Frequently Asked Questions & Spa Policies
What should I change about my skin care routine before my appointment?
Discontinue all retinol products at least 7-10 days before the service. Your skin cannot be sunburned at the time of your service. You cannot receive a microdermabrasion, HydraFacial, chemical peel or dermaplaning if you are pregnant or if you have a cold sore break out.
When is the best time to book an appointment?
The earlier, the better! At day spas, peak hours are often late afternoons and weekends (especially Saturdays), so book as far in advance as possible in order to ensure getting a particular time, day, and therapist you want. It’s easiest to accommodate you during off-peak hours, which are often in the mornings and mid-week. If you will be attending the spa with a gift certificate, it is a good idea to mention it so that the spa can advise you of any policy that may affect its use. Scheduling future appointments is easily done at the end of your appointment.
Can I request a specific therapist?
If you have a preference, don’t hesitate to let your choice be known. If you have enjoyed the services of a particular therapist on a prior visit or you have been referred to a specific therapist, you may request that person. If you are unable to book an appointment with your usual therapist at your requested time, remember we are a cooperative, team environment; we encourage clients to experience services with all of our highly-qualified therapists.
Do I need to arrive early for my appointment?
Arrive on time or early. For your first appointment, you should arrive 15 minutes early to allow time for completing a questionnaire and consultation. After your first appointment, it is not necessary to arrive 15 minutes early, but you may still want to arrive 5-10 minutes early to relax before your appointment. If you are late, your treatment time will need to be shortened since the treatment room (and therapist) is generally booked after your session. After a treatment, it’s customary to vacate the room within five or ten minutes. However, you are free to spend additional time unwinding in the day spa’s waiting room.
What should I wear to the spa?
Most people come to a day spa in very casual attire-something they can easily slip off. Some treatments can be done while you’re fully clothed, but appropriate attire, for other services is always provided. There are always towels, robes and flip flops provided at your request.
Should I wear my jewelry to the spa?
If possible, leave your jewelry at home as you will not need it for your day spa visit. If however, you have brought valuables, you will need to take them off for most services, but you will never have to leave it unattended. Also, be mindful of not leaving them behind.
Can I make special requests about my preferences?
All aspects of treatment can usually be modified to your taste: the amount of light, kind (or absence) of music, room temperature, and whether or not you choose to have a conversation or enjoy the treatment in silence. When getting a massage, please let the therapist know if the pressure is too light or too much.
What if I have a Medical condition?
If you have any type of medical condition, be sure to mention it when you book an appointment. Certain treatments may not be advisable for you. Also, before your treatment begins, let your therapist or esthetician know of any medical concerns. Tell the technician if you’re wearing contact lenses before you have a facial.
Must I be nude during my visit?
It is never required that you are unclothed in front of anyone in a day spa. Guests generally change in the treatment room after the therapist has stepped out of the room. Towels and robes are provided when needed and can keep you continually covered. Therapists are well trained in the “art of draping” which means that they leave the treatment room while you get under the sheet on the massage table, and they keep you covered at all times except for the area of the body they are massaging. They also leave the treatment room before you get up from the table.
Does sunbathing affect my treatment?
Try to avoid the sun on the day of treatment and, in some cases, the day after.
Is it okay if I eat a meal prior to my treatment?
Try not to eat for at least an hour before a treatment, and avoid the consumption of alcohol on the day of a treatment. Drink plenty of water before and afterward, especially if heat therapies are part of your day spa experience.
What is the customary gratuity?
Between 15 and 20 percent for each person who gave you a service is customary, but you may, of course, leave more or less, depending on the quality of the service.
Shaving
If you must shave, do so at least two hours before your scheduled appointment, particularly if you’re a man receiving a facial or a woman receiving any kind of scheduled bodywork.
Waxing
The best length for waxing hair is ¼” If hair is longer, please trim prior to your appointment. This makes the process easier and less painful. Avoid sun exposure the day of and after. Waxing cannot be done if the skin is sunburned.
Cell phones
Because the day spa environment is supposed to be a tranquil and stress-reducing experience, it’s best to leave cell phones and pagers at home or turn them off before entering the day spa.
Children
Children are generally not allowed so that the day spa ambiance remains as relaxing as possible. Teens may be accommodated for certain services or at certain times when accompanied by an adult.
Socializing
When in the relaxation room and elsewhere in the day spa, be mindful of others. Keep conversations at a low volume.