Massage is becoming more and more popular and the number of day spas is constantly increasing. In addition to the regular relaxation-type massage, many spas have an extended “spa menu” to choose from. The following are five of the most popular items found in a day spa.

aromatherapy massage

What is an aromatherapy massage? An aromatherapy massage is one that has essential oils added to the oil or lotion that the masseur uses during the session. Often they are chosen for a specific type of scent, such as citrus or floral. Other times, oils are chosen for the healing properties they have, such as using lavender for relaxation. Many therapists will custom blend essential oils for your specific needs, although typically in a spa setting it will be more for sense indulgence than therapeutic benefits.

Hot stone massage

Hot stone massage, also known as hot stone massage, has been one of the most popular massages in recent years. As the name implies, the stones are heated, usually in water. They provide a soothing, penetrating heat that really gets deep into your muscles and joints, and it feels great! As with most massages, there are many different ways that massage therapists will use them. Some will place the heated stones on specific parts of the body, with or without a towel on top of the skin. Most will use the actual hot stones to do the massage. Cold stones are sometimes placed on the face or other areas. The contrast between the use of hot and cold helps increase circulation. Be sure to let your therapist know if the stones are too hot, as they can be cooled down quickly by immersing them in cold water.

body wraps

Body wraps come in many different varieties. There are mud/clay wraps, seaweed wraps, tea wraps, fruit wraps, and lotion or oil wraps. Depending on what is used, they can be used to detoxify or hydrate the skin. Either way, they are very relaxing. The person is wrapped in sheets and/or blankets after applying the chosen product. They are typically left wrapped for about 20 minutes, then showered to rinse the product off. After that, they will usually have a lotion or oil applied to their body. It’s good to have a body polish before the wrap to really prep the skin and a massage after.

body polishes

Just like body wraps, polishes also come in various forms. The most common ones use salt, which is sometimes called a salt shine or salt scrub. Others use sugar, coffee, oats, or seeds. It is only limited by the imagination of the masseuse. Sometimes they are done on a special “wet” table complete with its own shower to rinse off, or on a regular massage table, then showered to rinse off before applying lotion. These are excellent treatments to exfoliate and nourish the skin.

Facial massage

Not to be confused with a facial performed by a certified esthetician, a facial massage focuses on massaging the muscles of the face, neck, and shoulders. A facial given by an esthetician includes extractions, along with exfoliation and application of lotions or oils.

Most spas will have more than just these treatments on their menu, but I think these are the most popular. What are you waiting for? Go book a session now!