Spa Etiquette Tips

Visiting a Spa can be a most pleasurable and relaxing experience, which can be easily spoilt by insufficient knowledge of acceptable etiquette standards. Preparing for your well-earned, rejuvenating spa experience, by arming yourself with a little inside knowledge, will ensure your time spent being pampered is as heavenly as possible.

Being Punctual

As with any appointment you may book, arriving on time is of the utmost importance. Arriving at least 30 minutes before your appointment time will also allow you to relax into your surroundings more comfortably. If you arrive late your treatment time may be reduced accordingly, so being punctual ensures that your time spent at the Spa is as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

Medical Conditions

If you have any medical conditions you should inform the Spa staff when you make your booking. Some treatments may not be suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, although a member of staff or qualified therapist will be able to provide you with a detailed explanation of this. If you wear contact lenses it is advisable that you inform the therapist before you have a facial treatment, although temporarily removing the lenses is optional.

Shaving

Whether you are male or female, it is recommended that shaving, before using Spa facilities, is done at least two hours before your treatment appointment. This is to ensure any products used during treatment do not aggravate your skin in any way.

Exploring the Facilities

When you first arrive at the Spa you will undoubtedly be eager to explore the facilities on offer, and the treatments available. If your Spa is part of a resort or hotel complex there may be far more amenities on offer than you will find at a day spa. Once you have checked in at the Spa you will be able to explore the activity schedule, and can also request a tour before your treatment appointment time. Many of the facilities – sauna, steam room, swimming pool and relaxation area – are generally complementary, so it is worth finding a little bit of free time to enjoy these amenities.

Nudity and Acceptable Attire

Clothing is a minimal requirement within a Spa environment, but there will be areas where you will be expected to wear a swimsuit, towelling robe and flip-flops or similar footwear. This will generally be in dining and public spaces close to the reception area, for instance. When having a treatment you are free to decide if you wish to wear clothing, as therapists are used to giving treatments to nude clients. Some treatments, like hydrotherapy, will require you remove all clothing, although other treatments, like Indian Head Massage, can be performed through light clothing.

How to Communicate Preferences

Time spent at a Spa is to be enjoyed and should be a relaxing experience. Therefore making sure your preferences are considered is important. When having a treatment you must speak up if you are unhappy about any aspect of the environment– this includes the volume of the music being played, the lighting, room temperature and whether you would prefer the treatment to be performed in silence. You are paying for the ultimate pampering experience and should therefore ensure the service provided is to your liking.

Finally

Make sure you leave your mobile phone at home, or switched off in your allocated locker.