Claire Richards

DO YOU REMEMBER THE VERY MOMENT YOU DECIDED TO GO AHEAD WITH TREATMENT?

There is one moment that springs to mind, actually. [laughs] When I was looking at some photos of me onstage during a performance. It was a show I did in Paris I think.

WHAT WERE YOUR PROBLEM AREAS?

I felt like there were some areas like around my eyes and mouth that could do with a little attention. I think it's more a general case of wanting to age with grace, really.

I just always really want to be able to perform without inhibition - not be thinking about 'this bit' or 'that bit', you know?

It's always a bit difficult when people remember you looking a certain way. You get back on stage, though, and it's like nothing's changed - for us as performers and for the audience. I love that, but I think sometimes we forget that the Steps journey began nearly 23 years ago now. [laughs]

HAPPY WITH THE RESULTS?

Oh, always. I think it's easy to become a bit blasé about bits and pieces that you use all the time. I only really realise quite how much of an impact the skincare has when I've run out and don't have time to get in to see Lesley. The Harley Street Firming Serum and Vitamin C Mask are just amazing.

I do lots of travelling, too, so the skincare miniatures are a godsend. They're perfectly handbag-sized and manage to keep me looking fresh even on about 4 hours of sleep! [laughs]

WHAT WAS IT ABOUT THE HARLEY STREET SKIN CLINIC THAT TOOK YOUR FANCY?

A lot of my really good friends swear by Lesley’s advice when it comes to their skin routines - seeing their skin was proof enough that she really knows her stuff.

Once I'd met with Lesley initially and really saw my skin respond to her tips and tricks, I was a convert. It was as simple as that.

CAN YOU TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE PROCEDURE DAY?

I pop in whenever I can, really. But I always look forward to coming by because I feel like it erases all the sleep I've missed out on from my face. I find the Harley Street Facials are good for that.

I'll go for a Hollywood Radiance Facial when I need something really special, though. They're quite indulgent. Nothing can stress me out after one of those - not my kids, not my schedule...

I'll also sometimes opt for a bit of radiofrequency when I have a facial. It's a skin-firming treatment called Pellevé. Anyone like me that's not really interested in taking the whole scalpel/needle route should definitely look into it.

HAVE THERE BEEN ANY PERKS THAT YOU WEREN'T EXPECTING?

To be honest, I'm always quite gobsmacked by how much can be done with a few products and a bit of know-how. Anyone would think I've been nipping and tucking for years. [laughs] I guess that's a perk!

Well, my skin’s been bright and glowy since I’ve started having regular facials, I can tell you that much - and makeup goes on like a dream.

The Pellevé really helps with that too, I think. The surface is that much smoother and taut - especially around the eyes and cheekbones. I can practically guarantee that I'll get at least one 'you're looking well, Claire' after I have a session. [laughs] That's always nice.

WHAT WOULD YOU TELL PEOPLE THAT WERE ON THE FENCE ABOUT TAKING A SIMILAR ROUTE?

Just pop in for a chat. You really don't know what kind of options are out there until you ask. That's how it all started for me, anyway.

I had a few pictures taken on a skin analysis machine, spoke to Lesley about some of the areas that I was worried about, and then gave the bits she suggested from the Harley Street range a whirl.

...I've not used anything else since.

WOULD YOU CONSIDER POPPING BACK TO THE CLINIC IN FUTURE?

Oh, I’m a regular at the clinic now!

I like the range of the facials offered. If I’m looking to wind down, the Harley Street Facial has come to the rescue plenty of times.

The skincare routine that Lesley has me on is brilliant, too. She really took the time to understand my lifestyle and then recommended me products and options that were compatible with my schedule and responsibilities.

That I'm very grateful for.