How To Take Care Of Your Skin During Summertime Definitive Guide

 We love the summertime. It just makes you want to stay outdoors all day and night. Also, there is so many activities and sports that you can enjoy including planned summer vacations. Before we get outdoors, you want to have the proper knowledge on knowing what to wear and how much coverage you need so you can have smooth summer skin. Here is some information from Web MD you can use so that you can take care of your skin this season.
 

Sun Shields

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. There's strong evidence that excessive sun exposure raises the risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of the disease. According to the American Cancer Society, there will be about 62,000 new cases of melanoma in 2006, and nearly 8,000 will die of the ailment.

Sunscreens. Sunscreen is a highly recommended defense against sunburn and skin cancer. It is now available in lotions, creams, ointments, gels, wax sticks, and spray. Some have glitter and tint, too.

What's the best kind? That depends on you. "It's nice to use a product with a higher SPF, but it's more important you find a sunscreen that you like because you'll use it more," says Andrew Kaufman, MD, a dermasurgeon and a member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

Make sure to apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before you go out. Put on enough so that it takes a full minute to rub in. If at the beach, spread at least 1 ounce -- enough to fill a shot glass -- on your face and entire body. Use more if you need to for good coverage. If you swim, sweat, or are outdoors for a long time, reapply every two hours. Your sunscreen should also have the following qualities:

• It is water resistant. Sweat or water cannot easily remove it.

• It has SPF of 15 or higher. According to The American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen-SPF rating is calculated by comparing the amount of time needed to produce a sunburn on sunscreen-protected skin to the amount of time needed to cause a sunburn on unprotected skin.

• For example, with an SPF 2 sunscreen a person who normally (without sunscreen) would turn red after 10 minutes of sun exposure would take 20 minutes to turn red. A sunscreen with an SPF of 30 would allow that person to multiply that initial burning time by 30, which means it would take 30 times longer to burn. However, SPF should not be used to determine time in the sun.

• Skin damage can happen even without a burn. Plus, higher SPF numbers do not give proportionate protection. SPF 15 deflects 93% of sun-burning rays, whereas SPF 30 deflects 97%, reports the AAD.

• It provides broad-spectrum protection, which is in sunscreens containing benzophenones (oxybenzone), cinnamates (octylmethyl cinnamate and cinoxate), sulisobenzone, salicylates, titanium oxide, zinc oxide, and avobenzone (Parsol 1789).

Unless it has these agents, the sunscreen may filter only UVB light, the major culprit for sunburn and skin cancer. Yet, protection from UVA is important, too. It is responsible for premature aging and the development of skin cancer.

Clothing and Lip Balms

Clothing

Start with a hat, because those harmful rays reach your scalp and your ears when you leave your noggin unprotected. And remember, baseball caps are not nearly as effective as hats with broad brims, because they leave your ears exposed.

Garments designed to ward off skin-cancer-causing rays are now available in specialty stores. These are given an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating, indicating how much of the sun's rays are absorbed by the fabric. Articles with UPF 30, for example, allow only 1/30 of UV light to penetrate.

These clothes are a foolproof way of shielding against skin damage, says Cyndi Yag-Howard, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist and SPF clothing entrepreneur in Naples, Fla. "They basically act like a really good sunscreen," she says, noting most people don't apply enough sunscreen for it to be effective.

At the same time, there's no need to buy special products for sun protection. Try your closet. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, clothes with certain qualities can prevent harmful rays from reaching the skin.

• Garments made of unbleached cotton, high-luster polyesters, and thin, satiny silk can absorb or reflect UV radiation, preventing damaging rays from reaching the skin.
• Darker materials tend to absorb UV light, keeping it away from your body.
• Clothes with tight weaves or knits prevent penetration of harmful rays.

Lip balm

The lip is a common site for skin and lip cancer, primarily because of extended sun exposure. Cracked, peeling, scaly lips that aren't helped by lip balm or petroleum jelly may be signs of actinic keratoses. The condition can be the earliest stage of the development of skin cancer, and has the potential to progress to deadlier forms of the disease. People either forget to put sunscreen or balm in the area, or lick it off. To fully protect lips:

• Look for lip-specific products that have SPF 15 or higher, recommends Shelton. Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher if you have a history of lip and skin cancer.
• Apply lip product every two hours or so, based on the amount of contact with the UV rays.
• While in the sun, stay away from baby oil, petroleum jelly, or high-shine lip gloss.
• If you decide to wear lipstick, try darker shades as they provide more UV defense than sheer, glossy ones.
• Better yet, wear lipstick with SPF, or apply a lip conditioner with SPF and antioxidants under lipstick for extra moisture and protection.

Sunglasses and Cosmetics

Sunglasses

 Oversized sunglasses are in again this year, with the likes of Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton sporting their large shades. Even aviator styles for men are rounder and bigger.

The trends have no better fan than Neil Hodur, OD, professor of optometry at the Illinois College of Optometry. "The more of the eye you can cover, the less the intensity of light ... to reach the back part of the eye," he says.

Prolonged UV exposure can redden the whites of eyes, just as the sun can burn skin. Over time, this can cause eye problems, such as cataracts and macular degeneration. To prevent eye damage, choose sunglasses with the following qualities:

• UV 400 protection. It blocks up to 400 nanometers of UV light.
• Impact resistant. The shades can possibly withstand active lifestyles or an accident.
• The right color. Translucent-colored sunglasses are hot, but to ward against distortion of colors, stick to gray and brown shades.
• The right price. Effective eye defense can fit any budget, from $10 to $1,000.

Cosmetics:

Can makeup protect against the sun's harmful rays? The answer is a qualified "yes." While any kind of coating on your face can help block UV light, cosmetics by themselves do not have enough protection to prevent sunburn or skin cancer.

Mineral makeup, darker foundations, powders, and eye shadows do have better sun-protective qualities than other cosmetics. Yet makeup can be applied unevenly and wiped off during the course of the day, losing its ability to effectively block UV light. For surefire protection, Shelton recommends wearing sunscreen first, and then applying makeup on top.

Makeup that contains broad-spectrum SPF has UV-filtering qualities as well. However, Shelton says that makeup with SPF is not as effective as sunscreen by itself. Makeup doesn't bind to the skin as well as sunscreen. Plus, when you combine sunscreen with something else, he says it often does not retain all of its UV-filtering properties.

