World Spa & Wellness March/April 2019 by World Spa and Wellness

WORLD SPA & WELLNESS

THE BUSINESS OF WELLBEING

SPIRITUAL HEALING • SPOTLIGHT ON AMATARA WELLNESS RESORT • WATER WASTE

SPIRITUAL HOME

THE RETURN OF ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES TO THE MAINSTREAM

BOUNCE BACK HOW WELLNESS TOURISM IS BOOSTING GREECE’S ECONOMY

WATER WORKS TIPS FOR REDUCING YOUR SPA’S WATER CONSUMPTION

March/April 2019

March/April 2019 | worldspawellness.com

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Fitness is more than machines, clubs or classes. At Matrix, we understand that fitness is part of an increasingly holistic idea of wellness that influences all sorts of lifestyle decisions, including where to stay whilst traveling. Fitness has become an expectation. Matrix can help you turn it into an experience. Preferred by some of the world’s finest hotels and resorts, Matrix offers a comprehensive portfolio of premier cardio, strength and integrated technology solutions. At Matrix, we not only innovate to improve the exercise experience for your guests but also to improve the ownership experience for you. That means we strive to offer equipment that captivates your guests, that’s easy to maintain, facilitates your wellness programming, and delivers the best return on investment for you. About Matrix Fitness: Matrix is the commercial brand of Johnson Health Tech, the world’s fastest-growing fitness equipment manufacturer, with 29 international wholly owned subsidiaries, sales in 80 countries, and production facilities in the United States, China and Taiwan. Matrix has a truly global presence. Wherever you are, Matrix can provide expert service and solutions tailored to your needs.

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CO N TE N T S

This month...

25 34

ON THE COVER

FEATURES & REGULARS

34 Gift from the gods How Greece is carving itself out as the next big destination for wellness investment

10 News Four Seasons plots major spa launches; “Dying well” tipped as leading wellness trend for 2019

38 Into the mystic Find out why alternative therapies are making it back into the mainstream and how to work them into your offering 45 Turning the tide With the industry making big strides to become more eco-friendly, we find out how to reduce water consumption in your spa

18 Latest launches The hottest spa launches from across the globe, including a women’s-only sanctuary in Bali 20 In the know Our experts answer your questions about the vegan beauty movement and boosting your social media engagement 25 Listen up Emma McGrady on improving your spa operation using customer feedback 30 World Spa & Wellness Asia Convention 2019 What to expect at the second World Spa & Wellness Asia event, taking place in Phuket on May 6–7, 2019 53 Spa with a twist How to evolve your spa packages to meet clients’ modern-day needs

Cover: Amatara Wellness Resort 8

56 Different league Klafs’ experts Detlef Jaeth and Thorsten Bichler outline the design trends that will set your thermal spa journey apart

58 Breaking the taboo Sexual misconduct in spas is a very real issue. Find out how to protect your staff from inappropriate behaviour 63 Stretch the rules Pilates teacher Kerry Beavis shares four exercises to keep RSI and back pain at bay 66 Inside out How to nurture the skin’s microbiome and explain its purpose to clients 70 Plant power The benefits CBD oil has on the skin and how to incorporate it into treatments 73 Change of pace How Amatara’s new general manager is turning the Thailand leisure resort into a wellness destination 77 The great outdoors How to make use of your outside space when you’re in a cooler climate 80 New products Spotlight on Moss of the Isles and a first look at Elemis’s latest vegan products 85 Treatment launches Facials to tackle stress and pollution take centre stage this month 88 Final say Behind the biggest recent events in spa

World Spa & Wellness | March/April 2019

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CO M M E N T

Welcome...

W 38

77 53

ith movements such as #MeToo and Time’s Up shining a spotlight on sexual harassment in the workplace, the spa market has also been scrutinising its attitudes towards sexual misconduct and opening up the conversation about it. Some of the industry’s biggest operators have revealed to us how they handle inappropriate behaviour from clients – a very real and serious issue – and what spas can do to protect their therapists. Find out how you can effectively address the issue in your business on page 58. Meanwhile, with consumers wising up to the impact waste has on the environment, companies are having to find innovative ways to be more ecofriendly and get this message out to the masses. The big issue of the moment is reducing water consumption – a tough goal given the integral part it has in the spa world. However, it can be done and at minimum cost, as you’ll find out on page 45. Lastly, this will be the final printed issue of World Spa & Wellness magazine. After analysing what our readers want and need, we have made the decision to consolidate the forward-thinking spa content we create into our flagship brand Professional Beauty – a market leader in the UK spa and beauty market. You will still find our first-class content, from industry news and spa profiles to thought-provoking trend pieces on our dedicated Spa and Wellness Beauty Channel on professionalbeauty.co.uk, in print in the monthly Professional Beauty magazine, as well as in our weekly newsletter, which will still land in your mailbox on Mondays. The international World Spa & Wellness brand will also continue via our prestigious annual awards and our market-leading Conventions in Europe, GCC and Asia.

Amanda Pauley Associate editor

Head of editorial: Eve Oxberry eve@worldspawellness.com 020 3841 7378

Sales director: Steve James steve@worldspawellness.com 020 7349 4791

Associate editor: Amanda Pauley amanda@worldspawellness.com 020 3728 9064 Features editor: Georgia Seago georgia@worldspawellness.com 020 3728 9063 Features writer: Fiona Vlemmiks fiona@worldspawellness.com Editorial assistant: Lydia Mormen lydia@worldspawellness.com 020 3841 7379 Contributors: Kathryn Conway Social media editor: Chris Halpin chris@worldspawellness.com 020 3841 7368

Account manager: Caroline Ruston caroline.r@worldspawellness.com 020 7349 4798

Design and production: ICD imagecreativedesign.co.uk Printing: Walstead walstead-uk.com Editorial and advertising enquiries: info@worldspawellness.com 020 7351 0536

Head of global marketing: Chloe Monina chloe@worldspawellness.com 020 7349 4799

Access our spa content: To receive your copy of the weekly Professional Beauty Spa & Wellness newsletter or to subscribe to the monthly magazine, visit professionalbeauty.co.uk/subs

Publisher: Mark Moloney mark@worldspawellness.com 020 7349 4790 Published by: M Squared Media Ltd, 1.17 The Plaza, 535 Kings Road, London, SW10 0SZ

@WSpaWellness

The publisher accepts no responsibility for any advertiser whose advertisement is published in World Spa & Wellness. Anyone dealing with advertisers must make their own enquiries.

/WorldSpaWellness

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World Spa & Wellness | March/April 2019

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NEWS NEW S

B R I N G I N G YO U T H E L ATE S T F R O M T H E G LO B A L S PA A N D W E L L N E S S I N D U S T R Y

Four Seasons announces nine openings for 2019

Four Seasons will open nine new properties this year, across three continents. A mix of hotels and resorts, the luxury hospitality group’s new openings will add to the 111 properties the company already operates in 47 countries. Spanning Europe, Asia and North America, the planned openings are across Four Seasons’ Hotel and Private Residences (Bengaluru at Embassy One, India; Madrid, Spain; Montreal, Canada; One Dalton Street, Boston, US; and Bangkok at Chao Phraya River, Thailand), Resort and Residences (Los Cabos at Costa Palmas, Mexico; and Napa Valley, California, US); and Hotel categories (Philadelphia at Comcast Center, US; and Astir Palace Hotel Athens, Greece). Seven of the nine properties will feature spa developments – all but the Boston and Bangkok sites. The company will also open its first standalone residences in London, UK, as it continues to expand this portfolio along with its hotels and resorts. “Four Seasons is well positioned for continued success in 2019 with the steady and strategic growth of our global portfolio,” commented Christian Clerc, president of worldwide hotel operations at Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.

Four Seasons Napa Valley

“We remain committed to offering the very highest standards of hospitality as we expand with a diverse collection of properties, including our entry in Greece and Spain, our first resort set within a world-class vineyard in Napa Valley, and the opening of our first standalone residences in London.” Additional recently announced projects for future opening dates include hotels, resorts and residences in Dalian, China; Makkah, Saudi Arabia; Hanoi, Vietnam; and Caye Chapel, Belize.

UK spa professionals launch new association to champion sustainability The Sustainable Spa Association (SSA) is a new trade body set for launch in the first quarter of this year. The not-for-profit, member-based, association is being set up by spa professionals Lucy Brialey, distributor of nutrition brand Hech and former group head of spa for Aspria, and Robert Cooper, managing director of eco towel manufacturer Scrummi Spa. The aim is to educate spa and salon members, as well as brand partners, on their environmental impact and promote successful and profitable, long-term operational sustainability strategies.

Members can gain SSA Accreditation, graded from standard through to platinum, by using the association’s sustainability self-assessment tool, which highlights areas for improvements and methods for implementing change. Once the self-assessment is complete, there is an option for members to achieve an industry standard grading that will be audited by the SSA. “The SSA-recognised certification will increase a spa or salon’s profile to consumers as a responsible and environmentally aware business,” said Brialey. “Consumers will be able to research and access sustainability information on spas in the UK that have achieved accreditation, enabling them to make informed choices on how they prefer to spa for their own health and the health of the environment. “For consumers, The SSA will be a place for trusted and up-to-date information on the sustainable integrity of spas where they can choose to restore their wellbeing in an ethical way.” In addition to educational events, SSA members will have access to an ethical buying guide of product houses and suppliers that have met SSA criteria.

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NE W S

Hyper-personalised nutrition and “dying well” among top 2019 wellness trends “Dying well”, super-personalised nutrition and nextgeneration meditation will be some of biggest trends to shape the industry this year, according to the Global Wellness Summit (GWS). The GWS detailed eight key wellness trends predicted to have the biggest impact on the industry this year in a new report.

Its other wellness trends for 2019 are: well fashion – sustainable, ethical, actively healing and meaningful clothing; tackling overtourism with wellness, medicalising nature to deal with ill health; wellness fragrances; and China as a wellness powerhouse. Described as a “death positive” movement in the report, the GWS predicts the emergence of a more “well” interpretation of the dying process as part of a mentally healthy life. The trend will see people become increasingly interested in alternatives to Western medicine, instead looking back to healing communal rituals. This is coupled with a backlash against Silicon Valley’s pursuit of biotech, which aims to extend life. Nutrition was also a focus, set to become even more highly personalised in the year ahead, fuelled by low-cost medical testing and new technologies to analyse each individual’s nutritional needs. The trend includes a move away from one-size-fits-all health and wellness practices. Instead, people will become more interested in using blood and DNA analysis services that focus solely on meeting their personal nutritional needs, as well as new apps and devices that measure nutrients, calories, hydration and energy output. The report also pinpoints meditation as a practice primed for evolution into different “breeds”, depending on the goal. With clinical trials underway to study the core types – listed as focused attention, open monitoring (including mindfulness meditation) and self-transcending; as well as a crop of meditation technologies ready to boost the experience, meditation will become a “plural toolbox” for mental wellness, says the report. This year’s Global Wellness Summit will be held in Hong Kong on October 15–17.

