How to navigate your first visit to the spa

You’ve booked your appointment and you’re going to your FIRST spa session! Congratulations! You probably have more questions now than you did before! 

5 minute read

I talk to a lot of guys (and gals) who ask me about what I do when I go to the spa – which is usually a “Bro-zillian” or man-kini wax. This response is usually followed up with the question, “OMG! Don’t you feel weird having some random stranger in your GROIN area like that?!?” And my answer is always “no”. I’ve been going to the spa at least once a month for the past eight years and this seemingly innocuous question only recently made me realise that 1. Not many people have ever been to a spa and 2. I remember how nervous I was going to the spa for the first time when I was 18 years of age. In this article, I want to go through the finer points of spa etiquette so that your first spa experience can be a cool, enjoyable and non-intimidating. Relax, bruh – literally!

Demystifying negative connotations of spas

First, I want to highlight two untrue and popular notions concerning spas. The first is that the spa is an ultra-bougie establishment where the rich get together to sip champagne with cucumbers over their eyes for the entire day. This is not true. While some spas do go all out in terms of offering a modern, sleek and sophisticated décor – it is simply the service that they provide in which your experience as a customer is elevated to help you relax and unwind. In this case, this type of spa is usually attached to a hotel and offer more theraputical massages or mani-pedis. Its highly unlikely that you visit this type of spa regularly. A spa, however, should be clean, organised and provide a relaxing atmosphere. Additionally, spa services have now become very affordable. The second opinion is misogynistic in nature because someone hears the word “service” attached as a service, they may also think “exotic massage” which are two completely different things. Aestheticians spend thousands and thousands of dollars going to beauty school and are trained by professionals and industry veterans. In no way would any reputable spa offer “exotic massages” or any service of a sexual nature. If that is the type of service you seek, you should check out Dr. Raj but for the purpose of professional aesthetic services – spas are professional environments that don’t roll like that!

What’s you goal?

Now that we’ve cleared that up. What do you want to get done at the spa? Different spas offer different specialised services. For instance, one might specialise in waxing, another in body scrubs and facials and another in massage therapy. Once you know what you want to accomplish from your visit – this would help you in your selection of the best spa suited to your goal. Likewise, if you’re satisfied with the service you got from the spa – chances are you’ll become a regular client.

Come as you are

You’ve booked your appointment and you’re going to your FIRST spa session! Congratulations! You probably have more questions now than you did before! Depending on what you’re going to do at the spa, will determine how you have to prepare to show up. One rule of thumb is to treat the spa visit like a doctor’s visit. They do indeed act like doctors because the skin and outward appearance of the body can signal major internal health concerns. All-in-all, remember to shower and wear clean clothes. No excessive cologne, deodorant – absolutely!, clean underwear and you’ll be fine! What I recommend however, is that you speak with the person you booked the appointment, about the service and how to prepare. If you have any questions, concerns or medical conditions – you should inquire about that. Also, when you get to the spa, as a first-timer you’ll fill out their new client registration form that would ask you to list any particular concerns that you may have. Other than that, you literally come as you are. The spa will provide any bath robes, towels or slippers during your visit.

General Etiquette

Remember, the spa is almost similar to a doctor’s office or professional setting except, they may see you naked or have a lot of hand-to-body contact with you. Again, this all depends on the service getting done. It’s important to respect the spa environment and the staff who’ll be taking care of you. Shower – no one wants to deal with a client that has unpleasant body odour. You can shave or trim body hair if you wish. Also, don’t show up drunk or intoxicated to your appointment. As obvious as that may sound, in the moment you don’t realize when you’re drunk. You can’t be loud, obnoxious and upsetting the other clients at the spa. Likewise, a stupid drunk move while being attended to could mean a bad cut or serious burn. On the other hand, being unconscious or asleep during your service is defeating the purpose and missing out on the relaxing experience the spa has to offer, regardless of what you’re getting done. Some spas may restrict phone usage, but others may be more relaxed. Its best to speak with the spa about that. Don’t feel pressured to make conversation with the aesthetician. Of course, be polite and have some manners but once you’re being attended – it’s totally up to you to zone out or engage a conversation. Finally, nails. More than likely, I suspect you’d be getting a pedicure (toenails) or manicure (fingernails) than any other service. It’s a great first-timer’s service as well. Don’t apologize or be ashamed for having “bad” nails. This is the reason why you’re coming to the spa and they know this and won’t judge you for it. Otherwise, why would you come to the spa if you already had fantastic nails?!

Going to the spa is one of my most favourite activities! I love the relaxing atmosphere and taking the time to do self-care. It should also be a completely, fulfilling experience for you as well – but it’s just that first time anxiety that you got to get over!