Mommy Time: Spa & Beauty

January 23

Over the Christmas holidays, I treated my husband (and myself) to a bit of pampering at my favorite day spa. He works hard and it was his first time off in over a year so I thought he deserved it. Just the thought of an afternoon at the spa makes me feel relaxed. My husband on the other hand was full of questions and a bit of anxiety as well. I made me realize that there are probably tons of deserving people who will never set foot into a spa simply because they do not know what to expect. So I called Teri, the owner of Body Wrap Masters and asked her what she wished people knew before coming into the spa for the first time. To make your visit really enjoyable, there are a few things you ought to know.

• Get there 10 to 20 min early just to make sure the service gets started on time. You'll need extra time to fill out paperwork even if you have been a client before you may need to update your information before getting a new service. You'll also want to have time to change, use the restroom, and consult with your technician about which facial or massage is best for you.

• Gratuity is optional, but appreciated. But it can, in some facilities, be a large portion of the technicians salary... Just like waiting tables.If you choose to tip, 10%-20% or $10-$25 per service is what is recommended.Most people in the service industry will consider your tip to be a reflection of how you felt about their performance.It is recommended that you tip based on service received.

• Attire  You may be asked to get down to your undies, or even nude. Unless you are getting a full body scrub or mask or Brazilian wax, you will be fully covered (on all the important parts) regardless of how much you take off.If you are really  uncomfortable, tell your technician and they should accommodate you.Sometimes you are given a robe, other times you will be under sheets and/or blankets.  Wear comfortable clothes to the spa. Avoid lots of accessories, expensive or delicate jewelry etc.

• Paper work Be sure to disclose all medical issues, medications, allergies, likes and dislikes. If you are being treated for a serious illness, such as cancer or lupus, you need to make sure you go over it with your technician- even if you don't think it applies.Make sure you update the spa and technician with any changes of health, such as pregnancy, fevers, hormone therapy etc.  Never get a service when you have a fever, contagious skin rash, viral infection etc.

• Give at least 24 hours notice for a cancellation. If you cancel last minute, you have taken another clients opportunity to come in at that time and have left a technician (probably commission only) without the ability to work for that hour.

• Let your technician know if you are too hot, too cold, pressing too light, or too deep, or causing any kind of discomfort. They are often warmer than you and will not notice cold. They operate assuming it is wonderful unless you speak up.

• If a product stings or burns, let your tech know. It may be due to a reaction or sensitive skin, it may just be doing it's job.

• Never leave unhappy without telling the owner, front desk, or tech. After your service, if you don't want to deal with it, call later and tell them. Often times know one will know (even the tech) unless you say something. This will insure your next service is to your liking.

• Not all techs are alike. Expect each service and each tech to provide a different experience.

• Express what your desire is... If you just want to relax, but ask for a Deep Pore Cleansing... It may be too vigorous, causing you to be disappointed.

• Extend the spa experience at home.Take care of yourself at home. Most spas sell the products they use. Don't feel pressured to buy, but it's a good idea to get into a skin care routine at home.

Visit SpaFinder.com to find Body Wrap Masters and other day spas near you. SpaFinder gift certificates can be purchased at drugstores, grocery stores, and on-line.