As the founder of Solstice, my mission is to help Spa Stews upgrade their skills and thrive in their careers. Teaching techniques that not only wow yacht guests but also protect the therapist’s well-being is at the heart of what I do.

Solstice aligns beautifully with MH Boutique, a company that shares my values of quality, sustainability, and enhancing the luxury experience onboard. Not only do we share these values, but Moncada Hispania also proudly sponsors the courses I offer for Spa Stews and Stew/Masseuses, providing Bamford’s exceptional products.

I’ve seen firsthand how these luxurious, botanically-based items transform the spa experience. They are a game-changer, impressing even the most discerning guests with their quality and elegance.

Today, I’m sharing a step-by-step guide to performing a Bamford facial. This isn’t just about glowing skin—it’s about creating a holistic, memorable experience for your guests while setting yourself apart as a Spa Stew. Whether you’re working in a large superyacht spa or setting up a portable table in a cozy guest cabin, these steps will help you deliver unparalleled service.

Step 1: Set the Scene

The ambiance sets the tone for the entire experience. Creating a serene environment onboard is key to making your guests feel pampered. Dim the lights and play calming, instrumental music.

Bamford’s aromatherapeutic candles, such as the Geranium or Frankincense varieties, add a gentle warmth and soothing scent to the space. However, if open flames aren’t permitted on your boat, no worries! You can use Bamford’s essential oils in a diffuser and their B Silent Night Pillow Mist to create a similar calming effect. This small detail can transport your guest from a busy yacht schedule into a tranquil sanctuary.

Prepare everything you need in advance, from towels to products and tools. Set up your workspace with care, ensuring your guest feels valued from the moment they step into the spa.

Step 2: Begin with Bamford Cleansing Balm

Start the facial with Bamford’s Cleansing Balm, a nourishing formula that dissolves impurities and makeup while strengthening the skin’s lipid barrier. Infused with strawberry seed oil, this balm promotes cellular renewal and leaves the skin feeling replenished.

Warm a small amount between your fingers, then massage it into the skin using upward, circular motions. Focus on areas prone to makeup buildup, such as the T-zone. This step not only removes impurities but also creates a luxurious first touch that your guest will appreciate. Use a warm, damp towel to gently remove the balm, ensuring the skin is clean and ready for the next step.

Step 3: Double Cleanse with Balancing Cleansing Wash

For a thorough cleanse, follow up with Bamford’s Balancing Cleansing Wash. This lightly foaming formula is enriched with soothing aloe vera and geranium essential oil to purify and calm the skin.

Work the cleanser into a light lather before applying it to the face. Use upward, sweeping motions to cleanse the skin while encouraging lymphatic drainage. Rinse with warm water or a damp cloth. This step refreshes and awakens the skin, leaving it perfectly prepped for exfoliation.

Step 4: Polish with Refining Exfoliator

Next, energize the skin with Bamford’s Refining Exfoliator. This physical exfoliant combines volcanic sand to polish the skin with fruit acids and copper PCA to dissolve dead cells, resulting in a brighter, smoother complexion.

Apply a small amount and gently massage the face in circular motions, avoiding the delicate eye area. After a couple of minutes, remove the exfoliator with a warm towel. This step reveals fresh, glowing skin and provides an ideal base for the next treatment.

Step 5: Detoxify with Brightening Mask

The Brightening Mask is a game-changer. This detoxifying formula uses thermal clays to absorb impurities and lilac extract to regulate oil production, leaving the skin clear and balanced.

Apply a thin, even layer to the face, avoiding the lips and eyes. While the mask sets for 15-20 minutes, offer your guest a hand, foot or scalp massage using Bamford’s Massage Oil to enhance relaxation. Once the mask is ready, gently remove it with a damp towel. Your guest’s skin will feel soothed, refreshed, and noticeably brighter.

Step 6: Boost with Stem Cell Serum

Now it’s time to replenish the skin. Bamford’s Stem Cell Serum is a lightweight, water-based formula enriched with alpine rose and raspberry stem cells. These ingredients strengthen the skin barrier and provide essential protection against environmental stressors.

Dispense a few drops of the serum and apply it to the face and neck, pressing the product gently into the skin. This step restores hydration and enhances the skin’s natural radiance.

