I'm a holistic facialist based in Marylebone, London, specialising in advanced facial massage, Gua Sha and skin barrier focused treatments that support healthy, radiant skin.

My treatments combine traditional Eastern techniques with modern skin science, working with the skin, the tissues and nervous system to release tension, improve skin function and restore balance to the face. Many treatments also incorporate body Gua Sha across the back, neck and shoulders, helping to release deeper patterns of tension that can influence both facial appearance and overall wellbeing.

Alongside treating clients, I teach professional Gua Sha training for therapists and run self-care workshops, helping others understand how simple hands-on techniques can support healthier skin, reduce tension and encourage long-term wellbeing.

I have been honoured to serve as a judge for the Marie Claire Skin Awards alongside leading experts within the beauty industry, and my work has been featured in publications including The London Standard, Country & Town House, SheerLuxe and Liz Earle Wellbeing.

My Journey Into Skin

My interest in skin health began through personal experience.

From my teenage years through to my late twenties, I struggled with severe acne that affected both my confidence and wellbeing. Like many people, I spent years searching for answers until I eventually discovered that an undiagnosed thyroid condition, Hashimoto's disease, had been contributing to my skin problems.

Before working in skincare, my career followed a very different path.

After leaving school I studied art, something that continues to influence the way I see facial structure, balance and proportion today. I then moved into a corporate career in London, spending many years commuting into the city. Although it provided stability, I knew something was missing. I felt drawn towards helping people but was uncertain about leaving the security of the career I had built.

During this time I became increasingly interested in holistic health, attending evening classes, weekend workshops and training whenever I could.

Determined to improve both my health and my skin, I began working with a homeopath, Lucy Salter, who introduced me to a more holistic approach through nutrition, natural remedies and skincare. At the same time I discovered Traditional Chinese Medicine and began acupuncture treatments.

Within a relatively short period, my skin improved dramatically and my acne completely cleared.

That experience changed the direction of my life.

It sparked a fascination with skin, health and natural healing that eventually led me to retrain and leave my corporate career behind.

Along the way I also studied a range of complementary therapies including Homeopathy, Kinesiology, Bach Flower Remedies and Metaphysics, deepening my understanding of the relationship between the body, mind and overall wellbeing.

Training & Professional Development

My training has always been driven by curiosity and a desire to understand the body beyond the surface of the skin.

I trained with the College of Oriental Therapy in Gua Sha, Acupressure and Cupping before completing advanced facial Gua Sha training with internationally respected educators including Cecily Braden in the United States and Clive Witham, author and practitioner of traditional Gua Sha.

I am also trained in Vodder Manual Lymphatic Drainage for the face and neck and hold Ofqual regulated VTCT Level 2, 3 and 4 qualifications in advanced skin treatments.

I continue to invest in ongoing education, combining evidence-informed skin science with traditional hands-on therapies that have been practised for centuries.

My Approach

I don't believe healthy skin comes from aggressive treatments or following every new trend.

Instead, I focus on understanding why the skin behaves the way it does.

Stress, lifestyle, the skin barrier, muscle tension, circulation and connective tissue can all influence how the skin looks and feels. By supporting these areas together, treatments can create healthier skin whilst also helping clients feel calmer and more relaxed.

Every treatment is individually tailored and may combine advanced facial massage, Gua Sha, Buccal Massage, body Gua Sha and supportive technologies including LPG Endermologie, LED light therapy and microcurrent where appropriate.

Alongside treatment, I work with carefully selected skincare including Dermaviduals and Esse.

Dermaviduals follows the principles of corneotherapy, focusing on restoring and maintaining the skin barrier with skin-identical ingredients, whilst Esse supports the skin microbiome. Together they allow me to create personalised skincare programmes that continue supporting the skin long after clients leave the treatment room.

My philosophy has always been simple:

Work with the skin, never against it.

Common Reasons Clients Visit

Many clients come to me with concerns such as:

• facial, jaw and neck tension
• tired, dull or stressed skin
• loss of definition
• breakouts and inflammation
• compromised skin barriers
• clients simply wanting time to slow down and reconnect with themselves

While the visible improvements are important, many people tell me they notice something else too.

• They sleep better.
• Their jaw feels lighter.
• They breathe more deeply.
• They feel calmer.

Sharing What I've Learned

As my practice has grown, so has my passion for education.

Through professional training, self-care workshops and The Restorative Ritual, my online self-care programme, I hope to make these techniques accessible beyond the treatment room.

Whether I'm teaching therapists or guiding someone through a simple facial ritual at home, my aim remains the same: to help people understand their skin, reconnect with their body and experience the benefits of mindful touch.

A Holistic Philosophy

I believe caring for your skin should never feel overwhelming.

Healthy skin is rarely created by using more products or following complicated routines. Instead, it comes from understanding your skin, respecting its natural function and supporting the body as a whole.

Whether you visit me for a treatment, attend a workshop or learn through one of my online programmes, my goal is always the same:

To help you feel healthier, more confident and more connected to yourself.

Because lasting skin health begins with understanding, not quick fixes.

Donna Ryan