Going to the spa may sound like a luxury you just don't have time for, but a spa day is actually an integral part of an overall health and wellness routine. Not only is going to the spa great for your skin, but it is also an excellent way to spend time with your partner or friends. Here are some major benefits of a relaxing spa visit:

• Promotes well-being and a sense of calm
• Helps reduce headaches
• Enhances a good night’s sleep
• Clears the skin
• Relaxes the body
• Combats depression
• Strengthens bond between you and your spa date
• Helps manage stress

What are the benefits of facials at the spa? 

While there are many different types of treatments to get at the spa, a good facial is a gold standard. "Facials help to exfoliate, hydrate and rejuvenate the skin to give a healthy, glowing appearance," explains Mackenzie Cameron, Licensed Aesthetician at Hull Dermatology in Rogers, AR. "Gently exfoliating dead skin can help to clear acne and resolve hyperpigmentation concerns that linger after a breakout, while hydrating the skin can give a more supple appearance while minimizing fine lines."

What are the best spa therapies? 

With so many different types of spa therapies on the menu, the best spa therapies for the face both rejuvenate the skin and provide anti-aging benefits. “Some of my favorites include HydraFacials with the HydroPeptide Power Serum booster,” says Cameron. “A HydraFacial treatment simultaneously exfoliates and infuses antioxidants into the skin, the added Power Serum booster gives the skin that glass skin effect of ultimate hydration.”

How facials help improve the skin

An esthetician can help improve your skin in ways that you simply cannot do at home. A spa facial can benefit the skin in many ways, including:

• Decongests the skin
• Clears pores
• Get rid of blackheads
• Improves circulation
• Facial massage can decrease puffiness and fluid build-up
• Give the skin a deep cleansing

Expert picks for the best facial treatments

Did you know that you can ask specifically for HydroPeptide products at your spa? Cameron sings the praises of HydroPeptide facials with added peels. “My favorites are the Apple Peel and the 5x Power Peel to help brighten and turn over the skin for a healthier and glowing appearance.” She also suggests getting microneedling treatments to help rebuild collagen, smooth texture, and resolve pigmentation concerns.

What are the benefits of a hydrating face mask?

Taking care of your skin after your time at the spa will prolong the skincare benefits. A good after-care routine is important to maintaining that after-facial glow. Find a hydrating face mask and use it in the days following your facial. Some of the best face masks for at-home use are the HydroPeptide Hydro-Lock Sleep Mask, the HydroPeptide Miracle Mask and the HydroPeptide Balancing Face Mask.  You will want to use a face mask about 1-2 times per week.

How to have a spa night at home

You can even recreate the spa experience at home by turning on relaxing music and dimming the lights while your mask is on. Choose a night of the week that you can unwind and not have to worry about answering emails or picking the kids up. Cameron says: “HydroPeptide Soothing Serum is an amazing addition to your after care to resolve redness while hydrating post treatment skin.”

Are facial spa treatments good for your health? 

There are evidence-based studies that have proven stress can harm your appearance. One study showed that stress can cause inflammation and skin aging. “Facial treatments can help with your mental health by allowing clients to relax and relieve stress thereby positively effecting mental health,” says Cameron. Further, relieving stress and tension can be achieved by facial massage and aromatherapy that are often provided with facial treatments.

How does facial massage help your well-being?

“Facial massage can provide a variety of benefits,” says Cameron. These benefits include:

• Reduction of congestion and inflammation by stimulating the lymphatic system in the face, neck and chest
• Stimulating the lymphatic system helps to remove lymph waste from the body
• Improving circulation and immune functions in the body. 

How to find the best spa

Not all spas are created equal. In fact, finding the right spa to fit your goals and personal preferences are extremely important when looking for a quality spa. While the key features to look for in a spa are cleanliness and professionalism, there are many other facets you’ll want to consider when shopping for the perfect spa for you. Here are some questions to consider before booking your spa appointment.

• How busy will the spa be? If it’s too loud, you may not be able to fully relax
• How far is the spa from your house? You will likely be in a relaxed state following your spa treatment and may not want to travel too far afterwards.
• What types of treatments do they offer? If you are looking for a basic massage or facial, most spas will have you covered. However, if you want a HydraFacial or something more cutting-edge, you may likely have to look around.
• How many years of training has your esthetician or massage therapist had?

Looking for the perfect spa? We can help Use the HydroPeptide find a spa tool to locate the best spas in your area.