Just a few years ago, a trip to a spa meant either a two-week vacation or a stay at a hotel that had a whirlpool and sauna. Day spas have changed all that, but before you book an appointment, it’s important to know what you should expect, what you want from your visit, and what area spas offer.
What to Expect from a Day Spa Visit
First, know that not all spas are created equal. Some salons may advertise as a spa when they only offer a few spa services. True day spas offer a range of services and most importantly a relaxed, friendly, unhurried, yet very professional atmosphere. Here’s how to make the distinction.
True day spas offer:
- A clean environment that fosters a sense of safety and calm.
- Private treatment rooms where personal services are rendered.
- Separate shower and changing facilities for both sexes
- Spa robes and shoes for all sizes (NOTE: This is a Day Spa Association recommendation, but men should double check on this. Although increasingly more spas cater to men, many still only provide women’s sizes in apparel.)
- A general business license (if it’s required in your area) and an open display of the licenses of the professionals on staff. (NOTE: This is especially important if you choose to have any therapeutic or medically oriented treatments)
- Professional spa products used by trained estheticians and therapists
- Swedish massage (a mainstay of day spas). The Day Spa Association suggests that true day spas also include lymph drainage and reflexology and indicates that their members may also opt to offer Shiatsu, polarity, sports (a popular type of massage for day spas that cater to men), deep tissue, and deep muscle massage.
- One or more types of body treatments including body packs and wraps, exfoliation, cellulite, body contouring, waxing, and a home care program for you to use between visits. The association’s optional suggestions for body treatments include impulse body toning, heat treatments, Aryurveda treatments, laser hair removal, electrolysis, hand & foot care.
- Another standard treatment at day spas, the cleansing facial also should include a home care program. Some spas may offer make-up and cosmetic counseling. Medically oriented days spas may offer medical facials, electrical toning, laser hair removal and electrolysis.
- Personalized aromatherapy for body and/or face
- A true day spa should have either hydrotherapy (whirlpool) or steam bath and sauna.
- A true day spa typically offers one of more of the following
- Nutritional counseling
- Private fitness
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Fresh fruits and/or juices (and/or lunch!)
- Fresh, cold, drinking water throughout your visit
- Manicure and pedicure are generally considered day spa standard services.
What Are Your Day Spa Preferences?
