Health & Wellness: Spa Day at Four Seasons

by WL Author

Plant-based treatments from German beauty company offered exclusively at D.C. hotel.

By Kelly Magyriacs

The Four Seasons Spa in D.C. is now using product lines from Amala Beauty.

Recently, the spa at the Four Seasons in Washington, D.C. (2800 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202-342-0444) began using German skincare line Amala Beauty for some of its facial treatments. At last week’s launch party, a representative from the line was on hand to provide information and samples to guests, who enjoyed a spa-inspired cocktail, appetizers and desserts, as well as mini-facials using the new products.

“Amala” in Sanskrit means “most pure.” In Tibetan, it translates as “revered mother.” And in Spanish, it means “love her.” Whichever translation you prefer, the meaning ideally fits the foundation for the company’s products: organic, sustainably cultivated whole-plant ingredients. For two decades, the company says it has sought out the most potent, healing plants around the world to custom extract and distill their powerful essences in a way that retains their full therapeutic value. This approach, they say, is most true to nature, as it leaves all the beautifying benefits for the skin intact.

The four product lines offered at the Four Seasons are designed for different stages of life, skin types and challenges. Hydrate helps restore moisture to dull, dehydrated skin through jasmine, a key ingredient valued for its nourishing, smoothing and antioxidant properties. Rejuvenate uses cocoa beans, known for their ability to stimulate cell renewal and circulation, to help smooth the look of fine lines and wrinkles, firm and redensify skin, and restore elasticity. Purify’s ingredients include rare blue lotus from East Asia, which the company says infuses skin with all-natural vitamins, minerals and amino acids for a pure, healthy complexion. This line is designed to control excess oil, clear clogged pores and heal and prevent blemishes and blackheads. Detoxify uses the Mediterranean flowering plant myrtle to deeply cleanse and smooth the skin all over the body, restoring a healthy tone and texture while awakening the senses with a fresh, energizing aroma.

Guests at Amala's product launch were treated to cocktails, appetizers and cookies adorned with information about the product lines. Photo credit Lisa Amore.

Jay Karkour, a representative with Amala, touted the natural composition of her company’s products, which she says are 100 percent natural, free of synthetics, chemical preservatives and any ingredients tested on animals. As a test run, she spritzed guests at their request with the Amala Rejuvenating Toner. After a few light sprays to my face, my skin felt cool and refreshed, and the cocoa scent was attractive yet subtle.

Amala products are on offer at the Four Seasons in two of the spa’s facial treatments. The Amala Custom Facial (50-80 minutes, $145-$210) uses products tailored for a guest’s skin type. The Rejuvenation Mini-Facial (25 minutes, $95-$105) uses the Rejuvenate line to restore lasting hydration and elasticity.

I had a mini-facial at the Four Seasons that uses Rejuvenate products. My technician told me that clients have appreciated the products’ natural, not-too powerful scents, as well as the results. Indeed, after being cleansed, masque-d and moisturized, several people complemented the fresh and dewy nature of my skin. It felt wonderful and definitely piqued my interest in experiencing the effects of the full-length facial.

Oh, and if you need a little rejuvenation while waiting for your spa appointment, mixologist Duane Sylvestre at adjacent Bourbon Steak has you covered with the Rejuvenate cocktail, which he created for the launch party. Incorporating Crème de Cacao (a nod to the cocoa beans used in all of the products), it promises to be “Pure, Powerful, Protective.” It’s super light and refreshing — a lovely summer drink.

Rejuvenate Cocktail
Courtesy of Duane Sylvestre, Bourbon Steak, Washington, D.C.

3/4 oz. Lillet Blonde
3/4 oz. Lemon juice
3/4 oz. Crème de Cacao White
3/4 oz. Plymouth Gin
Edible blossom, for garnish

Add all except garnish to a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake well to chill. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with an edible blossom.

Kelly Magyarics is a wine and spirits writer, and wine educator, in the Washington, D.C. area. She can be reached through her website, www.kellymagyarics.com, or on www.twitter.com/kmagyarics.

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