According to a report by the Associated Skin Care Professionals, nearly one-third of U.S. spa visitors are male. From pool tables to cold brew, spas and salons now reflect a man’s world, offering head-to-toe treatments to make you look and feel better.
The benefits for men
For years, women have tapped into luxury that seemed off-limits to men. Manicures, pedicures, facials — it was all pretty in pink with rarely a man in sight. These days, Chantal Lamers writes in the Orange County Register, salons and spas appeal to men from all walks of life. AskMen’s Karin Eldor points out that a day at the spa brings many rewards to men’s busy lives, such as:
- Stress relief: A relaxing atmosphere helps you let go of work and other stressors. If you’re athletic, deep-muscle massages are especially soothing.
- Skin care: Facials and nail treatments upgrade tired, neglected skin and show people that you care about your appearance.
- Body overhaul: Feeling better may inspire you to tackle weight or other body issues, which has the bonus of boosting your self-confidence.
- Relationships: It doesn’t hurt your love life to deal with that hairy back, either.
A man’s menu
While most day spas offer services for men and women, some facilities feature multiple TVs and a muted palette, with semi-private stations to keep each client’s visit (and procedures) private. Some, Lamers writes, even include wireless Internet, leather recliners and indoor golf courses.
A visit to a spa or salon for men bears little resemblance to a snip-snip at the barbershop, writes Dave Ford in the San Francisco Chronicle. In addition to haircuts, men are taking advantage of the privacy of guys-only facilities by asking for:
- Massages, which can include the neck and face as well as the back
- Manicures and pedicures, for ravaged cuticles and worn-out feet
- New hair color, for a major change or to camouflage the gray
- Facials, to cleanse, scrub and exfoliate
- Waxing, to banish that pesky back, brow or chest hair
- Shaving, with straight razors and hot towels
Some salons even offer cold beer or ice cream, Ford writes.
Sports and leisure
The social nature of an all-guy domain really appeals to some men. Salon owner Chris Nagy tells the New York Post, “We're catering to the modern gentleman of leisure.” The day spa also can be a place to chat about sports and politics, or lose yourself in a fantasy atmosphere. Nagy’s shop features jazz music and a Rat Pack vibe. Other salons are more rock ‘n roll, and staffed by scantily clad women.
Lorrayne Anthony of The Globe and Mail reports that all-guy pampering is now a popular bachelor party activity, as men trade hangovers for makeovers. Salons are also luring men by offering procedures that dovetail with their hobbies, such as a sports massage or a facial aimed at reducing sun damage caused after a day of golf, Anthony writes. Some even offer shoeshines and video games for their patrons.
Know before you go
Perhaps you’re ready for a day of pampering, but aren’t sure how to prepare for it. Spa etiquette can be confusing for first-timers, Lillian Africano writes in SpaReview Magazine. She offers a few pointers to get the most out of your visit:
- Be clean: Shave and shower, but don’t use lotion before your visit.
- Be courteous: Turn off your cell phone, keep your voice down and tip well.
- Be honest: If you have allergies or injuries, let the technician know.
See also:
A Guy’s Guide to Aging Well
Guide to Men's Skincare
10 Steps to a Perfect Shave
Hair Removal for Men: Trouble Spots
Combating Puffiness and Dark Under-Eye Circles