Illustration by Enya Todd
Alcohol is the base of many skincare products, so it is only natural that spirits and wine are being incorporated into massages, body wraps and scrubs at spas around the world.
“Alcoholic substances have nourishing, moisturizing and skin health-boosting properties,” says dermatologist Dr. Rachael Burns.
Resveratrol in red wine has anti-aging properties, with antioxidants that replenish and revitalize the skin while inhibiting the development of excess pigmentation. Used on the skin, wine has toning, hydrating and regenerating qualities.
“Grape seeds…contain vitamin C and vitamin E oil, which deeply moisturize the skin and flush out lingering toxins,” says Dr. Burns. In 1999, Les Sources de Caudalie, Caudalie’s first vinotherapy spa, opened on the grounds of Bordeaux icon Château Smith Haut Lafitte. Founded by Bertrand and Mathilde Thomas, the daughter of Smith Haut Lafitte’s owners, it was designed around a hot spring found more than 1,600 feet underground at the heart of the property.
Stateside in Reno, Nevada, guests can enjoy a Chardonnay grapeseed oil massage and Cabernet body wrap at Peppermill Reno’s Spa Toscana.
“Chardonnay grapeseed oil contains large amounts of linoleic acid, which is a strong antioxidant, and a key player in the treatment of dermatitis, acne and eczema,” Dr. Burns says.
