The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Facial Treatment in London
From gentle, glow-giving classics to technology-driven protocols, this guide helps you choose the right facial for your skin, goals, and schedule—plus what to expect at Santi London.
Skin assessment first
Clinician-led protocols
Calm, unhurried care
How to Choose the Best Facial for You
Start with your skin goals
- Instant glow / event-ready: classic facial, hydrating facial, gentle peel.
- Texture & pores: microneedling, laser-assisted facial, light chemical peel.
- Pigmentation & sun damage: targeted chemical peels, laser facials.
- Ageing concerns: peels, microneedling, PRP-boosted protocols.
- Breakouts: salicylic peels, antibacterial LED, congestion clearing.
Consider downtime & sensitivity
- Zero downtime classic/hydrating facials, LED sessions.
- Low downtime light peels, gentle microneedling.
- Some downtime medium peels, intensive resurfacing.
New to actives or sensitive skin? We’ll start conservatively and progress as your skin tolerates.
Popular Facial Treatments in London (What They Do)
Classic & Hydrating Facials
Deep cleanse, gentle exfoliation, extractions (if needed), massage, and hydration for immediate radiance. Ideal pre-event or for maintenance.
Chemical Peels (AHA/BHA)
Acids refine texture, reduce dullness, and address breakouts or pigmentation. We offer Salicylic and Lactic options and tailor strength to your skin.
Microneedling
Creates micro-channels to stimulate collagen and improve texture, fine lines, and scars. Often paired with active serums for enhanced penetration.
PRP-Enhanced Facials
Your platelet-rich plasma (PRP) supports collagen and skin healing when combined with microneedling or other protocols. See our PRP guides in the blog.
Laser-Assisted Facials
Target discolouration, redness, or textural concerns with energy-based devices — often via our Laser Clinic.
LED Light Therapy
Blue, red, and near-infrared wavelengths to calm inflammation, support healing, and reduce breakouts—excellent as an add-on or standalone.
Which Facial is Best for Your Skin Concern?
Concern | Recommended | Avoid/Use Caution | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Dehydration / Dullness | Hydrating facial, gentle AHA peel, LED | Strong peels if barrier is compromised | Focus on barrier support and humectants. |
Breakouts / Congestion | Salicylic peel, antibacterial LED, targeted extractions | Heavy occlusives immediately after treatment | Space actives to avoid over-exfoliation. |
Pigmentation | Series of AHAs, targeted peels, laser facials | Aggressive single sessions | Consistency + SPF is key. |
Redness / Sensitised | Barrier-first facials, LED (red/NIR) | High-strength acids, heat-heavy protocols | Patch test where appropriate. |
Ageing (lines/texture) | Microneedling, medium peels, PRP-assisted | Overlapping actives post-care | Plan a series for best results. |
Unsure what to pick? Book a consultation and we’ll tailor the plan to your skin, lifestyle, and budget.
Typical Prices & Timings
Classic / Hydrating
60–75 mins
£135 for Santi Glow Facial, with LED add-on £60
Chemical Peels
30–45 mins
From £100 (superficial) to £200 (medium)
Microneedling
45–60 mins
Approximately £350
Laser / Light
30–60 mins
IPL rejuvenation / pigmentation £350; thread veins from £150
PRP / Platelet-Rich Plasma
60–75 mins
For hair: from £500 per session; facial PRP varies (consult needed)
CO₂ Laser (Resurfacing)
Session + consultation
Consult £220; full treatment from ~£750
Course pricing and tailored quotes will be confirmed during your consultation.
Pre-Appointment Checklist
- Avoid strong actives (retinoids, acids) for 48–72 hours unless advised.
- Arrive with clean skin (no heavy make-up).
- Tell us about any recent procedures (peels, laser, injectables, sun exposure).
- Plan your post-care: SPF 30+, gentle cleanser, non-occlusive hydration.
Why Choose Santi London
Clinician-led, evidence-based
We combine medical insight with advanced protocols for results that look fresh—not overdone.
Tailored plans
Your facial is adjusted to your skin type, tolerance, and goals at every visit.
Calm & integrated setting
Unhurried appointments in our South Kensington clinic with a full spectrum of skin, laser, and wellness services.
Explore related treatments
FAQs
How often should I get a facial?
Every 4–6 weeks works for most clients. If targeting a specific concern, we may suggest a short course first, then maintenance.
Which facial has no downtime?
Classic hydrating facials and LED are “back-to-desk.” Light peels may cause mild, short-lived flaking.
Is a peel better than a classic facial?
They serve different purposes. Peels more directly address texture, pigmentation and breakouts; classic facials prioritise hydration and radiance.
Can facials help sensitive skin?
Yes—with a barrier-first approach, gentle actives and patch testing to avoid irritation.
What should I avoid after a facial?
Avoid hot yoga/steam, exfoliants, and unprotected sun exposure for 24–72 hours depending on the treatment. Use SPF 30+ daily.
Popular facials at Santi London
Jump straight to a treatment page or keep reading the guide below.
Santi Glow Facial
Instant radiance with gentle exfoliation and mask.
TheraGlow Rejuvenating
Longer, sculpting massage + actives for deep glow.
BIOEFFECT EGF Facial
Plant EGF for visible firmness and smoothness.
Vitamin C Facial
Brightening antioxidant infusion to even tone.
Skin Polishing Facial
Refined resurfacing for ultra-smooth texture.
LED Light Therapy Facial
Red/blue/NIR light to calm, clear and support healing.