YOU can't help but instantly relax the moment you step into the Blythswood Hotel's spa.

The dim lighting, the soothing smells and the friendliness of the staff let you immediately forget the hustle and bustle of Glasgow city centre. 

Being in such beautiful surroundings enhances any treatment - not that the treatments on offer need much help.

With Elemis and Ishga among the brands used, your skin is in safe hands.

Despite living firmly in denial of the ageing process, I'm in the spa for an Elemis Pro-Collagen Age Defy Facial.

With the room in near darkness, I'm asked to lie down on a treatment bed and the facial begins with a brief foot scrub using a warm cloth.

My skin is cleaned with Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm, which smells absolutely heavenly.

Made with starflower oil and mimosa wax, the balm melts on contact with the skin to remove make up and impurities. 

Pro-Collagen products are made with marine extracts and minerals and Elemis sells one Pro-Collagen Marine Cream every minute around the world.

A lot of time is spent massaging oils and lotions into my face and neck. 
While a thick face mask is working its magic I'm given a head and neck massage, again with fabulous smelling oils. 

A second mask was then applied and my hands and arms were massaged. 

I've been running at full throttle for weeks so the chance to relax is all the more appreciated.

Elemis claims its Pro-Collagen facial will improve firmness, increase hydration, lift and protect the skin. 

My skin is definitely brighter and less dehydrated following the facial and a couple of small blemishes have completely disappeared. 

While my skin feels beautiful, I'm on the receiving end of a few funny looks when I pop into the shops on the way home. 

A quick glance in the mirror shows the mask has not been thoroughly removed and I have white dots around my hair and jawline - plus one on the end of my nose.

I suspect the treatment room was so dark that my therapist hadn't quite been able to see my skin.

For facials, I always prefer hard working, medical-style treatments rather than massage-based. 

This Elemis treatment seems to mix hard work with relaxation - I'm both relaxed and my skin is better.

It's a lovely way to spend an afternoon and would be the perfect treat, especially with Mother's Day just around the corner.    

Elemis Pro-Collagen Age Defy Facial £87
Blythswood Hotel, 11 Blythswood Square, Glasgow
Four stars