Essa Spa at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

ESSA Spa at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

Monica Tindall

I love being reminded of gems we have right under our noses. Sometimes, you search far and wide and forget the treasures you have at home. ESSA Spa at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur prompted this revelation. It’s recently introduced CACI (Computer Aided Cosmetology Instrument), the latest in facial technology celebrated by the stars, hence my visit. However, this urban spa is more than high-tech treatments; it’s a comprehensive facility with a fitness room, pool and sauna with the benefit of the Poolhouse restaurant on the same level – a beautiful green location with a wholesome menu – perfect for turning your session into a half or whole spa day.

ESSA Spa at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur

On the second floor of Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur, ESSA Spa shares the level with the hotel’s fitness room, pool, and Poolhouse restaurant. Thanks to lush landscaping, the surroundings are incredibly green. The spa is tucked away on one side, providing a cool respite from the tropical heat.

ESSA Spa consists of nine single and two couple suites, all with ensuites and a separate changing area. There’s also a relaxation area for post-treatment lounging, a steam room, a sauna, and a whirlpool. As mentioned, I’m here to try the CACI (Computer Aided Cosmetology Instrument), but I also want to test the quality of their other treatments, so sign up for the ESSA Signature Massage, too.

The ESSA Signature Massage

The ESSA Signature Massage (RM 490+, 90 minutes) is personalised with a questionnaire outlining my preferences, health concerns, and specific areas to avoid or focus on. This is followed by a choice of three massage oils. I pick the Energize blend of ginger and rosemary. Luxurious amenities, including mesh underwear and wonderfully soft robes, enhance the experience.

Before the massage, I sip tea with honey and refresh with a wet towel. At the same time, Miaa, my ESSA Spa therapist, bathes my feet. Once on the adjustable heated bed, Miaa guides me through a breathing routine to prepare my body and mind. She checks on comfort levels, room temperature, and music to ensure that all work towards a serene atmosphere.

The ESSA Signature Massage combines deep Balinese strokes, Chinese acupressure points, and the soothing, kneading movements of Hawaiian lomi-lomi. Miaa’s strong and confident technique lets me completely relax and enter a dream-like state. The massage is deep but not painful, and 90 minutes feels perfect—long enough to feel completely rested without getting restless. The spa session concludes with hot ginger tea in the relaxation lounge, leaving me feeling rejuvenated and at peace.

CACI Facial

I move to a different treatment room for the CACI Facial at ESSA Spa, and Shah takes me through the procedure, explaining each step as we go. With Hollywood celebrities singing its praises, CACI (RM 1,180+, 90 minutes) has garnered significant attention. The CACI (Computer-Aided Cosmetology Instrument) facial is a non-surgical treatment designed to enhance skin texture, tone, and overall appearance. This advanced facial utilises microcurrent technology, which involves transmitting tiny electrical signals to stimulate muscle tone and rejuvenate the skin. The microcurrents mimic the body’s natural electrical currents, promoting collagen production and improving skin elasticity. By firming and lifting sagging muscles, this method diminishes the look of fine lines and wrinkles while improving the skin’s overall texture. Often dubbed a “non-surgical facelift,” this procedure is praised for delivering visible outcomes without surgery.

One of the key components of the CACI facial is its integration of LED light therapy. The LED light penetrates the skin at various depths, promoting cellular repair and regeneration. The result is a more youthful and radiant complexion.

The CACI facial at ESSA Spa is adaptable for all skin types and can be personalised to address specific skin issues. The procedure itself is comfortable and non-invasive. I feel a variety of vibrations, warmth and light tingling. A course of 10 treatments is recommended for optimal results, followed by monthly maintenance sessions. When 10 sessions are recommended for optimal results, it’s challenging to judge the effectiveness of the treatment in a single session. The following day, I experience a light breakout, my skin’s way of shedding impurities. The second day, I’m back to normal and receive several compliments from friends saying I have a glow and look well-rested. It looks promising!

Lunch at the Poolhouse

Do you ever want a spa day to end? I certainly don’t, and I am excited to extend my focus on well-being at ESSA Spa with lunch at the Poolhouse. The unique setting features a round, glass-walled structure with a tree reaching for the skylight, complemented by lush greenery throughout. The restaurant overlooks a sparkling pool and landscaped gardens, further enhancing the sense of tranquillity.

The menu is fresh and fabulous, offering a variety of vibrant vegetarian options, small plates to share, and items from the grill. Each dish is marked with estimated calories and dietary indications, such as gluten-free and vegan. The emphasis is on fresh, sustainable, and nutritious ingredients, ensuring that your meal is as healthy as it is delicious.

For those who love to sample a bit of everything, the three small plates for RM 92 deal is irresistible. My picks are the Spiced Roasted Pumpkin with mint labneh, quinoa, and maple candied walnuts; Red Pepper & Sweet Potato Hummus with crispy buckwheat, curry leaf, chaat masala, and seasonal vegetable crudités; and Smokey Eggplant Baba Ghanoush with almond dukkah, pomegranate, avocado oil, and taro cracker. Continuing the healthy choices, the Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl (RM 72) features a base of cauliflower pancake, poached cage-free egg, avocado, and ikura. It reminds me of Chinese fried rice, only healthier.

I’m only one stomach, so that’s where my exploration stops. However, I’ve heard great things about the Korean BBQ Beef Short Ribs and Cheeseburger. You can also build your own salad with a unique “harvest” option at the in-house CULTIVEAT greens counter. And for those with a sweet tooth, there’s no guilt involved. The Poolhouse offers a selection of house-made sorbets and ice creams (RM 8), including low-carb, keto, and sugar-free options. The drink menu is equally exciting, featuring smoothies, coolers, kombuchas, classic cocktails, and bottled beer. You can even order fresh Thai coconut (with a shot of rum if you so choose!).

ESSA Spa Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur Review

Rediscovering ESSA Spa at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur has been a delightful experience. This hidden gem offers a comprehensive day spa experience. The ESSA Signature Massage with Miaa is among my top-rated experiences, and the CACI facial represents an exciting advancement in beauty treatments. Extending your wellness journey at the Poolhouse, with its delicious and nutritious meals in a beautiful green setting, is an enticing bonus.

Reasons to visit ESSA Spa at Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur: conveniently accessed urban spa; skilled therapists; the new CACI Facial; great massage; turn it into a complete spa day with lunch at the Poolhouse.

ESSA Spa Grand Hyatt Kuala Lumpur
12 Jalan Pinang, Kuala Lumpur, 50450, Malaysia 
+60 3 2182 1234 
[email protected]

ESSA Spa Opening Hours
Daily: 10 am – 10 pm

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