Life-Changing Lunch Hour with Dr. Sturm

Meet Corinthia London's skin expert, brand founder and non-stop traveller.

Barbara Sturm is a German aesthetics doctor, world-recognised for her non-surgical, anti-ageing treatments and methods for rejuvenating the skin. Dr. Sturm began her medical career in orthopaedics as part of the team that developed cutting-edge anti-inflammatory treatments for osteoarthritis and back pain. She then translated this knowledge from her clinical research and orthopaedic practice into the field of aesthetics and opened her own medical clinic in Düsseldorf.

This dynamic skin expert, brand founder and non-stop traveller is the best advertisement for her own treatments and products. An elfin, age-defying force of nature, it’s no surprise she is celebrity-land’s favourite facialist. Sturm has revolutionised the skincare landscape with her pioneering scientific understanding of the molecular structure of cells and their process of ageing. Dr. Sturm’s anti-ageing concept includes a range of minimally invasive therapies with different focuses such as skin quality, skin structure, facial contours and firming. Her aim is always to freshen and rejuvenate the appearance of her clients, delivering smooth, firm skin and a fresh appearance. Achieving a natural result is Dr. Sturm’s trademark and her recipe for success. Her clinic in Düsseldorf is one of the world’s leading centres for aesthetic anti-wrinkle treatments, molecular skin therapies and holistic anti-ageing.

World-recognised for her incredible skin treatments and ground-breaking research, Dr. Sturm has found a way to trick old skin cells into behaving like new ones. Better still, this scientific breakthrough is delivered to her clients using a key natural ingredient, purslane. She explains, “Purslane stimulates the youth enzyme telomerase, which stops the length of the telomere cap at the end of our DNA from shortening. The shortening of our telomeres leads to cellular dysfunction which is ultimately the process behind the wear and tear of the skin and premature ageing.”

As you would expect from a woman juggling a global business, a family and a host of celebrity clients, Dr. Sturm knows how to multi-task - and so do her products. Many can be used in combination to enhance results or add to other formulas. For example, her revolutionary Sun Drops can be added to other products to provide protection. It’s this clever, practical approach that women love.

• How often do you visit London?

I’m in London all the time. I love this city, so it’s always a pleasure to visit. I’m a huge foodie and love to try new restaurants when I’m in town. I enjoy travelling with my daughter and visiting museums and playgrounds. London has so many wonderful things for children to see. Staying at Corinthia London is always a pleasure; the rooms are wonderful and the spa is incredible.

• How did you discover Corinthia London?

I first heard about the hotel from friends who kept telling me about it. I hadn’t been but when I heard it had the best spa in London, I had to visit! Then I met Managing Director Thomas Kochs and the team, and I fell in love with the hotel.

• Travel can take a toll on our skin. What advice do you give to clients who travel frequently?

Yes, so many of my clients travel all the time and London is a real jet-set destination. They might only be there for two days and then on to the next place, which can be problematic for skin. To avoid dryness, irritation and redness, I recommend my clients always travel with their basics and ensure they look after their skin with extra hydration and a masque. Waking up the circulation is really important for irritated skin. It’s also great to take my supplements so you’re looking after your internal health too.

• It’s cold, grey and miserable in London during the winter months. What are the best treatments and products to brighten up the complexion?

Air quality in all cities is really bad and in cold weather it gets worse. My Anti-Pollution Drops are great for skin in the city. Air conditioning and heating are also a problem, so it’s important to hydrate more, exfoliate and swap to a richer moisturiser.

• Beyond products and treatments, what other lifestyle advice do you give your clients to ensure they look and feel their best?

I can tell you what I do - I avoid alcohol and make sure I get to bed early; rest is very important to help restore and rejuvenate. I make sure I’m hydrated, try to keep stress levels under control and eat an anti-inflammatory diet, avoiding fried and processed food.

• You’re incredibly successful and busy with work, family and travel, but you make it all look effortless! What's your secret?

I try to overcome my daily guilt trip! It’s not easy juggling work and children, so I plan carefully, keeping some precious time for family. I love to wake up in the morning and have breakfast with my daughter. That’s a routine I try to keep to.