NHS to offer free DNA tests in England The NHS, the UK’s public health service, is to begin offering free DNA tests to people in England with serious health conditions in a bid to advance understanding of illnesses and hopefully discover new treatments. The service will be part of routine care programmes for adults and children with serious genetic conditions including cancer and will come into force later this year. Collected genomes will be sequenced, allowing the NHS to move closer to developing life-saving treatments. The scheme will also offer healthy people the option of paying for the service to find out their risk of developing various conditions. These people will also have their DNA analysed by NHS scientists in return for allowing it to be kept to help in the development of medical treatments. UK health secretary Matthew Hancock said, “While healthy people should not have this service free on the NHS, there are huge benefits to sequencing as many

genomes as we can – every genome sequenced moves us a step closer to unlocking life-saving treatments. Genomics has the potential to transform healthcare and I’m really proud that the UK is leading the world.” World Spa & Wellness | March/April 2019

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A DVE R TO R I A L

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Aura sprayers have been designed and developed by tanning professionals, taking into account all the important factors that beauty therapists demand on a daily basis. Aura, is a part of the Wagner Group, who have been making and selling HVLP sprayers since the late 1940s. The Aura brand represents high quality engineering, manufacturing, and performance in spray tanning.Â Our machines are designed for ease of use, manoeuvrability and storage. The nozzles, filters and surfaces are easy to clean for complete maintenance. Their stylized salon designs include polished black gloss or matt surfaces giving them an overall professional and sophisticated appearance.

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NEW S

Private island spa opens in The Maldives

News in brief

Jacqueline Berry has been appointed spa general manager at the 2,800sq m Miraval Life in Balance Spa at Monarch Beach Resort Dana Point, California, US. She will bring more than 20 years’ experience in the spa and wellness industry to the role, having previously held senior positions at Steiner and Canyon Ranch. A secluded island spa has been unveiled at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, following a $20 million renovation project. Located on the private island of Furanafushi in North Malé Atoll, the Marriott-owned resort has been redesigned by Topo Design Studio to showcase Maldivian architecture inspired by the resort’s natural surroundings. The new Shine Spa by Sheraton sits on a small private island connected to the resort by a bridge through the ocean. Treatments on offer include Ayurvedic rituals and a selection of scrubs, wraps, massages, facials and other services. Emilio Fortini, general manager at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, said, “As the third eldest resort in the Maldives, dating back to 1937, it is very important to us that we continue to modernise our property to ensure it goes above and beyond the standards expected of a five-star resort without losing the feel of our surroundings.”

Elemis on track to be sold to L’Occitane L’Occitane has entered an agreement to buy British professional skincare brand Elemis from Steiner Leisure in a deal worth US $900 million. Steiner Leisure is a portfolio company of private equity firm L Catterton, which acquired Elemis in 2015. L’Occitane chairman and chief executive Reinold Geiger said the acquisition marked “a major step forward for L’Occitane in building a leading portfolio of premium beauty brands”. He added, “Elemis is well positioned for continued global growth due to the brand’s broad appeal, award-winning product portfolio, robust new product development pipeline and effective consumer-focused digital and brick-andmortar distribution strategy.” Elemis chief executive Sean Harrington commented, “Reinold Geiger has a strong history of developing and supporting brands like ours that are creating products sourced from nature and developed through cutting-edge science and technology.” 14

Private equity firm San Francisco Equity Partners (SFEP) has acquired a majority stake in professional mineral make-up brand Jane Iredale. The companies will work together to strengthen the brand and its outlets, which include spas and retailers in 37 countries. SFEP is also partnered with other beauty brands including Japonesque and Yes To. US-based spa consultancy and management company WTS International has appointed Janice Nichols as senior vice president of spa operations. Nichols will oversee spa operations at more than 50 sites, focusing on guest experiences and improving financial performance. The Global Wellness Summit has announced its co-chairs for the 2019 event. Catherine Feliciano-Chon, founder of branding and marketing agency CatchOn & Co, and Yoriko Soma, president of Asian spa and wellness investment business ConceptAsia, will curate the event, which takes place in Hong Kong from October 15-17. Cidesco has partnered with WorldSkills, a not for profit that promotes vocational training. Cidesco will review the standards specification for Worldskills’ Beauty Therapy competition, as well as its description of roles, to ensure that both accurately reflect the global spa industry.

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NE W S

sbe plots major spa expansion for Mondrian in Mexico City Hospitality group sbe has announced plans for 10 hotel and residential projects in Mexico City over the next five years. A partnership with development company Be Grand will see sbe expand its portfolio of hotel and lifestyle brands into the city, with the first property breaking ground in Q1 of this year. Situated in the upscale Polanco district of Mexico City, Mondrian Polanco Hotel & Residences is set to open in 2021 and will feature a “lavish” signature sbe spa with fitness centre, a pool deck with 25m infinity pool and a rooftop garden ballroom. The site will have 144 rooms and 126 branded residences, along with sbe-branded culinary and lifestyle offerings. “We are extremely proud to begin our longstanding partnership with my dear friend Nicolas Carrancedo and Be Grand, one of the largest and most respected development companies in Mexico,” said Sam Nazarian, founder and chief executive of sbe. “We are thrilled to bring the Mondrian brand to this prestigious district and cultural hub in Mexico City, and to break ground on future sbe-branded properties in Mexico with Be Grand.”

GLL to make its spas and leisure centres dementia-friendly

Floating spa opens on the UK’s River Thames A floating spa is set to be the latest addition to 800-year-old Monkey Island Estate in Bray-on-Thames, a village west of London, UK. The seven-acre renovated Estate is located on a private island and features a hotel, part of YTL Hotels group, with 41 boutique bedrooms, plus six individual residences and a restaurant. The Floating Spa was due to open in February as World Spa & Wellness went to press, and was set to be housed in a barge on the river, with three treatment rooms, reception area and “Elixir Bar”, where guests can sample ancient herbal tonics that were traditionally brewed by monks in the area. Designed by YTL Hotels’ Spa Village brand, the spa takes inspiration from the history of the Thames and the journeys that took place on the river, as showcased in the signature treatment – a body ritual called Booze, Botany and Beauty which includes a full-body massage with herbal oils blended in house. New British spa brand Moss of the Isles has created bespoke treatments for the spa, inspired by Monkey Island’s natural surroundings. Other product houses include British organic brands ISUN and Haeckles.

Greenwich Leisure Limited (GLL), a UK social enterprise that operates facilities on behalf of local councils, is planning to make its 350 public facilities more accessible for those living with dementia. The leisure operator, which is the parent company of UK spa brand Spa Experience by Better, will be training its 14,000 workforce via a series of staff conferences in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society to make them more “dementia-aware”. This will result in GLL staff becoming “Dementia Friends” – an initiative run by the alzheimer charity which is designed to inform people about dementia and empower them to “turn their understanding into action”. Adjustments are also being made to the leisure company’s physical spaces by installing dementia-friendly signage to allow simpler navigation for all facilities. World Spa & Wellness | March/April 2019

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S PA O P E N I N GS

Latest launches Denmark’s largest wellness space will arrive in the spring, while a women’s retreat group expands in Bali

BLISS SANCTUARY FOR WOMEN, UBUD, BALI, INDONESIA Opening date: April 2019 Spa size: Sanctuary space is 2,000sq m (treatments can be carried out anywhere on site) Facilities: Open-air spa area, glass-enclosed yoga room, fire pit USP: The third Bliss Sanctuary Retreat in Bali, this women’s-only retreat accommodates a small number of guests in a private rainforest villa. Guests can choose from an extensive selection of packages focused on mental, emotional and physical wellbeing, incorporating fitness, spiritual healing, sightseeing, relaxation and water-based activities. Included in the cost of each stay is unlimited spa treatments, including Bliss’s exclusive menu of Balinese wellness bathing experiences.

World Spa & Wellness | March/April 2019

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S PA O P E N I N GS

ALSIK HOTEL, SØNDERBORG, DENMARK

THE SPA AT SOUTH LODGE, HORSHAM, UK

Opening date: May 2019 Spa size: 4,500sq m Facilities:160sq m indoor pool, outdoor infinity pool, Watsu pool, “Ice and Fire World”, “Aurora Borealis Cave”, hammam, 24-hour gym, two virtual fitness studios Treatment rooms: 11 USP: Spa consultancy Raison d’Etre has been commissioned to design the spa and wellness offer at the Alsik, which will be the largest spa and wellness space in Denmark. Spread across four floors, there will be more than 60 wellness therapies available, with a signature experience to be revealed nearer the opening. A café, teen club, and kids’ pool and play areas, designed with Nordic wellbeing philosophies in mind, will also feature in the spa and wellness area.

Opening date: March 2019 Spa size: 44,000sq ft Facilities: Indoors: Technogym fitness centre, spin and “holistic” studios, infinity-edge pool, rasul room, nail salon, barbershop, juniper-infused sauna, salt and herbal steam rooms, drench and bucket showers, deep relaxation room; Outdoors: workout terrace, heated swimming pond, vitality hydrotherapy pool Treatment rooms: 14 (including one couple’s suite) USP: Joining the Exclusive Hotels’ countryside property is a separate spa building, designed sustainably and to complement the landscape, with a grass and sedum roof and green oak cladding. South Lodge says the spa’s reed-filtered heated swimming pond is the UK’s first, while other key features include the extensive fitness offer and nature-themed treatment rooms. Treatments will use exclusive own product range, The Spa, which comprises 28 products. It was created by white-label brand Natural Spa Factory and is already used at sister spa Pennyhill Park.

THE SPA AT MANDARIN ORIENTAL, DOHA, QATAR Opening date: Q1 2019 Spa size: 3,000sq m Facilities: Thai massage room, fitness centre with specially-designed studio for yoga, Pilates, Queenax and TRX; separate male and female indoor pools, two rooftop pools Treatment rooms: Six, plus two VIP suites and one couples’ suite USP: Mandarin Oriental’s latest opening is in the centre of Msheireb Downtown Doha. The 249-room hotel brings with it the signature Mandarin Oriental spa and wellness offer with touches of Qatari heritage. The spa aims to provide a holistic approach to relaxation and rejuvenation in a tranquil, meditative setting. Treatments and wellness programmes will be inspired by ancient oriental wellness philosophies.

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E X P E R T A DV I C E

In the know

Our industry experts answer questions on every aspect of running a successful spa

As a busy spa director, how can I fit self-care into my daily routine? Life as a spa director means you’re constantly taking care of other people but to do this effectively you have to firstly take care of yourself by avoiding burnout, which will give you much more longevity in your career. Self-care can be any nourishing movement or activity like yoga, tai chi, listening to music, reading, meditating, exercise, travelling or having a massage. Investing in it will pay dividends as you will be more productive, effective and have more energy. During the working day there are plenty of events and circumstances that you can’t control and where you need to be flexible. However, you can control how you start and end the day. I call these the “bookends” – the morning and evening non-negotiable rituals that support your health and wellbeing. These rituals can give you the fuel to be adaptable, calm and confident, no matter what curve ball is thrown at you. My usual morning routine is: 5.30am, journaling; 5.45am, movement (whether that be walking, running or yoga); 6.30am, hydration and supplementation with essential vitamins that aid health; and 7am, aromatherapy shower with a revitalising body cleanser. My evening routine starts at 8pm by putting all technology away, such as smartphones and tablets; then going for a swim under the stars at

8:30pm; indulging in a cold plunge to supercharge my circulation at 9pm; and then meditation, journal writing and application of a thermal balm on my neck and shoulders at 9:30pm. Once I’ve done this, I feel like my body and mind have been unwound, so I’m ready for a deep, restorative sleep. Take the time to think about what bookends you could put in place to support your health and wellbeing and then implement them. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so take care of yourself. Lyndall Mitchell is an accredited coach, author and consultant, founder of award-winning Australianbased Aurora Spa group, and 2018 WSW Asia Convention speaker.

