New Year, Newer YOU

Never has there been more of a need to say: out with the old, in with the new. After a year that tested us like never before – and a festive season excessively celebrating it drawing to a close – both body and soul are crying out for a moment to unplug, unwind, and rejuvenate in preparation for a new year. But fear not, we have the solution – mark your diaries for a completely luxurious pampering session. You’ve never deserved it more!

I direct my steps towards an old favourite that has never let us down. The Salwa Road home of Nails and BD is a hidden gem, a Doha stalwart with half a dozen other branches scattered like precious pearls across the city. This is so much rooms for waxing, threading, and facials along a softly lit corridor that, at its end, flowers into two airy open treatment rooms, their clean lines lit by daylight streaming through wide windows. One is a temple to hair, the other dedicated to the art of nails. And today, I get to experience both.

First up, it’s all about hair. We begin, as every good salon visit should, with a careful consultation. 2020 of dreams as my hair doctor works her magic. The secret remedy? A true power couple in the form of the Fusio-Dose Concentré Densifique procalcium treatment and rich Masque Densité to replenish each strand of hair, regenerating along its length for truly luscious locks.

As my hair is gently dried, it’s time to give my overworked hands and feet some proper TLC, with was tough on my poor tresses – too rarely trimmed, too often thrown into a stressed-out messy bun. BD Stylist Leah listens and identifies that my long locks are deceptively fine and need a little help to achieve that enviable volume. She has the rescue package for me in the form of a personalised Kérastase Fusio treatment. We begin with the calming Scrub Apaisant that is scented with sweet orange peel. Its light gel texture gently lifts product build-up, a balm for even the most sensitive of scalps. As my skin is soothed, my soul is uplifted by refreshing peppermint essential oil, its antioxidant properties sending energy zinging into my previously deflated roots. I lose myself in the head massage more than a salon; it’s a day spa with everything you need for head-to-toe, root-to-tip self-care. Behind an understated entrance, a lift carries me above the noise of the city to a refuge of tranquillity and beauty. The intimate reception area is all soft curves and curtains in creamy white and pale pink – and a warm welcome behind immaculate masks and face shields. I follow past a series of discreet