Start Your Day Spa Day by Calming Your Qualms

Ease any misgivings about your day spa by asking a few questions when you make your first appointment.

1. How much time should you schedule for your first day spa visit? Most day spas require you to fill out a medical history to alert them of any special health conditions you have as well as any medications you take that may be affected by day spa treatments, so your first visit may take longer than normal.
2. Are single services available or must you purchase a day spa package?
3. Do services differ for men and women, smokers and non-smokers? Are special services available for you if you’re pregnant?
4. Are clinical services available such as chiropractic and acupuncture or does your day spa only offer personal services like aromatherapy, massage, and manicure?
5. What time can you expect to wait between services (i.e. down time between massage and manicure)?
6. Do you have a choice between male and female massage therapists? Good day spas always put your personal comfort first and offer you this choice.
7. What locker room facilities does the day spa provide? Do the lockers lock? What shower facilities are available?
8. What do you need to bring? Does your day spa offer hair and make-up aftercare or will you need your own touch-ups? Most day spas are equipped with spa robes and shoes in all sizes. Some also offer disposable under garments for women, although men may need to bring swim trunks or Speedos.
9. What is the suggested gratuity? Are gratuities included in the price? The Day Spa Association recommends a tip of 10% to 15%. Many spas provide a gratuity envelope at reception so that you needn’t carry cash from treatment to treatment.