Spa Etiquette: Common Spa Questions Answered

If you only visit a spa a few times a year – or even if you go to the spa frequently – you are likely to have some unanswered questions about "spa etiquette". With our roots in Hungarian bathing culture, we at Eminence Organics are proud to be experts in spa environments. Regardless of whether you visit a Boston Day Spa or the famous Budapest Baths, we want to make sure that your next appointment is stress free. Here are the questions (and answers) about spa etiquette that you were too afraid of:

mature woman receives neck massage

Spa Etiquette 101: Prepare for your spa day

Should You Shave Before A Spa Treatment?

This is a very common question and the answer depends on the type of treatment you are receiving. For example, it is recommended that men shave day and night before getting skin care. For women, shaving before certain wellness offers can cause irritation. It is always advisable to inquire at the spa reception about what kind of preparation is expected at home before you show up for your appointment.

How far in advance can I cancel my spa service?

Most spas have a 24 hour cancellation policy. If you need to cancel, please notify your spa in advance, otherwise you may be charged a fee.

Is it OK to request a male or female massage therapist?

If you prefer a male or female therapist – just ask! This is a common request that can be made when booking your original appointment.

How early should I get to my appointment?

The rule of punctuality may seem simple, but arriving on time creates the conditions for a relaxing spa experience. If you arrive at least 15 minutes earlier, you can sit back and relax while sipping a cup of herbal tea, filling out the necessary documents, and putting on a spa bathrobe if necessary. Many spas also offer their guests the use of their sauna and other free amenities. If you arrive early for your appointment, you can take advantage of these unusual spa benefits.

Is it OK to use my cell phone in the spa?

No! There's nothing better than hearing a cell phone ring when you try a rejuvenating spa treatment. Consider your own spa experience and that of other guests by turning off your phone. Remember that you are there to relax and unwind just like the others around you.

in the spa

Will i be naked during treatment?

This is probably the most common question that spa visitors fear but don't ask. Your therapist will make you feel comfortable and give you instructions on what to expect when you undress. If you need to take off your clothes for treatment, your therapist will leave the room so you can do it privately. As a rule, most treatments require you to be draped, and most spas offer a robe in the locker room. You can often wear underwear during a massage, but for most body and massage treatments, you may also need to completely undress. If you are not sure what to expect, just ask!

Is it rude to speak during my spa treatment?

Your therapist's role is to create the most enjoyable experience possible. Therefore, it is important to speak up if you have any questions or concerns. Before starting treatment, tell the spa staff whether you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or suffering from allergies or illnesses. It is also important to tell your therapist if you feel uncomfortable at any time during your spa service. Let your therapist know whether it is the massage pressure, the room temperature or a quieter time with less chatting. You pay for a service and your beautician will be happy to meet your needs.

Should I leave a tip?

In most cases, the tip is at your discretion, but is not mandatory. When tipping your therapist, a 15-20% tip payment is standard in North America and is always appreciated, especially if you get exceptional service.

Szechenyi baths in Budapest, Hungary

Spa etiquette 201: visit to the Budapest thermal baths

Thermal baths and mineral springs have been part of everyday life in Budapest for centuries (and for good reason!). A trip to the thermal baths is a must if you are ever in this magnificent Hungarian city to treat a variety of physical ailments simply by soaking your body.

There are numerous thermal baths in Budapest, so you are sure to find one that offers just the right ambience for your needs. Indoor and outdoor thermal pools have their own amenities to make the experience even more beneficial. Visit an indoor thermal pool and you'll likely see massage rooms, steam rooms, and even plunge pools with ice-cold water! Alternatively, outdoor thermal pools offer water features such as swimming pools, whirlpools and fountains.

These famous spas are open all year round and are the perfect stop on any itinerary. Spa etiquette is definitely important when you visit one of the thermal baths in Budapest.

Ready to visit a thermal bath in Budapest? Here are some of the most common questions related to spa etiquette:

Should I wear a swimsuit?

The dress code at the thermal baths in Budapest is not particularly strict, but you are expected to cover up while using the pool, visiting public areas, and between massages. Appropriate swimwear is required, including swimsuits for women and swim shorts for men.

What other important things should I bring with me?

You will definitely want to bring some important things with you! One of the most important things to pack is water-friendly shoes or sandals because the floors in the thermal baths are wet and slippery. A towel is another must, but if you forget one, most locations offer towel rentals. Be prepared for long queues though, as visitors usually rent towels.

Are you planning a visit to a thermal bath with a pool? Most locations require a swimming cap to keep the facilities clean and hygienic.

Are the baths family-friendly?

It depends on the age. Visitors from the age of 14 can bathe in thermal baths. For younger visitors (14 to 18 years old), it is recommended to limit soaking to 20 minutes each to avoid overheating.

Due to the heat coming from mineral springs and pools, it is not advisable to take children under the age of 14 to thermal baths as the cardiovascular system is not sufficiently developed to withstand the temperatures. However, you are welcome to use other water facilities such as swimming pools.

