In the professional skin care industry, people are modifying and changing treatments every day to improve the benefits and lessen the contraindications. All over the world, visitors go to spas and request "your most popular treatment." But have you ever wondered what all the other spa's most popular treatments are? Have you ever compared the others to your own? When deciding the theme for this month's special section, treatments around the world deemed appropriate. When reading about ethnic skin and how to effectively treat different skin types, you should also be thinking about the treatments your spa currently offers. Do you offer treatments that will appeal to all ethnicities? Across the next few pages, you will find countries across the world that show one of their most popular treatments – and explain why it works for them. It is very important to understand the needs and wants of your clients – and then provide for them Lomi Lomi facial Our Lomi Lomi facial is the signature treatment offered at Na Ho'ola Spa. We use the Eminence organic skin care line in the facial and customize it to meet the needs of each guest. The treatment begins with heated, smooth lava stones being placed in the client's palms and wrapped with ti-leaves. This calms the body and the soul as you begin the treatment. Our aestheticians cleanse and exfoliate with a rotary brush, use a high frequency module, and select the appropriate mask to re-hydrate your skin. Extractions are done before the start of the Lomi Lomi face massage which lasts about 10 to 12 minutes. A décolleté, arm, and hand massage accompanies the treatment. What are the benefits of this treatment for the client? We provide the guest with a longer facial massage. All movements are done in series of threes; these are in reference to the mind, body, and soul. The focus of the treatment is to revive the dermis, especially due to the amount of sun exposure here in Hawaii. What are the contraindications to the client during this treatment? None. We customize the treatment to meet the skin needs of the guest and through consultation find out if they have any allergies. What supplies are needed for the aesthetician to perform this treatment? We use steam and a multi-function facial unit. Is there any form of education that is needed by the aesthetician before performing this treatment on the client? All of our aestheticians have a Hawaii State Beauty Operator License which is obtained through completing a 600-hour course and passing the Hawaii state licensing exam. Why is this treatment popular in your country? Our guests are always looking to experience a Hawaiian influenced treatment. Though skin care was not a point of emphasis in the Hawaiian culture, overall health and wellness was very important. All training techniques have been passed down over generations, so the Hawaiian influence of this treatment holds great spiritual belief to the therapists. Combined with the rich history of the land that our spa is situated on, this treatment provides our guests with a perfect blend of ancient technique and modern skin care products. Theapeutic Mar Menor Mud The Mar Menor Mud Wrap is a treatment that is designed to treat both the face and body. Mar Menor mud is applied all over the body. The client is then covered with an insulating layer, for 15 to 20 minutes to ensure the maximum benefit from the properties of the mud. During this time, the face is cleansed and toned. Prior to the application of a mud mask, the face is draped with a warm towel. This is left for five minutes while a foot massage is performed. The mask is removed and an aloe moisturizer is applied. The client is helped to the shower and the treatment is finished with an application of aloe body lotion. What are the benefits of this treatment for the client? Mar Menor Mud is packed with minerals and oligoelements from the Mediterranean "Mar Menor" sea; it nourishes and hydrates all types of skin, soothes and calms aching joints, and is highly recommended for skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, acne, rosacea, etc. As it can be applied warm, it is also very relaxing. What are the contraindications to the client during this treatment? It is not recommended for pregnant women during the first 16 weeks of pregnancy. It cannot be applied on open wounds. If the client is claustrophobic, the Mar Menor mud may still be applied, but it is best not to wrap the client, therefore the maximum benefit will not be obtained. What supplies are needed for the aesthetician to perform this treatment? The aesthetician should have both large and small towels, a plastic sheet, cotton discs, face cleanser and toner, Aloe Vera moisturizer and body lotion, and Mar Menor Mud. Is there any form of education that is needed by the aesthetician before performing this treatment on the client? Even though the treatment is simple, the aesthetician needs to be trained on how to prepare the Mar Menor mud. This comes as a powder so the aesthetician needs to know the proportion of water to powder and the quantity required. Why is this treatment popular in your country? The mud that is found on the Mar Menor Sea has long been renowned for its healing properties. Traditionally, it was applied on the beach, dried by the sun, and rinsed off in the sea. Nowadays it is safer and more effective to have the treatment in a salon as the product has had all impurities removed and the mineral content and hygiene standard is constant. The Mar Menor treatment can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skin types, immediately bringing relief to sore muscles, aching joints, and skin problems. Turkish Body Scrub