A visit to Esteem Beauty provided Louise Sylvester with a gentle reminder of the importance of slowing down and caring for our skin as we age… IMAGES Gregor Reid
Self-care has become somewhat ubiquitous over the last few years, particularly since lockdown. The idea that we should all take more time to nurture ourselves (both body and mind) has taken root and I, for one, have embraced it. I have written extensively about looking after my body with gym sessions, running and even the rather chilly ‘dooking’ sessions in cold water. These practices do wonders for my mental and physical health, but lately, I’ve realised that caring for my skin could do with the same attention.
As I age, feeling confident in the mirror has become increasingly complicated. Fine lines are appearing, my skin can look red and dry and the five-minute skincare routine I perfected in my teens no longer ‘cuts it’. In all honesty after the kids go to bed, I am usually too exhausted to do much more than swipe a cleansing wipe across my face and brush my teeth, but this year I have resolved to invest more time (and money) into my skincare. While I am open to cosmetic procedures like Botox, I wanted to explore less invasive ways to make my skin glow — wrinkles or not.
Esteem Beauty
With that in mind, I booked an appointment at Esteem Beauty on Great Western Road, hoping that owner Kasia could help set a practical, effective plan in motion. Conveniently located near Kelvinbridge Underground, the clinic immediately impressed me with its bright, airy interior. The original stained-glass windows as I climbed the staircase to the treatment rooms added a charming touch — a sign that this was a place where attention to detail mattered.
Kasia greeted me warmly and listened carefully as I explained my goals. Like me, she is a busy mum, so she immediately understood the challenges of maintaining a skincare routine amid the chaos of daily life. She recommended a simple, three-pillar approach: SPF, a good cleanser and a serum tailored to my skin’s needs. For me, that meant retinol — a powerhouse ingredient that aids in cell turnover and reduces fine lines over time. Her advice was straightforward and refreshingly free from overwhelming product recommendations.
On that particular day, I was treating myself to a rare midweek night out with friends and so Kasia suggested a dermaplaning session — a treatment designed to provide instant brightness and smoothness to the skin.
Dermaplaning
Dermaplaning involves gently removing dead skin cells and soft facial hair from the surface of the skin. I had always been vaguely aware of my downy facial hair, but because it is so light, it rarely bothered me. However, Kasia explained that these fine hairs can trap dirt and oil in the follicles and removing them not only leaves the skin looking brighter but also enhances makeup application, as foundation no longer clings to stray hairs.
I had a fleeting concern that the hair might grow back thicker or darker, but Kasia reassured me that this was a myth: superficial facial hair grows back at the same rate and texture as before the treatment.
The dermaplaning itself was painless and lying on the comfortable treatment bed, wrapped in a soft faux fur blanket, I felt a sense of calm.
After the dermaplaning, Kasia applied a gentle peel, the sensation was fresh and invigorating, leaving my skin feeling thoroughly cleansed. Next came infrared light therapy, which not only felt deeply relaxing but is also believed to stimulate collagen production — a natural boost to skin elasticity and radiance. Finally, a vitamin C-infused moisture mask brightened and hydrated my skin, before Kasia finished the treatment with a critical layer of SPF.
Gaining Knowledge
The entire process was not only therapeutic but educational to boot. Leaving Esteem Beauty, I felt more than just pampered, I felt more knowledgeable in ways to look after my skin. Kasia had taken the time to listen to my concerns and offer practical advice that I could actually incorporate into my daily routine. Her mantra was simple but powerful: less is more. There is no need for an overwhelming array of products. Stick to the essentials — SPF, a good cleanser and a serum and adjust your routine according to what your skin needs.
What struck me most about Esteem Beauty is the distinction between facials designed purely for relaxation and those aimed at long-term skin health. Yes, there is incredible value in the spa experience, think soft music, scented oils and that sense of total relaxation. But targeted, results-driven facials, like those offered by Kasia, provide benefits that extend beyond the moment of indulgence. They are an investment in your skin’s health, encouraging a proactive approach to aging gracefully without resorting immediately to injectables or invasive procedures.
Time for You
Kasia stresses: ‘Skincare is not a one-time fix; it is an ongoing commitment. Regular treatments, whether professional or at home, can significantly improve the texture and tone of your skin. The truth is, as we age, it is the small, consistent habits like applying SPF every morning and cleansing properly that make a big difference to the way we view our skin.’
Visiting Esteem Beauty was not just about improving the appearance of my skin; it was a reminder of the value of carving out time for myself and seeking guidance from professionals when necessary. Investing in skincare is about more than vanity, it is about confidence and very literally ‘feeling comfortable in your own skin’. On that day I left the clinic feeling refreshed and inspired to incorporate an intentional approach to looking after my skin in 2026 and beyond.
Top 5 Skincare Tips
- SPF is Non-Negotiable: Even on cloudy days, apply SPF daily. It is the single most important step to protect your skin from premature aging.
- Keep It Simple: You don’t need a dozen products. Stick to the essentials: a gentle cleanser, SPF and a serum tailored to your skin.
- Serum Smarts: Choose your serum based on your skin’s needs. Vitamin C for brightness, retinol for texture and fine lines. Switch it up as your skin changes.
- Consistency Over Complexity: Daily routine beats occasional indulgence. Small, consistent habits make a bigger difference than once-in-a-while splurges.
- Pamper with Purpose: Facials aren’t just about feeling good, they’re about long-term results. Invest in treatments that support collagen, exfoliation, and overall skin health.
Esteem Beauty
481 Great Western Road, G12 8HL
esteembeauty.co.uk
0141 334 3254