The Young and the Vulnerable
Think children are immune to the ravages of the sun? They are actually more susceptible. The AAD estimates that kids get 80% of their total lifetime sun exposure by the time they turn 18. If a blistering sunburn is a part of that childhood, the risk of deadly skin cancer doubles later in life.

In general, it's a good idea for both you and your kids to stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. To shield children from UV damage, the basic rules of using sunscreen, wearing sun-protective clothing, lip protection, and sunglasses apply. But there are some exceptions and additions to the rules.

Babies younger than 6 months should be kept out of the sun. If they are outdoors, a wide-brimmed hat, protective clothing, and sunglasses are recommended. Be sure to ask the pediatrician before using sunscreen on an infant, as the products have not yet been tested on them.

Kids over 6 months should always wear sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. SPF 30 or higher is suggested for kids who spend a lot of time outdoors, and who have fair skin, light-colored eyes and hair. Ask camp counselors or guardians to reapply sunscreens for children after active play or swim.

Teenagers who spend a lot of time working and/or playing outdoors can be at special risk for sun damage. All the basics of sun protection apply to this group as well.

Sunless Tanning

Forget dangerous sun worshipping and tanning booths. Sunless tanning products are better than ever with streak-proof varieties. They come in lotion, cream, gel, and spray form. With the active ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA), dead skin cells are safely coated with color. The tint disappears when the cells are either washed off or sloughed off. Some cautions:

• Find the right sunless tanning product for you. Since some self-tanners can turn some skin orange, test the product first in a small area of your body.
• Self-tanning preparations do not necessarily contain sunscreen.
• Read labels carefully. The FDA requires tanning products without sunscreen to contain a warning statement indicating it does not protect against sunburn.
• Stay way from "tanning pills." They are not approved by the FDA and may cause unwanted side effects such as eye discoloration.

Smooth, Radiant Summer Skin

Which skin care products work best? It depends on your skin type, says Leslie Baumann, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist, and author of The Skin Type Solution. In her book, she classifies skin as dry or oily, sensitive or resistant, pigmented or nonpigmented, and wrinkled or tight. Mixing up the four options yields 16 different combinations such as the dry, resistant, pigmented, wrinkled type (DRPW), and the dry, sensitive, pigmented, wrinkled type (DSPW). Different skin types call for different treatments.

Oily skin. You don't have to use a cream or moisturizer, says Baumann. In fact, she recommends products with salicylic acid such as Neutrogena Oil-Free Acne Wash or Skin Medica Acne Toner with Tea Tree Oil and Salicylic Acid. Benzoyl peroxide is also ideal for people with sensitive and acne-prone skin. Recommended products include PanOxyl Bar 5% and Proactiv Repairing Solution.

Dry skin. Look for barrier repair creams or moisturizers that contain cholesterol, ceramides, and fatty acids. Examples include Dove Sensitive Essentials, CeraVe, and Atopalm. Avoid foaming detergents and soaps as they can strip your skin of necessary lipids.

Sensitive skin. Anti-inflammatory ingredients work best for you. Try chamomile, the licorice extract licochalcone (Eucerin Redness Relief products), cucumber, feverfew (Aveeno Ultra Calming line), quadrinone (Cutanix), salicylic acid, and selenium (Thermal Spring Water).

Resistant skin. You can apply any kind of skin care products without trouble since your skin has a solid skin barrier that protects deeper skin layers from allergens and irritating substances. However, many products may not work as well because they are not able to penetrate your skin.

Pigmented skin. Solutions that contain hydroquinone (EpiQuin Micro or Tri-Luma), kojic acid (Kojic), arbutin (PCA Skin pHaze 23 A &C Synergy Serum), Tyrostat, and mulberry extract (DDF Intensive Holistic Lightener) can improve dark spots. Vitamin C and retinoids work, too, particularly if you are also the oily/dry, resistant, pigmented, and wrinkled type.

Wrinkled skin. Use prescription retinoid and antioxidants such as idebenone (Prevage), ferulic acid (SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic), and vitamin C (Active C). Oral antioxidants such as Polypodium leucotomosextract (Heliocare) and pomegranate (Murad Pomphenol Sunguard Supplement) are also recommended.

When putting it all together, a dry, resistant, pigmented, wrinkled type (DRPW) and an oily, resistant, pigmented, wrinkled type (ORPW) would thrive with high concentrations of retinoids, which will improve pigments and wrinkles. However, the dry skin type would need a barrier-repair moisturizer, while the oily skin type would do well with salicylic acid.

Confused?

All the fancy, futuristic-sounding skin care ingredients have you scratching your face instead of admiring it? It's no wonder. With the cosmetics and toiletry industry a $45 billion business, there are hundreds of products vying for customer attention.

So-called cosmeceuticals claim anything from removing wrinkles to firming up skin. Many of the claims are based on preliminary scientific research, but there is no evidence that they will deliver, says Kaufman. To figure out what product is right for your skin's needs, he recommends a visit with a skin care doctor.

This definitive guide should assist you in knowing what you need to do to enjoy the summer and keep your skin looking good and feeling healthy.  If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

New Spa Trends 2013

What is  the new Spa Trends? That is one of the major questions asked about the industry year after year. It is important that you learn and even explore these trends. That is only way we know what we like to obtain the ultimate Spa experience. Through our research, here are some new Spa trends that you can expect in the coming year.

Focus on men: In its list of 2013 predictions, industry organization Spafinder predicts that more spas will offer services just for men. We’re way ahead of the curve, knowing that men have specific needs in terms of spas, beauty, and fitness. Our men’s menu is a good example of what we expect to see more of, from facials tailored to the guys in your life to manicures and pedicures that focus on relaxation and nail health. Some services, like our ever popular deep tissue massages, have devotees among both men and women!

Increasing innovation in anti-aging products: We’re just beginning to crest the wave of baby boomers crossing into retirement, and our age conscious population is beginning an anti-aging regimen before they’re out of high school. We predict that 2013 will continue to be the year that sees red hot developments in the anti-aging space. Companies like Hydropeptides are on the cutting edge of the science that keeps us looking young – from antioxidant facials to a whole host of products for daily use. Watch for everything from new developments in peels and dermabrasian resurfacing to treatments that fight aging hands for use during manicures.



Spa treatments that improve health: This goes hand and hand with aging to a certain extent, but on the whole our focus as an culture is more and more on improving our health. A number of spa treatments have dramatic health implications. Massage does more than just de-stress you – just look at the benefits of prenatal massage for mom and baby. Pedicures can play a crucial role in foot health for people that spend a lot of time on their feet – what better way to show your feet that you care than a relaxing pedicure? Deep cleansing facials can prevent skin inflammation and scarring from conditions like acne. Watch for spas and consumers to become more active in wanting to understand the health benefits of the various treatments they get at the spa.



