With the focus on self-care for a complete well-being experience, Emille Loyola-Artiga finds that M|Spa, at the Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery, authenticates how a bullion of gold brings the most genuine result with the most luxurious indulgence.
The face is the most exposed area of our body and is constantly open to the elements such as the sun, wind and cold. An extremely active lifestyle, the weather or simply the environment, even perhaps my genetics and ageing contribute to my already fragile skin.
My only daily facial regimen includes washing with soap and water and applying sun protection as I go through my hectic days. I constantly look forward to that day, when I can purely lounge on the sofa, embrace an hour or two of tranquillity, switch off and restore my mind, body, skin and soul back to their finest.
Given a choice, with my very limited time and patience, I would always pick a massage over a facial treatment; hence, I haven’t had one for a while. I heard about the Glamour Glow at M|Spa, which is a massage-based facial treatment, so I decided to book myself for that treat. Little did I know that I would be giving my face the best gift it certainly deserved, as lately it has been breaking out and pleading for some love and attention. The Alwadi Hotel Doha is one of my favourite spots in town; from its architectural design details to its offers and heartfelt services, it’s always a delight to come back.
Welcomed with friendly smiles, I was ushered to the low but warmly illuminated corridors of the wellness floor, leading towards the sophisticatedly charming spa lobby. As I walked towards the reception, I was promptly drawn to the beautiful lingering scent, an exotic aroma based on lemon, mandarin and orange, lavender and geranium essential oils infused with orange blossom.
Eli, my aesthetician/therapist, explained the treatment as I sipped my lemongrass tea, then led the way to the treatment room, a true oasis of tranquillity. I got myself prepared, and with the temperature and lights adjusted to my preferences, my golden bliss was about to begin.
The Glamour Glow treatment addresses my facial texture and concerns – specifically oiliness, break outs and spots. The therapy aims to hydrate, clean and soothe deeply, then detoxify, ultimately brightening and uplifting the skin. The products used are from Carol Joy London, a British-born luxury brand whose spa treatments can be experienced in the world’s most prestigious locations.
Rich in youth-promoting properties, the treatment began with an intense cleansing of the pores, combined with deep, yet defined, pressure; Eli’s massage with the Golden Millet Oil swiftly rejuvenated my facial muscles. Head to toe massage is administered in between the process, and I was in a complete trance with the heavenly blend of the steam on my face while my eyes were covered with cold collagen as Eli gave me a shoulder massage. All this time, I believed I desired what they call a ‘strong pressure’ massage, but after this experience, I realised what I truly wanted was a ‘defined pressure’ massage, which was precisely what I had.
After further gentle cleaning of my skin and pores, a caviar and algae mask was applied to my face. Combined caviar and algae provide a high level of amino acids, minerals and glucosides that repair and tighten the skin while dramatically decreasing moisture loss. While it stayed on my face, I was being given a head and scalp massage.
Finally, for the definitive brightening and rejuvenating effect, renowned for its benefits, the 24-carat gold, one of the most precious elements on earth, is spread on smoothly. It is exclusively used by M|Spa, and among the many benefits of 24-carat gold are intensified skin radiance, elasticity and firmness. As well as transporting oxygen it ensures retention into the skin. Leaving it on for a few minutes, I was then given a foot and leg massage that put me entirely and utterly into serenity.
Swathed in tranquillity and a renewed glow, I was led to the relaxation room and enjoyed my after-treatment drink. I chose the chamomile flavour from their Tchaba tea selection, a real tea brand that sources handpicked, full-leaf teas from plantations across the globe. Olga, the spa manager who was there to oversee my treatment, offered a bespoke programme for my skin requirement, which they also provide to distinguished guests.
Inspired by the heritage of Msheireb, The Heart of Doha, the M|Spa treatments combine traditional Arabic oils and healing therapies with modern techniques. I left with long-lasting nourishment and a more authentic version of myself.
For more information or to make a reservation, please call M|Spa at Alwadi Hotel Doha – MGallery on 4009 9999 or visit www.alwadihoteldoha.com
@alwadi.hotel.doha