A spa is someplace you go for the day to get massage, facials, and body treatments, like sea salt scrubs and mud wraps.
Massage has been around for thousands of years. The word “massage” comes from the Greek root “masso" -- to touch. Today it is the most popular spa treatment.
Swedish massage is the most popular style of massage in the U.S. It is very relaxing and a good choice for first-time spagoers.
A basic Swedish massage is 50-60 minutes long. It involves the stroking of skin and kneading of muscles. It is performed by a licensed massage therapist, who uses oil to lubricate the skin. You are usually nude but covered by sheets.
The cost of massage varies, depending on geographic location and how luxurious the spa is.
A facial cleans, exfoliates and nourishes the skin to promote clear, well-hydrated skin. A facial is the second most popular spa service after massage. A facial involves a few basic steps:
-cleansing
-skin analysis, where the esthetician puts eye pads over your eyes and looks at your skin through a brightly lit magnifying lamp
-exfoliation, usually while a steam vapor is directed at your face.
-extraction of blackheads if you want it and it's suitable for your skin type. (It can cause broken capillaries.)
-facial massage to relax you and stimulate your skin and facial muscles
-a mask targeted to your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive, mature.)