Feel good factor: Skin Matters

What: A heavy-duty, high-tech facial with diagnostic and healing elements, devised by leading facialist Joanne Evans.

Beauty powers: It costs from £250, which sounds a lot until you learn that Elle Macpherson, Claudia Schiffer and Dannii Minogue are regulars and the products are by Dr Jules Nabet, a top Parisian doctor.

The process: The 90-minute treatment begins traditionally enough — soft music, a comfortable, warm bed to lie on followed by a relaxing deep cleanse, steam, extraction, exfoliation and massage (face and neck). Then the wizardry begins when Sandra uses a metal roller which emits a tiny electrical current to force rejuvenating, detoxifying liquid vitamins A, E and C deep into my skin. Next she applies the intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy wand to red veins and sun spots to eradicate them. It emits a noise like a fly zapper and makes me jump.

Any surprises? Yes, it is slightly painful but the upside is that I leave with glowing, even-toned skin. I can see why the rich and famous come back for more.

Cost: £300 with Joanne Evans but Sandra offers Joanne's customised facials for £250. The Skin Matters facial is available at Dr Jules Nabet Medical Rooms, Royal Garden Hotel, Kensington High Street,W8, 020 7938 2195, julesnabet.com