As summer begins to transition to fall, temperatures shift from warm and humid, to crisp and cool sometimes as quickly as in a day. Don’t get us wrong, we’re looking forward to the change of season but the sudden switch in weather can leave you with itchy and irritated skin, or even worse, a very unpleasant breakout. But often enough, all you need is a quick trip to the spa to give your skin the TLC that it deserves. Here in Toronto, we’re spoiled when it comes to luxe spas that deliver an impressive lineup of treatments that are not only complexion saviours, but are also incredibly relaxing. Read on to see where we’re heading to for our all-time-favourite exfoliating, massaging, extracting, hydrating, smoothing, technologically advanced, glow-ifying facials in Toronto.
Hopefully, by the end of this article, you’ll be more than inspired to treat yo’ self to a facial at one (or all!) of these Toronto spas!
Consonant Skincare: Consonant Custom Cold Laser
Nowadays, it’s not just our lives that are technology-driven, our skincare is too, and it just so happens this Queen Street natural-beauty haven is home to a technology forward facial, that targets common skin concerns like dehydration, elasticity, and evening out complexion. But don’t let the premise of being technology-focused scare you. This facial uses an incredibly relaxing, nine-step process that includes a cold laser, microdermabrasion, oxygen, and LED light therapy, which works together to increases cell turnover and stimulates collagen and elastin production. Not to mention, all products used during the treatment are from Consonant, so they’re 100% natural.
Blitz Facial Bar: The Micro
If you feel like your complexion is looking dull and tired, a micro facial from Blitz is just what the doctor ordered. During this 30-minute procedure, the esthetician will start by cleansing your skin, followed by a microdermabrasion procedure that uses a diamond tip paired with gentle suction to remove the outermost layer of dead skin. This is followed by a lymphatic massage, hydration, and SPF, leaving you with healthy, bright, and glowing skin.
Province Apothecary: The Custom Organic Facial
For the gals and guys who want a treatment that’s more catered to their personal skincare needs, Province Apothecary’s custom organic facial is definitely a must-have. You’ll start your procedure with a fully holistic consultation with a skin therapist to determine your skin concerns and how they can be treated. Based on this analysis, your skin therapist will begin your customized treatment with in-house made all organic products through a series of lymphatic stimulation, cleansing, a honey mask, massage, and extraction (if necessary). You’ll also get to go home with samples and a custom-blended facial serum to build a complete home-care regime included in this treatment.
Spa My Blend by Clarins: HydraFacial
If you’re a fan of treatments that deliver instant results, you’ll want to give the hydrafacial at Spa My Blend by Clarins at the Ritz Carlton a try. This non-invasive and non-surgical procedure helps to resurface your skin through a series of cleansing, exfoliating, extractions, and hydration. Your skin will be treated to a cocktail of antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid, giving you optimal results without any downtime. Plus, you can choose from a 30, 60, or 90-minute treatment, depending on your schedule.
Hammam Spa: Skinceuticals Treatment Facial
If you feel like you’re going through a period of particularly dull skin, the Skinceuticals Treatment Facial at the Hammam Spa on King Street West not only brightens skin, we assure you that it works wonders on your overall skin tone to boost overall radiance. Here’s how it works: the treatment is rich in antioxidants and exfoliators, that work together to leave skin looking brighter and more radiant and refreshed.
Ritual: Red Carpet Facial
The next time you have a special occasion to prepare for, we recommend treating yourself to Ritual’s ‘red carpet facial.’ This relaxing and luxe facial combines all of the salon’s best techniques, leaving you with flawless looking skin. Treatments include a deep cleansing, customized masque, advanced exfoliation, micro-current lift, and an oxygen infusion leaving skin looking plumped, glowing, and red carpet ready.
We’re right smack in the middle of winter, with no sign of real relief until at least April (you know, April showers = May flowers). And that means it’s time to focus on some self care to brighten those bleak days ahead!
We scoured the city to find the best ways to pamper yourself in Toronto this winter, check them out below.
The Annex Hotel
Instagram/@annexhotels
The new(ish) Annex Hotel located at Bloor and Brunswick is the ideal staycation this winter. Located in the heart of the Annex, this hotel is filled with sunshine and good vibes. The 100-year-old building is also the millennial dream with white exposed brick walls and unique art from local Toronto artists decorating the walls. We can already picture you curled up with a book in one of their trendy suites while the in-room record player spins and the sun shines in from the floor to ceiling windows; ultimate pampering vibes.
They have taken a different angle to the hotel experience by doing away with unnecessary amenities to focus on what really matters — a great price point! Say goodbye to wake up calls (because we all have cellphones for that now), in-unit TVs (they have iPads!) and cable, and say hello to online check-in (that’s right, no front desk) and MALIN+GOETZ skincare products.
While you’re staying, be sure to check out some of the amazing bars and restaurant in the area. Our favourites include Insomnia, By The Way, Do Eat (seriously the best dumplings in town,) and El Furniture Warehouse (if you’re in the mood for something a little more rowdy).
Hoame
Instagram/@allyonlinis
It’s freezing cold and the end of winter isn’t yet in sight — time to take refuge at Hoame! This meditation space is exactly the thing you need in your life right now to keep those vibrations high as we head into the coldest months ahead. Hoame is a place for people to relax, restore, and recharge while practising mindfulness and meditation in an accessible and judgment-free zone. They offer guided meditations in their lightroom (designed to leave you feeling energized) and darkroom (designed to leave you feeling relaxed and grounded) so you can choose the energy you’re looking to leave with.
