Origins, 42 Neal Street, Covent Garden, London WC2 (020-7836 9603, www.origins.co.uk)

Atmosphere: Don’t expect fluffy white towelling robes and soothing music from your facial at Origins – you really do get what you pay for. The Origins facial is £15 for 45 minutes, which is redeemable against any products you choose to buy afterwards – in other words, an absolute bargain. It takes place in a corner of the Neal Street shop, which is cordoned off with a thin screen to provide a bit of privacy. It doesn’t shield against the hubbub of Covent Garden, particularly on a busy Saturday afternoon when the shop is rammed full of Origins regulars, both men and women, but at least they can’t see you in all your vulnerable glory.

Treatments: Charity was our spy’s therapist for the afternoon, and she was fantastic. A true Origins advocate, she worked her magic, taking a brief skin history and then tailoring the facial to our spy’s needs. It’s a short treatment, so no extractions or technical gadgetry. Origins is simply confident that clients will fall in love with its products. And our spy did – particularly its Dr Weil Mega-Mushroom Face Serum.

Highs: Where else can you get a 45-minute facial for £15?

Lows: At £15, it’s unfair to compare it to more luxe facials, but it is difficult to switch off with all the background noise.

Marks out of five: For what it is, five.

If you have a salon that you either love or hate, e-mail sarah.vine@thetimes.co.uk

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