Facial treatment at Skinlife in Lisbon (Portugal)
Today, I tried the facial at Skin Life for you. It’s the secret gem of the locals, and I’ve learned it’s a spot frequented by some stars too.
What is it?
Skinlifeis a perfume and cosmetics boutique (with plenty of cool brands like Pai, Aesop, by Terry), but every Wednesday, a dermato/aesthetician with magic hands comes by and offers facials.
Most facials here focus on anti-aging, using expensive machines to fight sagging skin etc., like Mesotherapy, Botox, but that’s not (yet) my thing, so I went for a deep cleansing facial (deep pore cleansing).
How the facial went
The treatment lasts 1h30 and takes place in the back of the shop, in a super cozy room.
24 hours before the treatment, I received a text (even though I gave my French mobile number) reminding me of the appointment and asking me to confirm for the next day. So professional, I love it!
When I arrived at the salon, I was welcomed warmly and offered coffee/water. I chatted a bit with the receptionist, and I learned that the salon is popular among Portuguese celebrities, that the treatment is excellent, and that I wouldn’t be disappointed. And then,Isabel, my dermato/aesthetician, appeared, with a sincere smile and lots of gentleness.
She speaks a little English, a little French, and a little Spanish, so communication was very smooth between us. She asked me to take off my top and lie down on the self-heating bed (I love it).
It starts with a great makeup removal and cleansing of the skin and décolleté. Then a steam bath follows (during which she massages my arms). Next, she removes blackheads and absolutely all sebaceous filaments from my face (and neck too). Oh my, she must have so, so much patience!
I always feel so bad when someone has to do that, and usually aestheticians in France will complain or try to make you feel bad to later sell you products.
But she didn’t—no sigh or negative comment. She did it all with so, so much gentleness. It’s the first time in my life that I fall asleep while having blackheads removed, hahaha.
Finally, I got a long, very long massage of the face, décolleté… with a very hydrating serum. She applied layer after layer of serum, and my skin drank it all up! I recognized some lymphatic massage moves to help drain toxins from the face. And it was so relaxing that my whole body relaxed; I was between dream and waking, half-asleep during the whole treatment—it was super pleasant.
At the end, she slathered more cream on me. And I ‘woke up’ very slowly; I think the treatment lasted longer than 1h30. My grubby skin, clogged from an unsuitable Portuguese cream, became radiant, smooth, plumped, and so well hydrated. The effect lasted for several days after the treatment. No spots to report after the treatment.
I asked her some questions about the state of my skin, and she gave me some tips available at the pharmacy to help fade spots (Vitamin C). I was thrilled she told me my pores aren’t as enlarged as I thought. Every time, I’m the one asking questions; she didn’t push any sales or try to sell anything. I felt no judgment, which was really pleasant.
Budget
- Purifying treatment: 1h30, 90€
Practical info
Payment is only accepted in cash (or with a Portuguese credit card). So bring enough cash with you.
How to book?
I booked on site. They only have a list of treatments in Portuguese, but Portuguese is quite similar to French, so I could choose my treatment without issue. Then, the salesperson/receptionist (who noted the appointment) speaks very good English and will help you if needed.
Address
SKINLIFE CHIADO
RUA PAIVA DE ANDRADE 4 – 4A 1200 – 310 LISBOA, PORTUGAL
(+351)211 930 236
[email protected]
My beautician’s name is Isabel
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