The Spa Lifestyle

Learn the dos and don’ts of spa-goers, so you can enjoy the ultimate spa experience

Want to be pampered, relaxed and less stressed? Want to fight the aging process, look and feel better, and have more energy? Welcome to the Spa Lifestyle. I believe this way of life should be accessible to all women, whatever their budget. Women deserve to have a career, as well as maintain a personal and family life, without losing themselves in the midst. The Spa Lifestyle is one step closer to achieving this balance.

To get the most out of your spa experience, I have included the ultimate dos and don’ts, so you can lie back, relax and indulge yourself.

What to wear…

Many people are embarrassed about taking their clothes on and off in front of people. Feel free to change into a robe privately in the bathroom, locker room, or treatment room if you prefer, noting that your technician will not be in the treatment room while you are changing back into your robe or clothes. Privacy is respected.

• Facial – You may leave on your undergarments except for a bra. Why? Your décolleté (chest area) may receive some attention—that’s also part of a facial.
• Medical Facial – A medical facial follows the same as above, but during medical treatments like injectables or photofacials, you can wear clothes. Why? These treatments are face-specific.
• Massage – Wear your spa robe to the room, but feel free to be naked underneath. Your entire body will receive attention. Shy? Leave on your undies. While it’s easier to massage the lower back without underwear, it’s truly your preference.
• Body Scrub/Wrap/Treatment – Bare all unless provided disposable panties; ask the spa if they will be provided. Why? Your skin will get moist (and your undies will, too).
• Waxing – Ask if disposable panties are provided, or leave your undies on unless you’re having a Brazilian. Why? A Brazilian means taking it off (yes, all off!).
• Spray Tan – Wear disposable panties, if provided, or nothing at all. Why? No tan lines, of course! And the tanning solution can stain undergarments. Afterward, leave your underwear off and wear dark, loose sweatpants and flip-flops.

What to do if…

Running late for your appointment? Unfortunately, you could be out of luck. Treatments are booked during specific time periods and this could interfere with following appointments. Always plan to arrive 15 minutes early.

Uncomfortable with a therapist of the opposite sex? At the time of booking, make sure you state your preference. But remember, all therapists are trained to be professional and respectful.

Does your therapist talk during the treatment? Politely say that you’d like to ‘tune out,’ as you really need the relaxation in order to fully enjoy it. Or, substitute ‘relaxation’ with ‘silence’ if you really want to get your point across.

Uncomfortable with something during your treatment, such as the pressure of a massage or facial extractions? The best way to approach this is to explain your likes and dislikes before the treatment begins. If you’re worried about hurting someone’s feelings by speaking up in mid-treatment, then blame Mary Blackmon
of Spa-Addicts.com, who advised you to be honest.

How to tip...

Why tip? Providing a spa service for you is not just a passion for these caring professionals, but a career choice from which they earn a living. If you’ve enjoyed a great spa experience, then tip your therapist 15–20 percent of the cost of your service(s).

Mary Blackmon is the founder and CEO of SpaAddicts.com and SpaTube.tv. For more information on how you can achieve the Spa Lifestyle, visit Spa-Addicts.com.