No matter what's happening in your professional or personal life, a little self-nurturing is sure to give you a much-needed pick-me-up. Be it taking time out for yourself or indulging in some self-care, you may not be able to change the world, but you can change your nails or perfect your eyebrows.
In fact, psychodermatology expert Dr. Rebecca Purewal told HELLO! that there can even be psychological benefits to investing in our beauty routines.
"In our fast-paced world, taking time to care for yourself is important and can promote feelings of self-worth and self-appreciation," she explained, adding that something as small as keeping a skincare routine does wonders for that all-important "dopamine hit" we need to ensure a daily dose of happiness.
Whether you're looking for an excuse to treat yourself, or have been hoping to invest in your self-care, the high price tag of visiting a salon or spa can put more pressure on finding a treatment that’s actually worth it.
To help you decide where to go, we've curated an edit of the best beauty treatments, salons and clinics loved by HELLO!'s team.
Best for brows and lashes
Strip Hair Removal Experts
Where: Soho
© Strip/InstagramHoliday season may have come and gone, but my long, curled lashes are still firmly in place. As a fan of low-maintenance beauty, I tend to leave myself a minimal amount of time to get ready for work or social events – and that time is almost always spent on brightening my tired-looking eyes.
Gone are the days of reaching for the latest volume-promising mascara thanks to Strip Hair Removal Experts. Famous for its waxing and hair removal services, you may be forgiven for bypassing the London-based salon on your hunt for a lash tint.
Venturing down a small street in Soho (one of six locations), I headed down Strip's spiral staircase and into a private mint-green treatment room where a bed was positioned in front of a TV screen playing The Grinch. I'm not suggesting Christmas movies are for all-year-round viewing (or listening, in my case) but it was relaxing having background noise to pass the time while my eyes were closed for the 45-minute appointment, which transformed my dull blonde eyelashes into what could be mistaken for false lashes.
I've even had my mother ask why I'm wearing mascara at 7am in the morning on a FaceTime call – if that's not proof enough that lash lifts and tints are worth every penny, I don't know what is!
Reviewed by: Nichola Murphy, Deputy Lifestyle Editor
Illumin8 Beauty
Where: Wimbledon Village
Nestled in the heart of picturesque Wimbledon Village, you'll find boutique beauty salon Illumin8. Known for bespoke lash and brow services, they've quietly earned cult status among those who consider a perfectly sculpted brow and fluttering eyelashes non-negotiable.
With soft lighting, beautiful fragrance, an unhurried pace, and the friendliest staff, stepping into Illumin8 is immediately relaxing. My eyebrow lamination appointment began with a tailored consultation, so whether you're seeking a bold, editorial arch or a more natural, face-framing shape, the therapists listen, and deliver with precision.
Like a Brazilian Keratin treatment for your eyebrows, lamination involves softening, straightening and restructuring the hairs. It’s a fairly quick process (taking around 30 minutes) and mine lasted around four weeks. I asked for a full, natural finish and couldn't have been happier with the results.
I also tried my first ever lash lift and tint, and I'm now totally converted. My eyelashes look so effortlessly long and voluminous without any need for mascara, and unlike lash extensions it's a very low maintenance treatment, only taking around 45 minutes and requiring minimal aftercare - just a little bit of brushing through when necessary. Illumin8 use super nourishing formulas so my eyelashes feel healthy and nourished too.
Reviewed by Hollie Brotherton, Digital Luxe & Commerce Editor
Best for manicures & pedicures
Backstage
Where: Chelsea
I sometimes feel like I've tried half of the nail salons in London, or South West London at least, and Backstage has to be my favourite. I'm very loyal to my BIAB appointments as it lasts so much longer than a regular gel manicure and even strengthens my natural nails underneath. I often get compliments now, when naturally they're weak and prone to breaking.
Backstage always does a flawless job. The staff are lovely and the salon is light, airy and so relaxing. There’s no rush, no conveyor-belt feel, just calm, careful beauty treatments that feel indulgent but reliable.
Founded 15 years ago, they opened this salon on Chelsea's famous Kings Road in December 2024, which makes it incredibly convenient if you fancy a pamper session after shopping or before a night out.
Reviewed by: Hollie Brotherton, Digital Luxe & Commerce Editor
Urban
Where: Straight to your dootstep
© Getty Images/iStockphotoI'll admit it: I hate going to the nail salon. From the anxiety of waiting in line for a delayed appointment to the decision paralysis of choosing a nail colour under pressure (often resulting in me being unhappy with the results), it's just not for me. Enter Urban's at-home beauty services, which have been a total game-changer for this salon-shy girl.
