Learning to Spa: Part 1

June 9, 2006

The spa business is certainly booming. In America alone, consumers spent $11.8 billion dollars between their visits to day, medical, resort and destination spas in 2004. The U.S. has more than 86.7 million square feet of indoor space located within more than 12,000 distinct spas. So what’s all the buzz about? Women and men alike are discovering that spas are the perfect escape- a convenient way to relax while keeping their bodies and minds in optimum shape. If you’ve never been spa-ing before, there’s no time like the present to start!

The treatments, facilities, and ambiance available in domestic spas are more varied than you can possibly imagine. From sleek and modern, to cozy and warm, to globally influenced and incredibly ornate…there’s a spa to suit every taste. Day spas can be found in almost any town and offer a wide variety of services for relaxation and beautification. Medical spas go one step further by providing medical supervision and a greater emphasis on anti-aging and aesthetic correction. Destination and resort spas can get really wild- with everything from horseback riding and snow skiing to complete mediation courses.

But why bother? Spas offer the perfect escape from hectic lives. They allow you to recharge your batteries, release tension and learn new ways of dealing with stress. A good spa treatment can help the body shed accumulated toxins, bring forth a healthier complexion and encourage lymph drainage and flexibility. Whether you head out for an hour, a day or a week, a trip to the spa can provide a memorable experience that’s as good for your body as it is for the mind. I guarantee…one trip and you’ll be hooked!

Not sure where to begin? Spa directories like this one are a great place to start; alternately, you can browse Bella Luccè’s retail directory for listings of local spas in your area that use our products. Another alternative is to ask a friend for a recommendation or drop in for a quick visit to that spa you pass on the way to work every day. A quality spa will be happy to offer a quick tour and an explanation of their spa menu. This menu details all of their available services and should give you a good idea of what to expect with each one. The most important factor in choosing the right spa is determining where you feel comfortable; choose an atmosphere that you find relaxing and a staff that welcomes you.

Today’s spa services span an awe-inspiring spectrum and are ever-changing. Manicures tame unruly cuticles, soften hands and often include polish (expect to pay $15-40, depending on the complexity of the service and your location). Pedicures can help rid the feet of calluses as they soften and hydrate the skin- polish is typically included ($25-70). Facials are my personal favorite- they can improve skin plagued by acne, wrinkles, sun damage, etc. and usually include cleansing, exfoliating, a mask and moisturizer ($40-95). If you’re feeling particularly in need of pampering, opt for a body wrap or scrub. These treatments offer a variety of benefits and are incredibly relaxing ($65-175). Massages are a traditional spa favorite; recently a number of exciting new massage techniques have found favor in American spas, including Thai, Sports and Balinese ($45-110). Other services may include eyebrow, lip and bikini waxing ($15-65), paraffin treatments and spray tanning. More and more facilities are offering wellness classes, Pilates, yoga, meditation or Tai Chi.

Alright, so you’ve convinced yourself that you deserve to be Queen For A Day…now what? Stay tuned- in a few days, I’ll post Part Two of this series, giving you the low-down on the hottest spa treatments and how to choose one that’s right for you. Until then, start the search for that perfect spa where you can plan your getaway!

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