Between Wellington’s wild winds and “four seasons in a day,” your skin’s probably gone through a lot (I know mine’s had!). Dry patches? Breakout?  Trust me – that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

The good news is, you don’t have to settle for so-so facials. Our team searched far and wide to interview clients and observe clinics to find the cream of the crop. We also looked through before and after photos to make sure you get serious results.

Before you set your eyes on anything else, check out this list first! 

1. Beyond Skin Wellbeing Medical Spa

Beyond Skin won us over with their ability to provide in-depth services. In particular, we liked their skin mapping analysis – a 30-minute session that assesses skin type, lifestyle factors, and underlying issues to create a tailored plan.

They also have a solid range of facial treatments, with a few client favourites including Beauty to God, Fresh Up, and Energy Peel Packages. All these run for 30 minutes, and are best known for delivering immediate results after the session.

We also appreciate the add-on services, which allow clients to seamlessly bundle services with facials. These include eyebrow shaping, massage, and even nail treatments. With these add-ons, the total service spans a little over an hour.

Beyond the quality of services, we also noted how simple the booking process was online. The pricing was also reasonable, considering their rates fall within the city’s average.

The downside is that if you need facials ASAP for an urgent event, you may struggle booking a spot. You need to book at least a week in advance to ensure an appointment, though they’re willing to make space for loyal, returning clients.

Awesome place for the best facial 

“Awesome place, I have tried many products and places but this was the best facial I’ve ever had and great advice that has really helped my skin in a short time,  will definitely be back! Everyone is super friendly too, thanks so much ☺️ Really recommend the skin mapping for anyone struggling with ongoing skin issues.”

Priyanka Acharya | Google Reviews

Passionate about their approach

“I’ve been here for a couple of treaments (massage and facial). Javeen (the co-owner and aesthetician) is wonderful. She is passionate about what she does with a holistic approach. I really felt looked after all round during my treatments. Overall fantastic.”

Laura Weir | Google Reviews

2. Rising Day Spa

The experience alone at Rising Day Spa is enough to make clients come back for multiple sessions. Come in and you’ll be greeted with warm lighting, soft music, and a front desk staff that welcomes guests with a bright smile.

The quality and range of their facial services are solid. Their most popular facial package includes a 30-minute express facial and a 60-minute nourishing facial. There’s also an option to upgrade to Dermalogica products for only $50.

Our team loved that the process is tailored to specific skin concerns, though we noted that the service is generally gentle, resulting in dewy skin for days. There’s even an option to combine facials with massage, scrubs, or a foot spa.

They also manage bookings efficiently – in one case, we saw how they still accommodated an expired voucher (this depends on the situation, of course). The availability is flexible, and the entire process is hassle-free online.

However, we did note a few inconsistencies in service quality depending on the therapist. A few clients reported rushed or distracted treatments during their session. Thankfully, these appear to be rare instances.

Warm and welcoming experience 

“Such a wonderful experience since the moment I walked through the door. Very warm & welcoming. My massage put me to sleep it was that good!! As someone who never gets massages, I was educated with the treatments being done and have a better knowledge base on how to treat my skin!! My facial I received was incredible & left me feeling like a million dollars! Would 200% recommend Rising Day Spa to everyone & will 1000% be coming back for more treatments!

Thank you! 😍🫶🏽”

Sophie Beaumont | Google Reviews

Friendly and professional staff 

“So nice I used twice. Came to Rising Day Spa right off my 17 hour flight from the US.  Received a facial from  Sanjini and massage from Marion. Both really friendly, professional gals. Felt great, my skin was dewy and hydrated. My muscles nice and relaxed. I came back on my last day in Wellington before catching my flight home for another facial. I highly recommend.”

RC | Google Reviews

3. Spring Spa

Spring Spa wins with their extensive range of facial treatments, particularly with their use of premium international skincare brands like CODAGE Paris and Augustinus Bader.

The ambience makes for a solid client experience too – every guest is greeted with herbal tea and a nice, peaceful atmosphere. 

Among their most famous offerings are their line of CODAGE facials, which lasts for 60 minutes. One option, the CODAGE hydration facial, includes an enzyme peel for cell renewal. This leads to softer, more radiant skin.