Earthy organics: We expect to see more earth conscious treatments and organic and wellness products in spas. For example,  Re>Fresh pedicure is a waterless pedicure that’s earth friendly and uses steamy towels instead of water to relax your feet. Brands like OPI’s Avoplex line integrates the healing powers of avocado oil into their nail oil products, and Cuccio’s natural bath salts and lotions are just amazing. They carry both these brands in our spas and love them. Watch for some great new products in 2013.

Color: 2012 was the year of nail art, and we think that trend will continue into 2013. We expect the color palette to keep expanding, and more innovation on the 3D nail art front. People will be having fun with color in their manis and pedis. The nail art will move away from crazy bling and into the beautifully detailed and freehand design space that we’ve been seeing for some time. We’ll keep you posted on the biggest trends we’re seeing as the year unfolds!

There you have it. Look for these coming trends in 2013. We would like to thank inspa.com for their useful insights concerning this subject.  If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

Valentines Day Spa Treatments

Valentines Day is rapidly approaching. So,  maybe you can plan something special for yourself or have a spa treatment done with someone that you love. Spa treatments especially massage is a great way to relax and prepare you for that special day that celebrates love. Here is some Valentines Day treatment ideas that you can use.

SpaFinder.com's picks

Dolce Valentine's Package

Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa, California
Looking for a Valentine's Day getaway for you and your honey? Check out this package, offered through Feb. 29. Want to know what you'll get? Sure you do! The package includes an in-room bottle of Domaine St. Michelle Brut Champagne, chocolate covered strawberries for two and breakfast for two in The Grill at Silverado.
The cost? You can book the package for $279 with the following booking code: CLB1.

Balanced Romance Package for Two

Mirbeau Inn & Spa in Skaneateles, New York
Rekindle your romance this February with the Balanced Romance Package for Two. Couples can relax in the spa's steam and sauna facilities, soak in the heated outdoor Aqua Terrace and reconnect during a stress-relieving, side-by-side massage. You can then shower, dress and walk upstairs where a candlelit table will be waiting for you as you choose from an array of possibilities for your three-course dinner while sipping wine and reconnecting with each other.
The cost? The package includes one 50-minute Couples Treatment, one three-course dinner for two and all taxes and gratuities. Contact the spa for pricing.

Lisa's Salon & Day Spa

Lombard, Illinois
Want to save 10 percent on Valentine's Day treatments? Check out Lisa's Salon & Day Spa. Couples can enjoy a custom facial or Swedish massage paired with a spa manicure and pedicure with their choice of Champagne or sparkling juice and a box of fine chocolates.
The cost? A mere $120!

SheKnows' picks

The Just for Us Package

The Ritz-Carlton Spa Dove Mountain in Marana, Arizona
It doesn't get much better than the Ritz, which is why we had to give a shoutout to this romantic Valentine's Day package. The "Just for Us" couples' experience is available throughout the month of February and features a rose petal bath, a 50-minute Ritz-Carlton Together Massage and Champagne and strawberries for both guests.
The cost? You'll get 80 minutes of couple's bliss for $385.

Diamonds are Forever Package

Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spas (check website for availability)
This all-inclusive, luxurious VIP couples' spa package will leave you totally relaxed and rejuvenated! You and your honey will enjoy two Ultimate Arden Facials, two therapeutic Desert Hot Stone Massages, two Signature Manicures, two Signature Pedicures and a Spa Lunch to enjoy in between your services.
The cost? Diamonds are priceless, but you'll enjoy this luxurious package for $1,688.

Chocolate and Cherry Facial at The Ritz-Carlton, Buckhead

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Buckhead in Atlanta, Georgia
We love the sound of chocolate and cherry, and we're really wishing we lived in Atlanta right about now so we could try this special facial, available during the month of February. This delicious treat begins with a cherry wine peel to exfoliate and firm, and then is followed by a chocolate wasabi mask to stimulate circulation and boost collagen.
The cost? Get this delicious 50-minute treat -- and the dewy and toned complexion that follows -- for $155.

These are some great ways that you can enjoy this holiday. A big thanks to spafinder.com for these ideas. You can also use their website to check for local deals in your area.  If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

How to Choose Spa Treatments

That picture looks real relaxing. We want to have a relaxing and wonderful time at the spa. So your choices in spa treatments is important so you can choose exactly what you want and not have a disappointing visit. How do you choose the spa treatment right for you? You need information on all of the general spa treatments that is available to make an informed decision. So, we found just that.


Spa Facial Treatments
Facials are designed to clean and moisturize your skin. In addition, facials also remove the rough, dead skin that is on the surface of your face. The result is a soft, glowing appearance.
At its simplest, a facial consists of cleansing the skin, a steam bath and a facial massage. The next step up would be to use hypoallergenic moisturizers on your skin.
From here, spa facial treatments can get more interesting. You can choose from paraffin facials, where a paraffin mask is applied to your face to help seal in special treatments such as rejuvenating creams. In addition, the paraffin itself helps to soften your skin. An aromatherapy facial uses special oils to heal the skin, promote skin growth and relax you at the same time. A collagen facial includes applying a masque over freeze dried collagen to protect your face against harmful environmental factors and the aging process.


Spa Skin Treatments
Skin treatments can make your body glow. One type of skin treatment is a body scrub. Body scrubs, using gentle abrasives such as salt, remove the dead surface skin, resulting in a softer body with increased circulation. The salt may include other ingredients such as rosemary, seaweed or lavender.
Another skin treatment option is body wraps. Your body will be slathered with mud, creams or liquids and then you will be wrapped tightly in a blanket for a period of time that averages between 20 and 40 minutes.


Other Spa Beauty Treatments
One of the most popular treatments at spas is a massage. You have several types of massages from which to choose. Swedish massage techniques include massaging muscles against underlying muscles and bones. In addition, the masseuse applies pressure in the direction that your blood flows to your heart. The result is an increased flow of oxygen.

Massage: This can include Swedish Massage and Deep Tissue and everything in between. This is done with an assortment of oils for different effects. In addition aromatherapy is often combined with good spa treatments. Many resorts will have their own "signature" massages.

Hot Stone Therapy: The use of hot stones for massage and acupressure has become a staple on nearly every spa menu throughout the world.

