I am mummified...well almost. Robed in a white gown, wrapped in white towels, and with a white mask glued to my face, that's exactly how I look and feel. Not quite a pleasant sight. But, wait till the mask is off — you'll see yourself meekly surrendering to the promises of the Royal Matricol Signature Face Spa, like I did. This facial is a popular service from the stables of June Jacobs, a New York-based cosmetic brand that's just made its debut in Chennai.
Limelite, where I am currently pampering myself, claims to be the only salon in the city offering services and products from June Jacobs. Apart from facials, manicures and pedicures, the brand has specialty services for the eyes and lips as well.
Says Latha, the skin analyst at Limelite: “Often, the lips and eyes are ignored. Even they are exposed to the sun, pollution and make-up and, therefore, need some caring too.” You could either opt for these services separately, or choose an all-inclusive facial. Apparently, the products are made from botanical extracts, and so, suitable for all skin types.
It's a one-and-a-half hour ritual. Of course, I don't complain. And, when Latha starts slathering and massaging my face with various heavenly-smelling lotions and potions, I wish it never ends. She starts off by cleansing the face with a cranberry cleanser and toner. After that comes the papaya enzyme mask, which smells like a delicious fruity cake icing. This is followed by an even yummier pumpkin enzyme mask. My respect for the fruit suddenly goes up. (The last time I felt this way was when Cinderella's fairy godmother turned it into a gorgeous carriage.)
By now, I am drifting in and out of short spells of sleep. More serums are making their way onto my face and eyelids. And now, there's something delicious on my lip — a scrub that helps hydrate the lips and reduce the appearance of furrows.
Next step — the facial massage. And, what happens subsequently, I don't remember. All I know is that when I wake up, my face looks fresh, radiant and bright, just like sunshine. I guess this is what they mean when they say vanity, no apologies.
Call Limelite on 2829 5270.
