Are you nervous about your first visit to the Spa? Not your first time, but not sure what the proper protocols are? You are not alone.
A spa treatment is an extremely intimate service; sometimes more than going to your doctor. Going in unprepared for treatment can make you feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. Since helping a friend at her spa, I’ve learned what happens and why, and I hope the tips I’ve put together will help you get the most out of your spa treatments.
- Yes, you take off everything for a massage or body treatment and almost everything for a facial. If you’re uncomfortable with that, say something so the therapist won’t be surprised. The last thing he wants to do is get oil on your underwear. Our spa has disposable items that you can use, especially if you are going to wax your groin.
- You will undress and straighten up. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are easy to put on and take off.
- Leave your jewelry at home. Unless you are given a gown and a locker, your clothes and jewelry will be in your room during your treatment. Keep in mind that there may not be much room and your jewelry could be knocked over or left behind. I can’t tell you how many times a therapist has run to the desk with jewelry that someone forgot. And I have a small collection of rare pieces that have not yet been claimed. Also, it takes time to take the jewelry off and put it back on. You only have a limited amount of time. You want to make the most of it.
- When it comes to a spa, arriving early is arriving on time. Just one person who’s late can throw off the entire day’s schedule. The same goes for the end of your service. While it’s okay to relax for a minute before getting up, even recommended, you have to remember that the room needs to be cleaned and set up for the next client. Do not entertain.
- While most spas have a cancellation policy, they will understand if you are sick. You should never go to a spa while sick, as massage therapy pushes toxins through the body and you will feel sicker, not something you want to pay top dollar for. However, when you cancel, you must reschedule at the same time. If he reschedules, you may not be charged for the missed appointment. I know I don’t know if someone reschedules due to illness or is a repeat customer.
- Although you will be massaged with oil, you should not leave it greasy. The masseur should rub the oil. Our therapists also apply hot towels, which not only help with the oil, but also feel great. Your hair, however, will have a bit of oil on it, and if you’re wearing makeup, chances are it won’t look like it did when you arrived. Better not use it if possible.
- Cleanliness is important. Our therapists scrub up to their elbows between appointments and use hand sanitizer. While it may seem like common sense to shower the day of your treatment, I’ve seen people leave the beach in their bathing suits to wax their groins.
- Tips are important for therapists. A good therapist will consider her needs and personalize her treatment accordingly. Remember that they only receive a part of the fee and have expenses. For example, our staff provides their own sheets and massage oil. If you want scented candles in your rooms, they provide them. Some even offer extra complementary services like hot stones or aromatherapy for their most valued clients. It is customary to tip 20% and it must be in cash or check. Many spas pass credit card fees to staff for tips on cards. I find that when customers realize this, they bring cash or a check and are happy to do so. Finally, like bartenders, therapists are supposed to earn a certain amount in tips that are taxed as income by the state and IRS. In essence, this makes a bad tip costly for the therapist.
- You can talk during your treatment, but you should not feel obligated to do so. this is your moment When I receive a massage, I prefer to listen to the music and concentrate on relaxing. It’s not often that you have uninterrupted time to yourself, so make the most of it.
- Now that I said you don’t need to talk, I’m going to tell you to talk. If your therapist is using too much or too little pressure, tell them so. If you have pain in an area that he wants you to focus on or avoid, let him know. If the cushion under the legs, the headrest or the room temperature is too high or low, let us know, don’t suffer. Remember, you are paying for the service and should get the maximum experience and benefits from the spa therapy.
Your spa treatment should be relaxing and completely stress-free. Knowing what to expect and what is expected of you will make your time in the spa more enjoyable. I hope my spa experience helps you with yours.
