When it comes to looking after yourself, nothing hits quite like a day at the Spa, but as we don't always have the time or funds to enjoy such luxuries, there are simple things you can do at home.
Be caught up with Hélène Lynch, Assistant Spa Therapy Manager at the Galgorm, Ballymena, to pick her brains on her top beauty tips, what her day entails, and why her job is so important to her.
Hailing from France originally, Hélène studied at Université de Strasbourg before moving to Belfast where she completed a Master’s degree in English Literature. She previously worked at The MAC, before she decided to follow her passion for working in the beauty industry.
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Give a brief outline of your career to date
After a few years in education, I moved to a role in the MAC in Belfast supervising the Front of House team. I was lucky to work on so many shows, exhibitions and events until I left to work for the Galgorm Collection.
I started my journey in Galgorm in September 2018 as a Spa Apprentice at the [Galgorm] Academy. This unique opportunity allowed me to explore the different roles within the Spa while working towards my Spa Therapy qualification. After graduating I worked as a Spa Therapist until I had the chance to progress to the position of Senior Therapist. While in this role, I was able to learn more about what happens behind the scenes of the treatment corridor and grow my management skills. Just over a year later, the role of Assistant Manager became available, and I decided to take on the challenge and step up into this new role.
Why is what you do important?
The level of care that is given as a therapist is at the heart of why I decided to change career back in 2018. Sometimes people come to the Spa just to relax but other guests come with physical or emotional “wounds”, and the power of touch can be so important, especially when we all live such busy lives and rarely take the time to slow down. When we reopened after each lockdown many of us had been alone for such long stretches of time, so when we finally saw our clients again, we could almost feel them breathing a sigh of relief.
Describe your ideal day off
My ideal day off would start with a little bit of a lie in as everyone who knows me knows that I am not a morning person! If I am lucky my husband will have brought in croissants made by Daniel in Lazy Claire, the best pâtisserie in Belfast. We would go for a long walk, probably grab some food along the way then get home, read a book and cook dinner together.
Tell us your top beauty and skincare tips
- Don’t underestimate the power of eating well and getting a good night’s sleep.
- Never forget to cleanse your skin. It is so important to do this every day.
- Make sure to apply suncream every morning, unless you are not leaving your house.
- When using chemical exfoliation opt for a gentle product and avoid beads that can be harsh on your skin.
- Don't forget to look after your neck/décolleté.
- Get to know your skin and don't buy into trends if you know it is not for you.
- Learn to love your natural skin. Real life isn't an Instagram filter.
- And of course go for regular treatment and massage your skin!
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