Joanne Evans is one of London’s most revered skincare specialists, with more than 25 years of experience in tightening and brightening an array of London’s most high-powered faces. She worked from Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington for 11 years before partnering with the chic Bodyism gym in Notting Hill. Her results-driven treatments and warm bedside manner have accrued a three-month waiting list, with clients including Naomi Watts, Bella Freud, Amelia Windsor and a phalanx of beauty industry insiders. Many claim Evans is the only facialist they trust and willingly pay for.

“My two defining factors are experience and approach. I have been in the medical and aesthetic industry for nearly 30 years and the best results come from collaboration and education,” she explains. “We examine every part of a client’s lifestyle and create bespoke approaches to their skin and body care using cutting-edge treatments.” Evans also shares all kinds of tips in order to ensure care continues long after you leave the treatment room.

Evans has now moved into a clinic to call one’s own, on pretty Portland Road in Holland Park. The new Skin Matters studio is certainly not your standard medi-clinic. The chic enclave sets bare plaster walls against dark green and muted yellow hues, complemented by velvet sofas and a large communal table, where visitors are encouraged to unwind. The space has aspirations far beyond a beauty clinic, and Evans hopes to soon host workshops and events, while fostering a like-minded community.

Wrapped up in cossetting blankets, the Skin Matters signature facial starts with a deep three-part cleanse, followed by a gentle peel and an efficient round of extraction. I am then hooked up to a series of magical machines including a penetrating oxygen probe, which sounds slightly sci-fi but it is surprisingly relaxing, especially when followed by a reflexology foot massage. A moisture-packed mask is also wired up, employing electrical pulses to help deeply nourish and soothe the skin.

Evans’ bespoke facials couple a no-nonsense, medical approach with a welcome dose of pleasurable pampering and wow, does it work. Through the course of what is called my job (somebody’s got to do it) I have experienced all kinds of masks, machines and facial workouts, and rarely have any left my skin quite as plump and perfectly clear as Skin Matters. Lines are lessened, dark circles diminished and I feel mentally recharged.

Alongside facials by Evans and her team, Skin Matters offers injectible aesthetics by Fiona McCarthy and customised IV drips by Katrin Hempel, priced at £150. While it may sound costly, drips are mostly requested by high-powered professionals who simply can’t afford to risk a sick day at the office. Ergo, cheap at the price. Leave some time to browse the curated shelves of skincare products, handpicked by Evans, and follow her Instagram account for regular recommendations and tips.