Booking an at-home manicure and pedicure couldn't have been simpler. My lovely beauty therapist, Andrea, arrived promptly at my doorstep, suitcase full of products in hand. We settled into my dining room for an hour and a half, chatting away as she worked her magic on my poor bitten nails. The only awkward moment was when I realised the inflatable spa pedicure pool needed to be filled up with water at my kitchen sink. Word of warning: do your washing up first.
Urban's at-home service is clearly tapping into a growing trend. They've seen a 5 per cent rise in at-home waxing bookings in the first half of this year compared to the same period in 2024. Urban told me: "This uplift suggests a growing trend towards at-home beauty, as busy customers prioritise convenience and flexibility.
"With Urban pros able to arrive at your door in as little as 60 minutes, it’s easy to fit treatments around hectic schedules – without compromising on quality." For me, the benefits were clear: no commute, no worrying about an overbooked salon, and the freedom to tick off my morning to-do list without clock watching.
More importantly, I felt more relaxed during a nail appointment than I have in a long time. They also offer massages, facials, at-home physiotherapy and more. I'll certainly be booking back in.
Reviewed by: Kate Thomas, Website Editor
So.Shell
Where: Carnaby Street
© So.ShellIf you're looking for a manicure with incredible attention to detail, I cannot recommend independent Ukrainian nail bar, So.Shell, enough. Over the course of 75 minutes, my nail tech Iryna paid meticulous attention to my cuticles, going over them several times with a variety of different tools, which not only made my manicure look flawless but also made my nails look so much longer thanks to my perfectly preened nail beds.
The precision with which Iryna worked on my nails resulted in the tidiest, most polished-looking mani I've ever had, and while it took longer than I'm used to, it was more than worth the time spent in the tech's chair.
The salon itself is the ultimate zen den too, decorated to look like a Greek retreat, with white and pale blue décor creating a relaxing, blissful space.
Reviewed by Melanie Macleod, Wellness Editor
DryBy
Where: Mortimer Street
© Instagram / @meganmargotevans and @drybylondonTaking some time out for some pampering is a real treat; particularly if the salon you’re visiting looks like DryBy London. A stone throw’s away from Oxford Street, the chic space makes you feel like you’re nestled in the pages of an interior magazine.
I recently treated myself to a Biosculpture manicure and I was blown away. After a first rate nail and cuticle tidy up, the gel was applied and sealed by the LED light. The shiniest finish I’ve ever seen, I felt instantly put together, thanks to this 100% vegan product. Best of all, it lasted a whopping three weeks with zero chips. Im totally converted!
Reviewed by Laura Sutcliffe, Fashion & Beauty Editor
Best for facials
Ouronyx
Where: St James Street, London
© Tom Fallon PhotographyThe Ouronyx centre, located on Westminster’s St James Street, is a skin care clinic entirely dedicated to facial aesthetics. The minute you walk in, the stunning interiors make you feel like you’ve walked into a modern art gallery - chic marble floors, serene white walls, an inviting velvet green sofa and the curved staircase all add to its luxurious impact.
Upon arrival, I was greeted with an in-depth overview of what to expect from the treatment, with everything from the products used through to the aftercare detailed in depth. The facial I selected used their Swiss skincare and spa brand - Cellcosmet, all Cellcosmet products feature a signature ingredient; CytoPep Cellular Extracts, which is composed of skin structural proteins (collagen, fibronectin and actin) to leave skin hydrated, firm and radiant.
The treatment involved several different steps, including a calming two-part sheet mask wrapped around my face and neck - by the end, my skin was glowing. I definitely felt this was the perfect experience if you want results but still feel well and truly relaxed, I stepped back out into the busy London streets feeling well and truly rejuvenated.
Reviewed by Katy Huke, SEO manager
Kichi BabyFace & LED
Where: 180 Health Club, London
© Kichi SkinHead to the achingly cool 180 Health Club on The Strand and you'll find skin guru and owner of the most incredible cheekbones, Natasha Clancy. What the former model turned skincare wizard doesn't know about skin isn't worth knowing - it's who the likes of Sienna Miller, Iris Law and Poppy Delevingne turn to for red carpet prepping.