Facials: This can be as uninvasive as through gentle cleansers and massage, or through botox. There are as many variations of facials as there are massage.

Body Wraps: Most Body Wraps include herbal remedies such as with clay, muds or even seaweed and paraffin. The ideas is to cleanse the skin and weight reduction.

Salt Scrubs and Glows: This is a remedy that is used for deep exfoliation of dried or dead skin cells. It is primarily done through brushing of salts on the body [often from the Dead Sea for their super high mineral content], or through certain herbal scrub remedies such as with almonds or walnut paste.

Acupuncture/Acupressure: These remedies have been proven to alleviate all sorts of maladies and disorders, not just of the skin.

Colonics: Though this may not seem the most pleasant and perhaps is not, it is however one of the more effective methods for removing toxins from the human body. Usually performed in a series of 6 or more sessions. High on the list at most Wellness Clinics and Medical Tourism destinations.

Ayurveda: Using a holistic philosophy dating around 5,000 years ago, it uses natural remedies and time-tested practices. Ayurveda has become a recognized treatment option for medical issues, as well as a relaxing spa favorite.

Aromatherapy: The basic term refers to the therapeutic use of essential oils—based on the specific healing property of each oil—in such treatments as massage, diffusions, body wraps and soaks.

Paraffin: Paraffin is a a soft, liquid wax—plain, or juiced-up with essential oils.Because of its heat-conducting and moisture-retaining properties, the ingredient is most commonly used to hydrate, soften and relax dry skin, or prep hands and feet pre-mani or pedicure. The result is soft, moisturized skin devoid of cracks or dry patches.

Reiki: Reiki is a Japanese technique for healing and stress relief based on the movement of energy—and the practice is steadily growing in popularity in US spas.

Shiatsu: It’s on pretty much every massage menu, right there between Hot Stone and Swedish Massage. At its core, the technique emphasizes a combination of diagnosis and therapy. Using just their palms and fingers—in particular the thumb—trained practitioners are able to identify trouble spots on the client, including blocked toxins and muscle distress.

This should help you have a better understanding of treatments so that you are armed with the information to make the best choice for you when you visit the spa. A thank you goes out to wikihow and life123.com for their spa insights. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

Spa Gifts For Christmas

 

 

 

 

Christmas season is here. A time of gift giving and finding great deals. When shopping for that friend , relative or special person, you want to have choices. So, it would be a good idea to have a number of resources to choose from when making that important decision on what to buy. We did just that for you. Here are our findings.

 

 

 



Gift Baskets
Here is the website that has a great variety and pricing to choose from. Gift Baskets


Spa Gifts For Her
This website has numerous spa inspired gifts for women  For Her



Spa Gifts For Him
Great website for that special guy in your life  For Him



Spa Gifts For Baby & Kids
The site has adorable gifts for the little ones. Baby & Kids


Spa Jewelry
Add some bling to your spa shopping  Spa Jewelry



Well, these resources are great to use for every spa gift that you can imagine.If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

How To Find Holiday Spa Gifts

It is coming very close to the holiday season. With that said, there is going to be lots of shopping lists to complete. More people every year are either buying on line or purchasing gift cards or even gift certificates. The Spa industry is no different. We thought that we would introduce you to some real useful web sites and gift packages that you can give or even be given  to you.



Gift Cards and Spa Specials
Here is an excellent website that offers E gift cards and special discounts  for the spa industry
Spa Finder Coupons and Gift Cards


Spa Getaway Specials

This website lists a  local and national Spa finder service that you can use to set up a Spa getaway.
Spa Locator's Service


Home Spa Site
This is a great resource to use for those who like their spa at home.
Home Spa Resources


Spa Supplies
If you wanted to use at home what they use in the spa, This site is for you.
Spa Products

These websites are ideal for you to use which will make your spa shopping a breeze not a chore.  If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

Top 10 Fall Inspired Treatments

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This year is moving quite rapidly. We are now midway through October. Each season we like to use  spa treatments that match the time of year. This year is no different so we decided to share with you some real specialized fall treatments that will get you into the mood for fall.


Wine & Clove Pedicure Package - Spa at Rancho Bernardo Inn
The Spa at Rancho Bernardo Inn celebrates fall and winter with new "Made Fresh Daily" body treatments, a collaboration of beauty and culinary art. The Wine and Clove Pedicure, available through November, is a pedicure utilizing red wine, cloves, Dead Sea salt, and bentonite clay. Guests will also enjoy a leg massage and exfoliating scrub using Dead Sea salts and bentonite clay. Before the pedicure, guests receive a wine flight paired with an amuse bouche prepared by the Inn culinary team. 50 minutes, $100.00. (pictured)
 
Winter Radiance - Rock Spa at Hard Rock Hotel
Special for the holidays, Rock Spa's Winter Radiance treatment includes a 50-minute pomegranate body exfoliation followed by a pomegranate hydrating cream application and a 50-minute drenched facial. The Winter Radiance Treatment is available from November 1 - January 5. 2 hours, $215.00.



Holiday Journeys - Blue Marble Spa at Hyatt Mission Bay
San Diego's first true eco-friendly spa, Blue Marble introduces a menu of Holiday Spa Journeys intended to help the body transition from summer to winter by protecting, revitalizing and invigorating the skin and the soul as well as the earth. Winter Remedy ($345) features a Sweet Milk and Lavender Facial, Detoxifying Seaweed Wrap and an Organic Foot Treatment. And, Mistletoe ($250) features a romantic Couples 60-minute Aromatherapy Massage for two. Holiday Journeys are available December 1 - December 31.



Pumpkin Peel - Adriana Skin Care
This resurfacing treatment uses a natural exfoliating agent made of pumpkin enzymes. This treatment cleans your skin of buildup that causes pore congestion and dismay, leaving skin smooth, polished, and fresh. As a cleaning and massage of the skin, a soothing layer of the pumpkin peel material is applied and left to rest on the skin for at least 15 minutes. 60 minutes, $90.00.



