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SEARCHWhat's in the trend forecast for the spa industry? Four spa experts from around the U.S. weigh in on which services and treatments will be in-demand for 2017 and which ones are ready for retirement.
Spa at Whiteface Lodge, New York
The new year is young, resolutions are still fresh, and people are moving forward with the best of intentions for better self-care in 2017. So who better to turn to than a spa pro for insight into which wellness trends have staying power and which are likely to fizzle faster than a New Year’s resolution in February? SALON TODAY turned to the experts at several top resort spas for insights:
What's in demand?
"I think we’ll see much of the spa industry moving towards services and packages that are more custom-tailored or specifically designed for each guest’s experience. Creating a deeper and more personal connection to each guest is the greatest trend, as it makes every spa experience unique to individual preferences. One such example is a trend to more specific massage treatments based on an advanced sports massage. Structural massage is becoming much more specific to fitness—tailored to each individual guest and his or her training cycles.
A few other trends to watch: guests are looking for natural ingredients, sustainable manufacturing, and local products, when possible. There are new farm-to-table-to-spa products and services that integrate numerous components of wellness, education and relaxation. And finally, Ayurvedic concepts and products are becoming more mainstream and integrated into special weekend retreats and yoga packages.” —Mark Lumpkin, spa director, Whiteface Lodge, New York
“We’re seeing a definite draw to extremes today, with guests seeking a mix of high-octane adventure and relaxation. Travelers are looking for ways to push beyond their comfort zone but they also need a place of solace to unwind afterwards. There’s a scientific basis to the pairing: An adrenaline rush followed by Zen activity resets and quiets the brain, which increases the sense of relaxation.” —LaRae Verros, spa director, Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa, Arizona
“All things ‘wellness’ are the most in-demand treatments in spas right now. And it’s not just a fad that will come and go. People are slowly realizing the importance of a balanced life – body, mind and spirit. In a world of high stress, packed daily schedules and multiple demands on our time and attention, finding ways to reduce stressors has never been more important. Treatments such as massage and acupuncture balance and heal the body while calming the mind and spirit. Energy healing, such as Reiki, activates the body’s subtle energy systems and stimulates natural healing within the body to reduce stress and restore physical and emotional well-being. Physical activities like yoga are increasingly popular not only for the strengthening and stretching benefits it provides the body, but also for the meditative, calming effect it has on the mind.” —Jacquee Thompson, spa manager, SiSpa at Ft. Lauderdale Marriott Pompano Beach Resort & Spa, Florida
“Preventive wellness will be a major theme—meaning taking care of yourself before you start to feel that you need to be pampered. The idea is to enjoy spa services on a regular basis instead of getting them when you are hurting or in need of them.” —Jade Billard, spa supervisor, SiSpa at Palm Beach Marriott Singer Island Beach Resort & Spa, Florida
What’s ready for retirement?
“One trend that we see making an exit is aggressive chemical facial peels. These treatments can be incredibly harsh on delicate facial skin. Taking their place are gentler peels that treat skin conditions from acne to hyperpigmentation to fine lines and wrinkles and don’t require you to go on ‘hiatus’ until the after effects disappear. Regardless of the type, strength and combination of acids used in newer peels, gentle—even daily—facial peels are in and the ‘Samantha Facial Peel’ is out!” —Jacquee Thompson
“Microdermabrasion will be less popular this year. Treatments like our HydraFacial system give better, immediate results and are less abrasive to the skin.” —Jade Billard
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