August 15, 2024
The best sustainable wellness offerings in London for 2024 and beyond
The pursuit of wellness has evolved beyond transitional practices, embracing sustainability as a core value. In the fast-paced world we live in today, the quest for wellness has taken on new dimensions. More than just a trend, it is a critical component of a balanced and fulfilling life. This holistic approach combines indulgent treatments and experiences with a focus on sustainability and mindfulness, offering profound benefits for both physical and mental health. So here are some of the best things you can do for your wellness in 2024 and beyond::
A Hair Revolution: ADEM Hair Salon
Why it’s the best in sustainable luxury:
The epitome of “from farm to fork” for the hair industry, Adem Oygur has fashioned an impressive career and brand, based on the sustainability of his family roots. With a flagship hair salon perched beautifully on the streets of Belgravia, and an extensive hair wellness product line alongside, Adem prioritises sustainability and is quite literally revolutionising the haircare industry.
Adem shows that prioritising small changes can make a big difference, and this can begin with the products you choose for your hair. Adem champions simplicity – natural ingredients, balancing blends, and ultimate hair health. The product line is based on a humble yet hero ingredient – the hazelnut, sourced directly from his family farm in Divaniturk, Turkey, where the whole family gathers during harvest season. Shelled and cold pressed, the hazelnuts are handpicked and imported from the family farm in Turkey to the UK (Sussex) where it is processed and turned into the highest quality hair products.
From the pure hazelnut oil shampoo and conditioner to a hair-repairing mask and even face, neck and body oil, all the products are made from the purest and simplest ingredients to expertly hydrate, lock in moisture and give your hair plenty of bounce and a sleek finish. Better yet, the use of Hazelnut Oil, Evening Primrose and Brassica Rapa Seed Oil combined with an antioxidant-rich formulation revives hair and boosts elasticity. As if this wasn’t enough, the packaging is 100% sustainable and fully biodegradable.
Experience:
ADEM means “breath”, which captures exactly what this salon is – a breath of fresh air amongst the plethora of hair salons in London. The flagship salon is more than the sum of its parts, it’s a home away from home. It is clear from the moment you step in that Adem and his team are beyond passionate about caring for you, your hair and your wellness.
The serene, almost spa-like salon is home to the first-of-its-kind steam treatments, which transformed my hair from the inside out. Relaxing with a tea tree mask, whilst my hair bathed in the hydrating mist was a dream. Combined with a massage chair and a cup of Adem’s homemade lemon, honey and chilli tea, it’s the small details that are the most impressive here.
The steam opens up the hair cuticles, allowing the moisturising agents to penetrate deeply into the hair shaft, hydrating and moisturising. Steam machine treatments for hair are particularly beneficial for individuals with dry and damaged hair, as the process helps to restore moisture to the hair and promote healthy hair growth. The heat from the steam also helps to improve blood circulation in the scalp, which can aid in the growth of new, healthy hair, whilst removing any previous product buildup and excess oil from the scalp, leaving your hair feeling clean and refreshed.
Following this, I had a classic cut, colour and blowdry by Adem himself. Having won the L’Oréal Colour Trophy Afro Award 2019 and his team making the grand finals in 2022 and 2024, it was evident how hair styling is a way of life for Adem and his team. A deep understanding of texture, colour and hair health, they take wellness to the next level. Specialising in natural-looking colours and styles to flatter the face, my hair feels brighter, lighter, silkier, effortlessly bouncy and above all, healthier.
Get ready to receive a multitude of hair compliments from the moment you step out from your own hair wellness experience.
Find out more and book here
Nurture Your Skin: Irene Forte
Why it’s the best in sustainable luxury:
Investing in your skin is a core component of feeling healthier and happier – as our largest organ, the skin deserves a lot of love.
Not exclusive to London, Irene Forte Skincare stands out in the luxury skincare market with its unwavering commitment to sustainability and natural beauty. A certified B-Corporation, the brand harnesses the power of organic ingredients sourced from its organic farm in Sicily. All products are formulated with a blend of scientifically backed natural activities, and are 100% vegan and cruelty free. Beyond the ingredients themselves, the brand is dedicated to other forms of sustainability – from the packaging that uses recyclable materials and minimising waste by partnering with First Mile (who convert refill components into plastic pellets to be used in a second life as car parts) to the way all production is kept in Italy with local suppliers to champion community. Going one step further, Irene Forte has a charity partnership with The Lady Garden Foundation, prioritising women’s health, as well as donating to charities of those most in need. Committed to being carbon neutral by 2030 and awarded the Butterfly trust mark by Positive Luxury in recognition of its ethical standards, you can be sure that your skincare routine will be as kind to the Earth as it is to your skin.
