This Earth Month, I had the opportunity to experience something truly transformative at the Lush Spa on Lexington Ave. in New York City. Under soft lighting and guidance, I was treated to the Rewilding Facial, and it was the perfect way to connect with nature while nourishing my skin. If you haven’t yet heard about this latest treatment, let me share why it’s worth every minute.
Lush, known for its fresh handmade cosmetics and ethical approach to skincare, has outdone itself with this facial. The Rewilding Facial is all about restoring balance, both to your skin and to the planet. With ingredients that support rewilding habitats across the globe, this facial helps rejuvenate your skin while making a positive impact on the environment. Right when I stepped into the spa, I was immediately greeted with a peaceful, earthy atmosphere—like walking into a sanctuary that celebrated the beauty of nature. I've been a loyal customer since college and was pleasantly surprised to see the huge selection of new and signature goodies lining the store shelves on the first floor. Tucked away serenely upstairs, awaited a homey and cozy spa I'd never seen before and a miraculous treatment that had never been done in the city before (lucky me)!
The 50-minute facial blends hot and cold therapy, facial massage, and lymphatic drainage techniques, all designed to sculpt and lift the skin. As soon as the therapist began the treatment, I could feel the tension in my face melt away. This facial isn’t just about relaxation; every technique is crafted to rejuvenate and brighten the skin. When the treatment was finished, my face was glowing—smoother, brighter, and more refreshed than I’ve felt in a long time.
One of the things that truly stood out was the careful selection of ingredients. Lush is known for its ethical sourcing, and many of the products used in the Rewilding Facial are part of a larger mission to restore ecosystems around the world. For instance, the plant-based ingredients, like the rapeseed oil sourced from Fukushima, play an important role in helping to regenerate land and provide income to those affected by the region's nuclear disaster. The oil, which absorbs harmful caesium from the soil, is completely safe to use, offering an environmentally responsible way to support the local community and clean up the land.
The facial begins with a gentle double cleanse. Lush’s signature Ultrabland or vegan Ultraplant is massaged into the skin and removed with warming mitts, followed by a refreshing foaming cleanse with Drop of Hope Soap and facial brushes. This soap contains moisturizing rapeseed oil, which provides essential moisture while helping to regenerate the soil in Fukushima.
Courtesy of Lush
Next, a brightening Ayesha Face Mask is applied. Infused with asparagus and dark patchouli oil, this mask firms and revitalizes the skin. What’s even more incredible is that the patchouli oil is ethically sourced through the Orangutan Information Center in Sumatra, Indonesia, where Lush helps regenerate local forests through permaculture practices.
While the mask works its magic, the therapist focuses on relieving tension in the neck and shoulders using firm-pressure massage, knuckling, and long strokes. Afterward, Full of Grace Facial Serum—rich in illipe butter and portobello mushroom—is applied. This light serum, packed with vitamins B and C, is worked into the face and neck, helping to sculpt and stimulate a healthy glow.
Courtesy of Lush
The highlight of the facial was the uplifting cold therapy, where a witchhazel and peppermint jelly mask was gently applied to soothe and invigorate the skin. It left my face feeling deeply refreshed and awakened, a sensation that lingered even after the treatment ended. The facial wraps up with Gorgeous Moisturizer, or a tailored alternative, which uses cold-pressed organic oils and fresh fruit juices to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin for a healthy, glowing finish.
Courtesy of Lush
To top off the experience, the Rewilding Facial is set to the soothing sounds of Lush’s in-house band, Fresh Handmade Sound. Their soundtrack features renditions of centuries-old folk songs that celebrate nature, enhancing the overall immersive experience and deepening the connection to the Earth. Not to mention you're encouraged to chill in the lounge after your treatment and sip a probiotic spritz while recalibrating for your next adventure.
Jody Bailey, Lush Spa’s treatment developer, explained the philosophy behind the facial: “One of the best things you can do for your skin and overall wellbeing is to go outside and be in nature. Our goal was to make the client feel like they’re outdoors, surrounded by nature, while also taking care of their skin.”
The Rewilding Facial isn’t just for your face; it’s a holistic experience that nurtures both your skin and your soul. It also includes an option for clients with facial hair, using different products and techniques to ensure the skin underneath the beard is treated, finishing with a soothing beard brushing to leave it looking its best.
If you're in NYC or planning to visit Vancouver (the next closest Lush Spa location), I highly recommend booking a Rewilding Facial. Whether you’re treating yourself to a maintenance session or indulging in a luxurious experience, you’ll leave feeling more connected to the planet, your skin rejuvenated, and your spirit uplifted.
The Rewilding Facial is available now and can be booked via the Lush app or by contacting your local Lush spa.
About Lush Spa
The Lush Spa is an oasis of tranquility, offering immersive experiences that rejuvenate both the body and mind. Treatments combine Lush’s fresh, handmade products with soothing techniques and exclusive music to create a one-of-a-kind experience.
Lush Spa locations in North America include New York City (Lexington Ave) and Vancouver (Robson Street).