Hong Kong summers can wreak havoc on your skin. The oppressive heat, humidity and pollution combine to clog your pores, making skin greasy, while artic air conditioning dries it out.
The men's Refinery Facial at Flawless is a maintenance treatment designed to combat these unavoidable factors of life in the city.
The urban spa is located on the fourth floor of Sea Bird House on Wyndham Street and offers consultations and a range of treatments for men and women.
Inspired by the renowned men's grooming salon in London, the facials employ a range of products that are essential oil-based with masculine scents such as clove and spearmint and are designed to combat dryness and sensitivity, which are the most common skin complaints for men. I try the 45-minute detox cleanse.
After some green tea in the bright reception area, I am led into a private room where I am instructed to take off my T-shirt and lie on the bed under a towelling blanket. My therapist comes back, dims the lights and diagnoses my skin under a fluorescent light and a magnifying glass. I am told my skin is "quite good" but greasy.
First, I am "welcomed" with frankincense oil, which is wafted in front of my nose and then massaged into my head, neck and shoulders. The effect is simultaneously relaxing and refreshing.
