5 Minutes With… Kasia Sudol

Since joining the Adare Manor team in 2018, Senior Spa Therapist Kasia Sudol has been extremely passionate about delivering a Beyond Everything experience for every guest. From tailoring treatments to guests’ specific concerns to ushering them into the Relaxation Room for post treatment renewal, Kasia is determined to deliver the best service possible at each stage of the spa experience. Kasia obtained a bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy and is always eager to expand her knowledge and skills, having gained over 12 years’ experience in the spa and wellness industry. Kasia also continuously undergoes training with our spa partner 111SKIN to ensure that The Spa at Adare Manor delivers the best treatment possible.  

Passionate about beauty and all things skin, Kasia believes that prevention is better than intervention and encourages everyone to take care of their skin for their overall health. We caught up with Kasia to learn about her best beauty advice, her most recommended treatment before an important event and her top tips on how to recreate a relaxing spa like experience at home.  

Why did you choose a career path in spa and wellness? 

My mother is a nurse and when I was a child I spent a lot of time in the hospital visiting her. I knew from that time onwards that I wanted to have a career that involved helping people. My mother wished that I would become a doctor, but I chose a less responsible path and went for physiotherapy. Throughout my studies in college, I was fascinated by the human body and how it functions; in particular how it reacts to touch and pain and how the muscles regenerate. This is how I discovered my interest in massage. My teacher at the time was very encouraging and said that I had a lot of potential. As I progressed in my studies, I practiced a lot and would regularly massage my friends and family. I felt really fulfilled as they responded positively to the treatment and their wellbeing improved. Many times, I heard that my hands are blessed or that they are gifted. 

When did you join the team at Adare Manor and how has your experience been? 

I joined Adare Manor in April 2018. Soon it will be 4 years since I became part of our hotel family. Honestly, I dreamed of working in this hotel as soon as I saw it passing through Adare. That was a long time before the renovation, but even then it made a huge impression. I can safely say that dreams do come true! 

My experience working in The Spa at Adare Manor has been fantastic! I enjoy coming to work each day. I have an awesome team, the best one. There are days when it can be challenging, demanding and extremely busy. The team at The Spa are an amazing support and we know that we can count on each other. I always say that the workplace is like our second home, so you need to take care of it. 

What is a typical day at work for you? 

At the start of every day, I first prepare my room to ensure all the equipment is ready for when guests arrive. I put face towels in the hot cabin, turn on the stone heater and check the current stock of the products that I will need during the day. This ensures that everything is ready for the guests’ treatments. The treatments I perform each day can vary quite a bit, but the majority of them are massages and facials. We also offer body scrubs, wraps and one of our newest treatments, cryotherapy.  

Before we begin our treatments for the day, we have a short team meeting with our Spa Manager. Here, we run through important information for the upcoming day such as the number of guests arriving, along with a reminder of standards. The rest of the day involves greeting and welcoming our spa guests and giving them the best possible treatment experience. We love when guests say that their spa treatment was a highlight of their stay in Adare Manor. 

Are there any standout moments you have experienced since working here? 

I don’t have a single standout moment, but I have many blessings in my life that have led me to meet wonderful people at Adare Manor. My greatest moments at work are always related to solving a problem or creating a solution for a guest. Creative thinking, out of the box solutions, and making sure my service solves the problem for someone is critical to a successful work experience. Returning guests who remember my name from a previous experience always makes my day! 

The Adare Manor spa has recently partnered with 111SKIN, how has the partnership been so far? 

My team are very happy to partner with this brand. 111SKIN products instantly nourish dull skin, awaken it and restore its energy. The effects are visible after one treatment and our guests are delighted and amazed by the instant results. Their products available to purchase at the spa are also really popular with guests.  

We have a great relationship with the 111SKIN team responsible for our treatment training. It is lovely to know that we can contact them with any queries we have and rely on them for support. 

What makes The Spa at Adare Manor so unique? 

We are the only spa in Ireland to partner with 111SKIN, whose brand ethos believes that prevention is better than intervention. I stick to the same motto, it is better to prevent than to cure – whether that be for the body, face or soul. 

Another reason why our spa is unique is because of our team. I work with exceptional, talented people. We try to constantly raise the bar so that the results are visible and that the memories are unforgettable. I will say that we always try to be beyond everything.  

How do I know what type of massage/treatment is right for me? 

Our Spa Brochure perfectly describes each treatment we offer at our salon. Of course, there are times when guests do not know what treatment they would like as they just want a spa experience. I often tell guests that to choose the right treatment, you should listen to your body and think about what it needs at the moment. People are often able to tell if they prefer a gentle and calm massage or can handle more pressure. Whether they would prefer a face treatment that is simply refreshing and relaxing or want visible anti-aging and firming effects. 

