As a new mom, I certainly need time out for a little pampering and relaxation. But, as a new mom, I also don’t have a lot of time to spare. So, I was thrilled to sneak away on a recent afternoon for a massage and facial just a few blocks from home.

Tucked away in an upstairs suite of a shopping complex, is the shared home of Isabela Skincare, and Heather Brandon Massage. The space is simple, but touches such as the shabby-chic chandelier in the common area make it inviting.

The thing that struck me most about my facial with Isabela was how attentive she was to my individual skincare needs. Past facials have sometimes left me in the dark about what was being applied to my face, and wondering if the exact same products were used on every client, regardless of skin type. Isabela carries several product lines, including Skinceuticals, Jan Marini, and her own brand, so is not married to any specific facial regimen. For me, she chose mostly natural and gentle ingredients and explained each product she applied and why she had selected it for my skin. That’s not to say it was all talk, as there was plenty of time for relaxing. The facial felt thorough, without overdoing it on vigorous extractions or rough scrubbing. When I emerged my skin looked clear and revived- not an easy task for a sleep-deprived new mom.
 
Next on my relaxation agenda was an hour-long massage with Heather Brandon. Fairly new to the neighborhood, you may have seen Heather offering chair massages at local events such as the Mission Hills Farmers Market and Mission Nights. She specializes in a combination of energy work and traditional massage, and incorporates the long and flowing strokes of the Hawaiian Lomi Lomi technique. However, this is not a one-size-fits-all massage routine and, again, I found the experience to be highly customized to my needs. Rose essential oil offered a pleasant aroma without overpowering the senses. Heather paid special attention to my trouble spots, and was very sensitive to my comfort level with level of pressure she applied. The result was a firm, focused and very therapeutic massage. When the hour was up, I felt rested, energized, and tension-free.

If you are looking for the full day spa experience, this simple setup may not be for you. But for customized treatments at great prices, Isabela Skincare and Heather Brandon Massage are great options. And the best part is, since they are right here in Mission Hills, you won’t get re-stressed while driving home. For more information, including pricing and treatment menus, click on Isabela and Heather’s business listings here at ourmissionhills.com to find their websites and location on the map.

UPDATE - Heather is now located in Bankers Hill, but still serves Mission Hills.  Click here for her new address.