The main room consists of a raised marble platform that graces the centre of the hammam and is known as the Navel Stone. The Navel Stone is positioned above the wood or coal furnace that heats the hammam and its surface temperature can range from warm to hot depending on the guest's desired temperature. The guest lies on the Naval Stone for a vigorous massage, after which the masseur bathes the guest with warm water and soap. What are the benefits of this treatment for the client? Made famous in the Byzantine and Roman periods, the hammam, or Turkish bath, is a luxurious experience to refresh and purify mind, body, and soul. The steam in the hammam softens the skin in preparation for exfoliation and massage. This process cleanses the body of dead skin cells and revitalizes the skin, as well as accelerates blood circulation and encourages the process of skin cell renewal. What are the contraindications to the client during this treatment? Contraindications include allergies, pregnancy, heart conditions, and high blood pressure. What supplies are needed for the aesthetician to perform this treatment? The masseur who gives the bath uses a rough cloth glove and Turkish black olive soap to massage the guest, providing a deep cleansing. Once the treatment is complete, the hammams provide you with special towels called pestemal in Turkish. Is there any form of education that is needed by the aesthetician before performing this treatment on the client? The masseur needs to have specialized training in different forms of scrubbing and massage. Why is this treatment popular in your country? Although hammams have lost their social status among many locals, they are still considered points of interest for visitors. Istanbul's public hammams are very special buildings dating back to the Ottoman period. In addition to their intended aim, hammams play an important role as places of social gathering and ritual cleansing, as well as architectural structures and institutions with special customs. Hammams are places of attraction during such ceremonies as weddings and a traditional place of entertainment during holidays. If you are visiting Istanbul, it is highly recommended that you partake in the unique hammam experience. The Aromasoul Mediterranean Ritual Massage The Aromasoul Mediterranean Ritual Massage is a reflection of the energetic spirit and warmth of the Mediterranean cultures, enhanced with the essence of the ocean… fluidity, restoration, and relaxation. The hands of the therapist dance like the waves, in a sweet and nurturing caress that encourages a profound sense of well-being. Fluid movement is the key. The hands move with fluidity and grace, the body moves in the same way, observant of the breath of both the giver and recipient. Olive seed particles are used to exfoliate the body, followed by a steam and a shower, then a massage using a Mediterranean blend of oils. What are the benefits of the treatment? The body exfoliation used is to stimulate blood circulation, sloughs off dead skin cells, and promote better penetration of the products to follow by a massage using blends of oil to improve fluidity, restoration, and relaxation. What are the contraindications to the client during this treatment? You should not perform this treatment on clients who are pregnant, who have diabetes or high blood pressure, or who have had chemotherapy treatment in the last six months. What supplies are needed for the aesthetician to perform this treatment? Our aestheticians use Aromasoul Mediterranean Olive Scrub, Aromasoul Ritual Cream Base, Aromasoul Nourishing Massage Oil, and Aromasoul Mediterranean Blend. Is there any form of education that is needed by the aesthetician before performing this treatment on the client? You must be a qualified body therapist and have training at Comfort Zone. Qualification needed is through an ITech or CIDESCO diploma. Why is this treatment popular in your country? Due to the climate, water, hectic lifestyle, and pollution in South Africa, our clients suffer from very dry and dehydrated skin during all seasons. The Aromasoul Mediterranean Ritual Massage not only leaves the body feeling revitalized and restored, but also has an effect on the mind, body, and soul. The hands of the therapist create a lasting memorable experience for our guests. The Fango Natural Mud Before the guest arrives at the spa, the spa employee will mix the mud with warm water. Then we ask the guest to first take a shower and use the steam room for about five minutes. We then let the guest lie facing down and cover the body with mud, using the hands. After covering the client's back and legs, we wrap the body with a towel for 10 minutes. Afterwards, we start to remove the mud using a small, dry towel, stroking in upwards movements. When finished, we perform the same treatment on the front half of the body. Lastly, we ask the guest to take another shower and use the steam room for 10 minutes. What are the benefits of this treatment for the client? The Fango Natural Mud is for all different skin types: normal, dry, oily, and sensitive. It helps to smooth and moisturize the skin, while exfoliating and deep cleansing. It also has very immediate results, which is what makes this treatment perfect for the skin. What are the contraindications for the client during this treatment? There are some contraindications such as body allergy to the mud on the skin. What supplies are needed for the aesthetician to perform this treatment? We use mud, water, and towels. The client also takes a shower before and after the treatment, and uses a steam room. Is there any form of education that is needed by the aesthetician before