Depending on which spa you visit, it is a good idea to check the spa website as the guidelines vary between facilities. Some thermal baths also offer "family days" (the whole family is invited to visit!), While other days may be reserved for adults only.

Are the baths for swimming or sitting?

Most visitors use thermal baths to sit and soak. If you prefer to swim, outdoor destinations often offer swimming pools that can move better. For the most part, thermal baths offer the opportunity to relax, be calm and enjoy the benefits of mineral-rich water. Therefore, always pay attention to the ambience and the basic European spa etiquette.

What do I wear for my massage?

In Hungary, it is common to completely take off spa treatments, including facials and massages. Since it is common to undress completely, your therapist will likely encourage you to do the same. However, you can always wear what makes you feel most comfortable, regardless of whether you put on underwear or not.

Therapists can handle guests' preferences wonderfully if you prefer not to work with the standard undressing that is common in Hungary.

Is it customary to tip in Hungary?

Tipping is not required, but just like in North America, Tipping is always an appreciated and tactful practice. It is also an opportunity to thank your therapist for a job well done. So you should definitely tip!

Whether you are in a Budapest bath or a local spa, knowing the right etiquette is the first step to feeling good and enjoying the entire spa experience. Find out how you can pamper yourself with a soothing bath or an invigorating massage and book a visit to the closest Eminence Organics partner spa through our Spa locator. What is your spa treatment? Let us know in the comments below or on social media.

Spa And Wellness Trends For 2020

At the beginning of 2020 we are looking forward to the spa and wellness trends that we expect for the skin care industry. To use the business for the coming year, we turned to our in-house experts for the spa industry. Jessica Timberlake, How Eminence OrganicsPR manager and member of the executive committee on the board of directors of International Spa Association (ISPA)Jessica is on the cutting edge of this year's latest trends. Read on for their full forecast for 2020:

Eminence Organics Stone Crop Revitalizing body scrub

Spa Trends

Waterless treatments

Environmentally conscious spas are looking for ways to limit excessive water consumption. According to the EPA, standard shower heads use 2.5 gallons of water per minute! By creating waterless treatment protocols, also for body treatments, spas can reduce water consumption. The products in our Stone Crop Body Collection were developed with this in mind so that spas can offer a waterless body treatment.

personalization

Spas have traditionally set service standards to provide a unified experience for all guests. Spas are now moving away from this “rinse and repeat” service model and customize each spa visitor's visit to their personal preferences. In just two examples of treatment rooms equipped with a Bluetooth sound system, guests can play their favorite music during the service, or beauticians can customize your home care recommendations to as many or as few steps as you like.

Prediction of ingredients for skin care

organically

There is no doubt about it – clean beauty is now mainstream. As an organic skin care brand, before it was a trend, we tried to find the purest of the pure ingredients for our products. Biodynamic® ingredients have been a cornerstone of our ingredient philosophy for years. Now we can see that more and more companies understand the importance of Biodynamic® ingredients that are grown in accordance with the seasons and the orientation of the earth, moon and stars. As a tip, look for the Demeter International seal to ensure that the ingredients have been certified.

Crystals & gemstones

Now in water bottles, on fashion tracks, in yoga mats and even in jewelry collars for your furbabies – crystals and gemstones are practically synonymous with wellness! Those who incorporate crystals and gemstones into their daily lives believe that the stones transmit energy vibrations that harmonize the natural rhythm of the body. Whether it is about absorbing crystal-impregnated water, applying skin care based on gemstones or simply absorbing the energy of a piece of rose quartz on your desk, crystals and gemstones will be a cornerstone of the beauty and wellness room in the coming year.

Wellness Trends

luck

Happiness is a trend and yes, it is everywhere in the spa industry! At the Women in Wellness Summit of the American Spa magazine, finding happiness in yourself, in your company, and in your relationships was an important topic. Whether you're a spa professional or a spa visitor, the ubiquitous conversation about happiness will surely have a positive impact on you. Finding ways to incorporate simple “happiness practices” throughout the day has a ripple effect: you get a facial from a happy beautician, feel happy, and return to your family or friends and literally spread the cheers.

Just for fun, here is one of our favorite ways to get a boost. Take three minutes and write down three things you are grateful for – and be precise. For example, don't just say "flowers", but "the violets that bloomed on my kitchen window sill". Now encourage someone near you to do the same.

Woman practices yoga

individuality

In close agreement with the spa trend of personalization is the understanding that wellness is really an individual practice. Some examples of wellness activities are cooking a fresh meal, running, a painting course or sitting in silent meditation. But maybe running scares you so a yoga class feels better for you. Or you are clumsy in the kitchen, so a vegetarian dinner from the farm to the table in a local restaurant appeals to you more. Regardless of how you practice wellness, listen to your individual needs and make 2020 the year in which you set priorities. Fortunately, the spa and wellness world offers more opportunities to relax than ever before.

Would you like to find out more about upcoming spa and wellness trends and industry training? Find out more about Eminence Organic Skin Care and apply to our authorized partner program.

Why work with us

12