Whether it’s your first time at a spa or you’ve visited before, theses spa tips can help you have the perfect spa day and make the most of your experience.

Have you felt stressed lately? If so, you’re not alone. Most Americans are suffering from moderate to high levels of stress. In fact, 44 percent of Americans report that their levels of stress have increased over the past five years.

While stress levels are certainly up across the board, the good news is, there’s something you can do about it.

There are a lot of ways to relieve stress, among them planning a spa day.

To make sure you make the most of it, check out this guide to learn how to have the perfect spa day.

1. Choose the Right Spa

First things first, you need to make sure that you choose the right spa. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a day spa.

Check the Menu

For day spas, there isn’t any sort of universal certification that says you need to offer specific service.

So, before you book an appointment, make sure you call in or check with the spa menu on the website to make sure they have what you’re looking for, whether it be a manicure, facial, or massage.

Check for the Spa’s License and Registration

While there’s no universal certification that makes something a day spa, there are still licensing and regulation codes that a spa needs to follow in order to offer their services.

For example, if they offer manicures and pedicures, then their nail technicians should be certified. The same goes for massage therapists. Spas also need to pass background checks, undergo health inspections, and ensure that any sort of medical procedure is performed by a licensed and trained professional.

You can check with your local Better Business Bureau to make sure that the spa is up to date with all its licensing and certification.

Cleanliness

This is something that should go without saying, but you’d be surprised by the number of spas out there that don’t practice the appropriate cleaning procedures.

Spas have many clients back to back, and if sheets aren’t changed and tools aren’t cleaned, you put yourself at risk of infection. You can check out reviews online to see what other people have to say about the cleanliness of the spa, and you can call in and ask what steps the spa takes to ensure a clean environment.

2. Take Advantage of Packages and Membership Programs

If you’re looking to get the most bang for your buck on your next spa day, we suggest inquiring about spa packages and membership programs.

Buying a package usually means you buy two or more services, with each service coming at a discounted price. For example, instead of buying a manicure for $40 and a pedicure for $60, a combo of the two may only cost you $85.

If you think you’re going to be a spa regular, then it’s definitely worth looking into the spa’s membership program, if they have one. Usually, with a membership program, you pay a flat fee each month, and then you get exclusive discounts and coupons for their services.

3. Choose the Right Order

If you’re booking multiple services, you want to make sure that you schedule them in an order that makes sense.

While the spa team can assist you with this, it’s a good idea to come in with an idea of what you want. For example, if you’re getting a massage and a facial, it’s usually a good idea to schedule the facial after the massage. This is because oils are often used during massages. Plus, the motion of a massage can help invigorate your skin and get it ready for the facial.

An ideal spa itinerary will look something like this:

Manicure/pedicure
Body wrap
Massage
Facial

4. Eat a Light and Healthy Meal Beforehand

There’s nothing worse than showing up to a spa day feeling bloated and gassy. Luckily, this can be easily avoided by eating a light and healthy breakfast beforehand.

Acai bowls, smoothies, and eggs with avocado are all great breakfast options. Also, be sure to drink plenty of water and to avoid alcohol the night before your spa day. This way, your skin will be nice and hydrated.

And, if you’re going to be at the spa for more than a few hours, it’s usually a good idea to bring a snack with you. Some spas even have small cafes attached to them, so be sure to look into this as well.

5. Clear Your Schedule of Stressful Events Afterwards

It can be hard to relax at the spa when you know that you have a stressful event right afterward.

So, to make sure you get the most out of your spa experience, keep your schedule for the day easy and light. Perhaps afterward you want to have an easy night in with yourself, watching a movie or reading a book with a glass of wine.

6. Bring the Right Spa Partner

Who you bring with you on your spa day can make a huge difference in your overall experience.

Oftentimes, it’s best to have a spa day by yourself, so you can be alone with your thoughts and get in some quality “me time”.

If you choose to bring a companion, make sure you choose someone who is going to enhance the experience. And, keep in mind that many spas offer couples’ massages and other couples’ packages, so be sure to inquire about these.

7. Make it a Whole Day Event

To really make the most of your spa day, we suggest turning it into an entire day of self-love.

Your schedule may look something like this:

Attend a relaxing yoga class in the morning
Shower and eat a light breakfast with a warm cup of tea or coffee
Head to the spa
After the spa, grab lunch and treat yourself to a new piece of clothing or jewelry
Head home and relax with a glass of wine and your favorite movie

Spa Tips: Are You Ready for the Perfect Spa Day?

Book your appointment with us today.

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