Pure + Simple

This is still one of my fave places to get skincare products. They have specials every month so when I need something I always look up their specials before heading to the store. I wish this location had as much self space as the Cumblerland location but they still pack a lot of products in this smaller store. The staff are always nice & helpful too. I’ve had facials here in the past & will book some again in the future.

I have been going to Pure + Simple for my facials for over a year now. I originally came in looking to improve my acne. My first appointment was with Caitlin back when she worked at the King street location. My first facial was pretty intense, especially with all the extractions that I required but Caitlin was very professional and empathetic. She helped calm me and she would check in to make sure I was okay. The moral support was much appreciated and I really loved the results! Caitlin is extremely thorough with her treatments. I always feel like i’m getting great value when I come in to see her as the facials are relaxing and you see great results as well! I’m such a fan that I continue to see her at the Eglinton location where she now works. I only purchase products from the store that are recommended specifically for my skin type to treat my skin well. In conjunction with my monthly facials, I started acupuncture to improve my acne. I’d say these two factors played a major part in reducing my acne by at least 80%. The cystic acne has stopped completely. The natural approach does work if you are consistent and I hope you give it a try :-)

Lovely place to go for a facial. Plenty of options to choose from. I love their natural products and am hooked on the cleansing milk.

I had called pure and simple at Eglinton after reading many of the wonderful reviews. I tried to ask for one of the estheticians that were mentioned in the reviews. Tough luck, they are all booked weeks in advance. Despite my impulsive nature I decided to book the facial for some 3 weeks in advance, with Mila.
I chose the Clear Complexion Facial, which has a bit of everything, including some LED treatments I was curious to try.
I was overall happy with the entire treatment. Mila was thorough it seems, there were several masks, oils (these guys LOVE their oils), steam, some extractions (she steered clear of the of the deep, under the skin pimples I have, which I would have liked her to extract, perhaps with the use of a needle. I mean, this is why I am here, I can take care of the blackheads too) LED treatment, and she finished off with A LOT of oil. Note: If you plan on going somewhere after your facial, think again, You will be dipped in oil, your face and hairline will be oily, oily, oily. But, not red!
The place itself is very simple, almost austere looking. Everything seems basic. Very clean too. Definitely not a fancy looking spa, but they do a good job.
Why not 5 stars? Because although the treatment itself was good, for the price you pay ($ 150) you would expect a «treat» — a zen-​ish environment, something better looking that a walk-​in clinic, which is exactlywhat the place looks like. I will continue going here for my facials, but for the «technical» aspects; this is not the place to go to be pampered or to treat youself to a luxurious spa day.

My go to place for facials! The place is very clean and the staff is very pleasant and friendly. I always book my facials with Georgetta… she is amazing. She is very professional and seems to have a lot of experience. They use all organic products that can be purchased at their location as well. I wish they had massage services too… it would be great! Location wise it’s very convenient… very close to Eglinton subway station!

I had my first facial at the Midtown location, where I chose to come here based on the good reviews found online. However, I found my experience to be disappointing, mainly in the fact that I explained this was my first facial and was not certain of what to expect before, during or after. Otherwise, I felt relaxed and enjoyed my aesthetician, until I came home and realized what my face looked like. I absolutely do not look fresher and more rejuvenated, as many facials claim I should.
My skin at this point, my face looks and feels worse than when I came in, and I am extremely worried about scarring post extractions. I am currently extremely red and blotchy, with no instruction on what to expect or how to care for the skin in the next few days. Nothing was explained to me by staff, which I feel is an absolutely minimal expectation for new clients, regardless of whether or not the client has questions at the time. I paid nearly 200 $ and am tearfully disappointed, where I am now left to deal with worse skin than I came in with.

I had the salt microdermabrasion facial about a year ago and– let me tell you– Janet knows what she is doing. I’ve had a lot of facials from a lot of different facialists– this Janet really laid it down. In terms of experience, she was massaging hands and feet while the masks and creams were setting in, which the mark of a good facial. Her technique felt delightful– that’s the mark of a great facial. In terms of results, my skin looked pretty boss the week afterwards. Best facial in Toronto.

