Treatments decoded
From full body wraps to massage etiquette, spa treatments can be a little confusing. Here we talk to an expert about the questions you have always wanted to ask
Don’t know what massage pressure to ask for? Not sure if you should wax before going for a facial? If you are a first-time spa visitor, or even if you are a seasoned regular, there are many questions about the treatments you might have before going for an appointment at the spa.
“It is vital that a spa team are ready to welcome guests and make them feel relaxed,” says Tara Moore, Head of Spa Operations at Galgorm Resort and Spa (www.galgorm.com). “A lot of guests are very conscious once a robe is put on and it is important that we do everything we can to ensure they enjoy the experience.”
Here are five of the most common spa questions about treatments: When a masseuse asks what kind of pressure I want for my massage, what do I say? This depends on why you are getting the massage. Are you just there for a relaxing treatment, or do you suffer from tension in your back?
“If you want to relax your muscles then a light-to-medium massage is ideal,” says Tara. “If you need to focus on certain areas then ask for a firm pressure. Don’t be afraid to let the therapist know if it is too firm or too light so that they can adjust.” Do I have to be nude for a treatment?
It is preferable that you wear only the lower part of your undergarments for a massage as it ensures a thorough treatment. Spa teams are trained on how to drape towels, so there is never any embarrassment.
However, if you are not comfortable with this and wish to keep more items on, the spa team will work around this for you. Just ask! I’m going for a facial, but I have some problem areas. Should I squeeze my pimples and pluck my eyebrows before the treatment? “It is best to leave your face alone as this gives the therapist a true reflection of your skin so they can better help you,” says Tara. “You are paying someone who is trained to take care of your skin, so don’t worry about pre-grooming.” I have mature skin so what are the best treatments for me? Your skin therapist is usually happy to give you an in-depth skin consultation. Don’t worry about choosing the correct treatments for yourself, as your therapist is trained in choosing the correct products specific to your skin concerns.
“I find that more mature guests, like myself, react well to a SkinCeuticals Treatment which is an advanced facial using a Skin Scanner at Galgorm. Pure, potent actives are used to improve radiance and skin texture. Something firming and uplifting is always a good option for more mature skin.” What kind of control do you have over a treatment – can you ask for specifics? If you want to change something in the treatment, or concentrate on a certain area, then the spa therapist is usually happy to change it to suit you.
Tara adds: “If someone is ever unsure of what treatment to choose, just ask the staff. If they are going to a spa, the team can guide them through everything they offer. As a guest, you are there to relax and the spa team are there to help you.”