Salon and Spa Questions Answered

If you’re planning your first trip to a salon or spa for a treatment, you’re probably wondering what to expect. Spas and salons are supposed to be havens of relaxation, so there’s no reason to feel in any way nervous about your visit.
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about spa and salon visits...feel free to ask your own! Of course, if you have any specific questions – just ask the spa. Therapists love to talk through the treatments with clients and are there to make sure you have a great treatment...
Q. Will I have to be naked?
This has to be the number one question for new spa and salon visitors, and the answer depends almost entirely on you. Although it’s normal for you to at least partially undress for many treatments, there is not usually any need for you to be completely naked.If you’re having a massage, most therapists will expect you to undress down to your underwear and usually remove your bra, but they are skilled in ‘towel arranging’ so that your modesty is protected at all times. The same applies to any body wraps or treatments. Obviously some waxing and hair removal treatments require areas of the body to be uncovered, too.
If you are having a water based spa treatment, you will usually be able to wear a swimsuit.
Q. Can I choose whether I would like a male or female therapist?
If it’s important to you, ask before you book your appointment whether there are any therapists of your preferred gender available. In general, most spa and salon therapists tend to be female, working on the beauty treatment side, although it’s common to find male therapists on the complementary health side and in bigger spas.If you are given a male therapist and feel uncomfortable about this, it’s perfectly acceptable to request a female.
Q. Should I talk to the therapist during a treatment or stay quiet?
This decision is again completely up to you. Sometimes clients like to chat with a therapist while they are having a treatment, to find out what’s being done or just to be sociable. Others prefer to sink into relaxation and let the therapist get on with it. Either way is fine, and whoever is carrying out the treatment will just take their cues from you.Q Are children allowed in spas and salons?
It’s not really a place to take the kids – although some spas do offer children's services, many won’t carry out treatments on anyone under age. Some larger spas do have crèches – but it’s uncommon for a salon to have one.There are usually age restrictions on facilities like the Jacuzzi, sauna or steam room due to health and safety regulations. In general, spas and salons are places for adults.