I really wanted to like Pure+Simple. I was won over by their holistic lean and was inspired by the entrepreneurship of its founders; I even read Kristin Ma’s book on holistic beauty. I was ready to buy a package of facials, thinking for sure this is just what my congested skin needs. Luckily, and I mean, thankfully, the kind girl at the reception advised me against jumping the gun and trying it out first. She was also kind enough to explain to me which type of facial I should choose and the differences between them; I left the spa feeling quite warm and excited for my appointment.
It’s now been two months post-​facial, and I can safely say, I never want to step into this spa again. It has taken me long to write this review because I was initially too upset to write in a fair or coherent way. I am incredibly disappointed in my experience for the following reasons:
1) Upon an inspection of my skin, my aesthetician preemptively chastised me for my poor diet and dehydration. I give her credit for seeing that my skin was dehydrated, but as for diet? I eat a plant-​based diet, steer clear of dairy and drink little caffeine. I could have done without the diet shaming.
2) Throughout the facial, my aesthetician expounded on issues, such as growth hormones in our dairy products and meat, why illness is rampant among our generation, how children are so vulnerable, and how what we eat affects our health. These points of discussion are all well and appreciated… outside of a facial. I mean, at one point, I thought, is this an episode of The View? I came to this spa to relax and help my skin; I did not want to be lectured or have somebody’s opinions spouted into my face! She was so indignant at select topics that she even rattled the bed by slapping down on it repeatedly for emphasis. She remained oblivious to my cues at disengaging from the conversation, while I cringed whenever an errant drop of spittle hit my face.
3) Do you know what it feels like to slowly realize something horrible is happening in real-​time, except not before your eyes as cucumber slices are obstructing your view? Well, ladies and gents, it feels like a whirlpool of pain, slight shock and newfound fear of your aesthetician, who clearly ignores that you have sensitive skin. My aesthetician ignored her own advice to steer clear of an area with a deeply clogged pore, and aggressively rooted around it like a dog digging for a bone; the damage was done within seconds. Post-​facial, I had anticipated a purge of sorts, but I was in no way prepared for the onslaught of incredibly deep, painful acne that erupted in a rash across my cheeks and chin and nose. Worse yet? Each breakout that occurred as a result of the facial, has left a darkly pigmented or pitted scar on my face. These scars are the ones that take years to fade, so I can look forward to costly laser treatments in the future and constant reminders of my experience.
A week after the appointment, I received a follow-​up call. Upon hearing about my dissatisfaction, they wanted me to come in for a more advanced skin treatment, which I immediately declined. I know that I shouldn’t judge the entire spa with the actions and conduct of one aesthetician, but the whole brand is ruined for me as even when I walk by the spa, bad feelings and memories surface.
To reiterate: I wish I had never stepped into this spa.

I’ve been a loyal client of Pure + Simple for about a year now. I’ve had facials at multiple places before I found this spa, and I can honestly say that this is the best I’ve found. I think the difference here is that they specialize in facials, and the staff really understand skin. Yes, it’s kind of pricy, but that’s the cost of a great facial.
A summary of P+S:
I used to have skin that broke out often, and got used to this. I thought it was genetic or something. I had heard about Pure + Simple, and decided to give it a try. I noticed a remarkable difference in my skin in the weeks after the initial facial. After that, I was hooked. I now regularly go in for facials (once every 6 – 7 weeks). I always get the same extreme deep cleansing facial and I am always satisfied with the results. I know I need to do a better job of taking care of my skin (eat healthier and drink more water), but even without doing that, my skin tone is more even, I don’t break out as often, and I’m now able to minimize the amount of make-​up I have to use.
I see Mila and Vera and find them both to be warm and extremely knowledgable about skin. I’m surprised at some reviews that talk about the staff being unfriendly, because this is so far from what I experienced. They are so good at what they do that I can’t bring myself to see anyone else, so I can’t speak about experiences with the other staff members. Oh, and the girls at the front are excellent as well.
I didn’t initially purchase the product they recommended, but after I saw the results of my first facial, I decided to give them a try. I use a mixture of P+S and Martina Gerbhart (not sure about the spelling) lines, and both work wonderfully on my skin.
While extractions are never fun, the results are awesome so it’s worth the pain (Mila and Vera both know how to give an excellent extraction). The massages are so incredible that I usually end up falling asleep.
Prior to going to P+S, I never thought of a facial as something to enjoy — I just went in to get clearer, more healthy skin. P+S seem to be able to combine a facial that provides great results with a relaxing experience. I definitely recommend this place, especially if you’ve struggled with imperfect skin. Awesome job Pure + Simple!

I had the Extreme Clean Deep Pore Facial as their monthly special and I couldn’t be happier. I had Alicia who was amazing. She massaged my face the whole time and was very thorough with the extractions. She also gave me an arm, décolletage and scalp massage. It was amazing ! although they are expensive, it is worth every penny !