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E X P E R T A DV I C E

What are the latest fitness trends set to impact the spa industry? The continual emergence of wellness as a lifestyle is bridging the gap between traditional fitness and spa, and what we’re now seeing is a fusion of lifestyle-integrated services and solutions. As health continues to drive consumer behaviour, greater integration of services that include more than just working out and relaxing treatments will come to the fore. Guests are now seeking a complete integration of lifestyle-enhancing solutions, so there will be greater demand for fitness coaches and nutritionists, as well as stress and work-life balance coaching, all available under one roof. The acceptance of coaching as an effective tool to achieve any goal, whether it be health, life, energy, relationships or business-related, will continue to fuel this ongoing demand for quality coaches that specialise in different fields. The need to add greater value to spa customers will also see a shift in offering new educationbased seminars, potentially online and via various social media platforms. There will also be a big focus on collaboration in an effort to minimise travel to different service providers. Reducing the need to employ professionals themselves, smart operators will connect with experts in different fields to provide a range of integrated services and programmes. Technology will also see greater traction, with companies sharing data, statistics and education with their customers.

Daniel Remon is founder of Bangkok-based Fitcorp Global, a health and performance coaching company. He was also a speaker at the 2018 WSW Asia Convention.

How can I get millennials to come to my spa? Millennials like to compare information and prices across different websites before booking an experience or purchasing a retail item. Going online is one of their favourite things to do and as such they are very aware of the market trends, knowing exactly what they want. Gone are the days when a signature treatment was the ultimate spa experience. Millennials want way more than this – they want customisation. Customisation equals personalisation so spas need to be able to set up an experience based on the client’s individual needs because this will make millennials more likely to purchase and be loyal to their brand. Most people in this age group aren’t earning the highest salary but they desire travel and adventure, and make sure that they do everything they can to get the best deal for the most unique experience. Treatment availability at the click of a button or via instant messaging is also key for this market. When you offer a treatment that’s not available in any other spa and lives up to this “bespoke” expectation then millennials will post, tweet and hashtag their experience at your business on social media. Word of mouth, online reviews and instant satisfaction are very important, because this client group refuses to settle for an ordinary, average and less memorable experience. Utilising social media can be daunting and overwhelming, however, this is millennials’ go-to tool and you should be maximising your business exposure on it to make your customers life easy. Embrace this technology. Zoe Wall is group director of spa for MSpa International, overseeing Anantara and Avani spas in South East Asia, China and the Maldives. She was also a speaker at the 2018 WSW Asia Convention.

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E X P E R T A DV I C E

How can I improve engagement on my spa’s social media pages? A great way to engage with customers is to repost and share photos and blog posts from your followers. This shows clients that your spa is accessible and it creates a community of likeminded people, which is vital to be successful – even if that community exists in a virtual realm and never actually meets. You should also have a weekly newsletter that goes out to your loyal followers. These are the people who want to hear from you and, as such, you have to feed them with information about new launches, practices and products. Another way to boost engagement is to ask micro-influencers (paid and non-paid) to visit your spa and post about it. Get them to share live videos about the experience, highlighting what a particular treatment entails and its health benefits. It’s worth a shot as your customers will be able to identify better with a micro-influencer than a polished, high-budget advertising campaign, and people trust certain influencers because their reviews are real. The key is to vet these influencers and find spokespeople who have made names for themselves in the industry that are aligned with your business’s views and values. Once you start to work with significant influencers, they will become ambassadors for your spa and be able to draw in a new audience of clients for you.

Vivienne Tang is founder of wellness and luxury travel magazine Destination Deluxe, a 2018 WSW Asia Convention speaker and one of Hong Kong’s top 10 luxury lifestyle influencers.

Vegan beauty is growing in popularity. How should I market my spa to this audience? Interest in a plant-based lifestyle has never been greater, thanks to a vast community of people going vegan for health and ethical reasons, making veganism one of the fastest growing trends globally. Beauty isn’t just on the surface, it radiates from feeling great and being happy through spa treatments and the right nutrients which can make the skin glow from the inside-out. The demand for crueltyfree cosmetics is so strong now and as such companies and policy makers are listening. Wellness is the active process of becoming aware of and making choices toward a healthy and fulfilling life, so for resort and destination spas, this year is set to bring with it a new wave of vegan food, furniture, retail and, believe it or not, vegan travel. This is how you can start preparing your spa to welcome these clients. Invest in vegan skincare product lines. If you’re unsure of the brand’s vegan credentials, ask the provider to send you a copy of the product ingredients. You should also shop vegan beyond skincare: this can span natural brushes, cruelty-free retail products and vegan furniture, which you can use in several areas of the spa and then mention them in your marketing. You could even follow a 10-day vegan cleanse to help you gain inspiration for creating vegan treatment packages. Susanna Eduini is a vegan wellness activist, coach, trainer and author. She was also a speaker at the 2018 WSW Asia Convention in Thailand.

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E X P E R T A DV I C E

As a small, independent spa, how can I do my own PR without major expenditure? PR is a fundamental part of marketing and several inexpensive strategic actions can be taken to boost clientele and raise awareness of your services. Organise a customer event and make sure you spend time talking to each guest about their individual concerns, while showing them the treatment rooms and explaining the purpose of any machinery. Send event invites to your database and let them know about the freebies they’ll receive if they attend, such as a complimentary glass of champagne, hand massages, a goody bag containing beauty miniatures and a discount voucher to drive footfall back into the spa, valid only until a certain date. Why not invite local press and bloggers along too? They can experience treatments and in return write about them to help promote your spa. I would also advise offering local businesses a special corporate rate for bookings and focusing on companies with wellness-conscious workforces and disposable incomes, such as hair salons and law firms. A VIP stamp card that clients can keep will help build return custom, with customers earning a free treatment if they attend your spa a certain amount of times. Don’t forget the power of Instagram either to help you make direct contact with local movers and shakers. It’s also the perfect platform for hosting giveaways and competitions, all while growing your online following. To ensure you’re reaching the right people, invest in a small amount of advertising to boost your posts.

Rowan Hall-Farrise is international head trainer and facialist at professional skincare brand QMS Medicosmetics, which is known for its collagen treatments.

I’m considering retailing supplements in my spa as part of my anti-ageing offer. What are the benefits? After being introduced to yet another collagen supplement at the 2018 Professional Beauty North show in Manchester, UK, I began considering the growing trend of thinking about food as building blocks for great skin. The chances are your clients are already showing signs of ageing, maybe at an accelerated rate compared to their friends, and realise that there’s a limitation to what can be achieved with products. They might also be aware that their efforts are helping their face, neck and hands, but everything else is not as youthful looking. Supplements should definitely have shelf space in your salon or clinic, but unfortunately not all are created equal. You may have to investigate quite a bit before deciding which to invest in. For me, the light at the end of the ageing tunnel relates to the trickling of breakthroughs in the science of longevity into the beauty world, and the idea of bio-hacking to get the best results with minimum effort. I retail Prolon, a fasting-mimicking diet plan. Yes, clients will drop a dress size or two when on the plan, but the real benefit is its rejuvenation properties for the skin. The topic of intermittent fasting and keto-genic dieting is vast, and food choices and supplements are now becoming part of people’s beauty regimes, so it’s definitely worth exploring if you want to up your approach to ageing. Karen Shirlaw is director of Beautique Medispa in Dorking, UK, winner of South East Boutique Salon of the Year at the Professional Beauty Regional Awards 2018.

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EXPERT VIE W Emma McGrady

Listen up What clients think of your customer service could make or break your business. Emma McGrady, director of hotel-based Crown Spas in Australia, explains how to measure customer feedback and implement change successfully

roviding personalised and authentic customer service alongside an indulgent experience is what any hotel spa wants to be known for. However, a good experience is not only determined by the variety and quality of the facilities on offer, but also by the level of customer service provided. At Crownâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two hotel spas in Melbourne and Perth, Australia, we take guest feedback seriously and use it as a daily tool for monitoring service consistency. Guests are encouraged to provide truthful reviews about their spa experience via feedback forms, social media and websites such as TripAdvisor. >

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EXPERT VIE W Emma McGrady

“Remarkable facilities are nothing without first-class customer service because this pairing ensures your client’s stay is nothing short of extraordinary”

Each piece of feedback, both positive and negative, is investigated and responded to by the spa’s management team and then shared with staff. Positive feedback is celebrated to help motivate our therapists and boost morale, while negative comments are used as a training tool so we can adapt our service approach accordingly. In the past, we received several complaints about guests using their mobiles while in the spa’s relaxation lounges. In response to this, we trained front-of-house staff and therapists to promote our lounges as quiet areas and since then we’ve been able to reduce smartphone use, dealing with the complaint successfully.

Learning curve In order to exceed customer expectations, we use a fully integrated system that allows us to listen to the guest, analyse feedback and translate these insights into action. We use a tailored product which enhances how we operationalise customer experience management, enabling us to view key challenges and pre-empt upcoming trends that are of high importance to our guests. By using key search words in our system, we noticed an increase in complaints from our in-house guests who, upon check-in, were advised that the spa was fully booked. Now, we send automated emails in the run up to a customer’s stay to encourage them to make spa appointments prior to arrival, which has helped to reduce this issue.

Staff also have the opportunity to provide feedback, which is regularly elevated to management, to help us streamline work processes and increase employee and guest satisfaction. For example, our consultation forms, which were previously paper-based, are now digital, enabling therapists to review guests’ history during consultation, making it an even more personalised experience. Details are automatically updated in the system, reducing our administration and associated printing costs. It is easy when running a spa operation to be overwhelmed by feedback and become reactive as opposed to proactive, but it’s important to learn from the comments you receive and implement effective changes that will benefit the business, staff and your guests. Just remember that all feedback is important to ensure you continue to maintain an extraordinary service. However, when you receive multiple feedback pieces about different issues, try to focus on any treatment concerns first to ensure that your high level of customer service in the spa is restored.

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EXPERT VIE W Emma McGrady

Staff development and personalised service are key to maintaining customer satisfaction and elevating the overall guest experience, which is why I provide operating procedures to employees at orientation, as well as outlining the spa’s service expectations and brand standards to ensure they customise and perfect their delivery.

People power All therapists undergo extensive on-site training to maintain the impeccable service standards required, focusing on our key business pillars – nourishment and nutrition, and emotional, physical and mental wellbeing. This education also provides therapists with the opportunity to enhance their skill levels through accredited training programmes, with many gaining a tangible qualification upon completion. This improves our therapists’ skills and morale, which shows in their customer service delivery and in our guests’ feedback. Ongoing product training with our partners La Prairie and Subtle Energies is

vital, with every new employee undergoing a three-day training session with a brand representative and half-day training with the introduction of any new treatment. In recent months, we’ve also introduced complimentary wellness classes for staff, whereby we run either yoga or Pilates sessions followed by guided meditation. I’ve found that nurturing and caring for my staff has been reflected in the guest experience and made us a leading hotel spa. Remarkable facilities are nothing without first-class customer service because this pairing ensures your client’s stay is nothing short of extraordinary.

Previous page: Crown Spa Melbourne’s Indulgence Suite; this page above from left to right: Crown Spa Perth Suite, the Melbourne Male Aqua Retreat, another view of the Spa Indulgence Suite, Perth steam room

Emma McGrady is director of Crown Spas in Melbourne and Perth, Australia, and responsible for the strategic direction for the spas. She is also involved in the design and planning of the new Crown Spa Sydney, opening in 2021. These hotel spas sit under the Crown Hotels company umbrella.

