Getting better bang for pampering buck
Once upon a time, a typical afternoon at the spa might have included a mani-pedi, facial or relaxing massage.
These days, spa treatments are anything but typical. Today’s spa-goers are not only looking for a little pampering, but also some very real results.
“A major trend worldwide focuses on non-invasive body treatments,” says Kim Hochstein, spa director of Sante Spa in Calgary.
“Clients want to come in and relax, but they also want something out of the treatment. They want to enjoy themselves but also feel like the’ve gained something.”
Some of Sante’s latest treatments range from lipo massage to hydro-spas, the latter of which involves patients sitting in a warm cocooning capsule that features a 36-degree Vichy shower and hydro-fusion that is both private and comfortable. During the treatment, dry radiant heat and steam is intended to stimulate patients’ metabolism and detoxification. Hochstein says the treatment is popular either on its own or as a nice finishing touch to a massage.
Many Calgarians are also turning toward the Big Steam, a new treatment exclusive to Sante Spa. The Slim Up Big Steam combines dry infra-red heat, steam, evaporation and aromatherapy in different combinations and intensities. It helps stimulate the immune system with increased metabolism, while promoting detoxification and weight loss, says Hochstein.
“It’s nothing like you would see in any other spa,” says Hochstein. “You can see and feel a difference right way.”
Lipo massage, meanwhile, is a non-invasive procedure where various areas of the body can be targeted for the treatment of cellulite, excess fat deposits and lax skin.
But it’s not just our bodies guiding today’s spa trends. Anti-aging facial treatments are also growing in popularity, says Hochstein.
The M6 Collagen facial, for example, uses the noninvasive LPG Endermologie system to firm, tighten and rejuvenate the skin. The treatment reactivates deep, dormant cellular activity by mechanically stimulating the skin.
“Even if you just do one side of your face, you can see a dramatic before and after,” says Hochstein. “It’s the perfect treatment if you’re looking for a lift for a wedding, reunion or just a night out.”
Today’s spa trends are also centring around using local ingredients.
SwizzleSticks SalonSpa in Calgary, for example, has partnered with aroma therapist Rae Dunphy Aromatics to create a massage ritual for Calgarians by Calgarians, says spa team leader Molly Sorensen-Clark. “Our two companies have been diligently working together on natural sourced and sustainable beauty products and services for over 20 years,” she says.
SwizzleSticks’ Destiny Signature Aroma blend, for example, contains grapefruit for invigoration, lavender for a sense of calm and well-being, ylang ylang for balance and patchouli oil, for its anti-aging effects on skin.
“There is a lot of living to do in Calgary if you are of a mind to do so. We don’t want you so relaxed that you let the benefits of a vibrant city pass you by,” says Sorensen-Clark.
“After all, we live in one of the great cities of the world; we want to be ready for it.”