Experience:
I can attest that using Irene Forte Skincare products is like indulging in a piece of Mediterranean luxury. The rich textures and natural scents transport you to the sunny landscapes of Sicily, while the potent formulations deliver visible results. Always hesitant to deviate from my normal skincare routine, I was extremely pleased with the fact that this is the only fragranced brand on the market clinically approved for sensitive skin. I tried out the pistachio face mask, which can be used as a 10-minute mask or, as I preferred, left overnight or in-flight to rejuvenate and plump up the skin, leaving it hydrated for over 12 hours. I was blown away by how great this product is – it’s not greasy, it is light and it generates immediate hydration and protects the skin thanks to a blend of nutrient- and antioxidant-rich ingredients, namely Olive Oil and Rice Fractions, Pro-Vitamin B5, and oils of Pistachio, Pumpkin Seed and Avocado. I now know what is meant by the ‘pistachio effect’.
Another winner for me was the Hyaluronic Serum which has the power of Hyaluronic Acid in three molecular weights, meaning it has even more plumping and hydrating power. I noticed after some use the appearance also of increased smoothness and elasticity of the skin, thanks to the ultra-low molecular weight Hyaluronic Acid which supports the skin’s natural collagen and elastin synthesis.
Next on my list to try – the ‘hero’ product, Hibiscus Night Cream!
Find out more here
Slip into Serenity: AIRE Ancient Baths London
Why it’s the best in sustainable luxury:
AIRE Ancient Baths London offers an unparalleled relaxation experience by recreating the ancient bathing traditions of Rome, Greece, and the Ottoman Empire. Their commitment to sustainability is evident through their use of energy-efficient systems and natural, locally sourced materials in the construction and maintenance of their stunning facilities. Entirely lit by candles and free from technology (a much-needed luxury for busy city life), it offers the ultimate disconnect from the outside world. While others may be sprinting towards high-tech treatments and new technology, AIRE Ancient Baths London stays true to its roots; so expect unrestricted relaxation.
Experience:
Upon entering AIRE, you’re transported to a tranquil world where time seems to stand still. The combination of thermal baths at varying temperatures, saltwater pools, and serene relaxation areas provides a holistic approach to wellness. I tried out their new Orange Garden Experience, a tribute to the Orange Garden fragrance, developed by the prestigious Swiss perfume company Firmenich. Transformed into an unforgettable 135-minute experience of AIRE’s thermal baths, as well as a body, face and scalp massage, each step will submerge guests further into a state of calm, offering benefits that stimulate, hydrate and soothe, to reveal the natural beauty that resides within. I fell into an almost meditative state of relaxation, which left my body and skin feeling radiant. The unique blend of natural oils, including Almonds, Macadamias, and jojoba provides a sensory experience that delicately pampers the skin and nourishes the mind, body and soul.
Find out more and book here
Embark on the ultimate holistic wellness journey – Cloud Twelve
Why it’s the best in sustainable luxury:
Cloud Twelve seamlessly blends opulence with eco-conscious practices, offering a haven for those seeking top-tier wellness experiences while remaining mindful of their environmental footprint. The philosophy of holistic wellness is at the core of every service and amenity offered, with over three floors dedicated to building a community for adults and children. From rejuvenating spa treatments to comprehensive wellness programs, Cloud Twelve ensures that every visit promotes physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Cloud Twelve’s philosophy is all about achieving emotional, mental and physical balance, with a dose of fun, to restore your body’s equilibrium through natural remedies and taking the time to enjoy the simple things in life – eating well, relaxing, laughing and sipping a glass of bubbles with those you love. With this, they have also seamlessly woven into their conscious living philosophy. They have carefully chosen resources crafted from natural, organic, sustainable and biodegradable materials and aim to be 99% paperless, to reduce their environmental footprint. Beyond this, they ensure every other aspect of their space can champion people and the planet – for example, their chandeliers are proudly hand-crafted by widowed women of South Africa, to support sustainable livelihoods for those more vulnerable populations. Their commitment has led them to embark on a continuous journey to learn and in parallel educate their members about the best practices in social and environmental responsibility.
Experience:
It’s hard to choose just one experience at Cloud Twelve, as they have so many expert treatments to detoxify the body, recharge, and refocus your energy. Their wellness clinic provides any guest with the tools to have a conscious yet achievable wellness regime, making sure you can prioritise your own health in the increasingly fast-paced lives we are all faced with. From naturopathic nutrition consultations to acupuncture and reflexology, infrared therapy, homoeopathy, and something which is often under-represented in the wellness industry, psychotherapy, Cloud Twelve really have the highest quality personalised programmes to optimise your health and well-being by combining natural therapies with modern science.
Their newly launched Head Spa Treatments are something to also shout about. Focusing on hair and scalp facials, this premium Head Spa combines holistic hair and scalp care, and herbal medicine with a luxurious spa experience. The Head Spa treatments use Davines products which are B-Corp registered and meet the highest sustainability standards. They prioritise the use of natural ingredients whilst minimising their impact on the planet, without compromising on luxury. These treatments have been expertly curated by a respected Trichologist Tiffany Hall and expert Herbalist and Naturopath Jenya Di Pierro who specialises in female health.
Find out more and book here
Written by Emma Blunt for Luxuria Lifestyle International