Most spas specialize in certain procedures and treatments. Some spas, particularly the wellness centers in Europe and day spas associated with physical therapy services, specialize in hydrotherapy procedures and rehabilitation treatments. Other spas, particularly Hungarian spas, are known for their specialized body wraps and skin treatments.
Before scheduling your spa appointment or choosing a spa to visit while on vacation, some research is in order. Determine what outcome you’re seeking and find the best spas that can accommodate you and the best price they offer.
Medical Spas
Medical spas are establishments that perform cosmetic surgery and other spa procedures. The advantages are that you can undergo laser hair removal and cellulite reduction and have a skin soothing facial or body wrap before heading home. Medical spas are required to have a medical doctor on the premises at all time. Although this doctor may direct or guide certified employees to perform the procedures, his or her presence is required.
The disadvantages are that routine services may cost more and not all technicians may have proper training or be licensed. It’s important to ask who will be doing your procedure. If possible, schedule your microdermabrasion or other procedure with the attending physician.
Holistic Spas
A number of spas offer holistic therapies, for instance Ayurvedic treatments, Russian herbal therapies, chakra therapies, and Eastern therapies. If you’re looking for an expert massage, the Holistic Spa Therapy Center in Boston, home of the Korean Backwalk, is the place to go. Here you’ll find the best Swedish and Deep Tissue Massages and other therapies, such as the Cedar Rock Dry Sauna that help soothe weary muscles.
Skin Specialists
European spas are well known for restoring the skin’s healthy glow. Skilled in the art of botany, spas such as Caudalie’s vinotherapie treatments use unique plant ingredients rich in antioxidant nutrients. Aestheticians trained in Hungary are knowledgeable in evaluating the skin’s and recommending both dietary and skincare advice.
Wellness Centers
Wellness centers are spas that feature health-promoting therapies, such as acupuncture. At the Wellness Center Spa in San Francisco acupuncturist Sean Radan holds post graduate certifications in N.A.E.T. (Allergy Elimination), N.A.D.A. (Dependency-Detoxification), Live Blood Analysis, Facial Rejuvenation (Mei Zen System) and others.
Besides offering acupuncture and detoxification programs, the center offers a wide array of wellness classes, including exercise and nutrition programs. The center uses exclusive European, Japanese and Asian technologies and treatments to detoxify the body, jump-start weight loss, boost the immune system and enhance energy. See their website for special discounts for new clients.
Specialty Services
Special therapies and procedures for men, teens, children, seniors and pets are available at an increasing number of spas. At the Essential Day Spa in Vancouver, British Columbia, guests can schedule electrolysis procedures, a session at the mud bar, and a professional make-up application before a night on the town. Men can have their eyebrows waxed and groomed before their massage.
Spa Getaways
Destination spas abound. Features include skiing, hiking trails, swimming, snorkeling, gourmet cooking classes, casinos, golfing, weight loss programs, and more. Some destination spas specialize in wedding receptions so if you prefer seclusion and privacy, you might want to avoid these and seek out spas with private cabanas, rooms with private hot tubs, and room service. Destination spas can also be medical spas and offer a perfect opportunity for cosmetic procedures requiring a little downtime. Decide what features best serve you.
With competition to attract clients, spas are going out of their way to offer special packages and special services. When booking your spa appointment, be sure to ask if you’re eligible for any special discounts or if there are any promotions going on or coupons available, including web promotions.
Spa Ratings
A number of organizations and publications rank spas based on consumer reports of satisfaction. Some of the best rankings include the: Conde Nast Traveler Reader Awards, Mobil Travel 4 star spa awards, and the Spa Finder website.
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