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Access

ALL ASIA World Spa & Wellness is back in Asia this May, promising proven business ideas and unrivalled networking

ollowing the hugely successful launch event in 2018, World Spa & Wellness Asia is back this year, with a packed convention line up of trendled business topics and even more opportunities to network with industry leaders from Asia and beyond. Taking place on May 6â&#x20AC;&#x201C;7, 2019, at Le MĂŠridien, Phuket, Thailand, the two-day event is geared around networking, with lunches, dinners, a meeting lounge and a glamorous beach party all designed to create meaningful conversations in an informal setting.

Key themes The event will also host an executive-level business conference with the theme Embracing wellness to improve your business performance. The keynote session will focus on the hugely important topic of disabilities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both visible and invisible, exploring how spas can better embrace customers with varying needs.

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Business focus

Some of the other hot topics set to be discussed include: Untapped niches: From natural facial fillers to sleeping pods, a snapshot of what’s new and whether it will suit your spa. Wellbeing from across the world: To what extent can treatments from Europe, Scandinavia, the Americas and Australasia be used effectively in the Asian environment? Active wellness: Incorporating fitness into your spa and hotel to boost occupancy and revenue. The power of celebrity: Creating authentic partnerships with celebrities and influencers to promote your spa.

4 reasons you can’t afford to miss World Spa & Wellness Asia 2019 • Get up close to the key executives driving the spa industry in Asia and across the globe • Make lasting contacts at the numerous dedicated networking events • Learn solutions from the experts who run successful major spa and hotel operations • Excellent value: Your US $475 pass includes the full two days of conferences, lunches, refreshments, evening meals and drinks.

The event will also deliver practical, triedand-tested solutions that you can take and implement in your own business. Find out: • The secret to finding and retaining quality staff in a tough recruitment environment • How to attract millennials and generation Z • Let’s not forget the grey $ – learn how to win repeat business from this affluent generation • How to boost retail income with a little more management focus and team attention but minimal investment. Several major brands have signed up to support the event and will be on-hand to meet with delegates via a mini expo alongside the convention. Stands include Matrix, Voya, Biologique Recherche, Gharieni, Oakworks, Zimmer MedizinSysteme, Indiba, Hommage, and more.

World Spa & Wellness Asia takes place on May 6–7, 2019, at Le Meridien Phuket Beach Resort, Thailand. Delegate passes cost US $475, including the full conference and all meals and networking events. To book, visit: worldspawellness.com/asia

Sponsored by:

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Rigo Spa works seamlessly with architects, designers and homeowners to bring dreams to life. Whether for residences, clubs or luxury hotels, 5-star indulgence comes as standard. Ours is a service that meets the needs of the head and the heart. We are master craftsmen, manufacturing in our own facilities to unrivalled standards. Contact us to discuss how we can help turn your vision into reality.

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Rigo Spa delivers wellness projects for the hospitality, leisure and high-end residential sectors, providing a full turnkey service that includes offsite prefabrication at the company’s 18,000sq ft factory, along with site installation, commissioning and handover. Since 2008 we have used our experience and capabilities to provide an array of products, from concrete swimming pools and fibreglass spas to saunas, steam rooms and associated products. Rigo Spa has been involved with a vast collection of prestigious projects including Sopwell House in Hertfordshire, Wynyard Hall in Stockton-on-Tees, Dolphin Square in Kensington and Mallory Court Country House and Spa in Warwickshire, amongst others. At present, Rigo Spa is working on a project at No. 1 Palace Street – an exceptional private residence situated next to Buckingham Palace. Recently, Rigo Spa was a vital member of the team on Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa. Our company was responsible for the delivery of The Falls Spa, which included all interior thermal spa areas, along with the external facilities – the outdoor sauna, thermal rinse shower and vitality pool – creating the ‘wow’ factor throughout. Commenting on the project, Rigo Spa Director, Richard Gowland, said: “For Lodore Falls we were effectively given a blank canvas to design and deliver this project. Initially the client requested layout designs from a number of contractors’ but we won the project from our competitors because of our unique design and excellent overall concept for the space. It’s a rare opportunity when a client is prepared have full faith in your design capabilities from the outset and throughout the project we continued to push the design boundaries even further to create something truly special.”

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W E L L N E SS D E ST I N AT I O N Greece

Gift from Euphoria Retreat, Mystras

THE GODS

Following a spate of new retreat and hotel openings, wellness tourism is set to be a key factor in Greece’s economic recovery, writes Fiona Vlemmiks

espite being crippled by years of economic crisis, Greece’s tourism figures have steadily grown over the past four years and are expected to achieve the highest growth rate in a decade in 2019. These encouraging statistics, coupled with the country’s natural attributes and the global appeal of the wellness market, have caused the Government to prioritise promoting the development of Greece’s health and wellness tourism alongside other areas of tourist potential. Speaking during a press conference at the World Travel Market in November last year, Greek tourism minister Elena Kountoura said that 2018 was the best year for Greece’s tourism in almost a decade and that the market was expected to grow by a further 2.5% in 2019. “This was a performance beyond everyone’s expectations,” said Kountoura. Key to the success, she

continued, was extending the tourism season in Greece, establishing it as a “365 days a year destination”. To enable this, Kountoura said the development of “thematic tourism forms” such as health and wellness would be a strategic priority in 2019 and it’s not difficult to see why. In addition to its outstanding natural beauty, a clement climate and good travel infrastructure, Greece is the birthplace of medicine and, as such, has a long history of healing. It boasts 850 thermal and mineral springs in different locations across the country. Global wellness players have spotted this potential and made sizeable investment into the country. Greece’s first wellbeing big hitter Euphoria Retreat opened in 2018 in the Peloponnese peninsula, and entering into the Greek market for the first time this year is Four Seasons, with Astir Palace in Athens, and Banyan Tree with Angsana in Corfu, both due to open in Q1 of 2019.

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W E L L N E SS D E ST I N AT I O N Greece

ANGSANA CORFU Tipped to open this summer is Angsana Corfu, marking the appearance of the Banyan Tree Group in the Greek market. Spa treatments combine Angsana’s ancient Asian wisdom with modern Western techniques and the extensive menu offers more than 50 treatments. Facilities comprise 16 treatment rooms, a gym area, 25-metre indoor pool and an outdoor yoga deck facing the Ionian Sea. Guests can also try signature Angsana innovations such as the revitalising Rainmist Experience, which combines a rain shower and steam bath with body treatments, or unwind with a signature massage, which works on key pressure points to strengthen inner qi. Wellness activities for the family include a mindfulness trail.

Euphoria Retreat, Mystras

FOUR SEASON ASTIR PALACE, ATHENS

EUPHORIA RETREAT, MYSTRAS Having opened last year, Euphoria Retreat fuses ancient Taoist and Hellenic philosophies with Chinese and Hippocratic medicine. The five elements are the cornerstones of the retreat’s healing philosophy, with wellbeing programmes revolving around earth, fire, metal, water and wood. The concept of happiness and healing through joy is also an integral part of its philosophy, hence the name Euphoria, which in its original Greek form translates as “a state of happiness and bliss”. Guests receive bespoke guidance from a team of multidisciplinary experts spanning mentors, energy therapists and doctors. There’s a wide choice of massage therapies, signature bodywork experiences, holistic healing, wellness coaching, nutrition and meditation classes, and fitness activities including, yoga, qigong and Pilates.

Set to open on March 29 (when WSW went to press), this wellness complex is Four Seasons’ first foray into Greece. Located just minutes from Athens city centre in a pine-clad peninsula jutting into the Aegean Sea, there’s a strong emphasis on hydrotherapy – inspired not only by the location, but by Ancient Greek bathing rituals and Hippocratic healing. Extensive spa facilities include the hydrotherapy zone in the Fountain House, which includes a lap and indoor pool, aroma steam grotto, hammam, vitality pool, chill showers, relaxation lounge, eight treatment rooms, two suites and a spa bar. Guests can also workout in the two Fitness Centres and Wellness Studio. In addition to the ample range of bath experiences, unique massages and several relaxation journeys star on the menu.

RIVIERA OLYMPIA & AQUA PARK, KYLLINI Inspired by the rotunda at the nearby Ancient Olympia, the Elixir Thalassotherapy Centre at the Riviera Olympia and Aqua Park in Kyllini is designed to emulate the look and feel of a complex of Greek temples. The luxury retreat combines the age-old wisdom of the Greeks, who valued the healing properties of the sea, with modern wellness programmes to relax the body and rejuvenate the spirit. Guests can enjoy hydrotherapy in the thalasso pool, lap pool, open-air whirlpools, saunas and steam rooms. There is also a relaxation area, gym, juice bar and treatment rooms, with rituals ranging from full-body mud wraps and facials to caviar therapies.

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JOIN THE INDUSTRYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S BEST MINDS

Convention programme coming soon. Find out more and register your interest at www.worldspawellness.com/asia THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

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H O L I ST I C TH E R A P I E S

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H O L I ST I C TH E R A P I E S

mystic Into the

Spirituality might be trending in spas, but what can alternative healing treatments offer guests, and how do you make sure you provide them authentically? Georgia Seago finds out

nce upon a time, tools like healing crystals, tarot cards, sound bowls and energy-cleansing herbs were hidden in the shadows of mainstream society. But with the wellness movement encouraging us to find new ways of living better, spirituality is cropping up in unexpected places. "People used to keep their spiritual beliefs under the radar but now it’s the ‘in’ thing,” says Kim Alexis, a psychic spiritual medium, clinical hypnotherapist, crystal healer and past life regressionist, who is based in London, UK. As someone who has made a living and built a reputation from over 20 years of working in the spiritual realm, Alexis has mixed thoughts about the sudden popularity of all things mystical. “On one level it’s great because it shows openness and that people are waking up to alternative ways of living; but there are a lot of people now calling themselves psychics or healers after just doing a weekend course,” she says, adding that the most negative consequence is the exploitation of vulnerable people, both emotionally and financially. Spiritual healing is by no means a trend for The Mulia in Nusa Dua, Bali, Indonesia. Alternative therapies have had a presence there since the inception of the spa in 2012, where the Crystal Healing Ritual begins with a session in the chromotherapy steam room to balance the chakras, while Tibetan singing bowls provide a prelude to a Balinese massage that incorporates quartz crystals to aid healing and restoration. “Spiritual healing is a large part of the local culture in Bali; the Balinese believe in the harmony of spiritual connection – between humans, humans and nature, and humans and God,” explains Christina Rieken, director of spa. “Traditional cleansing ceremonies are often held at the main temples around the island, and although we don't offer spiritual healing in the same way, we do take the inspiration from this concept and apply it to our treatments that are dedicated to providing mental clarity,” she says. >

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The Mulia goes one step further by encouraging guests to discover what spirituality means to the island of Bali, outside of the spa. The resort offers a Baliscovery Wellness Experience, which is conducted offsite with a Balinese healer, known locally as a Balian. “The Balian will converse with you, often with a translator, to discuss problems and worries. They will then conduct a high-pressure massage to remove blockages to the sound of Indonesian music and may also apply herbs, spices or oils and burn incense – it all depends on the energy felt,” says Rieken.

