The Ole Henriksen Spa has been a celeb favorite for decades and stepping into the Sunset Plaza oasis it’s easy to understand why. Every detail is impeccable, down to the soothing aromatherapy and gleaming copper foot baths. Katy Perry is just one of the spas many loyal A-list clients. But, according to owner Vance Soto, you don’t need a Grammy to get V.I.P. service. “Everybody is a celebrity to us. We don’t treat anybody different and we have something on our lovely menu of services for everybody.”
I was fortunate enough to try out the spas most talked about treatment — The Red Carpet Facial. Billed as “the ultimate anti-aging treatment” the 90-minute facial is almost like getting 3 different facials in one. With multiple steps using the latest in technology and science, along with plenty of gentle human touch, it’s no wonder it’s Katy’s favorite facial.
High-frequency tool kills bacteria (therefore no breakouts!) It’s also great for ingrown hairs.
After cleansing the skin the first step is the HydraFacial™ which gently resurfaces the skin and infuses it with high-grade serums. Then a lymphatic massage increases blood flow and forces out toxins. Next comes the human stem cell treatment, which plumps the skin and gives it that extra glow. Then the LHE micro photo facial to improve texture, erase sun damage and lift and firm skin. LED light therapy is also included. Designed by NASA engineers to help wounds heal faster in space, red LED light therapy stimulates collagen production.
NovaSonics which stimulate circulation at the cellular level. Promotes healing and oxygenation by using audible sound vibrations.
Clean pores are an integral part of any good facial so along with all the latest science, you can expect some good old fashioned extractions (unless you decline them). I always need a ton of these during facials and, let’s be honest, they’re usually torture. But thanks to all the high tech prep my skin was ready to purge and my fantastic esthetician Loris made it practically painless. The last step in this ultra-indulgent facial is an oxygen treatment with antioxidants to lock in moisture.
After nearly two hours of pampering, I left the spa totally relaxed with skin that was glowing. I did have a few red spots and was happy to find out that all services at Ole Henriksen included a complimentary follow up “spa check” appointment to address any issues. Meaning if you break-out they can zap your zit with high frequency or soothe any red skin with a blast of LED light therapy. Fortunately, my redness quickly faded and I had no break-out issues. In fact, over the next few days my glow up got even better. My skin tone was more even and I looked visibly refreshed. Although this isn’t a permanent fix — I was told to expect the results to stick around for at least ten days — getting regular facials definitely improves skin longterm.
At $425, The Red Carpet Facial is definitely decadent. Luckily there are services on the Ole Henriksen Spa menu at lower price points. And, if hitting the spa just isn’t an option for you then make sure to follow these tips Loris shared with me during my facial. Exfoliate twice a week (removing the dead skin cells gives your skin a glow, keeps your pores cleaner and makes it easier for your products to penetrate). Always use a toner after you cleanse to minimize the appearance of your pores. And bump up the effectiveness of your sunscreen by using a vitamin C serum first.
Ole Henriksen Spa
8622A W. Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90069
(310) 854-7700