There are also more advanced options, such as the CODAGE anti-aging facial.  This one includes AHA, BHA, and fruit enzymes to target fine lines and pigmentation. We see this as a solid for those with mature skin.

We were also impressed with the shoulder and scalp massages integrated into many of the treatments. On top of that, clients say the massage is “one of the most relaxing experiences”.

While the treatment rooms are generally peaceful and quiet, we do find their waiting area and hallway to be a bit noisy, which somehow affects the experience. It’s a minor frustration, though, as waiting times aren’t that long.

Relaxing procedures

“Fantastic Spa in Wellington! I had the Hydration Facial and it exceeded my expectations, the procedure was very relaxing and the additional shoulder massage was just enough to really remove all the stress. The therapists are incredibly skilled and they use quality products.  Highly recommended!”

Gabriel W | Google Reviews

Incredibly knowledgeable, gentle, and calm 

“I had a facial and brow tint with Lina, and it was an incredible experience. She is incredibly knowledgable, gentle and calm. She made me feel so comfortable – for someone with problem skin she really spoke to my concerns and gave me tangible advice and recommendations. I love my brows too! The ladies on the front desk were so lovely too, and I happily rebooked! Thank you ❤”

Ainsley H | Google Reviews

4. Bodyhaven Spa Tory Street

Nestled in the city center, Bodyhaven is that perfect break from the hustle and bustle of the city. We definitely loved its ambience and atmosphere – the dimly lit corridors, cosy massage rooms, soft music, and calming scent all make for a great experience.

The facial services here are thoughtfully curated based on individual needs. However, we find that two of their most-recommended options are worth highlighting: the Haven Facial and Revival Treat.

We liked that both options include head and neck massages, with the latter even featuring a full eye treatment. At $150 and $155, respectively, it’s priced reasonably too, for a type of treatment that delivers skin-reviving results.

There are procedures made for more targeted solutions too, including brightening, hydrating, and clarifying options. We also appreciate the quick, 30-minute options they offer, which we find adequate for moisturising sessions.

However, our members did note that there are no extractions in the facial philosophy – clients looking for blackhead or acne-related solutions may find it disappointing. But for certain skin concerns for rejuvenation, their options are just right.

Best full facial

“Lydia was an amazing beauty therapist! She gave me the best full body massage and facial. Her lovely and bubbly personality really brightens up the room (which already smelled amazing by the way)! The products Bodyhaven use also seem to be top notch quality – can’t wait to come back and try more of their services! ”

Tatiana Fermo | Google Reviews

 The most indulgent experience

“Had the BEST experience here yesterday. Two hours of bliss – massage, back scrub, facial then foot scrub while I enjoyed a coconut water. I have had many treatments at other salons before but this was by far the most indulgent, relaxing and enjoyable.”

Stephanie S | Google Reviews

5. Skintopia Old Bank Arcade

Skintopia got our attention with its chic location. Tucked inside a heritage building, it has a lovely, calming environment. Although a little bit of noise permeates through with its open layout, we don’t find it excessively obtrusive.

Their facial treatments are highly customisable, with the Skin Evangelist being a comprehensive option. This one, though slightly expensive at $260, spans 60 minutes and includes advanced modalities and deep facial massage.

For a quick option, the Skin Fanatic takes 45 minutes only, but still delivers a targeted solution. The clients we interviewed all testified that the results are visible after the session. 

We also find them a solid option for first-timers. Through their Cult Skin Initiation, clients go through a 45-minute consultation and customised skincare plan (redeemable on product purchases). The skin analysis is in-depth.

One drawback, though, is that there’s a lack of privacy in certain treatment areas. This is not the standard for all procedures, and we recommend requesting a private area to ensure full serenity.

Well-informed and friendly therapists

“I definitely recommend Skintopia!! The therapists are super friendly and informed and will tailor your facial to suit your skin needs. They also have a great range of treatments to choose from :-)”

Alice Ash | Google Reviews

Friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable

“Had the most amazing facial with Rachel. She is so friendly and welcoming and so Knowledgeable about skin and their treatments. Highly recommend booking in with her. Skintopia is lucky to have her :)”

Emilie Schorer | Google Reviews

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