Change of pace Although the spa has offered energy healing for seven years, Rieken says that until recently, uptake of these treatments was mainly the preference of high-flying professionals on holiday. “But with the current change of perspective on holistic health, a diverse set of guests are now requesting them. People now realise the importance of looking after themselves and that you do not need to be in the corporate field to identify stress and address it. We find that people are more experimental and interested in trying new treatments that might work for them,” she says. Like The Mulia, Saxon Spa in Johannesburg, South Africa, has seen an uptick in visitors taking part in energy-based healing therapies, having added a crystal healing element to its sound therapy experience when the spa was refurbished in 2016. These healing therapies are a strong selling point when it comes to marketing the resort, says spa manager Tanya Lopes: “We are one of the very few places you can experience these treatments locally, so we do tend to highlight that in communications, especially as it has become a trend internationally.” As holistic or energy-based treatments have started to find their way onto treatment menus in hotel spas and high-street salons, it is important that operators can distinguish between a beauty treatment with a twist and

in-depth spiritual work, using the correct terms and making sure practitioners are suitably qualified, whatever the treatment. “Anyone can give a nice facial using a crystal roller but that isn’t crystal healing,” explains Alexis. “As a qualified crystal healer you can pick up on a person’s energy and you’ll feel where someone has certain blockages, whether emotional or physical. I’ll be able to go in and take on that energy and release it. There’s a big difference between a beauty treatment and healing; you have to be a trained healer to know what you’re doing, just like you have to be trained to be a proper beauty therapist,” she says.

Above: Yoga by the Oasis Pool at The Mulia Below, left to right: a treatment room in the spa; a Balinese ceremony

Open minds With first-hand experience of the crossover of these two schools of therapy, energy >

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H O L I ST I C TH E R A P I E S

Clockwise from above: A treatment room at Saxon Spa; the spa's sound healing tools; a heated water treatment couch and gong at Saxon Spa; a Zephorium Natural Perfume aromatherapy rollerball

therapist Sarah Cox has seen big changes in her business of late. “Over the past seven years, I've seen a dramatic change in people’s attitudes towards healing, crystals and natural health – suddenly every magazine is talking about it, but when we started seven years ago not many people even knew what a chakra was,” she says. Cox is founder of Zephorium Soul Tonic, a UK-based natural aromatherapy skincare brand created in line with the chakra system. “Science and spirituality are moving towards each other and people are becoming interested in the power of thoughts and feelings to change not only physical states, but also the world around them,” she says. “A lot of people feel helpless, in part due to all the negativity in world we hear about constantly, but are waking up to the idea that actually we have a choice; you can focus on what you want to create, or the negativity, and you will get what you focus on.” Cox believes the upsurge of interest in spiritual and energy healing practices is about “taking back control of our lives and making positive, life-affirming choices.”

Zephorium products are colour coded according to the seven chakras, with each assigned a healing crystal, affirmation and aromatherapy blend relating to its properties. The solar plexus chakra, for example, is represented by citrine, a blend of grapefruit, lemon and lime, and the affirmation “I am abundant in everything I ask for. I receive with gratitude”. Related products are in yellow-coloured glass containers. Every product in the range – which includes candles, aura sprays and body and massage oils – is hand-blended, infused with crystals and uses the principles of homeopathy; evidence that spiritual sentiments run deep for authentic players in this part of the wellness space. “We make sure each person we employ also has a deep understanding of healing and humanity,” says Cox.

New interest Zephorium started out selling to holistic practitioners such as yoga teachers, massage therapists and reiki healers, but has seen “huge changes” in its clientele of late, says Cox: “Our new stockists are much more beauty salons and spas. I think this wonderful new generation of beauty therapists has grown up with parents who have started dabbling in healing, chakras and yoga, and so their interest in more natural products and healing is a response to that.” New stockists are invited on a training day with Cox to learn how to use the products intuitively. “The day ends with some intuition work to help people open and relax into their own guidance and gain confidence about what feels right to use for each client,”

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she explains. “We have eight different chakra blends and seven product lines, all with different potencies and affirmations.” The brand will launch a range of facials, massages and spa treatments this year to complement the products. Cox interviews each potential stockist “to make sure they are capable of using the products and are sensitive to their contents".

Shared beliefs The Mulia shares a similar philosophy when it comes to the importance of genuine faith in alternative therapies. “Our therapists truly believe in holistic wellness and practise it daily. It takes a true believer to deliver outstanding treatments,” says Rieken. “Hence, they are able to identify the needs of guests and are very sensitive in delivering the therapies. Otherwise there would be no healing, just a meaningless, mechanical delivery of treatment steps.” Spa staff at The Mulia receive regular holistic training, with past teachers including a master of traditional medicine and a practitioner with a PhD in metaphysics. When it comes to bringing in practitioners to carry out energy work on spa guests, Alexis advises that extensive research and consultation with the right professionals should be undertaken seriously. “You need to see qualifications, evidence of where they’ve studied and their insurance to know that they’re authentic,” she says.

“Credentials need to back it up just like with any other job. There are schools that teach healing and award varying levels of diploma and qualifications, as well as independent practitioners who are recognised as teachers.” Spa therapists who undergo training to work with tools such as healing crystals or cleansing herbs in a lesser capacity should also be taught to tune in with and manage their own energy,” says Lopes. Saxon Spa places an emphasis on the wellbeing of the therapists carrying out the treatments to ensure guests get the most out of them. “Firstly, the therapist has to ensure that they are in the right space with regards to their own energy in order to work with the right intentions,” Lopes says. “Clients’ energy will be unique at each session and they will experience each treatment differently, so it is important the therapist works from an open and grounded space.” With the global movement towards more natural, authentic and sustainable ways of living evolving all the time, Alexis believes that spiritual healing practices could be here to stay in mainstream consciousness. “Rather than turning to doctors and pills, people are increasingly interested in natural ways of living, so its inevitable that they will follow on to the next level of seeking spiritual or energy work to heal themselves, and I think it’s only going to spread further,” she says.

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P R O M OT I O N A L F E AT U R E Exuviance

Exuviance – where beauty rituals meet clinical results Today’s consumers are increasingly well-informed about skincare, expecting great results from treatments. Find out why Exuviance is the future of spa skincare

lients expect great results from their home care routines and in-clinic treatments, but what about spa experiences? Spas have a huge opportunity to blend beautifying rituals with tangible, clinical results. This is where Exuviance comes in – a dermatologist-developed, anti-ageing skincare range, clinically proven to visibly transform all skin types. This award-winning brand delivers the perfect choice for a spa: the luxe formulations rejuvenate the skin, while the patented clinical ingredients deliver tangible benefits. The range includes cleansers, active treatments, scrubs, masks, peels and body products, which can be incorporated within multiple spa treatment offerings, while allowing customers to continue the experience from home, with a bespoke skincare regime. This enables customers to maintain and enhance results inbetween treatments, bringing home that decadent spa experience every day.

What makes Exuviance different? Exuviance is built on clinically proven, patented technology, developed by dermatologists Dr Eugene Van Scott and Dr Ruey Yu. They made the discovery that alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) can stimulate prematurely aged or damaged skin to rejuvenate itself. Exuviance was created using even gentler, more effective formulations of poly-hydroxy acids and bionic acids, alongside naturally occurring ingredients, that deliver anti-ageing benefits without irritation and redness. It’s this combination, alongside the luxurious sensorial textures and natural botanical fragrances, that make Exuviance so attractive for a spa offering. Another building block of the Exuviance success story is NeoGlucosamine – a patented molecule to plump and firm skin, creating a smoother and more lifted look. This non-acid amino

sugar technology also gently exfoliates to promote cell turnover, diminishing the appearance of dark spots from age or acne, reducing pore size and improving overall clarity and radiance.

Exuviance’s five hero products: 1. Exuviance SkinRise Bionic Tonic Pads – these smooth, firm, lift and protect the dermis. 2. Triple Microdermabrasion Face Polish – this scrub contains professional-grade crystals to smooth skin. 3. Exuviance AF Vitamin C20 Serum Capsules – these capsules stimulate collagen production and brighten skin. 4. Exuviance Bionic Oxygen Facial – this mask infuses skin with oxygen to detoxify a stressed dermis. 5. Purifying Clay Mask – this treatment has a cleansing and balancing clay formula that draws out impurities.

exuviance.co.uk

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The Scarlet

S U STA I N A B I L I T Y

Turning the tide Although water is an integral part of spa operations, cutting down your consumption is a lot easier than you think. Fiona Vlemmiks explores how to effectively reduce water waste in your business

n the past year there has been a significant shift in public interest in sustainability from the periphery to the mainstream. This growing desire for ethical living was outlined in think tank JWT Intelligence’s Innovation Group 2019 trend report Future 100, which predicted a “waterless future” for spa and beauty products. “L’Oréal has committed to reducing 60% of its water consumption per finished product by 2020, compared to the amount used in 2005, and Unilever has launched a water-smart initiative which aims to develop products across its brands that reduce its water footprint,” >

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Previous page: Couple enjoying The Scarlet spa; this page above from top to bottom: The Scarlet’s indoor pool and waterbased treatment, The Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge’s outdoor pool and lounge areas

said report author Lucie Greene, director of JWT’s Innovation Group. “Driven by sustainability concerns, beauty brands are looking to reduce, and even eliminate, water from their products and production processes in 2019,” she adds. Skincare aside, water is the lifeblood of many spas – the word “spa” is derived from the Latin phrase “salus per aqua”, meaning “health through water”. However, figures about current water waste can’t be ignored. According to the Sustainable Spa Association (SSA), an

impartial body which is set to launch imminently with an objective of guiding spas through adopting greener business practices, spa clients in the UK use on average 133 litres of water per visit, and with water-based treatments growing in popularity, this figure is likely to increase significantly. SSA director Lucy Brialey states there are five main water wasting offences that spas frequently commit – failing to have a water usage policy for staff and guests; not measuring water usage or simply being unaware of it; having free-flowing taps and showers; poor maintenance of leaks and spa equipment; and overfilling whirlpools and swimming pools. Yet, Brialey emphasises that spas can turn the tide via small and simple changes. “The most important part of change is to start somewhere. No matter how small these steps are, you’ll find that they gradually gain momentum and become part of your vision for greater change,” she says.

Go with the flow With any water conservation project a good place to start is with showers and toilets. “Think about installing sensorcontrolled taps and shower heads because studies indicate that these fixtures can reduce water consumption by as much as

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S U STA I N A B I L I T Y

30%, as water is turned on only when needed and shuts off as soon as the user walks away,” advises Brialey. “Considering that the standard faucet uses about 2.2 gallons of water per minute, cutting even seconds of running time use can result in significant savings.” Installing the latest low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators is another step in the right direction, and many are employed at The Scarlet, a luxury eco hotel and spa in Cornwall, UK. Tania Clarke, the hotel’s sustainability specialist, explains the benefits: “In our bathrooms we have aerators on the taps and shower heads to reduce waterflow, and tap sensors and small capacity cisterns on toilets to conserve the amount of water used when flushed.” Another simple change you can make in wash rooms is switching to dual-flush toilets, but make sure your staff and guests understand how to use them for water conservation. “These systems release a relatively small amount of water to flush away liquid waste and can conserve hundreds of gallons per day,” explains Brialey.

Fade to grey Grey water is the term used for relatively clean wastewater from baths and showers which hasn’t come into contact with human waste. It is easier to treat and recycle because there’s no faecal matter and Brialey proposes reusing it in spas where possible. “Grey water from sinks may look dirty but in many cases it’s a safe and even beneficial source of plant irrigation, laundry and toilet flushing. Water can be naturally filtered via beds of gravel filled with plants that cleanse it of contaminants,” she says. The Scarlet employs grey water recycling to flush toilets, which did initially raise some questions from guests. “Sometimes guests tell us that the water flushing the toilets is a funny colour but we explain our eco initiative – that we’re recycling grey water from showers and baths and even though it looks grey it is clean,” explains Clarke. Experts also advocate employing a rainwater-harvesting system to store rain and utilise it for toilets, laundry and cleaning. At The Scarlet, rainwater is used extensively “to top up the natural pool, irrigate the sea thrift roofing, wash cars, and provide rinsing facilities for salty wetsuits and muddy outdoor kits,” says Clarke.