I have been going to Pure + Simple for about 7 years now and everytime I go I would look for Mila. After my 2^nd pregnancy my face was so bad that I got a very very horrible acne. I was looking at the light therapy treatment but Mila suggested that I should go with Glycolic Peel and a Facial. I took a package of 4 session for Peel and 4 package of facial, it was a bit pricey but I’m happy with the results. I tried to keep the recommended home facial routine and I don’t get as much acne as I used before, my skin is looking way much better than what I had before. I will definitely go back for another few treatments to clear up some of my scar from the acne. Other than that, I’m very satisfied with the service I got from my aesthetician Mila and the service the Pure + Simple Yonge and Eglinton Location gives.

After doing extensive research, I went to Pure + simple yesterday to pick up new products for my skin. I’m a super saver so spending $ 200 on a skincare regimen was a bit painful. But the experience wasn’t.
The staff were really friendly. Not pushy at all. Someone asked if I needed help. I told her I came with a list and she left me alone to browse and select what I’d gone in for. The products were displayed in an easy to find manner so it was quick.
The girl at the checkout asked if I’d been there before. I told her no. She glanced at my face and the products I’d chosen and said I had really done my homework.
The best part is the results. I suffer from hormonal acne on my chin. After using my new regimen ONCE, a cyst came to the surface. I honestly felt like I’d tried everything and was at my wit’s end. Thank you, Pure + simple! I now feel like I’m making progress after a 10+ year battle with acne.

I had my first facial at pure + simple today by Julia.
Check in was great, friendly staff. Greeted by julia right on my scheduled time. The facial room was comfortable, not overly relaxing but cosy. The esthetician began her facial without asking any questions about my skin but probably assumed I would like to relax (which I did) she had a good touch, gentle but firm. I have extremely sensitive skin so I’m always a little on edge about the products being put on my face but she used all extremely gentle products that felt and smelled really nice. The extractions were thorough but gentle. The facial was for an hour and she didn’t cut anytime.
She did a lovely job!

I am a huge fan of Pure + Simple!
I have been going to the englinton location since last December. I am going at least once a month, sometime two to three times. And my skin is getting better and better. I had a lot redness and also acne problem at my first visit. After several treatments, there’s less redness also less acne! I could never go out without make up, now I can, feel great! I have done couple of their facials. All fantastic!
My favourite is the Unban Renewal Facial, no doubt! Start with analysing skin, then cleaning, facial massage, exfoliation and then two masks with arm, foot and scalp massages. It feels so relaxing and fresh up every time!
The receptions are so friendly and not so pushing, they tell you what’s good for you but all depends on you with very good attitude. (Not like some places, they ask you to buy everything from them with arrogant attitude)
I highly recommend Caitlyn, very friendly and professional! I had one time with Vera, she was very judgemental for whatever I am doing to my skin, Ugh. Caitlyn is very gentle when deal with skin and good at controlling pressure for massages. Love it!
Please keep up the good work!

I’ve tried various facials /​services at Pure & Simple throughout the last few years, but I wouldn’t say I was impressed.
The reasons are listed below:
1) There is a set time for facials, if you require additional extractions, tough luck. I had even booked a facial, and paid for additional extraction time, but the extra time wasn’t enough (my face isn’t horrible, and I do not have acne).
2) I found the most of the aesthetician to be harsh (personality wise, and on my face — even though there was one exception /​it was a Canadian blond lady and she was nice). They tried to sell me very expensive treatments consistently. This took away from my relaxation.
3) They try to sell you their products, usually picking what you «need» and putting it by the cash for you.
4) I had my eyebrows waxed here, and they came out crooked.
5) Every time I called for an appointment, I would have issues because I refuse to leave my credit card information. Do NOT give your credit card to anyone over the phone (there is generally a high risk of fraud if you do this).
On a positive note, I would feel generally relaxed while I was there. I guess I was looking for a different kind of experience and this just wasn’t the place for me.

Love the products here. Truly natural and organic skin care lines from around the world (including local products made in Toronto). I’ve had facials with Mila, Vera, and Caitlin and they were all fantastic. I showed up 15 minutes late once on a Sunday evening and Caitlin still took the time to provide me with a thorough treatment well into closing time. The staff at the Yonge location are noticeably friendlier and more accommodating than those at the King or Avenue spots. If you want quality skin care products and treatments at reasonable prices, skip the downtown hotel spas and go to Pure + Simple!

