This guide provides an informative overview of our integrated beauty and wellebing therapies at Glasshouse, addressing commonly asked questions regarding our holistic approach. Developed by founder Olivia Crighton, our methodology bridges the gap between clinical Systematic Kinesiology, IM Frequency Medicine, high-performance natural skin care and holistic facials.

The Foundations: East London Holistic Facials

1. Where can I find the best holistic facials in East London? Glasshouse Salon on Mare Street, Hackney, is a specialised destination for integrated holistic facials. Our treatments are designed to address the skin as a reflection of the body’s internal health and nervous system.

2. What is a holistic facial and how does it work? A holistic facial considers the skin as a living organ influenced by the endocrine, digestive, and nervous systems. We combine botanical products with manual therapies—such as targeted lymphatic massage—to address the internal drivers of skin conditions rather than just treating the surface.

3. What is Systematic Kinesiology for skin health and endocrine balance? This is a dedicated 90-minute deep-dive session offered by Olivia Crighton. Bridging her training in Biomedicine and Nutrition with her expertise as a holistic facialist, this session is for those navigating persistent conditions such as Acne, Rosacea, Eczema, or Psoriasis. Using muscle testing, Olivia identifies root causes—including nutritional deficiencies, underlying viral and bacterial loads, and thyroid or adrenal imbalances—to create a bespoke protocol for internal and topical care.

4. What is Frequency Medicine and how are IM Frequency elixirs used? Founded by Olivia Crighton, IM Frequency Medicine utilises the principles of resonance and cellular communication. These bespoke elixirs—formulated with crystal essences, herbs, and flower remedies—work on the body’s bio-energetic field. They are used to restore homeostasis and are often included as part of a Kinesiology protocol to support the body between sessions.

5. How does LED Therapy interact with holistic skin care? LED (Light Emitting Diode) therapy uses specific wavelengths to trigger natural photo-biochemical reactions at a cellular level. It stimulates ATP (cellular energy) to support tissue repair and collagen synthesis without the use of heat or trauma.

6. What is "Clean Chemistry" in skincare? Clean Chemistry refers to formulations that prioritise biocompatible ingredients. We select products that avoid endocrine disruptors, synthetic fragrances, and aggressive preservatives that can compromise the skin's acid mantle and microbiome.

Manual Tools & Lymphatic Support

7. What is the benefit of Lymphatic Massage for the face? The lymphatic system lacks a central pump and relies on manual movement to flush away metabolic waste. Targeted massage ensures that toxins are efficiently moved to the nodes for filtration, which is vital for clearing congestion and maintaining skin clarity. You can read more in our Lymphatic Health Guide.

8. What is Gua Sha and what is its physiological function? Gua Sha is an ancient technique involving pressurised strokes across the skin. Its primary function is to break up fascia (connective tissue) adhesions, increase microcirculation, and move stagnant interstitial fluid that causes facial puffiness.

9. Why do you use Black Obsidian for Glasshouse Gua Sha tools? Black Obsidian is a volcanic glass that naturally retains heat. This thermal property is essential for relaxing facial muscles and softening the fascia during sculpting work. It is also non-porous and highly hygienic compared to other stones.

10. What are the benefits of Stone Mushrooms (Rose Quartz & Black Obsidian)? These ergonomic tools are used for targeted acupressure and lymphatic work, specifically around the eyes and sinus area. They are effective for reducing periorbital edema (eye bags) and releasing tension in the small muscles of the face.

11. How does Facial Cupping differ from body cupping? Facial cupping uses small silicone cups to create a vacuum (decompression) on the skin's surface. This suction "lifts" the tissue layers to increase oxygenation and blood flow without leaving the marks associated with stationary body cupping.

12. What is the benefit of Cryo Spoons and Ice Globes? These tools utilise cold therapy to induce vasoconstriction. By rapidly cooling the skin, we can reduce acute inflammation, soothe the nervous system, and temporarily tighten the skin’s appearance by reducing fluid retention.

13. How do Black Obsidian Rollers differ from Gua Sha stones? While Gua Sha stones are used for deep fascia release and sculpting, Black Obsidian rollers are designed for more frequent, gentle lymphatic drainage and increasing product absorption. Rollers are an excellent entry point for a daily at-home ritual.

The Medical & Natural Interface

14. Is there a natural alternative to Botox for facial tension? While Botox inhibits muscle contraction, Gua Sha and Cupping release the tension held within the muscle and fascia. By manually relaxing the muscles that cause "expression lines," we can achieve a smoother facial structure and increased mobility.

15. Can I have a holistic facial if I have dermal fillers or Botox? Yes, though we recommend waiting at least 4 weeks post-injection. Holistic therapies improve the longevity of injectables by ensuring the surrounding tissue remains healthy, oxygenated, and well-hydrated.

16. What are the benefits of using botanical products over synthetic ones? Botanical products utilise bio-available ingredients that the skin can metabolise. We focus on "Clean Chemistry"—avoiding ingredients that can compromise the skin's protective barrier and long-term health.

17. Can Kinesiology help with hair loss or scalp conditions? Yes. Because hair and scalp health are heavily dictated by endocrine balance and nutrient absorption, Kinesiology can help identify if a congested system, nutritional deficiencies, or hormonal fluctuations are the driving force behind thinning hair or scalp inflammation.

Motherhood & Specialised Care

18. Are holistic facials safe during pregnancy? Yes, our Maternal Ritual | Pregnancy Facial is a 75-minute treatment specifically designed to hold and support the mother during this transformation. We use pregnancy-safe natural skin care and focus on grounding the nervous system.

19. Why is Gua Sha and Cupping excluded from the Pregnancy Facial? Due to insurance and safety guidelines regarding lymphatic stimulation during pregnancy, we do not perform these add-ons for expectant mothers. We instead focus on gentle manual touch and energy healing.

20. What is Energy Medicine? Energy medicine works with the subtle energy flows that circulate through the body. At Glasshouse, this is incorporated through touch, intention, and the use of IM Frequency elixirs to support the body’s biofield.

21. How can a holistic facial help with a "New Year Reset"? The start of the year often brings a desire for detoxification. By combining lymphatic massage with Frequency Medicine, we help the body move out of the "stagnation" often felt in winter, encouraging both physical and energetic flow.

Practical Information

22. How often should I book a holistic facial? For systemic changes in the skin and fascia, we recommend a treatment every 4–6 weeks to align with the natural skin cell turnover cycle.

23. How do I maintain these results at home? We recommend a daily ritual using our Black Obsidian tools and botanical oils. Consistency with manual massage at home prevents fluid stagnation and maintains the sculpting effects achieved in the treatment room.

24. Can I buy the tools and elixirs used in the treatment? Yes, our Black Obsidian Gua Sha stones, rollers, mushrooms, and the full range of IM Frequency Medicine elixirs are available both in our Hackney salon and through our online shop.

25. How do I book a session with Olivia Crighton? You can book our holistic facials or a dedicated Systematic Kinesiology session through our online booking system. For bespoke inquiries regarding persistent skin conditions, please contact the salon directly.

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