Retreat in a local Spa Center

Whether you're spending a week at a spa retreat or an afternoon having a massage, choosing a location where you will be comfortable requires research. Spas offer a range of services from quick do-it-yourself facials to medical procedures that once were performed in a doctor's office. Spa technologies are changing quickly---in some cases, more rapidly than health agency regulations. Before you book your appointment, take a few moments to make sure your spa experience is as relaxing, healthy and effective as you expect.

A - Consider the kind of treatment you want to receive. Based on "Self" magazine, medical spas are regulated inconsistently among states. If you are considering a procedure like Botox, laser treatments or fillers, visit websites in the country or state you live in to find laws governing medi-spas and whether your therapy is government approved.

B - Find out the cost. Remember that your health is potentially at stake, so be wary of a bargain basement price. Also, find out how the spa proposes to bill you. A CBC News investigation recently exposed Canadian spas that billed the client's health insurance for covered benefits (such as massage) but actually provided aesthetic services instead.

C - Ask questions. Telephone a number of your best choices. Let the receptionist know you're new to the spa, and request information about what your procedure will include. Find out which tools are re-used and how they are sanitized. Find out about any etiquette issues too, like how early you need to arrive and what attire you should wear. If a spa is not willing to reassure you over the phone, you may not be able to relax on the premises either.

D - Look at the web sites of some local spas. If you're planning on a massage, waxing or nail treatment, discover what type of certification the technicians hold. Focus on client reviews, particularly undesirable ones.
Article from Pure Spa Hotels.