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What should men expect at a spa?
A lot of nervousness about visiting spas is about not knowing what to expect. Are you entering a world of scented candles and wooey chillout music? Well, yes, quite probably, but is that really any scarier than white-water rafting or taking a penalty?
Increasing numbers of spas offer dedicated men's treatments or separate areas for guys, and the bill of fare usually reflects male tastes. In fact, very often, if you contrast and compare, you'll notice that the treatments themselves are not totally different from what your wife or girlfriend may be having further along the corridor (or on the table right next to you).
That said, on the assumption that you may get looks if you walk back into the office smelling of primrose and jasmine, the scents are generally more manly. Think sandalwood, seaweed, cloves, lemongrass, lime, perhaps a daring dash of peppermint. Nobody's going to think the worse of you if you smell like you've just had an extra-strong mint.
Facials use preparations that leave your skin with a matt finish, not shining like a traffic beacon.
If you're having a massage, decide whether it matters to you to be attended to by a woman or another guy. Having a woman looking after you may seem like the best kind of self-indulgence, but a male masseur may well be better at giving you a properly vigorous deep tissue going-over.
If you're just having a back, neck and shoulder massage, you may not need to take anything off -- or maybe just your top. For a full-body massage, you'll need to get down to your shorts. Some spas (not all) don't mind if you get totally butt-naked, but there isn't a great deal of point in doing so. You'll be left alone while you take off your stuff, and also when you put all your clothes back on again, so don't worry about having an audience.
You don't have to make cheery conversation during the treatments, like you do when you get your hair cut. It really is best to just lie back and think of England's chances in the World Cup. Or better still, think of nothing at all. It can help to close your eyes. There is absolutely nothing wrong with a semi-dozing slumber. There is no more obvious sign, after all, that your body has entered a state of complete relaxation.
If you still feel a little nervous about visiting a spa, why not let your partner take you along? Couples massage can be a very bonding experience, plus you earn brownie points for doing something adventurous. It's all good.
See also:
* Should men shave before having a facial?
* Do spas have disposable underwear for men?
* Will my boyfriend really like going to a spa?
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