Health spas have been bastions of skin care and beauty treatments for centuries, revolving primarily around the skin’s perpetual need for water. Not only the moisturizing but also the healing properties of water were revered in places where the earth was rich in minerals that it imparted to the local mud and water. Special oils were massaged into the body for similar effects. Today, you’ll still find massage, clay facials, mud baths and hydrotherapy administered in soothing skin treatments at day and residential spas around the world.
Types
Skin services at health spas range from the general to the specific. Enjoy a full-body massage, a hands- or feet-only treatment, a basic facial, or a facial that addresses one particular skin care problem. Body wrap beauty treatments also target specific skin needs with vitamins, antioxidants or other stimulating ingredients. Types of massage are likewise tailored for relaxation, easing pregnancy stress or relieving muscle pain after exercise. Jacuzzi, mud, hot tub and mineral baths each have distinct purposes as well.
Features
All health spas aim to elevate physical and mental stress. Massage is a modality that embodies this ethic, delivering a release of both physical tension and mental stress. Although clinical procedures such as microdermabrasion are not soothing in and of themselves, medical spas strive to create an atmosphere that is. Day salons and resorts offer special attention to every guest to promote health and happiness along with professional beauty treatments.
Benefits
The result of all this care and pampering is better health and an enhanced appearance. Skin health is a reflection of your body’s total condition, so your efforts at skin care will generate extra benefits. Besides clearing up any minor or chronic skin problems, personal care services can relieve stress, muscle pain, nutrient deficiencies and poor blood circulation as well as promote skin cell renewal and self-healing.
Location and Personnel
Medical spas provide beauty treatments that require medical supervision, such as botulinum toxin injections, usually in small clinics. Day salons and spa resorts may offer both medical and aesthetic skin services. Health spa skin care is regulated in most states, so you’re likely to see a professional no matter which venue you choose. Licensed cosmetologists and aestheticians perform facials, manicures, pedicures and other personal care services. Health care professionals administer clinical treatments. Massage therapists are licensed as well.
Considerations
Not all skin care treatments are right for all skin types. Too many applications within a short period of time, such as at a day spa or during a week-long retreat, can even harm your skin. Choose facial services sparingly and ask a professional which ones are right for you.



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