSAGE FOR JET LAG
EDITORS’ CHOICE: The Luxe House
Royal Meridian Foot & Back Therapy ($230 for 100min)
After a long-haul flight, all we want is something that’ll relieve stiff ness. This vigorous and eff ective treatment – which comprises a relaxing foot soak, an acupressure foot massage, a knot-loosening head-and-body massage and a detoxifying foot-cupping treatment – fits the bill nicely. We left the spa with a spring in our steps.
READERS’ CHOICE: Estheva Spa
Equilibrium Massage: Senses Awakening Massage ($173.34 for 75min)
A fan of aromatherapy? This treatment uses a blend of pure botanical essential oils and long massage strokes to relieve tired muscles from head to toe. It’s so relaxing, you’ll probably find yourself dozing off within minutes.
BEST TENSION-RELIEVING MASSAGE
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Banyan Tree Spa
Signature Master Therapist Experience ($364.87 for 90min)
This therapeutic massage is specially tailored to your concerns. As per our request, the therapist used a combination of medium-pressure, long strokes and acupressure techniques to loosen the tense muscles in our backs and shoulders. We loved the spacious, light-filled treatment room, which came with an en-suite bathroom.
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Adeva Spa
Quirogolf Retreat ($299.60 for 90min)
We were a bit apprehensive about this quirky massage, which uses two golf balls to get rid of kinks. It was a tad ticklish at first, but it turned into a very shiok massage once the masseuse started rolling the golf balls over our aching muscles – we could literally feel the knots loosening up. By the end of the massage, the kinks and knots all but disappeared.
Adeva Spa is at #06-22/23/24 Paragon (tel: 6836-9988).
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Amore Fitness & Boutique Spa
Botaroma Swedish Massage ($94.16 for 45min)
Using a blend of geranium, orange and lavender essential oils, and long, gliding strokes to stimulate blood circulation, our therapist deftly eased the tautness in our backs, necks and shoulders. By the time she was done, we felt as good as new.
Amore Fitness & Boutique Spa is at #03-49 Thomson Plaza (tel: 6732-1822).
READERS’ CHOICE: So Spa
So Abhyanga Massage ($282.48 for 90min)
Done in a private Balinese-style villa with its own garden and jacuzzi, this massage involves the use of heated herb-infused oils, and circular as well as long, straight strokes to ease tightness and lift the mood. It is also designed to improve energy flow in the body, so try it right before or after the weekend to feel rejuvenated.
BEST DETOXIFYING TREATMENT
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Cheryl W Wellness & Weight Management
Signature Royal Flush ($908 for 120min)
Thanks to a thermal body wrap and a firm lymphatic drainage massage, our therapist got rid of the water retention and bloatedness we were experiencing before the treatment. When we took our body measurements post-treatment, we actually lost more than 2.5cm around our tummies and thighs – how’s that for eff ectiveness!
Cheryl W Wellness & Weight Management is at #05-18/18A Ngee Ann City (tel: 6694-6352).
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: Phoenix La Beaute
Universal Contour Wrap ($512.46 for 90min)
This body wrap uses mineral-rich clay from the Dead Sea to draw out impurities and toxins, and relieve water retention. While most body wraps can be uncomfortable, this was rather relaxing – we even fell asleep. Apart from slimmer arms and thighs, we also noticed firmer and smoother skin post-treatment, thanks to the clay’s clarifying and toning properties.
Phoenix La Beaute is at #03-01 Palais Renaissance (tel: 6733-0088).
BEST DETOXIFYING MASSAGE
EDITORS’ CHOICE: The Luxe House
Immunolymphatic Care ($530 for 90min)
The spa’s posh and dark decor as well as the sweet aroma of jasmine in the air relaxed us. The massage itself was intense and vigorous – the masseuse was super determined to ease all the knots in our backs and shoulders using a combination of acupressure massage techniques and long, relaxing strokes. Afterwards, the ache in our shoulders was completely gone.
READERS’ CHOICE: Ikeda Spa
Ganbanyoku Detox Massage ($235.40 for 90min)
What’s interesting about this lymphatic drainage massage is that it’s done on a hot-stone bed that heats up to about 40 deg C. The bed is made of Hakone volcanic rocks, which are said to accelerate metabolism and boost the immune system, while the massage aids detoxification and helps improve blood circulation. The result: you’ll reportedly feel “lighter” and less sluggish.
Ikeda Spa is at 787 Bukit Timah Road (tel: 6388-8080).