Celebrate the Seasons - Aviara Four Seasons Resort
Celebrate the year's end with this signature treatment that incorporates all of the four seasons. Refresh with a winter cooling scrub, followed by a warming, spring floral body wrap, a light summer medley of massage techniques, including Lomi Lomi, Thai, reflexology and aromatherapy, and finish with a relaxing autumn herbal scalp treatment. 80 minutes, $240.00. fourseasons.com/aviara



Triple Tea Cranberry Facial - Spa Urban Retreat
This aromatic, anti-oxidant facial treatment uses products infused with tea and cranberry extracts to counter the skin damaging effects of free-radicals created by stress and sun exposure. A finishing cranberry mask leaves skin moisturized and radiant. 60 minutes, $85. spaurbanretreat.com



Treat Your Feet & Pumpkin Peel - Beyond Tranquility Spa
This treatment uses reflexology, a touch technique on specific reflex points of the feet, encouraging the release of toxins and promoting optimum health. In addition to reflexology, this treatment includes an exfoliating foot peel and a neck/shoulder massage with aromatherapy. Full treatment is $80.00, but the winter special H2T (Head2Toe) Foot Treatment and Pumpkin Peel is 30 minutes for $50. beyondtranquilityspa.com



Vanilla Cream Java Wrap - Paradise Point Resort and Spa
An aromatic coffee scrub exfoliates and prepares the skin, followed by warm infused whipping cream that is poured over the body to provide ultimate hydration. A foot and scalp massage follow as your body is wrapped in the steamed coffee and milk. A final rinse under a Vichy shower seals in moisture and leaves the skin silky and dewy fresh. 50 minutes, contact for pricing.



Pumpkin Facial - Alegra Skin Care
This autumn-inspired facial starts off with a pumpkin cleanser, followed by a pumpkin mask and ultrasonic exfoliation. A pumpkin toner is used to finish the skin, along with rejuvenating serums for a young, refreshed look. $85 special lasts through November.



Hot Sea Stone Massage - Spa Velia
This relaxing, winter treatment places hot sea stones along with oil on key points of the body, providing deep penetration and intensive warmth. Combined with traditional massage, the direct heat relaxes muscles better than a massage alone, melting away any stresses. 80 minutes, $170.


Now those spa treatments really get you into the feeling for the fall season again. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

Fall Spa Trends

We are now entering the fall season. With this season, it is always a good idea to try something new. So our researchers found emerging spa trends for the fall from spaweek.com. Here are their findings.

1) Shirodhara
We know what you’re thinking: Shiro-whata? Don’t try this at dinner, but drizzling warm sesame oil onto one’s forehead is extremely therapeutic. Shirodhara, which dates back to India circa 5000 years ago, is now being incorporated into more and more spa menus, and seen as an add-on to Western treatments like body wraps and Swedish Massages.
It’s the good kind of oil spill:
The ritual’s steady spilling brings physical and emotional balance while giving hair an extreme conditioning. Shirodhara is known to calm nerves, release stored emotions, purify the mind, and fight fatigue, anxiety, insomnia and headaches.

2)Bamboo Massage
De-knot your body by getting rolled out like a sugar cookie with a Bamboo rolling pin-esque Massage. The massage therapist will knead, glide and roll a Bamboo reed along shoulders, back and legs to pamper and penetrate tense muscles.
The benefits of Bamboo-ing:
Bamboo Massage promotes blood circulation, improves sensory nerve perception, and does lymphatic drainage. Bamboo also symbolizes longevity, luck and strength, making it a somewhat spiritual spa experience.

3)Cupping and Gua Sha

 Did you ever wish you could literally suck or scrape the pain and soreness right out of your body? With the ancient Chinese healing therapies of cupping and Gua Sha, you can!

How it works:
Cupping uses suction on the skin’s surface to “suck” stagnant blood from deep beneath the surface, and Gua Sha “scrapes” the skin to mobilize blood flow in a similar fashion. Both alternative therapies provide extreme pain and tension relief, especially on the back. These therapies are becoming more and more mainstream, despite the temporary bruising it causes, as new consumers experience their drastic benefits.

4)  Acupressure
No pressure to get pricked here. Acupressure employs the concept of acupuncture, (the granddaddy of healing) only rather than needles, it uses physical pressure of hands, elbows and other devices. Practitioners target specific points along the body’s energy pathways, or “meridians,” to encourage healing and balance in the individual.

What it’s good for:

Relief from allergies, chronic arthritis pain and migraines; pain-sufferers can reap the benefits of this ancient Chinese medicine without fear of being poked.

 

5) Bottoms Up at The Spa

It’s always happy hour at the spa, but more and more spas are incorporating alcohol into their treatment offerings.On the cocktail menu:
Champagne and wine-infused treatments can smooth skin tissue, stimulate blood flow and are a powerful ingredient in anti-aging. Beer yeast is rich in elements that increase skin elasticity and improve acne by suppressing sebum. Even Scotch Whiskey is showing up on the spa scene; it’s full of sugars, minerals and vitamin B6, giving it excellent hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties.

6) Shellac Attack
There’s been a lot of hype around UV Manicures, especially the popular Shellac Manicure since it first launched last Spring – the hard lustrous finish! The zero dry-time! The 14-day no chipping/smudging/denting promise! And did you see the Shellac flash mob? A cross between gels and a regular manicure, products like Shellac and Axxium are certainly no fad, as the color selection gets larger and trendier each season.

Why Shellac?
Spa-goers love Shellac Manicures because they get a long lasting, no-mess result, and spas love them just as much because it brings in new clients and revenue, without increasing the service time. Shellac Manicures are a win-win!

7)Men's Treatments
Did you know men make up for 31% of active spa-goers? And did you know the most common spa packages offered are for men, with 45% of U.S. spas offering such a package? By incorporating no-frills, guy-friendly scents like sandalwood, mustard seed, eucalyptus and thyme, spas are able to successfully market to men.
What services are considered guy-friendly?
Hot Shaves, Gentlemen’s Facials, Golf Ball Massages and more have enticed male consumers to experiment and experience the health benefits of the spa just as frequently as their female counterparts (who, oftentimes, are the ones who got them hooked!).

8) Mobile Spas (not to be confused with Spa Week’s Mobile App)
With more and more mobile food establishments rolling around the country serving gourmet dishes and desserts, spas aren’t far behind. One of the emerging trends is getting your massage, facial, or other spa service street-side, in a spa on wheels.

Why go mobile?
Mobile spas are in high demand as they conveniently bring the day spa experience right to your home, office or venue. With gas prices at an all-time high, the mobile spa experience saves time and money, and is now a popular and sought-after addition to wellness and bridal parties and even corporate events.