Prior to each treatment, our guests have a short conversation with their therapist, where our team can provide the necessary information. This is very important for both the guests and the therapist as it is easier to work with the body, pain and sensitivity when we know where its cause may lie. Our team always endeavour to meet the needs of our guests, which can sometimes result in a last-minute change of treatment. 

Which treatment is your favourite? 

Honestly, I am a lover of all of our treatments! Each one of them has a great impact on the body and salutary for the skin. However, if I had to choose, it would be the Meso Infusion Hydration Therapy Treatment, which is an extremely hydrating, soothing, anti-aging treatment for the body and face. Intense exfoliation is carried out before the body is hydrated with products rich in silk amino acids, Vitamin C and hyaluronic acid that help repair the skin barrier and plump the skin. Facial masks are utilised in this treatment and scalp massages are also carried out. It is an absolute real treat from head to toe!! 

What area of your job are you most passionate about? 

I am passionate about facial treatments and everything related to them! I spend a lot of my free time immersed in the world of beauty, learning and discovering new things. In my bathroom cabinet you can find all possible facial gadgets – Gua sha, quartz rollers, micro needling rollers, high frequency machine, silicone facial cups, led mask etc. I am really interested in face yoga and buccal facial, which I try to practice every day to stimulate the skin, muscles and lymphatic system. I do it daily to keep my skin in the best possible condition for years to come.  

One my favourite things about facial treatments is the ability to make guests happy. There are so many things in life that require our time and energy and we often forget to take care of ourselves. Seeing the guest take a deep, relaxing breath is the best feeling for the therapist! Facial massage is one of the most relaxing experiences because there are so many nerves on the face, neck and scalp. 
Another great thing about performing a beauty treatment is seeing the real improvement in the guest’s skin. The experience should not only be relaxing but also bring results. Whether someone’s skin concern is to soften lines and wrinkles, lift sagging skin, lighten dark spots – it is amazing to be able to see a real change in their skin post treatment.  

What treatment would you recommend before an important event? 

I would definitely recommend a Rose Quartz Restorative Facial. Used by supermodels, celebrities and influencers – it is a must have treatment. The treatment uses a three-level approach to facial massage, including the signature massage technique, wrinkle minimising wand massage and rose quartz stone massage. A facial mask is applied which contains 24k Gold and Damask Rose, which works to illuminate and calm the skin for a party-ready glow.  

Is there a particular 111SKIN product that you would recommend?  

I would recommend the Intensive Discover Set. The collection includes 6 scaled-down products such as cleanser, serum, booster, eye cream, cream and a mask. This provides a fantastic opportunity to get to know the brand. 

Can you recommend a product for tired eyes? 

Absolutely, Sub-Zero De-Puff Eye Cream Duo.  A unique two-step system that fights swollen, tired eyes. The double formula works on dark circles under the eyes, puffiness and the dull area around the eye socket.  

Before applying the cream, I recommend doing a massage around the eyes with an ice cube wrapped in a cotton ball. This incorporates the principle of lymphatic massage, which facilitates lymph flow, gets rid of swelling and improves blood circulation. 

What is your biggest beauty tip? 

The key for healthy skin is Hydration! No water means less shine and results in less plump and more saggy skin. The application of hyaluronic acid is irreplaceable in my daily skin care routine. Hyaluronic acid is commonly called the “elixir of youth” due to its wide use in cosmetics. 

When the level of hyaluronic acid in the skin decreases, collagen fibers degenerate. As a result, the skin becomes dry, dull and wrinkles appear. The benefits of using Hyaluronic acid daily will be evident within a week. The skin becomes more hydrated and smooth and you can observe an increase in skin elasticity. The complexion is refreshed and radiant, and the wrinkles are less visible. Additionally, hyaluronic acid helps to regenerate the skin. Remember that hydration is also necessary from the inside of the body, so drink as much water as possible during the day! 

What advice would you give to people when trying to create a ‘spa like experience’ for a pamper evening at home? 

The reason why going to a spa feels so special is because all five of our senses are engaged. When setting up a treatment at home, remember to do the same and incorporate elements that are pleasing to your sense of sight, smell, taste, touch and hearing. Set the mood with candles, soothing music, dim lighting, a cozy robe, a glass of cucumber water… or glass of champagne! It may sound simple, but these little add-ons are what make even the most basic beauty rituals feel special and spa-like.  

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