performing this treatment on the client? Anybody who works in the spa can perform massage and the body treatment. There are no special needs of education other than having to learn in the physical academy for four years to study the muscles and the body's anatomy. Why is this treatment popular in your country? This treatment is popular because it's the ancient Egyptian experience. Egyptians used to spend many hours pampering and treating their bodies with delightful oils and creams. Both men and women restore vitality and good health with this treatment. Traditional Russian Bath Our Russian bath treatment combines national traditions with a modern art of spa-beauty and cosmetology. The Original Russian bath treatment begins with a sauna and a massage with selection of branches (oak, birch, or eucalyptus). Time in the sauna and dipping into the plunge pool allows you to relieve stress and discomfort. This treatment is followed by a full body peeling on a warm marble table and a honey mask. The procedure ends by indulging your skin with a relaxing soap massage. The therapist will ease your tired body and improve your skin balance. What are the benefits of this treatment for the client? This treatment helps to relieve stress and discomfort. What are the contraindications to the client during this treatment? The contraindications for this treatment are fever, bleeding, skin infections, high or low blood pressure, ischemic disease, period, and late months of pregnancy. What supplies are needed for the aesthetician to perform this treatment? The aesthetician should have bunches of oak, birch, or eucalyptus branches, as well as the ingredients for a honey mask. Is there any form of education that is needed by the aesthetician before performing this treatment on the client? An aesthetician needs special training to conduct this treatment. Why is this treatment popular in your country? This is a traditional treatment that has been used in Russia long before the popularity of spas. It is a relaxing and stress relieving procedure that tones up the whole body leaving you refreshed. Shirodhara "Shiro" means 'head' and "Dhara" means 'flow'. Shirodhara treatment starts with a gentle head massage then warm oil is poured in an even stream onto the forehead and the third eye chakra in between the brow. The treatment is performed by two people, one to control the movement and flow of the oil and other maintains the temperature of the oil through out the treatment. What are the benefits of this treatment for the client? This treatment balances doshas (body's imbalances as per Ayurveda) of the body, relaxes the nervous system, and is helpful in insomnia and headaches. What are the contraindications to the client during this treatment? The client should not have this treatment performed if they are pregnant, have fever, have extreme weakness, or when recovering from recent sickness. What supplies are needed for the aesthetician to perform this treatment? The aesthetician will need a Shirodhara pot and stand, an Ayurvedic massage bed or alternative arrangement to collect the oil, and equipment to warm the oil. Is there any form of education that is needed by the aesthetician before performing this treatment on the client? Knowledge of Ayurvedic massage and understanding of principles of Ayurveda is an advantage when learning Shirodhara treatment. Why is this treatment popular in your country? Vietnam is gradually developing as a spa destination and due to its proximity to Thailand where Ayurvedic massages have been performed for a long time the local and international traveler is becoming more aware of the benefits of such treatments and they are becoming more popular in Vietnam. The calming and healing benefits of this treatment is making it popular. Korean Massage The Korean Massage is based on stimulating Kyung-Rak (Meredian Pathways), which helps to circulate body system and to make the bones and joints stronger and smoother. Therapists use their fists and elbows with strong pressure to stimulate the body. The technique relieves the edema from bad blood circulation. It is recommended to people who have muscular pain around neck and shoulder. What are the benefits of this treatment for the client? It gives the client better blood circulation, relieves the stress, and detoxifies the body. What are the contraindications to the client during this treatment? We explain that depends on client's body, extravagated blood arise. Normally it goes away in a day or two. It is not recommended for anyone who has diabetes or heart problems. Also for those who had a meal within two hours. What supplies are needed for the aesthetician to perform this treatment? The therapist uses sweet Almond oil during the massage and sometimes uses a specially designed dish for better results. But, international guests think that is too new and scary. Therapists at Park Club use their fists and elbows with Swedish massage techniques to fit their needs. Is there any form of education that is needed by the aesthetician before performing this treatment on the client? The massage does not require any additional education, other than that learned in school. Why is this treatment popular in your country? Koreans prefer strong massage pressure in general. International guests coming to the Park Club would like to get a different type of massage and they think 'Korean Massage' sounds exotic. But, if they prefer light and smooth pressure, we do not recommend it. Body Envelopment Treatment Balinese Boreh is a form of traditional exfoliation and body wrap remedy among the Balinese royalties for centuries. Boreh stimulates metabolism due to its spice