9) Deep Sea Spa-ing
The word “spa” is derived from water, so it is a wonder that water-based spa treatments are so often overlooked. The Jacuzzi is perhaps the most well-known version of “hydro-therapy,” but more and more aquatic treatments like Hammam Rituals, Vichy Showers and Watsu are a booming trend, especially in hotel spas.
How to H2O:
Each of these water treatments utilized hydro-thermal therapy to relax tight and sore muscles and promote smooth and cleansed skin all while stimulating blood circulation to promote healing. Hammam Rituals combine heat, aromatherapy, steam, bubbles, water and mud to cleanse the skin and detoxify the body. A Vichy Shower is a unique aquatic therapy that invigorates your body while laying flat under powerful water jets, inspired by treatments used in the French city, Vichy. Watsu, short for water Shiatsu, is a massage performed in a warm, shallow pool. As the water gently cradles the guest so the massage therapist can work the full 360 degrees of your body.

10) Spas With A Consciense

“Green” spas and treatments are thriving right now in the industry; spa owners are making critical revisions by incorporating renewable energy, holistic and eco-friendly services and indigenous ingredients into their businesses, and it’s paying off in the long run.
But how?
More and more consumers are considering a spa’s environmental philosophy, along with price and location in their decision to visit a new spa. Spas are practicing conservation by purchasing organic linens, biodegradable aesthetic gauze and eco-friendly cleaning supplies to keep each guest sanitary and safe during their appointment. How’s that for a feel-good spa day?

As you can see, these are new and emerging spa trends worth examining. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

 

 

Taking Care Of Your Skin During The Summer

     Summer is a special time of the year. There is so much to do and places to visit. There is a potential problem in being out this time of year which is the sun and what it could do to your skin.The sun can cause allot of damage to your skin if you are not careful or take the right precautions. So, we decided to give you some tips in taking care of your skin this summer from Web MD.

Sun Shields

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the U.S. There's strong evidence that excessive sun exposure raises the risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of the disease. According to the American Cancer Society, there will be about 62,000 new cases of melanoma in 2006, and nearly 8,000 will die of the ailment.

Sunscreens. Sunscreen is a highly recommended defense against sunburn and skin cancer. It is now available in lotions, creams, ointments, gels, wax sticks, and spray. Some have glitter and tint, too.

What's the best kind? That depends on you. "It's nice to use a product with a higher SPF, but it's more important you find a sunscreen that you like because you'll use it more," says Andrew Kaufman, MD, a dermasurgeon and a member of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.

Make sure to apply sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before you go out. Put on enough so that it takes a full minute to rub in. If at the beach, spread at least 1 ounce -- enough to fill a shot glass -- on your face and entire body. Use more if you need to for good coverage. If you swim, sweat, or are outdoors for a long time, reapply every two hours. Your sunscreen should also have the following qualities:
It is water resistant. Sweat or water cannot easily remove it.
It has SPF of 15 or higher. According to The American Academy of Dermatology, sunscreen-SPF rating is calculated by comparing the amount of time needed to produce a sunburn on sunscreen-protected skin to the amount of time needed to cause a sunburn on unprotected skin.

For example, with an SPF 2 sunscreen a person who normally (without sunscreen) would turn red after 10 minutes of sun exposure would take 20 minutes to turn red. A sunscreen with an SPF of 30 would allow that person to multiply that initial burning time by 30, which means it would take 30 times longer to burn. However, SPF should not be used to determine time in the sun.

Skin damage can happen even without a burn. Plus, higher SPF numbers do not give proportionate protection. SPF 15 deflects 93% of sun-burning rays, whereas SPF 30 deflects 97%, reports the AAD.
It provides broad-spectrum protection, which is in sunscreens containing benzophenones (oxybenzone), cinnamates (octylmethyl cinnamate and cinoxate), sulisobenzone, salicylates, titanium oxide, zinc oxide, and avobenzone (Parsol 1789).

Unless it has these agents, the sunscreen may filter only UVB light, the major culprit for sunburn and skin cancer. Yet, protection from UVA is important, too. It is responsible for premature aging and the development of skin cancer.

Clothing and Lip Balms

Clothing. Start with a hat, because those harmful rays reach your scalp and your ears when you leave your noggin unprotected. And remember, baseball caps are not nearly as effective as hats with broad brims, because they leave your ears exposed.

Garments designed to ward off skin-cancer-causing rays are now available in specialty stores. These are given an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating, indicating how much of the sun's rays are absorbed by the fabric. Articles with UPF 30, for example, allow only 1/30 of UV light to penetrate.

These clothes are a foolproof way of shielding against skin damage, says Cyndi Yag-Howard, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist and SPF clothing entrepreneur in Naples, Fla. "They basically act like a really good sunscreen," she says, noting most people don't apply enough sunscreen for it to be effective.

At the same time, there's no need to buy special products for sun protection. Try your closet. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, clothes with certain qualities can prevent harmful rays from reaching the skin.
Garments made of unbleached cotton, high-luster polyesters, and thin, satiny silk can absorb or reflect UV radiation, preventing damaging rays from reaching the skin.
Darker materials tend to absorb UV light, keeping it away from your body.
Clothes with tight weaves or knits prevent penetration of harmful rays.

Lip balm

The lip is a common site for skin and lip cancer, primarily because of extended sun exposure. Cracked, peeling, scaly lips that aren't helped by lip balm or petroleum jelly may be signs of actinic keratoses. The condition can be the earliest stage of the development of skin cancer, and has the potential to progress to deadlier forms of the disease. People either forget to put sunscreen or balm in the area, or lick it off. To fully protect lips:
Look for lip-specific products that have SPF 15 or higher, recommends Shelton. Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher if you have a history of lip and skin cancer.
Apply lip product every two hours or so, based on the amount of contact with the UV rays.
While in the sun, stay away from baby oil, petroleum jelly, or high-shine lip gloss.
If you decide to wear lipstick, try darker shades as they provide more UV defense than sheer, glossy ones.
Better yet, wear lipstick with SPF, or apply a lip conditioner with SPF and antioxidants under lipstick for extra moisture and protection.

Sunglasses and Cosmetics

Sunglasses. Oversized sunglasses are in again this year, with the likes of Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton sporting their large shades. Even aviator styles for men are rounder and bigger.

The trends have no better fan than Neil Hodur, OD, professor of optometry at the Illinois College of Optometry. "The more of the eye you can cover, the less the intensity of light ... to reach the back part of the eye," he says.

