5 Tips for Choosing a Day Spa

Before scheduling your Spa Treatment, you should do your homework. Yes, the spa may look good on the internet or in that print ad, but is what you see what you really get? In this economy, we want to make sure we are receiving what we pay for. These five tips are extremely important to your satisfaction. It is important that you take the time to learn about your spa. Buyer beware...

1. Are Licenses Valid? - In most states, there are several different licenses that must be prominently displayed in any business. There should be, at the very least, a state business license. Local towns typically require a business license as well. Most importantly, in the spa and salon industry, the state requires an active license from the Board of Cosmetology. If the spa is open without any mandatory license, they are open illegally and not being watched over by various governing bodies, such as the Board of Health. Finally, there should be a valid license for each technician or therapist from the Board of Cosmetology. Don't see these things? Ask to. If none are produced, find another spa.

2. Ask for a Tour - Make sure the rooms are clean. Ask to meet some of the technicians. In the spa business, cleanliness is critical and a spa could be shut down if not clean. When looking at the facial and nail rooms, make sure that there is at least a jar of Barbicide solution or an autoclave for cleaning brushes and implements. Check for cobwebs and look for overloaded trash containers.

3. It's a Small World - In the spa and salon industries, particularly in small towns, technicians know each other. They have either worked together or know what is going on through the grapevine. Ask about the spa owners and technicians to learn about their reputation in the industry. Also, check with your Better Business Bureau or local Chamber of Commerce to see which spas they recommend. Finally, ask your friends if they have been there or where they go. Word of mouth referrals are the best way to ensure quality.

4. Watch For Employee Turnover - Did the spa you are considering just lose six staff members? Believe me, technicians and receptionists don't leave en-masse for "another opportunity"; something is definitely wrong at that spa.

5. If it Seems Too Good to be True... - It is not unusual for spas to offer specials and deals. However, if the deals are unbelievable, don't believe them! There is usually a reason a spa is offering a discount and free services to purchase a series of treatments. This might mean that the spa can't meet their payroll or bills and needs a cash infusion.

What happens to your "deal" if the spa goes out of business? This might also be a means to keep staff from leaving so as not to disappoint their loyal customers. Either way, why would you want to give someone your money for treatments that could take months for you to use? Please don't confuse this with a spa "series" such as a facial series that is only beneficial if you come in every few weeks to gain maximum results. These are typically legitimate, but ask if you can pay as you go. You might not receive a discount, but you will have peace of mind.

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