We’re at Notting Hill’s Apogii Clinic to try the Instant Glow facial by Dr Barbara Sturm; here’s what we made of it…

Apogii Clinic is one of the latest additions to Notting Hill’s wellness scene, opened in July and offering a gorgeous selection of advanced treatments including hydrafacials, dermapen and LED light therapy. I’m here for the Instant Glow Facial by Dr Barbara Sturm, a treatment available exclusively at Apogii. Sturm is the woman behind the now-famous vampire facial and the “blood creams” that are the talk of social media so I’m expecting very good things. The clinic itself, which was founded by Emilie Martinsen-Konigsfeldt, is spread across two floors and evokes Danish warmth and cosiness with soft furnishings and neutral tones. I meet my facialist downstairs and she begins with a thorough cleanse using an enzyme cleanser. Steam is applied to open the pores and impurities are removed by extraction. Next, Dr Sturm’s ultra-moisturising Hyaluronic Ampoules are applied for a much-needed dose of hydration. The formula, which is based on an expert medical understanding of cells and anti-ageing, absorbs into the skin’s deeper layers to firm and soothe, helping to plump out fine lines in the process. This is massaged on with thoughtful pressure in soothing rhythmic motions; it’s undoubtedly the most relaxing part of my week. The finishing touch is the application of the nutrient-rich Glow Drops. These have been designed to transform and revitalise dull skin in just a few drops. My skin maintains it’s fresh, radiant glow for days after. For a good, old-fashioned facial that does what it says on the tin, this one really can’t be beaten. 

Instant Glow by Dr Barbara Sturm, £150; apogiiclinic.co.uk