In the bathroom of Elisa Lune, holistic facialist and gua sha expert

"Then it really clicked when I started preparing clients' skin before applying make-up. Seeing someone leave with a luminous complexion and real confidence made me realize that skincare was much more than products, it's how you feel. I grew up with a French mother and grandmother and was always curious about the creams they kept in their cupboards, so it was only natural for me to take this next step. I became a skincare expert and landed my dream job at Caudalie, where I spent 7 years learning everything I needed to know about skin concerns and what really works. 

Over time, I've noticed a certain waning popularity for Botox and injections, especially among women my age (over 30). While I'm not being judgmental, I've always been drawn to a more natural approach and was always convinced that there had to be an alternative. I wanted to understand skin on a deeper level. Shortly before COVID, I trained in facial massages and Gua Sha, and that's how I really became passionate about what goes on under the skin."

"I grew up as a competitive swimmer, so staying active has always been important to me. Discipline and competitive swimming taught me to develop resilience and mental strength, always pushing myself while staying focused and never giving up. My obsession with skin began in high school when I started wearing make-up. I was fascinated by the idea of naturally making skin glow rather than camouflaging it. I've always admired the effortless approach of French beauty and its minimalist makeup that leaves the skin glowing."

"I love all Cecily Braden's Gua Shas because they are designed with beveled edges to ensure better grip and connection with the skin, which is essential for effective gliding. For me, the best time to incorporate a Gua Sha into your routine is in the morning rather than at night. If you do it too close to bedtime, the fluid may not flow properly since you'll be lying down, which can lead to swelling. Ideally, follow your gua sha massage with a walk to stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage. If I had to give you one key tip, I'd say start at the neck, sliding the stone up and down with a little oil. As long as the pathway to the neck is open, your face will naturally benefit. Always hold the tool at a 45-degree angle and plan for around three sessions a week.

But what's important is to listen to what your skin needs. Gua Sha is an intuitive ritual. If you have blemishes or rashes, avoid going over them. Concentrate instead on the areas underneath the inflammation to promote healing. As I said, opening the neck first is key; this gesture alone can help stimulate drainage and improve skin texture."

"It's hard to sum up just how powerful and beneficial facial massage is for skin, mind and body. If you can get a professional massage at least once a month, your entire well-being will thank you. The touch of another person can truly have healing powers. 

And the benefits are endless, but the main ones include improved blood circulation, lymphatic drainage, nutrient-rich blood flow to the skin and natural stimulation of collagen and elastin production. The best part? You can do it yourself at home, and it's free! Grab your favorite facial oil (or take some time out when you're cleansing your skin with a make-up-removing oil) and massage your neck and face for 5 minutes. Your skin will love you all the more."

"I'll have a seasonal residency at an absolutely gorgeous facialist studio in Glasgow during April and September this year, at Facespace. To be invited to work alongside some incredible facialists is a real honor. I also have a permanent home in Barnsgrove, which is where you'll find me most of the time. It's in the beautiful Hampshire countryside, and it's a dream to work there. There's also a private club on a farm outside London that focuses on wellness. You can find me in their treatment room every Thursday. It really is a happy place for me. I think it's time to get the welllness industry out of London. "

"Belief is everything: having confidence in what I do and what I want for myself. It's a powerful state of mind that keeps me grounded and helps me navigate every moment of life."

Follow Elisa on her Instagram account @elisa_lune and on her website: www.elisalune.com/