I visited to experience Sienna's go-to, technology driven facial, BabyFace, an all in one treatment to reduce fine lines, treat pigmentation and lift and tighten the skin. Some have dubbed it the 'cult facial' so I had to try.
With zero downtime, I popped along in my lunch break. Using a laser, the treatment creates microchannels within the skin which allow Natasha to apply revitalising compounds of ingredients like retinol, tranexamic acid, resveratrol and Vitamin C - Natasha chooses which to include depending on your skincare wants and goals.
The treatment begins with a cleanse before numbing cream is applied. Natasha then gives your skin a go with the laser, and adjusts the intensity depending on your skin, and your pain threshold. The treatment is so quick - it takes longer for the numbing cream to kick in than the treatment itself. Natasha talks you through what's happening, and is always checking in to make sure you're comfortable but I never found the laser too much or too intense.
Natasha explained to me that the BabyFace treatment reverses five years of photoaging each session, and it uses a special technique called a static mode, which is effective for working along a wrinkle line that has formed and is deeply set.
At the end of the session, Natasha switches to this mode to work on scars, lines and wrinkles, and age spots. Post-treatment, my skin was left a little flushed but incredibly glowy and as Natasha explained, it's day 10 post treatment that the results really show their magic and lasts for up to eight weeks. True to her word, my skin has definitely looked more radiant since; lines that I had, including my '11' lines, look less prominent and there's a more even finish to my skin than I had before.
Natasha recommends this treatment as an alternative to anti-wrinkle injections, and I can see why; I'd much rather turn to this than injections and I'm going back for more.
Reviewed by Carla Challis, Commerce Partnerships Editor
CACI
Where: Lisa Franklin, London
I'll be honest, I hadn't heard of British brand CACI before, so when I was invited to experience their non-surgical and non-invasive, celebrity-loved facial in the sumptuous south Kensington clinic, Lisa Franklin, I was intrigued. I quickly learnt that CACI (which stands for Computer Aided Cosmetology Instrument) has the seal of approval from a plethora of famous faces, including Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian, Jennifer Aniston, and the late Diana, Princess of Wales. Well, if it's good enough for these ladies, I had to check it out.
I was promised I would leave the salon without any red splotches or marks on my face, which is sometimes what happens in more invasive treatments. No pain, no gain and all that. But I'm pleased to report that my skin felt visibly refreshed and had a nice glow to it after the hour-long experience. I was actually comfortable enough to go makeup free for the rest of the day while out and about in central London, which I wouldn't normally do.
The facial uses CACI's most advanced system yet – CACI Synergy which focuses particularly on improving skin elasticity and reducing wrinkles. It's essentially a face lift and workout for your face muscles, but without the pain of an invasive treatment. It felt a little strange having the microcurrent impulses beamed onto my face and neck, but I can confirm it was actually a relaxing experience and my therapist was nothing but warm and reassuring. The salon itself is divine too, and it felt so luxurious having my celebrity-approved facial done just down the road from Harrods.
Reviewed by: Ainhoa Barcelona, Content Managing Editor
Oblique House of Aesthetics
Where: South Kensington, London
© ObliqueI've had plenty of facials with an intense, rigorous massage before but none have ever delivered quite the lifting effect that I received at Oblique Beauty, an quietly luxurious salon nestled in the heart of South Kensington. This facial was chosen by me to lift, tone and generally give my complexion a bit of a refresh before summer kicked in and boy, did it.
This non-invasive treatment is like a deep Swedish massage for the face, using the therapist's amazing techniques to manipulate and pummel the face to perfection. There was a surprise though; my therapist checked if I was okay with her massaging inside my mouth to reach the muscles on the inside. Since I'm always keen to try a new beauty treatment, I agreed, and it wasn't as weird as you might think. It was, dare I say it, even relaxing, and as someone who carried a lot of tension in my jaw (plus night time teeth grinding), the therapist was able to relax and invigorate those muscles more than I thought possible.
After one side of my face had been worked on, I was shown the results in a mirror and they were immediate. My eyebrow was higher, my eyes looked less tired and my mouth - which, at 43 years old, is definitely more down than up - looked slightly lifted. Cheekbones were sharp, and there was no redness, puffing or swelling. In fact, after the whole treatment, I was positively glowing and I was more than happy to skip out of the spa makeup free as my complexion looked incredible toned, even and bright.
I was so impressed with the results and my therapist explained that a programme of these treatments, whereby you have one every few weeks for a certain period of time, will actually leave lasting results. Mine lasted a few days, and I am only annoyed that I didn't have a big event or night out post-treatment to show off my youthful skin.
