re:lax skin studio Borough Yards: my bespoke facial experience

If you’ve been looking for the best place to get a personalised facial that emphasises on massage techniques, you might have heard of re:lax in London. I have visited the Borough Yards studio twice and here’s my honest review of the bespoke facial and what to expect - spoiler alert, I can’t recommend it enough!

re:lax London: a sanctuary for personalised facials

re:lax was born from Katie White’s personal journey with her skin. As a facialist and nutritional therapist, she knew the toll that harsh, one-size-fits-all solutions could take, and set out to create something different.

In 2019, she opened the first re:lax studio in Hackney, East London, offering a gentler yet highly effective approach to skincare.

Four years later, the flagship studio opened in Borough Yards, bringing her results-focused philosophy to a wider audience.

The re:lax team works with Katie’s signature method, pairing advanced techniques with natural, skin-friendly products.

Every treatment is bespoke, carefully tailored to the individual’s needs, whether that means calming inflammation, deeply hydrating or tackling early signs of ageing. It is skincare that listens first, then transforms.

From indulgent facials that feel like a true escape to targeted therapies that deliver visible results, re:lax has built its reputation as a go-to destination for healthy, glowing skin.

What type of treatments can you get at re:lax?

When booking your facial, you can choose between these main options:

Bespoke facial: A personalised treatment combining double cleansing, exfoliation, steam, mask, serum application and facial massage. Optional add-ons include LED light therapy and hand/foot/scalp massage for the ultimate relaxing experience.
Gua sha lift facial: Utilizing traditional Chinese tools like white jade or bian gua sha, this facial lifts, tones, and sculpts the skin and facial muscles, promoting a vibrant complexion
Deep cleansing facial: Designed for thorough pore purification, this treatment includes extractions to address congestion and promote clear skin.
Signature facial: An advanced treatment that incorporates techniques such as lymphatic drainage and intra-oral massage to enhance skin health and relaxation.
Facials with body massage: Combining facial treatments with full-body massage, these sessions aim to release muscle tension and provide deep relaxation.

What to expect from a bespoke facial at re:lax? My honest experience at the Borough Yards studio

As the name suggests, the bespoke facial is completely personalised based on how your skin feels and what you’d like to get from your treatment. However it will always include the key steps of a facial, from cleansing to moisturising.

But the best part is the facial massage, which I think is really what sets re:lax apart. Anyone who’s into Kobibo-style manual massage, gua sha or jade roller will have an incredible experience there.

The products are one thing, but the art of massaging the face with expert techniques to rejuvenate the skin is what will give you that instant “face lift effect” and make you walk out of your facial with a renewed glow.

All the facialists are trained to apply the founder’s techniques and whilst I’ve only had a facial with two of them, I’m sure you’re in expert hands with anyone from the team.

Here’s what happens when you book your re:lax bespoke facial:

Your experience starts before you even step a foot in the studio, as you receive a questionnaire to complete. It includes questions about your detailed skincare routine, any skincare acids you use, any allergies etc. You’re encouraged to give as many details as possible, so that your facialist can ensure to avoid any products that may cause any issues.

This is also your opportunity to tell them how you feel about your skin, what you expect from your facial and if there are specific concerns you want to address. What I really like is that they ask you if you’d like to be talked to during the massage or just before.

I personally prefer to have a chat beforehand then fully relax during, and this is great to have a chance to voice my preferences without feeling awkward.

Then once you arrive for your appointment, your facialist will take you to the studio, you’ll have a chat about your answers in the form, they’ll tell you what they recommend and ask for your preferences, for instance whether you’d prefer a foot or scalp massage, LED during the facial etc. Just note that the bespoke facial doesn’t include extractions or intra-oral massage.

Your treatment can now start, and all you have to do is… guess what? Relax, whilst your facialist works their magic on your skin. Everything from the music to the blankets and the quality of the facial itself is designed for you to hit the pause button and truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.

Not only will you leave with glowing skin but also with a refreshed mind and lowered stress levels.

Is it worth the price?

These facials are objectively not cheap (currently £95 for 60min) but the experience is 100% worth it. It’s not just skincare, it’s a self-care practice I like to treat myself to every once in a while.

There is a way to sweeten the deal: keep an eye out for discounted slots on the schedule at Borough Yards - they often offer 15% off if you’re available for a mid-week, mid-afternoon appointment.

This is what I’ve done both times, I received the same high standard experience for a little less money!