Spa Etiquette 101

When you visit a spa, you’re likely in need of a calm and peaceful experience to eliminate the stress of your daily life. Given the current global crisis, people need to find ways to relax their bodies and minds more than ever.

To ensure that everyone feels comfortable when at a spa, guests must take it upon themselves to practice good day spa etiquette. Knowing how to behave appropriately will not only enhance your overall spa experience, but you’ll help create a pleasant ambiance for other guests, too.

Before your next visit to Balsam Spa, be sure to read our spa etiquette for clients. In doing so, you’ll be more prepared and will have a smoother and more enjoyable time.

Arrive Early

It’s essential to arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment. Coming early gives you time to fill out any forms and change your clothes into a robe and relax a little before the treatment starts.

Arriving in a rush a couple of minutes before your appointment may cause you to feel stressed and may delay the session starting on time. It’s best to arrive with some time to spare to get the most out of your visit.

Remember to Cancel

Canceling 24 hours beforehand if you cannot attend is basic spa etiquette for clients. Failure to do so will incur a cancellation fee and prevent other people from making an appointment in your time slot.

Protect Your Valuables

Don't bring expensive or emotionally valuable objects with you to a spa. While spas are safe places, you will need to undress and place your belongings away from you during treatment — and the spa cannot take responsibility for them.

Dress for Comfort

While there is no rule for how to dress at a spa, we suggest dressing in a way that makes you feel most comfortable. You will always be covered during treatment for your privacy. However, if you prefer to undress completely or wear underwear, that’s up to you. Just make sure that you feel comfortable, as this will guarantee that you have the best possible experience.

Spa etiquette for couples dictates that if you are attending a couple’s treatment, discuss how you will dress with your partner beforehand. Doing so will save you both time when you arrive for the session!

Silence Your Phone

A day spa is a place for utter relaxation — and soothing sounds are often employed to create a pleasant setting. There’s nothing worse than being mid-way through a massage and then suddenly hearing a shrill phone ringtone. Remember to switch your phone off before your treatment starts to avoid any interruptions from occurring.

To Shave or Not to Shave?

If you have a full body treatment, we recommend not shaving beforehand — as this can leave your skin feeling sore and tender. Ultimately, the treatment can irritate your shaven skin further and result in a less-than-gentle effect.

However, if you’re a man receiving a facial, it’s crucial to remove facial hair several hours beforehand. Shaving ensures that your practitioner can successfully deep clean your skin, targeting all pores and areas usually hidden by beard hair.

Remove Piercings

Piercings can get in the way of facial treatments. Your facialist could accidentally tug on one, which could cause some problems. For your safety, and so that you can fully enjoy the session, make sure you remove these.

COVID-19: Mask-Up

During these uncertain times, we ask all guests to wear a mask and take appropriate steps to minimize the spread of COVID-19. This includes using the hand sanitizer we provide at the door and making all appointments online or via phone.

Book an Appointment at Balsam Spa

If you’re looking for a way to unwind and relax, book an appointment with us at Balsam Spa in Newmarket, ON. Our doors have recently reopened and we are ready to welcome you to our clinic again!

Currently, we are only taking bookings over the phone and online to ensure maximum safety during COVID-19. To make a reservation, call us at 905-895-7777 or fill out our contact form! We can’t wait to see you soon.