Pure and Simple at Yonge-​Eglinton is an excellent spa! It is very down-​to-​earth and not frilly (I’ve been to those ones; many are overrated). I personally like that it is a more modest looking spa but has great aestheticians. It is very clean, relaxing and the rooms (3) are very quiet (on a long hallway with a door, protected from street noise). I am very happy this is my regular place to go.
I have been here for facials too many times to count now, and it is the only place I will go to. I always make sure I have a regular appt. booked with Mila because she is very busy and it can be challenging to get in. She is amazing! I have also had Georgetta and she is great as well! (On appt. booking, if it’s on short notice, staff are very helpful in trying to get you in). As for pricing on the treatments: depending on what type of facial (for example) you have done, it is either quite reasonable or commensurate to other spas. They also have monthly promos.
I have been for all types of facials: Extreme Deep Pore, Super Hydrating, Urban Renewal, Salt Microdermabrasion. I always have enough time booked, so sometimes we just discuss and decide depending on what’s going on with my skin and the season. My favourite is the Extreme Clean Deep Pore Facial which allows more time for extractions and includes arm, hand, LEG, foot (and scalp) massage. You are getting a mini body massage with your facial and it is a dream!
I have sensitive skin. Extractions can sometimes be painful (even when you have the best aesthetician taking care of you) but I really have no complaints about their technique — it is done as painlessly as possible. For any facial I have had, I leave glowing, so content and relaxed!
They will recommend products but it is not a hard sell, in my opinion. If you don’t want to commit to any product (s) they will put a sample of the real product in a small container to take home and try. I have purchased products here, anywhere from their Pure + Simple line to Martina Gebhardt, and most recently Holistic Vanity. This last is quite pricey but you don’t need a lot of the tonic or lotion so it lasts a LONG time. All price points here for products. Some people may think it is pricey (and some items are), but in actual fact I have spent more on popular brand specialty products in Shopper’s Drug Mart. I hate being all over the place with products.
Some tips if you need them: make sure you know how long the appt. is because they will book accordingly and it could be up to an 1 ½ hours. If you’re doing a full facial in preparation for an event, you want to have it done at least a day or 2 before the event. Although, they do have an ‘on the go’ facial (no extractions) which is just 30 minutes. Also, don’t go with freshly washed/​done up hair as you’re going to get a scalp massage with some oils. Don’t wear your best clothes for afterwards because when you have, neck, décolleté, arm (maybe leg) massage, you will have oils on your skin which may get on your clothes. They also have a special facial/​treatments for men. I see men here regularly, and not to stereotype, but not «metrosexual» type guys, regular «I don’t look like I go for facials/​spa treatments but I take care of myself» guys.
Enjoy!

I had pretty high hopes for my experience at this spa, so perhaps I am being picky. I was surprised by the spa décor that seemed very modest in spite of their higher price points. Overall the facial I received felt really good, but the extractions I experienced took a very long time to heal and were more painful than usual.
I was surprised by this because the esthetician I had was apparently very experienced, but she did a lot of digging around and I think she was a bit aggressive in the treatment because I had to hold her back from going further. I’ve been to dozens of other spas and had extractions before, so I can say from experience that this particular facial wasn’t as gentle as it should have been.
Overall it was professional and my experience was enjoyable, but I don’t think I would return for a facial again. Also, the emphasis on «natural» is misleading and it overlooks the fact that many «natural» substances are not necessary beneficial for skin. There are wonderful skin products that contain synthetic ingredients out there and I think the reliance on «natural» ingredients alone isn’t enough. Poison ivy and stinging nettle are natural, but obviously these are irritants. Many other plan oils are just as irritating and although they might smell soothing, the efficacy might not be as claimed.

I think this place is average in terms of products used — not cheap either. HOWEVER, I was most unhappy with Vera who performed my facial. She used a very judgemental tone when asking me what products I currently use. «WHY you use that? WHO told you to do that? WHY you use that?» and then proceeded to tell me in montone whatever she memorized and why I need to upgrade my facial to a higher priced one and spoke about some of the products.
The extraction process was minimal. Overall, I walked out with a face full of oil and a shitload of lip balm. I’ve had facials before and even though my face is usually moisturized after — it’s not like someone poured oil and slathered lotion all over it — which is what this felt like. Ugh.
At check out, the person at the cash desk did not ask if I wanted to sign up for a package or introduce me to the concept.
I would go back if I was desperate for a facial — but would not have Vera do it. She is not very personable or friendly.

I love the products here. They are high quality. Especially Martina Gerbhardt and Naturopathica. The Pure and Simple line is also really good, especially their toners/​cleaners and the Collagen Serum.
The reason why I am not giving this place a glowing review is becuase my skin broke out after every facial that I had here. Maybe my skin is super sensitive but extractions are not for everyone. Needless to say, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience. It was super relaxing and the staff is really nice.