Spa review: Balance PMS Facial at Flawless boosts mind and body

After rushing up Wyndham Street to reach my appointment on time, it's a relief to arrive at the cool and lemon-scented entrance of Flawless spa. I'm here to try the latest addition to its pampering menu, the "Balance PMS Facial".

My therapist Babita escorts me to the treatment room and the snug, super-soft cocoon of the bed. She begins the massage, concentrating on my back, scalp, face, neck and shoulders.

For the first few minutes Babita applies pressure to my shoulders and spine, as if trying to flatten my posture that's out of whack thanks to years spent sitting at a desk. She also uses a powerful therapeutic blend of oils that target skin problems some women experience as a result of hormonal changes. Sage (meant to uplift), frankincense (to calm) cardamom and rosemary for physical strength, and geranium to help balance emotions and stimulate circulation.

The treatment also incorporates Swedish and neuromuscular techniques to help with circulation, using an aromatherapy pressure point facial massage that aims to plump the skin, improve circulation and reduce fine lines, as well as improving the lymphatic flow — which decreases puffiness on the face and neck areas.

About 30 minutes into the session and Babita mentions the word that sends shivers down my spine: extraction. The hunt for black heads can be a painful experience, but luckily she keeps the digging light and soon I'm back in my deeply relaxed state, thanks to her methodical wave machine-like hand motions. Finally, a mixture of rose, sandalwood and evening primrose oil is applied, to help promote relaxation and sooth the nerves.