Escape the fast-paced energy of your everyday life and find solace in a tranquil space at the Sofitel SPA with L’Occitane.
It will take you on a journey of wellness, nourishing both your body and mind. You will discover a seamless fusion of age-old rejuvenating traditions from across the globe, intertwined with cutting-edge therapies and treatments rooted in the art of French cosmetology.
The Sofitel SPA with L’Occitane is the ultimate wellbeing experience that harmoniously blends the best of ancient wisdom with the latest advancements in beauty and relaxation.
In a detailed conversation with Emirates Woman, Catherine Tran, Spa L’Occitane Business Development Director at L’Occitane en Provence and Markjayson Gabrillo, Spa and Recreation Supervisor at Sofitel the Obelisk talk about this unique wellness and beauty collaboration in detail.
How is a spa treatment backed by a skincare brand different from the other experiences?
Catherine Tran: At Spa L’Occitane, we understand that trust, reputation, and credibility are crucial factors when it comes to choosing a spa treatment. Our brand has a long-standing legacy of expertise and quality in skincare and spa concepts, which instills confidence in our customers. When you choose our spa, you can trust that you are in the hands of professionals who are knowledgeable, experienced, and well trained in delivering exceptional experiences. Additionally, our service goes beyond just providing a treatment. It becomes a reflection of the values our brand stands for. L’Occitane is not only a cosmetic brand. It is also known for its commitment to natural and sustainable beauty. In our spa developments, we incorporate these values, using high-quality, traceable, and sustainably sourced ingredients. This association with our brand’s image enhances the overall experience and gives the confidence that you are choosing a spa that aligns with your values. Furthermore, at Spa L’Occitane, we invest heavily in innovation, research and development. We are constantly pushing the boundaries to deliver the safety of use and advanced holistic experiences. Our team stays updated with the latest advancements in skincare and spa techniques, ensuring tangible and lasting results.
L’Occitane has been collaborating with luxury hotels on spa concepts, tell us a little about that
Catherine Tran: Our collaboration with luxury hotels on spa concepts goes far beyond offering skincare treatments in outstanding hotel destinations. We take pride in partnering with hotel that share the same values and have the same approach to well-being. Together, we are dedicated to building holistic immersive experiences where well-being becomes the destination. More than a partnership, it is a close collaboration between the brand and the hotel. L’Occitane adopts a personalized and plug-and-play approach to adapt to the specific needs of the hotel, its history, and its local culture. With our partners, we craft a narrative that places well-being at the core while celebrating the unique character of each location. It is through these collaborative efforts that we continually strive to elevate the spa experience and create memorable moments for the guests.
What are the different kinds of treatments the Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane offers?
Markjayson Gabrillo: We offer a wide range of treatments at Sofitel Spa with L’Occitane, such as Relaxing Aromachologie Massage, Deep Tissue Intense Relief Massage, Almond Detoxifying Balance, Almond Silhouette Refining Massage, Rehydrating Facial, Anti-Aging Facial, and Body Scrub. Our treatments will engage all of your senses – with sensorial textures, relaxing music, and herbal teas inspired by Provencal traditions.
Can you explain the key benefits of each treatment or service involving L’Occitane products?
Relaxing Aromachologie Massage- Comforting. This enveloping massage eases the body and mind into letting go thanks to its relaxing movements. Studies carried out by L’Occitane laboratories have demonstrated that this gentle touch noticeably improves well-being and emotional balance.
Deep Tissue Intense Relief Massage – This massage combines Lomi Lomi deep pressure. It helps ease muscular tension, with a focus on the back, shoulders & neck area. As a result, the whole body feels refreshed and deeply rebalanced.
Almond Detoxifying Balance – This massage promotes circulation and provides a feeling of lightness. The draining movements help to remove toxins and reduce water retention. The Almond Supple Skin Oil hydrates the skin as well as improves its elasticity.
Almond Silhouette Refining Massage – This treatment is based on a combination of lymphatic drainage and active massage techniques to fight dimpled looking skin. The almond supple skin oil will act on skin’s elasticity. As a result, body feels refined with a lighter-feeling sensation.