Caroline Cornish, spa manager at The Scarlet, explains: “Our grounds are drought resistant and have been sympathetically planted with species that are native to the north Cornwall coastline, which need little watering. The spa is also scented with incense and essential oils, rather than pool chemicals, which allows us to have the joys of water without the chlorine smell.” >

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S U STA I N A B I L I T Y

Moving with the times Older plumbing systems are often less environmentally friendly and Cornish outlines how installing the latest tech doesn’t necessarily mean you have to splash the cash. “Research the technology available when something needs replacing – sensor taps, aerators and filtration systems, as all make a big impact on water use without a negative impact on guests. Green technology used to cost a lot more than the standard alternative, but now it’s much more competitive.” For spas that have the budget, sustainability should be a key part of future refurbishment plans. The Belmond Savute Elephant Lodge, situated in a water-scarce area of Botswana, has recently undergone a massive transformation to ensure it’s using the latest green techniques to operate efficiently. “The lodge operates off the grid, which means that all power generation, domestic and potable water, as well as sewerage treatment, is generated on site. A new 212kWp Tesla photovoltaic (PV) solar system now ensures that there is one single uninterrupted supply of power,” explains lodge manager Reinard Gerber. “Thermodynamic geysers, using a combination of ambient temperature and electrically efficient heat pumps, have been installed in guest accommodation. The staff and back-of-house areas are fed by a central hot water system, heated by a solar thermal heat pump. He adds: “Water is pumped from two boreholes to a central raw water sewerage area, where it passes through a water filtration plant and then through a reverse osmosis plant, before being distributed to public areas. A further level of treatment for drinking water takes place where the reverse osmosis water passes through a secondary reverse osmosis plant with

remineralisation, which can produce 2,000 litres of water per day.” These water-dispensing machines have been placed in public areas and guests are now offered reusable water bottles and encouraged to refill from these coolers. “This practice not only reduces the transportation of bottled water to the lodge but also the amount of waste in the form of empty bottles that need to be removed from site,” explains Gerber. “The waste water off-shoot from the reverse osmosis plants has been diverted to the watering hole in front of the main area of the lodge. This feature has been highlighted with a new elephant hide, which is tucked under the swimming pool deck. The new pool has replaced the old cement-based one and has a low-energy heat pump that keeps the temperature at a constant 26°C.”

Communicate your message “The objective of any programme is not only to save water but to firmly instil a culture of conservation to ensure long-term, continuing improvements,” says Brialey. “Once your programme is in place, reducing water consumption will become a respected way of life in your spa for both staff and guests.” Therefore, it’s important to communicate your efforts to guests in an appropriate manner, with in-spa messages or polite notices asking for careful consideration on water consumption. Brialey continues: “Being a responsible spa is becoming increasingly important to savvy consumers whose thoughts have turned not only to their own health and wellbeing, but to the impact on the environment around them.”

“Being a responsible spa is becoming increasingly important to savvy consumers whose thoughts have turned to the environment”

©The Scarlet

Installing automated metre reading (AMR) or data-logging systems will also ensure continuous monitoring of water usage across your property, allowing you to quickly spot issues and adjust water saving solutions as requirements change. “Tracking how water is used in your operation and the levels of waste produced can help you identify areas for significant water reductions, as well as aiding towards cost savings,” says Brialey.

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Courtesy of Faena Hotel, Miami Beach. Photographer Nik Koenig, USA

DEFINING SPA. SINCE 1928.

Chalet Anna Maria, Photographer Alex Kaiser, Austria

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As a global manufacturer of premium saunas and spa solutions, we know what it takes to become a talking point: outstanding comfort and uncompromising quality. To bring each customerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique vision to life we select only the finest materials and craft them with passion and painstaking care. Let us inspire you and help you offer your guests a one-of-a-kind spa experience. Find out more at www.klafs.com

Eden Roc, Switzerland

KOKON Corporate Campus, Liechtenstein

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REM World Spa Wellness Ad_Palermo

#theOriginal

sales@rem.co.uk +44 1282 619977

The Palermo, conceived and designed in the UK by REM See the collection at rem.co.uk

EXPERT VIE W Collette Glaeser

Spa

with a twist

Spa packages are not what they used to be. Collette Glaeser, owner of Karkloof Safari Villas & Spa, explains how to put your own spin on the evolved concept

uests are now looking for so much more from their spa experience when on holiday than just a treatment here and there. For the few hours they can relax and unwind, they want to truly experience tranquillity and become enveloped in their surroundings. The strongest spas understand that it needs to be an experiential journey to rest and restoration. At Karkloof Safari Villas & Spa in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, we make the most of our environment so guests can not only indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments but enjoy the wonders of nature at the same time. With our safari and spa packages, guests can start off with a massage, relax in the hydrotherapy area and enjoy a lunch out on the deck, as well as venture off the beaten track on >

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EXPERT VIE W Collette Glaeser

safari. Traditional spa packages used to include a glass of champagne in between treatments, but now at a property like ours, they can experience something much more unique and special.

“Each of our six packages are different in their offering, speaking to a dvierse mix of clients”

Something different Being in the bush and venturing into nature on safari is such a relaxing and calming experience that adding a spa experience to the mix was a natural fit. People are looking to escape the stresses of busy work schedules when they go away, and a spa day in the city doesn’t always lend itself to tranquillity. For us, a spa in nature offers a truly relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern-day living, and it’s a model other properties can use too when putting together spa packages with a twist – how can you create a truly restorative experience within your setting?

Coupling spa together with adventurestyle activities gives our guests the best of both worlds, but for destinations like ours in the current wellness tourism market, it’s crucial that the spa element isn’t an afterthought. Our spa is an important part of who we are, and one of the main reasons we have become the destination we are today. The facilities are extensive and beautiful and not something often found outside of big cities. Being centred in natural beauty, wellness forms a core part of our ethos. We made sure every touch point caters to wellness and reminds guests of the power of nature, from the villas’ menu to the spa treatments. Every part of the journey with us lends itself to mindful practices. Built to embrace the natural environment, our spa’s 17 generous treatment rooms all have vistas over the native bush.

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EXPERT VIE W Collette Glaeser

Our core business is safari and that needs to be kept in mind when marketing the spa. Our strategy focuses on appealing to a niche group of guests who seek out this type of experience. This way, we often find that guests who come and stay at the villas love to visit the spa too, and those who come to the spa also want to venture through the magnificent reserve we call home.

Striking a balance We are fortunate in that locals enjoy venturing through the Kwa-Zulu Natal countryside and visiting us for a spa day. Just because you’re a destination resort, if there are locals nearby, day spa packages shouldn’t be forgotten. You don’t want to miss out by not catering to this type of guest. Even when altering the traditional spa package concept, you still need to carefully think about the different client groups you

accommodate and what they want from their experience, offering flexibility to tailor the package wherever possible. We normally have two game drives a day – one in the morning and another in the afternoon – and so plan our guests’ safari and spa package itineraries based on this, but otherwise we are quite flexible with timings. Owing to the game drive element, most of our spa packages are designed for two or more people to remain cost-effective for our business. Each of our six packages are different in their offering, speaking to a diverse mix of clients and allowing them to make their own decisions. Some may prefer to sit back and relax at the hydro area between treatments, while others love to venture off on a morning safari and spend the rest of the afternoon in the spa. Consider options that can meet everyone’s needs.

All images – photography: Chris Allan

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BRAND VIEW KL A F S

Different league Looking to revamp your spa’s thermal area? Klafs’ Detlef Jaeth and Thorsten Bichler tell Amanda Pauley the design trends that will set your journey apart and the fads to avoid

“It’s mainly wrong planning that can turn a spa vision into an economic disaster”

etting the thermal area of your spa just right can be a real challenge, whether you’re a small resort, hotel-based operation or huge wellness destination. These facilities can make or break a client’s experience at your property. Operators are now putting more time, thought and energy into designing a thermal journey that wows. German sauna and spa solutions manufacturer Klafs has been in the industry for 91 years, helping more than 10,000 businesses across the globe deliver a luxurious experience through heat, ice, steam and salt. The company’s projects include creating a functional and understated steam bath in Chalet Anna Maria in Lech, Austria; a luxurious ancient Arab spa area in hotel Mondrian Doha, Qatar; and a classic wellness sauna at the Faena Hotel in Miami Beach, Florida, US. We quizzed Klafs’ managing director of spa division, Detlef Jaeth, and managing director of international sales, Thorsten Bichler, on the thermal trends shaking up the industry and the common design challenges spa operators face.

What common mistakes do operators make when designing a thermal journey? Thorsten Bichler: It’s mainly wrong planning that can turn a spa vision into an economic disaster. There are numerous preconditions that need to be taken into account, and in advance. For example, are there cultural

peculiarities? What’s the climate like? What does spa mean in that specific environment? Does it suit the market position of the business – for example, whether it’s a hotelbased spa or a destination resort? It turns out that copying a successful spa concept and transferring it somewhere else is more than risky in this regard. Detlef Jaeth: The technical infrastructure and daily operation and processes are simply a matter of profound planning, expertise and experience. The same applies to the urge of following design trends. It requires a wider look at everything to find the exact trade off between timelessness and a contemporary atmosphere – unless you can afford to rebuild everything from scratch every five years.

What product innovations are you launching this year? Jaeth: This year’s innovations can be assigned to the main idea of multifunctionality and multi-sensory perception. Definite highlights in this regard are the Klafs Ice Lounge – a sophisticated new refreshment concept; Klafs Atmosphere – high-resolution video screens that convey high-quality nature motion pictures in sauna cabins; and our patented dry salt inhalation module Microsalt. We’ve also worked a lot on our new Event Sauna, which serves as a complementary offer for all spa concepts that focus on particular “wow effects”, rather than on the conventional and minimalistic detox spa area. Bichler: Some outstanding places we are working with include the Great Northern in

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BRAND VIE W KL A F S

Left to right: Klafs Ice Lounge, The Faena Hotel in Miami, space-saving Sauna S1, spa area in Doha’s Mondrian Hotel, Atmosphere by Klafs, the Sauna Aurora

Denmark, the Hyatt Regency Aqaba Ayla Resort in Jordan, and the Reebok Sports Club in Armenia. What we provide for these businesses is turnkey solutions to ensure that each and every individual place turns into a popular and prosperous spa area, taking into account the different premises in terms of climate, culture, target groups and sustainability.

What are the big trends in thermal area layouts? Jaeth: There’s not a blueprint for the perfect facility composition. Variety is the word because wellness has now become even more of a lifestyle – developing into a diverse arena which is experience-driven. That’s why consistency is more important than ever. Whether your business is a day spa, wellness weekend stay or business hotel spa, visitors are more informed on what the market has to offer and are keen to find their preferred treatment, or the facilities for the sauna bathing they individually need. Moreover, they appreciate authenticity and sustainability, which are two aspects that turn a visit into an experience that’s likely to be shared with friends and family.

How do you think the sector will develop in the coming years? Jaeth: Our strategy in the commercial sector is somewhat double-tracked when looking to the coming years. On the one hand, there is an ever-growing request for “clean” and “detox” spa areas – calm places to breathe and recover, with a functional design, timeless atmosphere and sustainable operating.