base and relieves aching muscles and joints. Because it encourages body warmth, the Boreh is also good for relieving headaches and preventing colds. It is believed to help rejuvenate skins cells by exfoliating the dead skin cells during the application process. It also promotes skin rejuvenation and moisture balance by keeping the moisture of the skin long after the treatments due to the moisturizing nature of the Boreh recipe. What are the benefits of this treatment for the client? It's perfect for relief of muscular aches, toning of the tissues, and deep internal cleansing. It activates circulation, increases metabolism, and induces perspiration to assist the body in detoxifying itself. It includes herbal powders of clove, cinnamon, and ginger in a base of kimiri nut – candle nut, for warming the muscles, reduce aches, and enhance full body detoxification through its heating property. What are the contraindications to the client during this treatment? The client should not have the Body Envelopment Treatment if they are allergic to the product, have any heart conditions, have very high or low blood pressure, fever, epilepsy, or claustrophobia. What supplies are needed for the aesthetician to perform this treatment? You will need disposable underwear, cool face towels and hot towels, a large mixing bowl for Boreh mask powder, a body brush, and a plastic sheet cut to size. Is there any form of education that is needed by the aesthetician before performing this treatment on the client? Yes. The therapist should be trained for at least 20 hours in this treatment, including class room and practical sessions. Why is this treatment popular in your country? It is a traditional treatment based on indigenous recipes handed down through generations. The locals use this treatment as a lifestyle and as a preventive treatment to keep the body healthy and fit. It is believed that Boreh also relieves muscle pain, reduces fat, and supposed to be an excellent stress buster after a long hard working day. Swedish Massage with a Touch of New Zealand Upon arrival, the client will receive a locker, a robe, and a pair of slippers to prepare for her treatment. Then she will personally be guided to the Relaxation area, offered water, and asked to fill out a client history form. The treatment begins with a consultation and aromatherapy foot soak ritual. Once the client's needs are highlighted, the one hour treatment begins. Elemis first grade, premium essential oils are used in combination with Swedish massage techniques to promote a sense of relaxation and well-being. The treatment finishes with a New Zealand herbal tea of the client's choice. What are the benefits of this treatment for the client? The benefits include a sense of rest and relaxation, stress release, elimination of toxins, and the release of muscular aches and pains. A classical Swedish massage is a holistic treatment that can improve mental, physical, and emotional well-being. What are the contraindications to the client during this treatment? Contraindications include pregnancy within the first three months, non-medicated high blood pressure, deep vein thrombosis, allergies, etc. These will all be covered in the consultation process. What supplies are needed for the aesthetician to perform this treatment? The aesthetician will need sweet almond oil, Elemis body active concerntrate oils, and Instant Refreshing Gel. Is there any form of education that is needed by the aesthetician before performing this treatment on the client? All of our therapists have a Diploma in Massage or other relevant Spa/Beauty qualifications. They also need to have been practicing for at least one year. Why is this treatment popular in your country? Massage therapy is becoming a more recognized form of health and injury prevention in New Zealand. With increased education in the workplace regarding OOS (Occupational Overuse Syndrome), the awareness of the importance of health and well-being is growing. Spa at the Hyatt offers a retreat from the everyday demands of the modern world. One thing that I noticed throughout most of these spas and their treatment is how almost every treatment had something to do with its surroundings, something to make it unique. Find something that your community is known for, and start a treatment idea with it. Maybe your city is known for the most luxurious golf courses in the world, or what if your town is known for its natural spring water... Spend some time in your surroundings and integrate the ideas you find for your new treatment. And remember: it is essential to study every aspect of a treatment, from start to finish. Understand the benefits so you can use them as selling points to your clients. Watch out for the contraindications so you know when you need to redirect the client to another treatment. Take these ideas you've seen and transform them into your own. Take parts from each treatment and infuse them all into your new treatment – and make it your most popular treatment… hey, you could even call it, Treatments around the World. Please note that every spa which participated in this special section is from a Hyatt hotel. They are in order as follows: Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa in Hawaii; Hyatt Regency La Manga in Spain; Hyatt Regency Istanbul in Turkey; Hyatt Regency Johannesburg in South Africa; Grand Hyatt Cairo in Egypt; Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow in Russia; Park Hyatt Saigon in Vietnam; Park Hyatt Seoul in South Korea; Grand Hyatt Bali in Indonesia; Hyatt Regency Auckland in New Zealand. Want to read more? Subscribe to one of our monthly plans to continue reading this article.