Aqua Réotier Source of Hydration – This facial features an ultra-hydrating face care range – Aqua Réotier for healthy-looking skin. Enriched with Réotier water, hyaluronic acid and glycerin, this facial helps recharge skin with water, leaving it glowing with moisture and softness.
Immortelle Divine Secret – An ideal treatment to combat skin-slackening of the face and neck, as well as the décolleté area. This exceptional anti-aging facial uses lifting and contouring massage techniques. The result is divine: Deep wrinkles seem relaxed, fine lines smoothed, face contour firmer and the décolleté smooth and satin-soft again. Skin looks glowing with youth.
Body Scrub- to eliminate dead cells, leaving skin perfectly prepared for a treatment or massage, body is left perfectly smooth and soft.
Are there any pre-treatment preparations one should be aware of?
Markjayson Gabrillo: We recommend you arrive at Sofitel Spa with L´Occitane 15 minutes before your scheduled treatment. You will be provided with a locker that has robe, disposable underwear, and slippers. Prior to your treatment, we request to complete our health questionnaire to protect your well-being. Clients must be over 18 years old.
What types of L’Occitane products do you use during your treatments, and how do you judge the compatibility with the client’s skin?
Markjayson Gabrillo: Our therapists are highly trained to perform our treatments and recommend L’Occitane products to all the guests. We offer products what we think best for their skin types and condition. For dry skin, for example, we use the Aqua Reotier range to rehydrate and moisturize the skin.
Can treatments be customised based on individual skin concerns or preferences?
Markjayson Gabrillo: Certainly, we always suggest what always best for the guests. Personalized skincare is a great way to effectively treat current skin conditions.
How long does each treatment typically take, and is there any downtime or recovery period?
Markjayson Gabrillo: Every treatment lasts between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the condition of the guest’s skin. Essentially, the treatment (kind and length) should always be tailored to the nature and level of the person’s current skin needs. A Spa treatment especially facial, requires little to no downtime and allows you to resume your routine immediately. Some guests with sensitive skin may notice little redness; however, this will subside within a few hours. The procedure’s primary goal of the procedure is to beautify the skin and enhance the glow while effectively eliminating impurities and dead skin cells. The first time you get a facial, you will usually see a noticeable difference. Furthermore, consistent sessions can lead to significant and lasting improvements. Between treatments, you can safeguard your skin from UV damage by using sunscreen more frequently and avoiding harsh chemicals like parabens, which can irritate existing breakouts or produce new ones.
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Are there any specific aftercare instructions one should follow post-treatment?
Facial – It’s essential to avoid using abrasive skincare products or treatments following a facial as your skin may feel more sensitive than usual. Do not exfoliate your skin for at least 24 to 48 hours after a facial. As your skin has been exfoliated during the facial, more exfoliation may irritate or damage your skin. Drink plenty of water after your facial to keep your skin nourished. Healthy skin is hydrated skin, and it will help your face effects stay longer. Stay out of the sun and restrict your sun exposure for at least 24 to 48 hours after a facial. Following a facial, your skin may be more sensitive to the sun’s rays, thus it’s critical to protect it from its harmful UV rays. Use Sunscreen more frequently after facial. Your skin requires time to recover from treatment and to breathe.
Massage – Your body and mind feel relaxed following your massage treatment. Drink plenty of water after your treatment. This helps with dehydration, fluid loss, weariness, and the elimination of toxins from your body.
Can you provide some guidance on maintaining healthy skin and preventing common skin issues?
Markjayson Gabrillo: During summertime, especially in Dubai, the sun can damage your skin as well. Sunlight contains ultraviolet (UV) light that causes sunburn and makes your skin age faster, leading to more wrinkles as you get older. So, protect your skin from the sun. Wear protective clothing, use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30, and restrict your time in the sun during the late morning and early afternoon hours, when sunlight is strongest. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
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Images: Supplied by Sofitel SPA with L’Occitane.