Another benefit of the treatment is the release; you feel, well, lighter. It's hard to explain, but we carry so much tension in our face, especially our jaw, that it was like a cathartic release that I didn't even know I needed.
The spa itself is steeped in quiet luxury. Think gold finishes, chic treatment rooms and a list of treatments that ranges from holistic to aesthetic for the face and body, plus hair and nail treatments too. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable, and are happy to give you advice on your skin as they carry out the treatment, if you so wish.
Reviewed by Carla Challis, Commerce Partnerships Editor
Best for hair extensions
Haug London Haus
Where: Fitzrovia
Tucked away in the heart of the capital, Haug London Haus is the kind of place that instantly puts you at ease - effortlessly chic, unmistakably luxurious, and staffed by some of the friendliest people in the business. Already a go-to destination for high-end hair services, the salon has recently expanded its offering with tape-in extensions that are as lightweight as they are voluminous, blending seamlessly into your natural hair for an undetectable finish.
They stock an extensive range of ethically-sourced Great Lengths extensions in a wide variety of shades and textures, meaning you’re guaranteed a perfect match, no matter your hair type or colour.
As someone with naturally fine hair that tends to fall flat, I chose volume over length. Just 16 tapes and 45 minutes later, I walked out with hair that felt thicker, healthier, and completely natural. Maintenance has been refreshingly simple too, a good quality (ideally sulphate-free) shampoo and conditioner, plus a sensible washing routine (not too much or too little), and you’re good to go.
My stylist, Richard Draude, is a colour specialist and industry expert. The blend he achieved with my brunette tones and balayage was flawless, and the precision and expertise in the application was immaculate. So whether you can't be without your extensions or you're trying them for the first time, Haug London Haus is a salon you can trust to get it right.
Reviewed by Hollie Brotherton, Digital Luxe & Commerce Editor
Best for hair treatments
Taylor Taylor London
Where: Shoreditch, Portobello Road and the West End
Taylor Taylor London is renowned for its exceptional cuts, colors, and styling, but their Soho Liberty branch offers much more than just expert hair services. From the moment I arrived, I was warmly welcomed and offered a refreshing drink. The salon's ambience is relaxed and inviting, with stylish decor and soothing music.
What truly impressed me was my stylist, Stuart, who took the time to truly understand my desired look and hair goals. His knowledge, patience, and passion for his craft were evident. Stuart also provided valuable style advice that complemented my personal style.
The balayage process was meticulous. Stuart carefully hand-painted the colour onto my hair, creating a seamless blend with a natural-looking effect. The blow-dry was equally impressive, leaving my hair voluminous, shiny, and perfectly styled.
Located on the second floor, the salon's setting is both trendy and effortlessly chic.I was delighted with the final result. The balayage was exactly as I had hoped, with a subtle, sun-kissed effect that complemented my skin tone. The blow-dry added the perfect finishing touch, leaving my hair looking both stylish and effortless.
Reviewed by Sharnaz Shahid, Deputy Online Editor
Gustav Fouche
Where: Notting Hill, London
It's not every day you get to have a 'Glowdry' by celebrity hair stylist, Gustav Fouche. I was treated to the ultimate VIP experience by the man himself who worked his magic on my damaged hair with his new ultra-luxurious £200 Glowdry, and it's a blow-dry like no other!
This premium treatment is designed for instant results left my hair looking and feeling better than ever. The 'Glowdry' experience begins with an in-salon consultation that allows the stylist to analyse your scalp and hair, recommend the best products for your hair type, followed by a bespoke Hair & Scalp Recovery Elixir treatment. Next comes the revolutionary Micromist machine, which is only found in a handful of salons worldwide. This game-changing hair technology provides the perfect osmosis that opens up the cuticle to absorb allthe nourishing products while hydrating and adding much-needed moisture.
During the 20-minute Micromist treatment, I was able to relax and ask Gustav for hair tips and styling advice. After the Micromist treatment, a clear gloss is applied, followed by a wash and cool heat blow-dry that leaves hair looking lush, shiny, and voluminous.
The catwalk ready treatment starts from £120 (excluding the clear gloss if not skin tested prior).