Prolonged UV exposure can redden the whites of eyes, just as the sun can burn skin. Over time, this can cause eye problems, such as cataracts and macular degeneration. To prevent eye damage, choose sunglasses with the following qualities:
UV 400 protection. It blocks up to 400 nanometers of UV light.
Impact resistant. The shades can possibly withstand active lifestyles or an accident.
The right color. Translucent-colored sunglasses are hot, but to ward against distortion of colors, stick to gray and brown shades.
The right price. Effective eye defense can fit any budget, from $10 to $1,000.

Cosmetics

 Can makeup protect against the sun's harmful rays? The answer is a qualified "yes." While any kind of coating on your face can help block UV light, cosmetics by themselves do not have enough protection to prevent sunburn or skin cancer.

Mineral makeup, darker foundations, powders, and eye shadows do have better sun-protective qualities than other cosmetics. Yet makeup can be applied unevenly and wiped off during the course of the day, losing its ability to effectively block UV light. For surefire protection, Shelton recommends wearing sunscreen first, and then applying makeup on top.

Makeup that contains broad-spectrum SPF has UV-filtering qualities as well. However, Shelton says that makeup with SPF is not as effective as sunscreen by itself. Makeup doesn't bind to the skin as well as sunscreen. Plus, when you combine sunscreen with something else, he says it often does not retain all of its UV-filtering properties.

Sunless Tanning

Forget dangerous sun worshipping and tanning booths. Sunless tanning products are better than ever with streak-proof varieties. They come in lotion, cream, gel, and spray form. With the active ingredient dihydroxyacetone (DHA), dead skin cells are safely coated with color. The tint disappears when the cells are either washed off or sloughed off.
 Some cautions:
Find the right sunless tanning product for you. Since some self-tanners can turn some skin orange, test the product first in a small area of your body.Self-tanning preparations do not necessarily contain sunscreen. Read labels carefully. The FDA requires tanning products without sunscreen to contain a warning statement indicating it does not protect against sunburn.Stay way from "tanning pills." They are not approved by the FDA and may cause unwanted side effects such as eye discoloration.


Now you can use these helpful tips to enjoy the sun and keep your skin protected. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email. 

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

Spa Treatment Spotlight : Mud Bath

What is in a mud bath? Why is it so special ? Is a mud bath for me ? These are some of the questions that we will answer for you in our spotlight article concerning  mud baths.We cover everything you want to know with the assistance from about.com.


Why Take a Mud Bath?

The most proven reason to take a mud bath is that it's relaxing. Being cocooned and buoyed up in a warm, soft mixture of mud and water simply sucks the stress out. The temperature makes you perspire, cleansing the pores. Health benefits are not proven, but a mud bath is claimed to improve the complexion, relieve joint and muscle pain and remove toxins from the body.

What's In a Mud Bath?

Native Wappo Indians used volcanic ash and warm spring water to make their mud bath, and Calistoga's founder Sam Brannan was the first to commercialize the idea, shortly after the Gold Rush. In 1946, young chiropractor John "Doc" Wilkinson came to Calistoga and within a few years established a spa to provide an extra dimension of relief to his patients and others.

Wilkinson developed the mud bath recipe that's commonly used today: volcanic ash, hot spring water from a nearby source, peat moss to make it soft and help the body float. Today, most spas add an aromatherapy ingredient, such as lavender or eucalyptus.

The spas bring the ash in fresh every morning and mix it with boiling mineral water from a nearby spring, adding peat moss for texture and to help the body float. Boiling spring water is used to sterilize the mixture between clients.

What Happens During a Mud Bath? 

 The mud bath process is about the same no matter where you go. For the first ten to twelve minutes you're immersed and suspended in the warm mud, which is usually a little over 100°F. An attendant helps you in and out and stays nearby to supply ice cold water and cooling washcloths.

The mud bath experience is unlike any other spa treatment. The muddy mixture is soft and warm, and you float, not like a cork in water, but just below the surface, fully surrounded by warm softness. It's perhaps the closest most of us will ever come to a feeling of weightlessness, with no pressure anywhere on the body.

After you wash off, the process varies from place to place. You will  take a mineral whirlpool bath, enjoy a short steam room treatment and then a blanket wrap to let your body cool off slowly. The whole process will take about 1.5 hours, and can take longer if you get a massage afterward.

Will I Like a Mud Bath?

In general, more women than men come to spas for a mud bath.

Reasons you will like a mud bath:

• It's relaxing.
• In fact, people  think it's the most relaxing spa treatment they ever taken.
• It's fun. 
• Where else can you get muddy and not get in trouble?
• Some people swear by the health benefits.

A mud bath is not for you if:

• You're sensitive to odors: mineral water has a high sulfur content. Put simply, it smells like rotten eggs.
• You're claustrophobic: you may feel uncomfortable being submerged up to your neck in viscous, black mud.
• You're under a doctor's care for any reason (including pregnancy): check with them before taking a mud bath.

So, now you  know all of the information concerning mud bath treatments. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

Home Spa Recipes

      As a part of our home spa series, we are going to cover spa recipes that are healthy and very simple to make. These  food helps you to eat healthy while enjoying the spa experience. We found some real  flavorful recipes from Spa Magazine which provides recipe links that you can use.

Gazpacho
On a hot day, a cool bowl of gazpacho makes a perfectly refreshing lunch. This recipe, from Lake House Spa, calls for a number of fresh vegetables and herbs. Toss them all into the blender and you have a delicious, healthy meal. Bonus: Serve gazpacho "shots" as a fun appetizer at your next party. Get the recipe.

Seared Albacore Tuna
Courtesy of Chefs Chad Minton and William Fravel at the Ojai Valley Inn & Spa, this tuna appetizer is prepraed with albacore tuna, which is packed with Omega-3 oils and protein. Get the recipe.

Vine Ripe Tomato Napoleon
Fresh tomatoes from the farmers market (or your own garden) will make this simple appetizer shine. Add a few herbs, good olive oil and fresh mozzarella and you'll have a dish that really celebrates the summer season. Get the recipe.

Sedona-Inspired Chicken
This baked chicken dish from Mii amo comes with a little prep time, but is packed with flavor and less than 500 calories per serving. Get the recipe

Cucumber Summer Rolls
These incredibly refreshing vegetable rolls work wonderfully as an appetizer or a light meal. Get the recipe.

Chilled Honeydew Melon Soup with Mint
A refreshing, cold soup perfect as a light appetizer for a summer meal. Get the recipe.  


Spinach and Strawberry Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette
Super sweet, summer strawberries make this salad a knockout. Top it off with a homemade vinaigrette and you'll have the perfect side dish for your next meal. Get the recipe.



