Salon treatment of the month
You could be forgiven for muddling top London acupuncturist and celebrity facialist Linda Carter with her near-namesake Lynda Carter, TV's Wonder Woman back in the '70s. Linda certainly knows how to work wonders, which is why many top celebrities, including Angelina Jolie and Julianne Moore, have called upon her services.
The skincare evangelist has just launched her Cosmetic Acupuncture Facial, which combines 800-year-old techniques with cutting-edge technology and spiritual wellness. It's aimed at people who are serious about anti-ageing but want a natural alternative to invasive surgery, harsh chemical peels or Botox.
Of course, if it's the thought of needles that's been putting you off having Botox, you probably won't relish the prospect of trying acupuncture instead. However, Linda does her utmost to put clients at their ease. The treatment begins with an in-depth personal consultation to ensure the programme is tailored to achieve maximum results.
The session then includes a deep tissue massage on the upper back, neck and shoulders to relax the mind and body, and relieve any underlying tension. This is followed by body acupuncture, during which needles are inserted into key points to increase energy flow.
During the facial acupuncture itself, hair-thin needles are inserted into specific points in the face and manipulated to wake up the muscles. Stop wincing, it's definitely worth it! The process brings blood rushing to the surface and works to increase production of collagen and cell renewal. The treatment continues with medical electro stimulation to exercise, firm and tighten the muscles, particularly frown lines between the eyes and around the jaw and jowl area.
Finally, the facial is completed with a high dose of vitamin A from Environ's skincare collection to nourish, protect and promote healthy, younger-looking skin.
Fancy giving it a go? The initial treatment at Linda's London salon costs £250 for a two-and-a-half hour session: subsequent treatments start from £100. To find out more, go to www.incredibleyou.co.uk.
