Spa Etiquette: Know How To Tip And Strip At The Spa
Author: Susan Gans

An experience at the spa is like none other. Where else can one
receive pampering services, reconnect with one's self, and
emerge revitalized? Spas offer personal, hands-on services that
provide endless healthful benefits. Because of their intimate
nature, the spa environment can also represent an unfamiliar
level of exposure to new spa-goers. To get the most out of their
experience, visitors need not be intimidated. A little bit of
knowledge and preparation can go a long way.

The first rule of thumb is to arrive early to any appointment.
For first-timers, this is a good time to enjoy the facility and
peruse their other services. Many spas have both male and female
therapists on staff. If you have a preference, don't hesitate to
let your choice be known. Customers receiving a massage are met
by a therapist who escorts them to changing room. Robes and
sandals are made available for the comfort of the client.
Underwear may be left on. For clients who may be changing in the
room where the service is provided, the therapist will leave the
room, giving the client time to change out of their clothes and
lie down on the table.

During a massage session, the therapist may ask for some
feedback as to comfort and any trouble areas that might need
extra attention. It's important for customers to relax and enjoy
this time but also communicate any discomfort. Therapists are
well trained in the art of draping, which means they keep
clients covered at all times except for the area of the body
being massaged. Some enjoy conversing quietly with their massage
therapist during the session and others prefer to remain quiet.
It's up to the client and her comfort level.

After the massage session, the therapist will leave the room as
clients slip into their robe or clothes. It's important to
vacate the room within a reasonable amount of time as the room
must be prepared for the next client. A glass of water should be
provided by the therapist following the massage. Hydration is an
important element in massage therapy as it helps to clean the
body of toxins. Clients should be escorted to the changing room
where they can freshen up.

For those receiving body scrubs, body wraps and hydrotherapies,
clients are not draped in order to receive maximum benefits from
the services. In some instances swimsuits are optional. Clients
should inquire with the staff beforehand. When entering a
soaking pool, a swimming pool or whirlpool, it's necessary to
shower beforehand. In the sauna or steam, clients should always
sit on their towel and wear the sandals provided by the spa.

Facials are the second most popular spa service after the
massage. Those who schedule two treatments together should get a
massage before the facial. Clients receiving a facial should
alert the esthetician if they are wearing contacts. Facials
consist of a deep cleansing using mineral essentials and other
products to purify, nourish, and tone skin. Basic facials take
one hour to perform. It's not necessary to unclothe during
facials.

The spa is a great place for some alone time so leave children
under 16 at home. If someone else has brought along young
children who are disruptive, it's a good idea to speak to a
staff personnel. The spa environment is one that is meant to
foster calm and serenity. For that reason, it's also important
to turn off cell phones at the spa or leave them at home. And
although the spa is a "customer first" service industry, that
does not give clients the license to speak abusively to spa
staff. Lewd and inebriated guests will also find themselves
quickly and professionally dismissed from the spa.

In all service-related businesses it's common to tip the person
who has performed a service. If a service was rendered to the
satisfaction of the customer, it's expected the client will tip
for the service. The rule of thumb for spas today is 15 to 20
percent of the cost of service, or about $10 to $15 for one
treatment. If you are enjoying spa services as a result of a
gift certificate, inquire if the tip has been included in the
total. Tips are made at the time of check out. Many spas provide
envelopes at the front desk for tips.

For those who are still unsure about their first spa visit,
consider going along with a friend who has spa-going experience
or call ahead for a tour of the facility.


About The Author: Geologix Inc. manufactures the Mineral
Essentials line which focuses on spa, skin care, and massage
products to moisturize and provide anti-aging protection for
great skin. http://www.mineralessentials.com