BEST FOOT MASSAGE
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Adeva Spa
Foot Reflexology ($85.60 for 45min)
This is one luxurious foot reflexology sesh. Plush spa decor aside, the entire massage was low on the ouch factor, making it perfect for foot reflexology newbies. The therapist was attentive to our needs and adjusted his strokes according to our differing tolerance for pain. The cherry on top is the relaxing neck-and-shoulder massage at the end of the session.
READERS’ CHOICE: Huang Ah Ma, The Oriental Spa Chamber
Royal Foot Massage ($62.06 for 60min)
Book a session right after an intense shopping trip – the firm-handed masseuse will knead away the fatigue in your legs and feet. Don’t be surprised if you doze offmid-treatment.
Huang Ah Ma, The Oriental Spa Chamber is at Porcelain Hotel, 48 Mosque Street (tel: 6536-1661).
BEST HEAD-TO-TOE EXPERIENCE
EDITORS’ CHOICE: J’s Salon
Medi Hair Spa, Facial, Body Massage and Mani/Pedi Spa ($988 for 360min)
We enjoyed every second of this six-hour treatment, which kicked off with a brightening facial using Skinceuticals products, followed by a painless body treatment that utilises radio-frequency waves to sculpt and tone. Up next was a hair spa treatment – done in a spacious, garden-inspired treatment room, no less – and a full mani/pedi. We’d recommend this for right before a special event.
J’s Salon is at Level 3 Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel (tel: 6834-0012).
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Spa Retreat
Spa Retreat Ritual($490.23 for 225min)
With this signature treatment, you’ll enjoy an eye treatment, a skin-softening foot mask, an anti-ageing facial and a hot-stone massage. Tip: Arrive earlier than your appointed time to enjoy the spa’s impressive onsen pools and sauna. Props to our attentive therapist, who checked in on us every hour or so.
Spa Retreat is at Level 6 One Farrer Hotel & Spa (tel: 6705-7850).
EDITORS’ CHOICE AND READERS’ CHOICE: Banyan Tree Spa
Harmony Banyan ($765.05 for 150min)
You’ll feel extra pampered with a therapist working on either side of your body during the length of the treatment, which includes a body scrub, a head, body and foot massage, and a therapeutic soak in a warm bath strewn with orchid petals. We love the spa’s spacious rooms – some even come with incredible views of Marina Bay – and the Balinese-inspired decor.
HAIR
BEST SCALP TREATMENT
EDITORS’ CHOICE: PHS Hairscience
Signature DSR Detox Scalp Spa Therapy ($348 for 150min)
This began with a detailed consultation with a therapist, who customised the treatment to tackle our specific concerns. Since we had a clogged scalp, the treatment included a 20-minute soothing massage, a series of scalp serums intended to purify the scalp, an infra-red light treatment meant to lock in all the benefits of the haircare applied, and a blow-dry. We emerged with voluminous, red-carpet-worthy hair and a scalp that felt much cleaner.
PHS Hairscience is at #05-25A/B Ngee Ann City (tel: 6692-0662).
READERS’ CHOICE: The DRx Medispa
Purifying Therapy ($201.16 for 60min)
A deep cleanse that rids the scalp of dirt and excess sebum kicks off the treatment. Next up, a scalp massage using a micro-needling tool that softens hardened oil clogs so they can be removed – some pain is to be expected during this process. This step also preps the scalp to better receive the serums that are applied after. The session ends with a supposedly painless laser treatment that aims to boost volume.
The DRx Medispa is at #14-02 & #16-02 Tong Building (tel: 6223-1555).
BEST TREATMENT FOR DAMAGED HAIR
EDITORS’ CHOICE: Chez Vous
Trilogy System (from $155 per session)
We were impressed from the get-go, when our stylist off ered us complimentary Japanese snacks and Laduree tea. Thankfully, the treatment, comprising a trio of therapies, is just as impressive. All three aim to strengthen frizzy hair, and are designed to reportedly repair breakage by infusing keratin into the strands and with the help of haircare with potent ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, peptides and amino acids. We left with bouncy, silky tresses and our hair was significantly more manageable even three weeks after.
Chez Vous is at #05-05 Ngee Ann City (tel: 6732-9388).
READERS’ CHOICE: TK Trichokare
Hair Fall Preventive Treatment ($605.62 for 120min)
A hair-and-scalp analysis with a trichologist starts off the treatment, followed by an invigorating head massage that reportedly improves blood circulation and preps the scalp for the haircare products applied after. These products are infused with European botanical ingredients that help rebalance the scalp and boost volume. Expect a much cleaner scalp at the end of the session.
TK Trichokare is at #03-19 Velocity@Novena Square (tel: 6338-8680).
