Destination & resort spas offer an array of choices for the mind, body, and spirit: fitness classes that range from the quiet discipline of yoga to the breathy exuberance of aerobics; hikes of varying degrees of difficulty; massages, wraps, and scrubs; lectures on health topics and meditation sessions.

We've created this page to enlighten you with the various types of spa services you'd expect to find at a destination or resort spa. Please keep in mind that services vary from one resort to another.

We're pleased to offer the Following descriptions of some of the more popular treatments offered at most day spas, destination spas and resort spas.

BODY CARE
Spas around the country offer many wonderful body treatments designed to relax, rejuvenate, exfoliate, balance and energize body and spirit.

Herbal Wrap: A cloth or sheet steeped in a warm solution of herbs wrapped around the body to draw out impurities, improve metabolism and promote relaxation.

Loofah Scrub: The entire body is gently scrubbed with a loofah sponge to exfoliate and rejuvenate skin. Seaweed or minerals are usually used to polish and calming oils to soothe.

Mud Treatment: Mineral-rich mud is rubbed onto the skin; detoxifies, relaxes and can also ease the pain of rheumatism and arthritis.

Salt Glow: Coarse sea salt, often combined with aromatic oils, is massaged into the body to exfoliate dead skin cells and stimulate circulation.

Seaweed Wrap: Seaweed, rich with deep-sea nutrients is applied as a wrap. Minerals, rare trace elements and proteins are absorbed into the bloodstream to revitalize and detoxify skin and body.

MASSAGE THERAPIES
A variety of massages are offered to relieve stress, relax muscular tension, and improve body function through increased circulation.

Reflexology: A foot massage in which pressure is put on reflex areas of feet that correspond with, and therefore stimulate organs and glands throughout the body.

Shiatsu: A deep massage originating in Japan, in which pressure is applied to acupuncture points for deep muscle relaxation and re-energizing.

Sports Massage: A deep-tissue massage designed to relax and re-energize tired muscles or relieve a particular area aggravated by sports or exercise.

Swedish Massage: The most universally offered style of therapeutic massage, using oils or creams to gently manipulate out tensions to improve flexibility, circulation and relaxation.

SKIN CARE
Most facials (often offered for back and chest as well) include a thorough cleansing, extractions if necessary, exfoliation, moisturizing and a light massage. Facials are often specialized according to individual needs.

Aromatherapy: Botanical essences or oils are chosen for your skin type to promote healthy, balanced skin. Aroma also calms, and improves the reduction of headaches.

European Facial: A deep-cleansing treatment to improve texture and leave a glowing complexion. This most popular facial includes cleansing, toning, exfoliation and masque, followed by a soothing calming essential moisturizer.

Collagen: An application of collagen smoothes, plumps and rejuvenates dry, lined skin.

Deep Pore: A deep-cleansing facial which includes extraction, mask and focuses on a tightening of enlarged pores.

Glycolic Acid: Application of glycolic acid exfoliates dead skin cells and encourages cell regeneration for younger, smoother skin.

Eye Contour: Plant extracts hydrate and reduce lines and wrinkles. Minimizes fine lines, reduces dark circles, puffiness and congestion. Extremely refreshing.

NAIL CARE
Besides the basic and acrylic manicures, most salons and day spas offer spa pedicures, and special deluxe treatments such as hand and foot massage and exfoliation.

Paraffin Wraps: Warm paraffin wax is brushed over hands or feet to draw out impurities and intensely hydrate skin and cuticles, and soothe achy muscles and joints.

Spa Pedicure: Like a massage for the calves and feet. Pedicure stations often feature vibrating massage chairs and whirlpool tubs. Feet luxuriate in soothing whirlpool soak followed by exfoliation and a relaxing, moisturizing masque massaged into feet and calves. Nails are trimmed, shaped and buffed. Polish is applied if desired.

WATER THERAPIES
Dating back to ancient Roman mineral baths, water therapy has been used to bring on a deep state of relaxation, reduce fluid retention, eliminate toxins, rejuvenate skin and increase blood flow to the heart and other organs.

Hydrotherapy: Any therapy delivered through water - usually a deep hydrojet massage in a hot tub or shower. Therapeutic minerals are often used as well.

Vichy Shower: This gentle massaging shower, originating in the French town of Vichy directs jets to the body's seven energy zones. Is offered on its own or following an exfoliating mineral body treatment.

COSMETIC APPLICATION
Make-up application or lesson, for entire face or specific areas, such as eyes or lips. Often includes color consultation. Cosmetics can also be purchased.

HAIR CARE
Hair cuts, special occasion styles, deep conditioning treatments, hair color, highlights, permanent waves, hair straightening, or just a wash and blow dry are available at most salons.

WAXING / HAIR REMOVAL
Hair removal by wax for various parts of the body, including face, bikini, arms and legs. Some spas and salons also offer hair removal by electrolysis or laser (which is longer lasting and more expensive).