Step 7: Hydrate with Nurturing Face Oil

The Nurturing Face Oil is an essential part of any Bamford facial. Packed with six antioxidant-rich oils, this luxurious formula deeply moisturizes and enhances skin elasticity.

Warm a few drops in your hands, then use upward strokes to apply the oil to the face and neck. Take your time with this step, incorporating gentle massage techniques to lift the skin and relax your guest. This step adds a touch of indulgence that your guest won’t forget.

Step 8: Seal with Firming Cream

Lock in all the benefits of the facial with Bamford’s Firming Cream. This nourishing formula is enriched with coffee oil to tighten and brighten the skin while witch hazel combats discoloration.

Apply the cream evenly across the face, focusing on areas prone to dehydration, such as the cheeks and forehead. Gently pat the product into the skin for full absorption, leaving the skin smooth, firm, and hydrated.

STEP 9: FINISH WITH BOTANIC LIP BALM

Details matter, and finishing the treatment with Bamford’s Botanic Lip Balm elevates the facial from good to exceptional. This balm, infused with cocoa butter, arnica, and peppermint, leaves the lips feeling nourished and refreshed.

Your guest will leave the spa not only with radiant skin but also with soft, hydrated lips—a detail that makes all the difference in their experience.

Step 10: Always Apply SPF

The final step is essential to preserving the glowing results of your treatment: applying SPF 50. Protecting the skin from harmful UV rays not only safeguards the benefits of the facial but also helps prevent long-term damage and discoloration.

I recommend using either Bamford’s Daily Sun Protection SPF 50, which combines botanical ingredients with lightweight, broad-spectrum protection, or COOLA’s Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50, known for its reef-safe, antioxidant-rich formula. Both options are gentle on the skin and perfect for post-facial application.

This thoughtful final touch ensures your guests leave with radiant skin that’s fully protected—an essential detail that reflects the care and quality of your service.

Bonus Tip: Elevate the Experience with a Body Treatment

Is your guest looking for a complete face and body treatment? While the Brightening Mask is working its magic, take the opportunity to treat their body.

1. Start with Bamford’s Vibrant Tonifying Body Polish to gently exfoliate the skin, leaving it smooth and revitalized. Focus on areas like arms, back, and legs for a full-body glow.
2. Follow with a nourishing application of Bamford’s Body Lotion to hydrate and tone the skin, locking in moisture and enhancing the overall spa experience.

This seamless add-on transforms a standard facial into a luxurious, head-to-toe treatment, ensuring your guest feels pampered from start to finish.

Enhancing Your Onboard Service

This protocol isn’t just about the facial—it’s about creating a holistic experience. Spa Stews can elevate their onboard service by integrating Bamford’s products into treatments and offering guests the option to take these luxurious products with them. Imagine ending a facial by presenting your guest with a Bamford gift bag containing their favorite products from the treatment—a gesture that enhances their experience and reflects positively on your yacht’s service.

WHY CHOOSE BAMFORD?

Bamford’s commitment to sustainability and quality aligns perfectly with the values of MH Boutique and Solstice. From the alpine rose stem cells in their serum to the volcanic sand in their exfoliator, every ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to deliver exceptional results while being kind to the planet. Their packaging is recyclable, and their production processes minimize environmental impact.

THE SOLSTICE DIFFERENCE

At Solstice, I’m dedicated to empowering Spa Stews with the tools and confidence to thrive in their careers. This Bamford facial protocol is designed to help you deliver outstanding results while prioritizing your well-being and your guests’ satisfaction. Together with MH Boutique, I’m excited to bring the luxury of Bamford products to yachts around the world, transforming every treatment into a memorable experience.

Remember, every touch matters, and every detail counts. With Bamford’s products and this guide, you’re not just providing a service—you’re creating moments of relaxation, care, and connection that your guests will cherish. 💛

DISCLAIMER

The information provided in this article is for educational and informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, it is the responsibility of the practitioner to adapt these guidelines to their individual guest’s needs and preferences. Always perform a patch test before using new products, and consult with your guest about any known allergies or sensitivities prior to treatment.

Neither Solstice nor Moncada Hispania Boutique assumes liability for any adverse reactions or outcomes resulting from the use of the products or techniques outlined in this guide. Always follow proper spa and safety protocols as required by your vessel’s policies and the product manufacturer.

By incorporating these techniques, you agree to exercise professional judgment and care to ensure the safety and satisfaction of your guests.