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What Kind of Treatments are Available at Spas?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

A spa can provide a relaxing and rejuvenating experience for people of all ages and genders. Spa treatments range widely from simple massage to complex body wraps designed to firm and tone the skin. Many spas have a menu which represents spa treatments from all over the world, although the spa may have a specific focus such as Asian or Ayurvedic body care. The spa menu usually includes specific information about the spa treatments available and their benefits.

When you are going to a spa, it is an excellent idea to research the spa treatments beforehand, so that you know what to expect. If you have concerns about allergies, it is also important to alert spa staff when you book a treatment, so that they can help you select the best treatment. It is also advised that clients communicate with the massage therapist or aesthetician performing the treatment for the best results.

A woman getting a manicure at a spa.
A woman getting a manicure at a spa.

Several spa treatments focus on the health of the body and skin. Most spas usually offer several types of massage including traditional Esalen or Swedish Style, Warm Stone, Deep Tissue, and Thai or Shiatsu. Some spas include Ayurvedic massage or massage treatments such as Trigger Point or Myofascial Release. Massage can be performed with oil or cream, and will result in an all over feeling of relaxation and well being.

Some spas offer Botox® injections.
Some spas offer Botox® injections.

Other spa treatments for the body include body scrubs and wraps. Scrubs are designed to exfoliate the skin, and use an exfoliant such as salt, sugar, or loofah to gently remove the surface layer of dead skin. The exfoliant is usually mixed with flowers, herbs, or essential oils to enhance skin health. After a scrub, a body wrap is a wonderful way to moisturize and tone the skin. Body wraps are made with a variety of materials including muds, clays and seaweed. Seaweed has firming and toning qualities, while clays and muds have distinct properties depending on which type is used.

Some spas offer facial laser treatments which can reduce the appearance of skin imperfections.
Some spas offer facial laser treatments which can reduce the appearance of skin imperfections.

Other spa treatments are specifically designed to address the hands and feet. Many spas offer manicures and pedicures. Spa treatments for the hands and feet may also include exfoliation and masks for the feet along with massage or soaking in mineralized baths. These spa treatments are designed to leave the hands and feet feeling soft and replenished.

Many spas offer body scrubs.
Many spas offer body scrubs.

Many spas also offer facials. Facials can range from simple masks to facials with multiple steps to exfoliate, firm, and tone the skin of the face. Special training is required to perform facials, because facial skin is more delicate than other parts of the body. Make sure that you work with an aesthetician who is properly trained.

For the top of your head, many spas offer hair treatments. Larger spas have salons available for clients to have their hair cut and styled. Others may offer hair treatments such as Shiodhara, an Ayurvedic treatment using warm oil and gentle massage. Some spas offer special herbal hair wraps, so that your hair can be nourished while you pamper the rest of your body.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGEEK researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

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    • A woman getting a manicure at a spa.
      By: Valua Vitaly
      A woman getting a manicure at a spa.
    • Some spas offer Botox® injections.
      By: Kaarsten
      Some spas offer Botox® injections.
    • Some spas offer facial laser treatments which can reduce the appearance of skin imperfections.
      By: Yanik Chauvin
      Some spas offer facial laser treatments which can reduce the appearance of skin imperfections.
    • Many spas offer body scrubs.
      By: kubais
      Many spas offer body scrubs.
    • Hot stone massages have become popular at high-end health clubs and day spas.
      By: Kesu
      Hot stone massages have become popular at high-end health clubs and day spas.
    • Four handed massages are known as one of the most indulgent and relaxing spa treatments.
      By: Daniel T. Seher
      Four handed massages are known as one of the most indulgent and relaxing spa treatments.
    • Warm compress and rock treatments are popular activities at spas.
      By: Africa Studio
      Warm compress and rock treatments are popular activities at spas.
    • Facial massages may be available at spas.
      By: brankatekic
      Facial massages may be available at spas.
    • Aromatherapy treatments can help people dealing with anxiety.
      By: luigi giordano
      Aromatherapy treatments can help people dealing with anxiety.