What Men Should Know About The Spa

If Women Can Pamper Themselves, Men Deserve To Go To The Spa, Too

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With spas all over the world offering more male-focused experiences as the number of male customers increases, there's officially something new to discover with every visit, whether it’s your first or fifteenth spa day.

More Men Are Hitting The Spa

"I find that as more guys continue to discover just how enjoyable a spa day can be, more guys of all ages and sexual preferences are visiting spas around the world," shares Damon M. Banks, a Travel & Lifestyle Media Consultant. He adds that while many are still happy sticking to the basic massage, a lot of men want the ultimate spa experience and as a result, additional body treatments and spa packages are being offered. "Seeing companies like HOMMAGE continue to offer more products and spa atelier locations means that more guys are able to get the luxury spa experience in their area."

Noticing an increase of men from various generations indulging in spa treatments, Lanny Grossman, a Luxury & Lifestyle Marketing Consultant, says he thinks it’s due to the fact that more and more spas are appealing to men with particular treatments, scrubs and massages. "It may just be the names of the treatments that makes it easier to swallow but it’s working." 

Shane Upson, Spa Director at Bliss in W Los Angeles, shares how spas dedicate a portion of their menu specifically to men. "Bliss has a manicure named 'the manly-cure,' we provide complete men's waxing services and other treatments geared specifically towards our male guests. This seems to make spa visits more appealing to our gentleman guests."

Spa Etiquette — What to Know

In case you're a spa virgin and are wondering how to act in a spa environment and what you should know, our experts helped put together a few things to keep in mind.  

Relax

Banks shares how he often talks to other guys who don’t go to the spa simply because they don’t know what to expect or how the process works, "which means they are missing out on an experience that is very beneficial to their physical and mental wellness."

He adds that there’s no need to be a prude in spas, regardless of where you are in the world, even the conservative states in the US, adding that going naked during massages or relaxing in the steam rooms is perfectly normal and expected. He adds: "However, if you feel a bit too exposed, you can wear underwear during the massage, but just don’t go in there with a pair of board shorts."

Remember Your Manners

Adding on to the topic of what to wear at the spa, Grossman, taking the preference of covering up when in the locker room, says that "there is still an older generation that likes to blow dry their hair while spreading out and air-drying their other parts! I am not shy by any means, but I think it is more respectful of others to remain covered with a towel when you can."

Grossman adds that if you are getting undressed in front of a locker, try to keep your belongings confined to your area. "Sometimes people’s things are spread out and then you try to get into your locker and they don’t make room. Just be aware and considerate!"

Arrive On Time

Banks says that men should use common sense when visiting the spa. "Arrive early so you have time to relax for a few minutes before your treatment, shower before the treatment, and don’t go overboard with texting and phone calls that take away from the 'spa experience' for you and everyone around you."

Upson adds that Bliss usually asks that guests arrive 10-20 minutes prior to their appointment. "This gives the guest time to complete a service questionnaire, change into spa-provided clothing or enjoy the amenities provided. In general, we also ask that guests are aware that in a spa environment we use hushed voices and ask that phones remain in silent mode or locked away."

Know The Space  

"Lastly, check with the spa to see if there are showers, Jacuzzis or steam available," Upson says. "Some spas do not have these amenities and it could impact a planned visit after work or the gym."

Decide What Treatments to Get

"When guys are looking for a 'safe bet' while booking spa appointments, the hot stone massage will never disappoint," Banks shares, adding that when time permits, the spa packages are ideal to give men a few hours of relaxation with a massage, facial and often manicure/pedicure. "Facials of any kind are highly recommended since we are extremely hard on our faces with shaving, so don’t shy away if you have the chance. If available, lymphatic drainage is worth a try. You can often request it as an add-on to a standard facial or you could opt for a full facial focused on this treatment, which leaves you feeling even more refreshed than with a standard facial."