USP Small but perfectly formed spa offering respite from nearby designer stores and roar of Chelsea tractors. Founded just over a year ago by Philip Davies, a reflexologist and acupuncturist, the spa has an extensive range of well thought-out treatments.

His philosophy is “that what you put on your face and body is as important as what you put in it”, so only the highest quality products are used: La Prairie, Mama Mio, Dermalogica and, most recently, his own “Raw Glow” range made with raw, organic ingredients known for their optimal nutritional benefits that are hand blended and freshly made each day.

AMBIENCE It is how it should be. All hustle and bustle upstairs - after all, who wants to have their nails painted in silence - while downstairs' treatment rooms are the essence of tranquillity. Décor is classic spa: crisp and white, with a gorgeous floral arrangement and pretty candles.

EXPERIENCE I arrived late and flustered but was soon making my way downstairs, herbal tea in hand, looking forward to experiencing two treatments from the new Raw Glow menu.

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For Raw Glow Body my therapist Estelle blended honey, pomegranate and sesame seeds (chosen for their exfoliating, toning and conditioning qualities) and then applied the mixture to my body with rhythmic strokes to invigorate and polish my skin. After removing the residue with hot wet towels, she gave me a very gentle massage using spiced essential oils.

The treatment was incredibly relaxing and very well executed, but I’m a girl who likes her exfoliating massages to have a bit more oomph to achieve any significant results.

It was another story with the facial: The Raw Face Lift lived up to its billing as the ultimate in facial rejuvenation. My facialist, Danielle, used active "super food" ingredients: Manuka honey, acai berries, oats, green and white tea to nourish, lift and tone my skin. Each stage of the facial was a sensory delight, with mint sprays and deliciously scented scrubs and masks.

The end result was astounding - it didn’t feel or look like my own skin and I couldn’t stop looking in the mirror. Not one line, it felt as smooth as soapstone and, despite being barefaced, my skin tone was even, with cheeks flushed a perfect pink as if I’d freshly applied my makeup. The results lasted for a good few days - even my unobservant housemate said I looked radiant.

Since my visit I have tried to replicate the facial by concocting some of the key ingredients in my kitchen. Unfortunately, all I succeeded in was making lot of mess.

FOOD With all those yummy ingredients, it does seem rather ironic that only liquid refreshments are available – but should your tummy start to rumble (which it will do), Waitrose is nearby.

IN CROWD Other than a couple of trendy 30-something’s getting their nails done upstairs, I didn’t see a soul - I think that was the point though. Apparently, they do a roaring trade with local residents who undoubtedly appreciate their genuinely friendly and highly professional attitude.

WALLET WATCH Unfortunately, being natural doesn’t come cheap; the Raw Face Lift facial will set you back a hefty £85 (but worth every penny) and the Raw Glow Body comes in at £88. That said, with such a diverse range of beauty, grooming and holistic treatments they have something to suit all budgets. For example, you can blow the bank with a 90 minute, £110 La Prairie Caviar facial or opt for a very reasonable £35 Dermalogica one.

NEED TO KNOW Glow Spa & Beauty, 8 Motcomb Street, London SW1X 8JU (020 7752 0652; www.glowurbanspa.co.uk)

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