Reviewed by Sharnaz Shahid, Deputy Online Editor
Williams & Hirst
Where: Soho, London
© JS PHOTO & VIDEO SERVICES LTDNestled in the heart of Soho on Wardour Street, Williams & Hirst offers a refreshing and stylish addition to the London hair scene. Founded with a vision for independent hairdressing, the salon exudes an effortlessly chic vibe that makes every appointment feel like a luxurious escape.
The space itself is simply stunning. With modern décor and large windows that allow natural light to flood in, the space has a warm and welcoming feel thanks to its forest green theme, plants and various gold accents. It's clear that a lot of thought has gone into every design detail, creating an inviting environment where clients can unwind and feel pampered.
The stylists at Williams & Hirst are exceptionally talented and attentive, embodying the salon's ethos of creative independence. Each stylist takes the time to understand clients' personal style and hair goals, delivering results that feel both unique and authentic. Whether you're looking for a subtle trim, bold colour transformation, or anything in between, you're in skilled hands.
Reviewed by Sharnaz Shahid, Deputy Online Editor
Best for balayage
GA Salons
Where: Chelsea, South Kensington, Notting Hill and Wimbledon
If you like your hair appointments to be as much about the pampering experience as the beautiful results, book in to GA Salons. I headed down to the Chelsea salon, located just off King's Road, and was greeted by the loveliest staff, luxe Art Deco interiors and a cup of rich Italian espresso.
I've been having my hair balayaged for the last few years and would recommend it to anyone who likes soft, sun-kissed colour. I love that it doesn't require constant maintenance, thanks to its subtle regrowth. Many people choose to leave up to six months between appointments, making premium salons like GA more accessible. They use all-natural products that are not only beneficial for the health and vibrancy of your hair, but are more sustainable too.
My stylist talked me through the entire process and made sure we were both aligned on the look he was going to achieve and I could not have been happier with the results. Very natural-looking and the perfect shade of ashy blonde, my hair has also never looked or felt healthier.
Reviewed by: Hollie Brotherton, Digital Luxe & Commerce Editor
Best for massages
Bamford Wellness Spa
Where: Mayfair
Located at 1 Hotel Mayfair, Bamford Wellness Spa is a real sanctuary in the heart of the city. It may not be the biggest spa in central London with only three dedicated treatment rooms and a cosy relaxation area, but it certainly makes up for its lack of size with its caring and professional team of therapists.
There are a whole range of treatments on offer, from 30-minute express sessions that are perfect for a power hour lunchtime break if you work in the area, to the more extensive full-day packages that include a yoga session and lunch on the hotel's terrace.
I was treated to some very indulgent 'me time' with the two-hour Mother-to-Be ritual, which is also suitable for new mums. Using organic, vegan, and holistic products from the Bamford body and skincare range, including some beautiful oils, the package begins with a bespoke full body massage designed to target areas of the body most affected by pregnancy such as the back and the legs. Next, you're given a signature Bamford facial, with the choice of a rejuvenating, vibrant, or detoxing effect. The facial definitely left my skin feeling clearer, hydrated, and naturally glowy, which can be hard to achieve in the Big Smoke.
The whole experience was a real treat (quite literally as it ends with a healthy and nutritious smoothie), and a divine way to spend some 'me-time'. I wholly recommend a visit to the spa and their friendly therapists if you're in need of some self-care.
Reviewed by Ainhoa Barcelona, Content Managing Editor
The House of ELEMIS
Where: Mayfair
You may have walked past The House of ELEMIS before, but did you know the Mayfair boutique has treatment rooms upstairs? I was lucky enough to experience the brand's peaceful pregnancy massage in the luxurious Penthouse suite. As soon as I walked into the room, I felt instantly zen – and the pampering hadn't even started.
The hour-long session focuses on your whole body, with pregnancy-safe aromatics used. What I loved about this experience, apart from the super comfy bed that felt like I was floating on a cloud, was that nourishing oil is applied to your bump (an area that therapists would typically avoid) and your treatment is also rounded off with a mini facial, so you feel totally spoilt from head to toe.
Being a pregnancy massage, the focus is on feeling nourished, hydrated, and relaxed as opposed to using deep tissue techniques. But my friendly and professional therapist was more than happy to apply firmer pressure as requested. The ELEMIS products used are also absolutely divine.
The £130 treatment is available to book on Virgin Experience Days. The voucher can be used from Mondays to Thursdays, excluding bank holidays and public holidays, and is valid for 12 months from date of purchase. I can safely say it's a thoughtful and very welcoming gift for any mother-to-be!
Reviewed by Ainhoa Barcelona, Content Managing Editor
