The Self-Service Spa?

by Roberta Murphy

In an emerging trend, more and more upscale spas are offering a self service option. Perhaps they are hoping to appeal to the spa-shy or those who might see the spa visit as a social opportunity, where friends or significant others can apply treatments to each other.

Wrap your pampered brain around this scenario reported by The Wall Street Journal: At Manhattans Townhouse Spa, you can receive a massage treatment from a robotic wave capsule machine and at Las Vegas Canyon Ranch, you will soon be able to help yourself at self-serve salt scrub and aloe rub stations. Why, I wonder, would the spa industry be removing its own trained fingers from such a high-touch industry?

WSJ reports that the $9.7 billion spa industry is pressing this do-it-yourself option as a way to not only lure new business, but to save on labor costs as well. Also, the industry has aggressively expanded throughout the country and competition is keen.This expansion spiked labor costs 8 percent in the last year alone, with trained massage facial, massage and treatment specialists earning as much as $50 per hour.

San Diegos La Costa Resort and Spa has been offering a variaton on self-pampering for the last three years. For $60, guests and members gain entry to the Spa and are able to enjoy a day of relaxation by the courtyard pool with its Roman showers and indoor steam rooms, saunas, showers, cleansing products, jetted spas and meditation areas. Fruited waters and teas are complimentary. If a personalized service such as a massage or facial is purchased, the $60 fee is waived and a hotel stay or membership is not required. Luxurious spa products are available for use and purchase and can be used during ones spa experience.