WHAT’S IT LIKE? The new four-storey Sulwhasoo Spa stands cheek-by-jowl with the branded boutiques of Canton Road, Hongkong’s Rodeo Drive, and therefore, is in a prime location to snag the well-heeled shopped out. From across the road, the shop’s distinctive façade stands out, the creation of architect Jacques Ferrier, who designed the French pavilion for World Expo 2010 Shanghai. His inspiration came from Chosun Dynasty temples.
Established in 1972, Sulwhasoo hails from Korea and is based on the philosophy that beauty and well-being can be enhanced by using folk herbal medicine, which focuses on balancing body and mind.
HOUSE SPECIALTY Living in a teeming metropolis like Hongkong and subjected to pollution and work stress can wreak havoc on anyone’s complexion. So for me was recommended the Gold and Ginseng Intensive Anti-Aging therapy, combining gold foil and ginseng worked into the deep layers of the skin to revitalise and nourish.
After slipping into a bathrobe in the second-floor changing room, I was shown to my suite, featuring cream and caramel interiors, a vanity table, a pristine sink and a neat bed.
Every treatment starts with a red ginseng foot bath and scrub, which was extremely soothing. Then, my face was thoroughly cleansed and Sulwhasoo’s First Care Serum swiftly massaged in. Next, a light paper mask infused with, what I learned later to be a Lifting Ampoule and Balancing Water, was placed, followed by a thorough kneading of my shoulders and arms, which I welcomed because of a neck cramp.
To prepare for the gold foil application, the therapist used the RF (radio frequency) machine and RF face cream to conduct a high-frequency massage, said to remove “negative” energy from the skin. Some more Sulwhasoo products were patted on, followed by a red ginseng hard mask for regeneration, and another hydrating mask on my neck. By this time, I was floating.
This set the final stage for applying the gold foil and ginseng oil, which capitalises on gold’s positive ions to bring on a youthful glow and feeling of wellness.
VERDICT While this therapy is rather pricey, the results are gratifying. But why not pamper yourself for once?
PRICE The two-hour facial costs HK$2,300 (US$296).
CONTACT 92-84 Canton Road, Tsimshatsui, Kowloon, Hongkong, tel 852 2314 3288, www.sulwhasoo.com/brand/brand_aboutbrand.jsp
Margie T Logarta