At the same time, there is now the need for “wow” effects and the desire to offer guests everything that’s possible: staging events, creating immersive spa worlds with dedicated designs, sophisticated automation, and the like. Both worlds are the subject of further research and engineering in the company. Bichler: Moreover, in a global context, we will be active in learning and understanding the varying needs of different sauna and spa cultures. For example, if you compare Europe with the US or China, they are quite different. We want to understand and ensure that we can successfully continue realising every spa vision, everywhere, as a turnkey solution. For many years in Central Europe we’ve been working in a supporting and cooperative network consisting of planners, architects, partners and designers, which ensures our customers the utmost innovation, expertise and quality. We are more than confident that this will work out as well in emerging spa markets over the coming years.

Detlef Jaeth (pictured left) is managing director of the spa division at Klafs, and Thorsten Bichler (right) is in charge of international sales. Klafs has more than 91 years’ experience creating private and public spas according to the specific needs of small, medium and large commercial projects.

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TH E R A P I ST S A F E T Y

Breaking the taboo Sexual harassment and inappropriate behaviour from clients is a very real issue in spas. Kathryn Conway explores how we should be protecting our teams

hen sexual misconduct in the spa industry has made headlines, it has often been therapists’ abuse of clients in the spotlight. The renewed claims made last year of sexual assault at Massage Envy franchises in the US serve as a reminder of the shocking abuse of trust that can occur behind closed doors. However, what seems to be far less widely reported is the vulnerability of spa employees themselves. This is particularly troublesome given the research undertaken by Tara Hanrahan, group director of spa operations at Spa Cenvaree, the spa brand of Centara Hotels & Resorts, ahead of the 2018 World Spa & Wellness Asia Convention. As chair of a discussion on the topic, Hanrahan conducted an anonymous survey of therapists and found that 74% of the 180 respondents had experienced some form of sexual harassment during their career. There is a widely held perception that this type of behaviour is more common in Asia, something that Georgia Sutherland, founder and director of Glo Day Spa & Salon, which runs four sites in Bali, finds frustrating. “Many brothels or places that offer these extra services call themselves spas, creating a misconception among guests about which spas offer what,” she says. Sutherland notes that spa operators in Asia are doing much to improve regulation of the industry there; however, we need to acknowledge that sexual harassment in spas can occur anywhere in the world. And with movements such as #MeToo and Time’s Up forcing every industry to scrutinise its attitudes towards sexual misconduct in the workplace, we sought the opinions of spa directors and industry experts to find out what can be done by spas to address the issue in their own businesses.

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TH E R A P I ST S A F E T Y

Define what constitutes inappropriate behaviour

Having a clear picture of what is classed as inappropriate behaviour will help therapists call it out should it occur. Hanrahan defines sexual harassment as, “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, and other verbal and physical inappropriate behaviour that in any way makes a person feel unsafe.” In the spa industry, she notes that physical inappropriate behaviour includes, but is not limited to, guests exposing themselves; guests touching the therapist inappropriately; guests touching themselves inappropriately; and guests refusing to wear the provided underwear. Verbal inappropriate behaviour, meanwhile, can be defined as a request for “extra services”, or derogatory or sexist comments. However, as Jeremy McCarthy, group director of spa at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, highlights, interpreting inappropriate behaviour can be difficult. “I hear a lot of spa managers say that they train their staff to immediately leave the room and report to a manager as soon as the guest does something inappropriate, but often the behaviour may be more subtle and difficult to interpret. Therapists have to learn how to handle different degrees of guest behaviour – how to interpret subtle nuances and send a guest clear signals for what the expectations are during a treatment.”

Make sure staff are clear on what to do

Todd Hewitt, assistant vice president of spa at Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts, agrees, and explains that he has a “three strikes and

you’re out” rule. “A therapist should never automatically assume that suspected behaviour is inappropriate, unless blatant,” he says. “If it is blatant, then the treatment is to be ended immediately and the guest told that their behaviour is not tolerated and that the manager will be waiting outside the treatment room to speak to them.” If a therapist suspects inappropriate behavior, Hewitt advises them to “change what you’re doing to try and see if the behaviour continues. For example, for a guest whose hands seem to be wandering around the massage table towards the therapist, change the location of the massage to the feet or lower legs. Don’t encourage conversation with the guest by discussing anything to do with sex, religion or politics,” explains Hewitt. He adds, “If this first step does not succeed and the suspected behaviour continues to a second incident, politely direct them to change their behaviour and say that you will be unable to continue on with the treatment (strike two). The treatment >

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does not begin again until the guest acknowledges the therapist.” Hewitt concludes: “If the behaviour continues (strike three), stop performing the service – hands should be removed from the guest – and inform them that you are unable to finish the treatment and you will be waiting outside the room with the manager.” However, Charlie Thompson, managing director of UK-based spa membership group The Massage Company, takes a more direct approach: “My advice to all therapists is that there is no margin for discussion – it is black and white, not grey. You should have the right to exit the room from any treatment, at any time.”

Draw up a standard operating policy on sexual harassment

“At The Massage Company (TMC) we have a very simple rule that is 100% non-flexible: the power of touch only goes one way,” Thompson says. “Any customer who even implies the opposite is banned, and their customer record updated. This is part of our TMC Safety Policy, and our staff have witnessed us implement this.” While it makes sense for every spa to draw up its own policy on sexual harassment, Hanrahan believes a collective zerotolerance approach is also required. “This includes implementing an industry-wide policy that is black and white in its dealing with sexual harassment,” she says. To this end, Hanrahan has created a standard

operating policy that she is keen to encourage all spa operators to adopt and communicate to clients prior to treatment. “An effective, unobtrusive way to do this is to have a short paragraph on the guest consultation form,” she explains.

Train all staff to deal with inappropriate behaviour

Training spa managers and directors to deal effectively with incidents of sexual misconduct, whether this be from a guest or staff member, is vital, but so too is empowering therapists to handle sexual harassment should it arise. “You do not want a therapist to have to make a decision about how to handle a situation when they are under the stress of the moment,” says McCarthy. “They should be thoroughly trained so they know exactly what to do.” Our experts agree that there are number of effective methods that can be used: • Role play “Use role play exercises to help therapists practise their conversations and actions,” says Nongluck Wonglor, assistant spa manager at Chiva-Som International Health Resort. “During the sessions, they will learn how to drape towels tightly and use working positions that lower the risk of impolite behaviour from guests,” she adds. “Focus on the wording to be used to clients,” advises Hanrahan. “Have team members practise saying the words out loud so they feel comfortable with them. This is particularly important if your team members are from cultures where speaking out is uncommon.”

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TH E R A P I ST S A F E T Y

• Case studies “Trainers should give example case studies and discuss how to deal with a variety of scenarios so therapists are able to evaluate the level and seriousness of the situation, and take action accordingly,” says Wonglor. • Ongoing training “Every professional that joins our company goes through 150 hours of training in our different protocols, rituals, and our conduct and behaviour policy,” says Gustavo Albanesi, founder of the Buddha Spa in Sao Paulo, Brazil. “Every six months, we do additional technical training for all our therapists, with a personal evaluation.” One of the key messages is to ensure that when therapists do experience inappropriate behaviour, they feel supported by management. “It’s really important that you push home that this is an open topic, not a closed one,” advises Linda Overman, spa director at JW Marriott Resort and Spa in Phuket, Thailand. “Staff should be encouraged to talk about this, whether during training, daily briefings or in one-toone communication with management.” She adds, “Senior staff and management, including the general manager and owners, need to make it clear from the start of anyone’s employment that employees will have their support if an incident arises. Just this fact alone, knowing that management has their back and are actively pushing these policies, gives staff the confidence to deal with a situation.” Beata Aleksandrowicz, founder of the Pure Massage Spa Training Method, suggests taking this support one step further by creating a flow chart of action and reaction to help staff identify the chain of command when an incident occurs. “It’s about ensuring therapists understand who they go to and what will be done with the information that is relayed,” she says. “Even if the spa manager has the day off, there has to be someone available to end the treatment.”

Have a clear in-room service procedure

Extra vigilance is required where services are offered away from the spa environment. Thomson says: “We should be alert to some of the misconceptions and stigma that exists in certain seedy parts of the market, and never take for granted that customers think our way.” For therapists asked to provide in-room services, Sunai Wachirawarakarn, managing director of the Arom:D Life spa concept, which has branches in Thailand and China, advises creating a clear procedure to ensure the safety of staff and guests. “Therapists should inform the manager on duty, or security, that an in-room service is taking place,” he says.

Take a stand

Hewitt reminds us: “This is one of the few jobs in the world where an individual works inside a closed room, with a stranger who is basically disrobed.” Prevention of sexual harassment and ensuring the safety of spa staff in their place of work is the responsibility of the entire industry. “For the first time, we’re openly discussing and tackling the issue worldwide and taking back control,” says Overman. At the end of the day, therapists did not go to college or do apprenticeships to be taken advantage of once they’re in the treatment room. They trained so they could provide people with the opposite of that – a space of trust and relaxation.”

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THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS

Spa, Wellness & Beauty

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TH E R A P I ST E XE R C I S E S

Stretch the rules Are muscle niggles affecting your treatment delivery? Pilates teacher Kerry Beavis demonstrates four exercises that help prevent work-related injuries such as RSI and lower back pain

epetitive strain injury (RSI) and back pain are usually caused by overuse of certain muscles and joints, for example, by doing massage treatments back to back. Kerry Beavis, Pilates teacher and owner of home-based salon The Revive Company in Wixams, UK, recommends four exercises that therapists should be doing daily to help prevent RSI symptoms occurring. “If you don’t look after your posture then later down the line you’re going to have problems,” explains Beavis. “If you can get into the habit of doing these exercises every day then you will really feel the benefit of stretching your core, wrists, hands and the back of your body.”

Exercise one: hand strength and stretch 1. With your left hand spread out wide and facing the ceiling, press your index finger and thumb together and hold for a slow count of five, pressing as firmly as possible 2. Release and stretch your fingers out wide into a star shape 3. Next, press your thumb and middle finger together and squeeze for five seconds, before releasing and stretching 4. Repeat this on your ring and little finger, making sure to press your thumb against each for a count of five 5. Perform this exercise as often as you can throughout the day.

Beavis says... “This exercise is brilliant for strengthening your hands and preventing RSI”

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TH E R A P I ST E XE R C I S E S

Exercise two: the roll down 1. Start in a standing position with your feet hip-width apart. Your toes should be facing forward 2. Roll your shoulders back, drawing your naval in towards your spine so that the muscles around your mid-section are engaged, as these are vital for supporting your lower back 3. Breathe in and, as you exhale, nod your chin to your chest and start rolling your body down bone by bone, letting your arms hang freely. Reach down as far as you can 4. When you’re at the bottom, take a deep breath. As you exhale, restack bone by bone to your original standing position 5. Repeat seven times for the best results.

Beavis says... “Regularly stretching out your posterior chain will enable your spine to be more flexible”

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TH E R A P I ST E XE R C I S E S

Exercise four: the leg slide

Beavis says... “Perform this exercise every day and it will really strengthen your wrists and forearms”

Exercise three: wrist curls 1. Hold a light weight in your left hand with your wrist facing the ceiling. If you don’t have an exercise weight at home, a bottle of water or tin of beans would work just as well 2. Make sure your hand and forearm are flush to one another at a 90-degree angle, with your right hand placed under your forearm for support 3. Flex your wrist, bringing your fingers up towards your arm, and then release, bringing your wrist back to that flush angle 4. Repeat this seven times and then move the weight to your right hand, performing another seven. If you get any pain, stop immediately or reduce your range of movement 5. Put the weight back in your left hand but turn it around so that your palm is facing the floor. Next, flex your wrist up, bringing your knuckles up to your forearm 6. Do this seven times and then repeat on your other hand.