Thai Lemonade
Fresh mint and cilantro add a refreshing kick to this non-alcoholic beverage. Ginger ale gives it an unexpected fizz. Get the recipe.

Nectarine, Cherry, and Blueberry Compote with Yogurt and Almonds
Nectarines are bursting with flavor during the summer—pair them with sweet cherries and blueberries for a sweet breakfast treat, or a healthy dessert. Get the recipe.

Blueberry Crisp

A simple crumble topping makes this dessert easy to prepare. Get the recipe.

Mixed Berries in Phyllo Nests
This light and refreshing dessert calls for strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries, all of which are at their peak during the summer months. Get the recipe.

 These recipes will  definitely add to your home spa experience.If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email. 

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

What You Need To Know About Couples Massage

      It is February which means Valentines Day is approaching. You want to be pampered on that day but you also want to include your loved one. Then, couples massage might be ideal for you both.There are some important aspects of couples massage you need to be made aware of before proceeding with this idea. We have found information for you to guide you through the couples massage process with the assistance from about.com and Anitra Brown.


What Happens During Couples Massage?
Couples massage is a massage that takes place in a couples suite. At the very least this is a room large enough for two massage tables. Some spas, especially big resort and hotel spas have elaborate amenities for couples with fireplaces, pedicure chairs, steam showers and lounging beds where you can relax together after your treatments. See the couples suite at The Spa at Mohonk Mountain House in upstate New York. Some romantic spas, like Alvadora Spa at The Royal Palms in Phoenix, have three different couples suites to accommodate the demand.
As for couples massage etiquette, it's fine to talk to each other through the massage if you want, or be quiet the whole time. It's really up to you.
Not every spa, especially smaller day spas , will offer couples massage.
 
What Are the Benefits of Couples Massage?
Couples massage is a great way to introduce a partner who has never gotten a massage before in a way that makes them feel more comfortable the first time. Some men are apprehensive about getting a massage because of the nudity involved, and to have their wife or girlfriend there is reassuring.
Men usually discover that therapeutic touch is very relaxing and restorative. Once they experience a couples massage, they are more willing to book a massage on their own.
It can also be a good choice if you're traveling with someone you don't get to see often enough -- a sister, girlfriend, mom or best friends -- and you want to spend as much time together as possible.
 
How Much Does Couples Massage Cost?
The price of couples massage depends on the spa where you get it and is usually double the price of an individual massage. It is at least double the cost of a regular massage. It will start at $200+ at a day spa and can go much higher if you are getting the use of special indoor/outdoor facilities at resort and hotel spas. Tipping at the spa is extra.
 
Is There Any Downside To Couples Massage?
Some experienced spa-goers find it distracting to be in the same room at the same time with anyone else during a massage. They prefer to get their massage alone and then meet up afterwards.
The potential problems come if you have different expectations and needs during a massage, particularly if one person wants to zone out and the other likes to talk.
It helps if you know how much the other person likes to talk during a massage -- a lot, a little, or not at all -- and whether it's a good match for you.

Well, we hope this was informative for you so you can schedule that couples massage to make it a Valentines Day you both will never forget. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team

How to Choose a Spa Resort

       It is a new year and you made a resolution to teat yourself to a spa getaway. You want a beautiful place that offers outstanding Spa services. That leads us to a simple but a very important question. How do I choose a Spa resort that is right for me? Well, we found some useful guidelines that you can use when making that important decision on where to stay.


The classic spa resorts are big and offer overnight accommodations and lots of activities -- golf, swimming, tennis, kids' activities, fine dining, and sometimes horseback riding and skiing.


The spa (called spa resorts by insiders) is just another amenity for guests, and often it's quite large and lavish, with 40,000 square feet and 30 treatment rooms. It provides a relaxing, pampering experience for people staying at the resort and often locals who want to enjoy a day at the spa.


But it's important to do your research before you book a spa resort. Some places that call themselves spa resorts are small privately owned inns with a few treatment rooms and one treadmill to their name.
This is fine if it's what you want, but you don't want to expect something lavish and then find out the hotel's "spa" is a hot tub, or one treatment room off the gym. (This happened to me in the days before I knew better.)



Knowing What Your "Spa Resort" Really Offers


To make things even more complicated, many destination spas and health spas  which are about healthy eating, exercise, and personal transformation, and now calling themselves "spa resorts".
This is because of the way people search on the internet. "Spa resort" is searched much more often than destination spa or health spa, and spas don't want to miss out on potential business. So it's very important to think about what you want to get out of your spa experience, understand the different types of spas, and then make sure what you want matches up with what that spa offers.



What You Need To Know About Spa Resorts

• At classic spa resorts, you generally pay for your spa treatments a la carte instead of having them as part of the total package.
• You may have to pay an entry fee to the spa facilities if you aren't getting a spa treatment.
• While lots of exercise classes are a hallmark of destination spas, spa resorts may not offer them at all. If they do, the selection is more limited, and you may have to pay to participate.
• There IS a trend for more spa resorts to offer complimentary exercise classes with spa treatments or day passes, including Golden Door Spa at The Boulders and The Spa at Camelback Inn in Scottsdale. If exercise classes are important, be sure to ask about their program.
• Spa resorts typically don't include meals in their rates. You can eat and drink whatever you want to because the emphasis is not on health. Spa resorts generally offer some healthy dining selections, but most people indulge in the rich food and wine that signals "I'm on vacation."
• Large spa resorts will have a wide range of activities and amenities and are great for families. Dad can golf, mom relaxes at the spa, and the children head to the kids' camp or teen scene.
• Not all spa resorts are alike. Don't be fooled by someone saying, "Yes, we have a spa." Make sure you know what you're getting into in terms of size, amenities, and activities before you book a spa resort. If you have some must-haves -- a challenging golf course, a world-class spa, an all-day kid's camp, lots of exercise and outdoor activities -- make sure you get the details before you book.
• If you want to get healthy, lose weight, exercise all day, get inspired, go on a personal retreat, or connect with like-minded adults, a destination spa or health spa is the better choice. They also tend to have the most passionate, talented therapists. (Just remember they might be calling themselves a spa resort!)

Well, this should  definitely assist you on knowing what spa to visit. Be sure to use the links that are provided in this article for reference purposes. A thank you goes to about.com for their invaluable information  concerning this topic. If you would like to contact us with any questions or feedback, you can reach us by email.

Thanks for Visiting!

Joseph A. Jones & The WellLife Team