The space also features a salt cave with over six tons of Himalayan pink crystal salt, which has been used in cultures as old as ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome to treat several health conditions. Trace minerals in this tranquil escape can reduce stress and anxiety, relax the body, cleanse the skin respiratory system, and strengthen immune function.
Their Infrared Sauna is also available for bookings, which has a number of health benefits attached to it from simply aiding in relaxation, detoxification and stress reduction, to pain relief, skin purification, and improved circulation. You’re also able to bring in your iPad/laptop to watch some Netflix or listen to your own music during your session if you’d like.
And to top it all off, enjoy some time in their stunningly designed living room while sampling a variety of complimentary beverages. The space was designed to connect with the community before or after class, so couch hangs are highly encouraged!
Spa my Blend by Clarins
Instagram/@ritzcarltontoronto
For the ultimate pampering this winter, head to Spa my Blend by Clarins located in the Ritz-Carlton. This downtown oasis is the ultimate relaxation destination, with a full day pass to access the amenities included when booking any treatment over 60 minutes. If possible, try to arrive at least an hour before your appointment so you can take advantage of these amenities. The eucalyptus steam room is a highlight, but depending on the treatment you get, they may recommend you avoid it.
Spa my Blend by Clarins is the only location in North America, and they have a ton of facial options that can be customized just for you. They’re able to target specific problems you’re looking to work on (acne, fine lines, dry skin) with their technology and the result is always glowing skin. Although it’s safe to say this one is a splurge (treatments start at $165 per person), it’s one that’s definitely worth it (especially if you get an earlier appointment and stay at the spa for the rest of the day).
Featured image: Instagram/@thesmallbrunette
Articles You Might Be Interested In:
The Largest Spa In North America Is Just 4.5 Hours Away From Toronto
The Top 8 Spas To Visit In Toronto
15 Drugstore Skincare Products That Are Just As Good As High End
6 Ontario Getaways To Cure Your Winter Blues
9 Amazing Winter Activities To Try This Winter In Ontario
If you’re looking for a way to relax and unwind, why not book a spa day? We’re all so busy that it can be a challenge to slow down and take care of ourselves, which is why everyone can benefit from a relaxing day at the spa.
There is no shortage of amazing places to pamper yourself in Toronto and show yourself a little extra love.
Here’s our roundup of the best Toronto spas to help you decide where to go!
The Spa at the Four Seasons
Instagram/@jehdventures
One of the best Toronto spas is the spa at the Four Seasons, which has the most luxurious ambiance to immediately relax you. Located in Yorkville, this spa has it all. With 17 treatment rooms, a pool, 2 saunas, and a salon, there is no shortage of services offered. Notable services include the Rose Gold Facial and Rosedale Reflexology.
Body Blitz
Instagram/@bodyblitzspa
This women’s only spa has two locations in the city: one at King East and the other at Adelaide West. Here you can relax and detox your body and mind. This spa is distinguished by its therapeutic water circuit which is designed to relax, rejuvenate, energize, and cleanse the body. Aside from the water circuit, this spa has private treatment rooms, showers, infared saunas, a Dead Sea salt pool, a hot Epsom salt pool, a cold plunge pool, and an aromatherapy steam room so there is no shortage of services offered at this spa either!
Sweetgrass Spa
Instagram/@sweetgrassspa
This is another women’s only spa and is located on Queen West. Here, they offer a pool, sauna, whirlpool, and are catered by George Restaurant. They offer a wide variety of services with their specialty being the Lomi Lomi Massage Treatment. It soothes away both physical and emotional stresses to promote your overall well being.
Spa at the Hazelton
Instagram/@blooryorkville
Located in the Hazelton Hotel, this spa offers all sorts of traditional spa services with a special focus on travellers. Their “Jet Lag Facial” is definitely something to check out! This spa is perfect if you’re looking for a soothing, tranquil setting in an intimate environment.
Hammam Spa
Instagram/@hammamspa
This spa is the ultimate urban sanctuary. If you’re looking to unwind from a busy week, the treatments here are bound to help! From massage to body treatments, skin therapy, and more, Hammam Spa has lots to offer. Located on King West, Hammam Spa offers treatments inspired by ancient rituals to help promote your overall health and wellness.
Elmwood Spa
Instagram/@elmwoodspa
This little oasis is tucked away on Elm Street in the heart of downtown Toronto. Here, you will find a wide variety of spa treatments such as facials and Li’tya healing rituals. This quiet, peaceful spa has 34 treatment rooms, a variety of water therapies, 2 restaurants, and a juice bar. They also offer couples packages if you’re looking to spend a relaxing, romantic weekend together in the city.
Spa My Blend
Instagram/@ritzcarltontoronto
Located in the Ritz Carlton, this luxurious spa has a ton of treatments to choose from. From facials to massages, a green tea infused vitality pool, and more, this spa is definitely the place to go if you’re looking to be truly pampered.
The Spa at The Old Mill
Instagram/@oldmilltoronto
This historical hotel’s spa has everything you need to relax. They offer tons of services where you can personally indulge or share the experience with a loved one. Located in The Old Mill Inn, you will forget that you’re still in the city!
Did we miss any of the best Toronto spas? Let us know on Facebook!
Featured Image: Pexels