Last week I was asked to review a Skin Authority facial courtesy of the Kohler Waters Spa at The Old Course Hotel in St Andrews, and boy, was it a treat!
The Skin Authority range is fantastic: the range focuses on breaking down the dead skin cells so that new skin cells can reach the surface and be treated properly. By using Glycolic Acid in their products, Skin Authority can reduce the pH balance so that the products can penetrate the skin cells, thus getting right to the centre of the problem so that the treatments actually do something. (Think of it this way: your skin pH is usually around 5 or 6, and so are most moisturisers - so these moisturisers are not actually treating the skin, they are simply making it feel nice!).
My favourite products are the Daily Cleanser and the Resurfacing Accelerator. The Resurfacing Accelerator should be used around twice a week to reduce pH levels in order to break down the cells in preparation for your chosen moisturiser and other products. This powerful, exfoliating gel derived from sugar cane accelerates the body’s natural cellular turnover cycle to improve rough, scarred, dry or dull skin caused by aging, acne, or sun damage. (It contains 15% Glycolic Acid and a pH of 3.69).
The Skin Authority facial itself was an interesting experience. One product made my skin tingle all over, almost a mild burning sensation, but don't let this put you off - it's the first facial that I can honestly say improved my skin. Afterwards, my skin looked very red (although I think it is only fair I state here that I did have a glass of Champagne!) but the next day it was radiant, clear and looked fresh. I'm prone to very dull, lacklustre skin in the winter months and the facial really did improve my complexion.
As for the Kohler Waters Spa - if heaven was a place on earth, this was it! Set in a relaxed, calming corner of The Old Course Hotel, it contains the only Kohler Waters Spa in the UK. The staff were professional, extremely polite and helpful, friendly and not snooty. (Don't you hate snooty spa people?)
The Spa offers everything from the Kohler bath treatments to luxury mani/pedis to indulgent massages to bridal packages to use of the incredible pool with it's waterfall feature. The pool area is serene, the exact sort of place you imagine to find at a paradise island retreat - but it's just up the road in St Andrews! (There's even a rooftop hot tub!)
Complimentary Champagne was served, along with all sorts of teas and refreshments. I particularly enjoyed the Duck Bon Bons, a smoked duck treat wrapped in breadcrumbs - delish!
I will definitely be returning to The Old Course Hotel Kohler Waters Spa, and I will (without a doubt) introduce the Skin Authority Resurfacing Accelerator as part of my beauty routine.
I highly recommend you do the same.
Above: my skin following the Skin Authority facial.
Above: Skin Authority Resurfacing Accelerator.
Above: Skin Authority Daily Cleanser.
Above: following a guided tour of the Kohler Waters Spa with the Manager, Victoria. Blue booties not optional when wearing patent courts.
With thanks to Bray Leino and The Old Course Hotel Kohler Waters Spa.
Product images courtesy of Bray Leino.
