London is home to some of the best facialists in the beauty industry. But unless you have a regular salon you swear by, knowing where to book isn’t easy. As skincare becomes increasingly nuanced and the treatment options more plentiful, it’s worth doing your research. We’ve rounded up five of the capital’s best new facials and salons that are perfect for a festive season glow-up, whether you’re seeking a quick radiance boost or a full skin overhaul.
Karen Doherty Clinic, Shoreditch
One of London’s most hailed aestheticians Karen Doherty recently launched her flagship clinic on Redchurch Street in Shoreditch. Designed by lauded London gallerist and interior designer Max Radford, it’s a refreshing take on “wellness”, with a strong, minimalist design that balances clean industrial lines with warm tones. Facial treatments are helmed by registered nurse Melissa Wellington, with a range of options to suit different skin types, including the Microfusion Facial with Light Therapy and the gentler, pregnancy-safe Signature Lesse. If it’s accountability and continuity you’re after, the clinic recently introduced a facial membership that allows you to enjoy a bespoke facial every month.
Kichi, Aldwych
A firm favourite with the fashion crowd, Kichi specialises in cutting-edge, high-tech laser facials using its exclusive product line, which combines Asian botanicals, active minerals and antioxidants. Kichi’s latest treatment, the Salmon DNA Facial & Glow Pen Microneedling facial, uses salmon sperm DNA polynucleotides to hydrate, even skin tone, enhance skin elasticity and stimulate collagen production. The studio is located inside 180 Health Club, meaning your treatment gives you access to the luxe gym – and its infrared sauna, steam room and ice bath – for the day, a privilege typically reserved for members of Soho House. Win-win.
Tan&Co, Soho
With more than 13 years of industry experience, cosmetic skin nurse Teresa Tan expertly combines evidence-based science with the latest technology, while maintaining a strong focus on bespoke care. Her Charing Cross Road practice Tan&Co now offers the Geneo X facial, a celebrity-endorsed (Dua Lipa is said to be a fan) non-invasive treatment that combines advanced Oxygeneo electrical skin activation and Tripollar Radiofrequency, to lift skin from within.
QMS, Soho
A beauty industry stalwart, QMS Medicosmetics is the gold standard for results-driven products and facials. Founded by Dr Erich Schulte, a German surgeon and skincare innovator, the brand built its reputation on medical-grade collagen and rigorous clinical research. Located inside the flower-patterned walls of Liberty London, the QMS treatment rooms offer a calm escape from Soho’s chaos. Each facial begins with a deep cleanse and enzyme exfoliation before moving into the brand’s signature collagen layering. The latest addition, a buccal massage, involves sculpting inside the mouth to lift and define while easing jaw tension.
Edie Blue, Queen’s Park
A rising name in London’s holistic beauty scene, Edie Blue cut her teeth as lead facialist at Kate Somerville in Harvey Nichols, before setting up on her own last year. Using an intuitive approach to skincare, Blue combines traditional facial massage with modern techniques and small-batch botanical products to tailor every facial to suit skin and mood. Luckily for north-west Londoners, her clinic recently relocated to Lonsdale Road in Queen’s Park, and, with its natural light and wood panelling, you’ll feel your shoulders drop the moment you walk in.
