I try: an Oxygenation Facial at Forme Spa Parnell

Apparently the choice of Victoria’s Secret Angels and brides-to-be alike, oxygen facials are high-performance cosmeceutical treatments that carry active ingredients deep into your skin via oxygen molecules. They promise softer, smoother skin that feels cleaner and fresher than ever, and are about as non-invasive as it gets. This means that they are pretty much suitable for all skins, which is rare for many effective beauty treatments out there today. They are also the perfect treatment for skin that is sluggish, clogged or prematurely aging, and one of the key facials - under the name Oxygenation Facial - on the menu at Parnell’s Forme Spa. When I was offered the chance to try one I was definitely keen - it might not give me Miranda’s bod but hey, I’ll take her baby soft skin!

After I fill out a highly detailed pre-consultation form, my therapist Mei at the beautiful Parnell branch of the popular spa chain takes me through to a treatment room and we get started with a traditional double cleanse and exfoliation with Bioelements products. I was familiar with the brand from a launch years ago, and it is one of Forme’s brands of choice due to its low level of irritation for most skins.

The machine however is the work of Australia’s Intraceuticals, and an ampoule of their serum for sensitive skin is deemed the best choice for my face before the main event begins. The sensation is cooling and feels almost like suction - but isn’t - as a small nozzle works its way over one side of my face and neck, pushing out the appropriate infusion. Hyperbaric (above atmosphere pressure) oxygen adds a cooling, calming effect and generates a pressure bubble to help saturate skin tissue with the aformentioned infusion, containing hyaluronic acid and soothing extras. All up it takes about 45 minutes and when I look in the mirror my skin definitely looks clearer and plumper, with fine lines definitely hiding for the next couple of days.

Repeat visits are recommended, with visible results said to extend over time, but the oxygen facial also works as a one-off treatment for special occasions (Madonna reportedly owns three machines and takes one on tour to plump up pre-show). As with any treatment before a big event such as your big day, a trial is a good idea, although this facial has a much lower risk of breakouts than most as it’s all about giving as opposed to taking away.

An Oxygenation Facial at Forme Spa Parnell will set you back $145.00 and you can find out more here.