With Mother’s Day approaching, why not treat mum to a Clarins Tri-Active facial?

The Retreat Wellness and Beauty is possibly the most exclusive clinic in Torquay - at least, that’s what it’s website says. Quite a claim, so when I was invited to the salon by owner Kelly Barlow I decided to put it to the test with a Clarins Tri-Active facial.

Tucked away on The Terrace with stunning views over the harbour, The Retreat is an intimate, welcoming salon that became a Clarins specialist in late 2013 after it reopened following a devastating fire.

Once I had a cup of tea in my hands and was drying out a little after being caught in a horrendous downpour of rain outside, my beautician for the morning, Lara, and I discussed the areas of concern that I wanted her to focus on during my treatment, which was a couple of recent breakouts and patches of dry skin.

I was given the option of a few different types of facial, but Lara and I concluded that the detox facial would benefit my skin the most.

The treatment began with a cleanse and double exfoliation, followed by a detoxifying lymphatic draining massage. The rest of the facial focussed on absorbing active ingredients that were chosen to fit my skin needs, and it also included scalp, hand, arm and foot massages, ensuring you felt totally relaxed and were making the most of the treatment.

After the facial, my skin felt amazing. Lara gave me a Clarins Skin Care Planner and recommended a few products that would help my skin stay as fresh as it felt - notably, the Complete Age Control Concentrate Double Serum (£55), the Pore Minimizing Serum (£23) and the Pure and Radiant Mask (£21.50).

After following Lara’s expert post-treatment advice, my skin is once again hydrated and blemish-free, as promised.

The Retreat certainly lives up to it’s high standard claim. Don’t let the word ‘exclusive’ put you off - it’s perfect for anyone looking for somewhere to pamper themselves or get advice on any skin issues.

theretreattorquay.co.uk