The Blurb
Based at 180 Strand, a creative hub brimming with fashion brands, production studios and artistic talent just moments from Somerset House, Kichi sits within the sleek surroundings of the 180 Health Club. The clinic’s facials have already attracted a devoted following, including the likes of Sienna Miller, Emilia Clarke and Poppy Delevingne.
I arrive on a particularly muggy London afternoon and am greeted by Jessica, who leads me into a spacious treatment room, generously kitted out with velvety sofas, cutting-edge laser technology, and an array of devices that immediately signal this will be no ordinary facial.
The Process
The treatment begins with a classic cleanse and a thorough massage to warm up my face before moving straight into the most fascinating part of my visit. A radiofrequency device (known for its collagen and elastin-boosting qualities) is applied while a gentle electrical current is delivered through bracelets worn on the facialist’s wrists. It sounds futuristic, and honestly, it feels it too.
Next comes microcurrent, which, in addition to boosting circulation, provides a temporary lifting effect post-facial. While generally comfortable, I find it slightly intense around my teeth, a common sensation during this type of treatment. Once that stage is complete, numbing cream is applied, and I spend some blissful time napping under an LED light.
The laser resurfacing portion follows. A non-ablative fractional laser is used to create microscopic channels in the skin, banking collagen and targeting pigmentation and fine lines. There is a slight snapping sensation against the skin, which is barely noticeable, even without comparison to some of the more aggressive treatments I’ve experienced. One detail I particularly appreciate is that the neck is treated alongside the face. Too often it feels like an afterthought, yet here it’s given equal attention.
With all possible grounds covered, the appointment finishes up with the application of serum and a moisturising SPF. I mention during the treatment that I’m worried about pigmentation, so I leave with a personalised skincare recommendation: Mesoestetic Melan Tran3x Concentrate, for anyone interested.
Leaving the clinic, my complexion is noticeably red, and it increases over the next few hours (a surprise the next time I look in the mirror!). Fortunately, this is central London, where no one bats an eyelid at post-facial redness, and by the time I get home in the evening, it has completely subsided.
The Results
While the immediate redness may deter anyone looking for a lunchtime treatment, the downtime is surprisingly minimal given the level of technology involved.
Over the following days, my skin developed a slightly rough texture. The recommendation is to keep the skin well moisturised and avoid exfoliation while it heals and renews. In spite of this, I still notice that post-facial glow shining through.
Within a few days, my skin appears brighter, smoother and noticeably more refined in texture. After a week or so, my complexion is in top form, and my skin feels completely refreshed.
For those looking for results beyond what a traditional facial might deliver – without venturing into more invasive territory – Kichi’s high-tech Flawless facial offers an impressive middle ground.
The Details
KICHI X 180 HEALTH CLUB, 180 Strand, Temple, London WC2R 1EA
The Kichi Flawless Facial is £550