1. Lie on the floor with your knees bent and hip-width apart. Feel the length through your spine, sending the crown of your head away from your tail bone 2. Press your shoulder blades into the floor but don’t squeeze your bum cheeks or thighs. It’s a case of using your abdominal muscles to press your back into place 3. Place your fingertips on the inside of your hip bones, drawing in your naval so you can engage those core muscles 4. Breathe in, and as you exhale, slide your right leg away from your body. When it’s fully extended, your leg should feel weightless 5. Then, slide your leg back up to the starting position. Repeat this movement seven times on each leg.

Beavis says...

“This exercise will strengthen your core without jepardising your lower back”

World Spa & Wellness | March/April 2019

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SKINCARE

Inside OUT Teaching spa guests to look after their microbiome could be the key to optimum skin health, finds Georgia Seago

ut health has been a key focus of the wellness industry for some time, with research growing ever more in-depth and wide reaching. This year’s World Spa & Wellness Convention in London, which takes place on February 24–25, 2019, dedicates a whole panel session to nutrition and the skin microbiome, with advice from industry leaders Dr George Gaitanos, scientific director of Henri Chenot, and Jenya Emets, herbal medicine practitioner and founder of London’s Cloud Twelve Club, on how to integrate these pillars of wellness into your business model. While experts advise that supporting the gut flora through nutrition can lead to happier, healthier skin, there’s work to be done on the skin’s own microbiome, too. Right now, it’s an important research area for professional spa skincare brands such as Espa and Murad – both have either recently released products to work specifically with the microbiome, or have lines planned for the near future. We asked the brands’ research and development insiders to break down the subject.

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What is the skin microbiome? “When we talk about the skin microbiome, we mean the invisible communities of microbes that make up our skin’s outer layer and act as a protective shield,” explains Barbara Brockway, a doctor of biochemistry who is working with Espa on its upcoming Tri-Active Advanced ProBiome range, due to launch imminently.

What relationship does it have with healthy skin? “Healthy skin has a balanced, diverse community of microbes. The term ‘dysbiosis’ is used when the skin microbiome becomes out of balance and impaired; when one or a few microbe species dominate, the skin becomes compromised,” says Brockway. Murad’s kombucha collagen defence formula uses one such extract, derived from nutrient-rich black tea ferment. Brand founder Dr Howard Murad says: “Probiotics have long been known to help digestion, stimulate the memory and even soothe migraines when taken orally, but when applied topically, they have wonderful antiageing benefits.”

What is the current research focus? “Thanks to new DNA-based methods for seeing the microbiome, there is an explosion of scientific interest, especially in relation to allergies and inflammation,” says Brockway. “The current thinking is moving more towards nurturing the skin’s microbiome and helping to maintain its biodiversity.” >

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SKINCARE

The right

BALANCE

Spa skincare to feed clients’ skin and help balance the microbiome

Germaine de Capuccini 1st Essence is billed as a “new age” serum with a probiotic complex that defends and protects skin and stimulates the balance of the skin microbiome. The serum works to optimise microflora on the skin and reinforce its anti-microbiological barrier function, while niacinamide repairs the skin’s barrier and improves tone and luminosity. Trade: £29.40 +34 900 442 442 germaine-de-capuccini.com

Elemis Superfood Facial Wash is billed as a nourishing nutrient-dense gel cleanser to revitalise skin and leave it looking radiant. It contains the brand’s supergreen complex of wheatgrass, nettle and kale extracts, and broccoli seed, avocado and pumpkin seed oils; along with a sugar-derived active pre-biotic to enhance the skin’s defence against environmental stressors. RRP: £25 0117 316 1888 elemis.com

Murad Advanced Blemish & Wrinkle Reducer harnesses the brand’s patented Kombucha Collagen Defence Complex of probiotic kombucha, a fermented black tea; natural antibiotic usnic acid; antioxidants; tannins; and gallate and glucuronic acid, known for its detoxifying properties, to minimise lines and wrinkles. Black cohosh is also included as a phytoestrogen used to help tackle hormonal breakouts. Trade: £24.38 0844 472 7050 murad.com

Pevonia Power Repair Age Correction Micro-Pores Bio-Active collection comprises three products formulated with probiotic peptide pseudoalteromonas ferment extract. The ingredient contains amino acids glycine, histidine and lysine to help refine skin, along with red clover extract and hyaluronic acid. In the line is Serum, Refine Cream and Mask, all of which help with pore-refinement, uneven texture and dehydration. Trade: from £26.50 01449 727000 pevonia.co.uk pevoniaglobal.com

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SKINCARE

Plant power

Can CBD oil offer any real benefits to spa guests? Georgia Seago finds out if the trend is worth buying in to “My goal is for people to reduce the use of pain killers and provide options in whole, plant-based products without the side-effects of pharmaceutical drugs”

BD quickly swept into the wellness space last year, no longer viewed with the same disapproving eye that mainstream culture gives to marijuana. Wellness consumers and spa-goers are now opening their minds to what cannabidiol (CBD) oil could do to help improve their lives, both mentally and physically. CBD oil comes from the cannabis sativa plant but doesn’t have any psychoactive properties. The difference between CBD and cannabis as a drug lies in the strain of the plant it is extracted from – hemp or marijuana. While the marijuana plant contains very high levels of THC (the psychoactive compound that gets weed users “high”), alongside cannabidiol, hemp generally contains less than 0.3%, making it a safe source of THC-free CBD. Laws relating to its sale and usage vary around the world, but for the most part CBD oil and products containing it are legal,

providing THC content is less than 0.2% and the product doesn’t make any medical claims.

Mass appeal In beauty, CBD oil is being used for its soothing and antioxidant properties, making it an appealing plant-based alternative for all manner of consumers, be they concerned about skin sensitivity, lines and wrinkles, or the effects of pollution on the skin. “The benefits of CBD oil are still relatively unknown to the average client, although we’re slowly seeing awareness influencing demand,” says Kirsten Maine, co-director of Live True, which has several hair and beauty salons across London, UK and started offering a CBD facial in January. The treatment uses CBD oil-infused products from MGC Derma, a high-end skincare brand that grows hemp in Europe and has a comprehensive range of CBD products, which are used alongside peptides

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SKINCARE

and stem cells in a full facial protocol. “We designed a facial that incorporates the oil at every stage so clients can truly benefit from the active ingredient,” says Maine. An even earlier adopter of CBD treatments was The St. Regis Aspen in Aspen, Colorado, US. The state became the first to legalise personal use and possession of marijuana in 2012, hence widespread relaxed attitudes towards the drug and its associated culture. St. Regis introduced its CBD Healing Massage in 2017, designed to give relief from muscle soreness and tension and to reduce anxiety and stress, depending on each guest’s wellness needs. “I truly believe in the medicinal powers of the plant and wanted to provide guests with another option for healing,” says Remède Spa director Irisha Steele. “My goal is for people to [stop using] or reduce the use of pain killers and provide options in whole, plant-based products without the side-effects of pharmaceutical drugs.” The spa chooses products from local brand That’s Natural, which uses solvent and preservativefree hemp grown in Colorado. Its oil is extracted using a “clean” CO2 extraction process.

clients. While it certainly has age-defying and calming properties that might appeal to some clients, the skin-brightening and plantbased origins of CBD oil appeal to others,” says Maine. Meanwhile, The St. Regis’s mountainside location makes the treatment particularly appealing for Aspen’s sporty tourists. “In 2018, we performed more than 10,000 of the massages alone… since Aspen is a premier ski destination, we do have a lot of skiers and snowboarders that use this treatment for quicker recovery to help get back on the mountain,” says Steele. “Regardless, nearly all our guests share instant positive feedback from their CBD massage experiences.” Taking the potential for CBD to aid guests’ wellbeing further, the spa will introduce That’s Natural’s CBD-Infused Cayenne Salve this winter, which also contains arnica and peppermint. “It will be used in foot massages to warm the toes during the cold winter months, release pain caused by snowboarding and skiing, and soothe muscle tension in the legs that’s typically associated with travel and long flights,” explains Steele.

Healthy growth CBD’s plant-based, vegan credentials make it a timely addition to treatment menus, likely to strike a chord with clients who lead eco or health-conscious lifestyles, as well as those who want to explore natural antiageing ingredients before turning to more advanced procedures. “We were surprised by how popular the facial is with such a wide cross-section of

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05/02/2019 16:06

I N TE R V I E W Wipa Nareerak

Change of pace

Wipa Nareerak is transforming Thailand’s Amatara from a leisure resort to a luxury wellness destination built on first-class Thai hospitality. Amanda Pauley talks to the resort’s general manager about the move

s of November last year, Wipa Nareerak has been implementing change at Amatara Wellness Resort in Phuket, Thailand, taking on the role of general manager at the ocean-view destination spa. Nareerak is the first Thai person in the position and as such plans to use her heritage to strengthen the brand around Thai hospitality, as well as drawing on her 20 years’ experience teaching yoga and working in well-known beach resorts such as Absolute Sanctuary in Koh Samui. “Thai culture is very soft and gentle, and this makes us better listeners. It shows in the quality of our services and training,” says Nareerak. “I always remind staff that ‘we are Thai’ – our mission is to provide a memorable stay >

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I N TE R V I E W Wipa Nareerak

Clockwise: Amatara’s lobby area, external view of the grounds, a couple’s treatment room, the yoga sala

so guests return. At the moment, 90% of our customer feedback is about the helpful staff. Our service is key to the resort’s success.” Nareerak is in charge of establishing Amatara as a luxury wellness destination in Thailand and making it one of the big players in the industry. She is doing this by focusing on three core pillars – the “authentic and warm” Thai service, healthdriven wellness packages and a refresh of key facilities. It’s a big job, but Nareerak is by no means fazed. “Amatara didn’t start out as a wellness resort. It developed into one over time because of its great potential for wellness due to its location, staff and identity. The business is strong on offering a luxury experience for guests who just book in for leisure but it needs to develop more packages for the health-orientated wellness guest,” she explains. “Our client mix is split between wellness and leisure, which is a challenge, but we need to motivate all guests to be in line with our new direction.”

Leisure vs wellness Current figures show that, on average, 20% of guests who visit for leisure book in to the resort again, while wellness clients make up 5% of return custom, but this figure is growing “because we are still new in the wellness market and cementing our reputation”, says Nareerak. Europeans and Asians make up the majority of the resort’s returning guests, and trying to offer something that appeals to both of these cultures can be challenging.

“It’s about trying to find something for everyone. For Asian guests, it’s all about the health boom. Their typical stay is three to five days and focused on a healthorientated experience – they want to destress while being active,” she explains. “Meanwhile, European guests come for longer, a week or more, and their goal is to get away from the stress of work. They want to relax and pamper themselves with traditional and spiritual Thai spa treatments.” The resort offers a variety of wellness packages, including Weight Management, Detox, Spa Revive and Active, but Nareerak plans to add more as it expands further into wellness. Staying true to the resort’s Thai roots, all programmes include access to the Thai hammam experience, which blends traditional Turkish and Moroccan bathing practices with “the gentleness of Thai spa therapies,” she adds. Marketing services to families has been a great touch point for creating new clients, “as we have a combination of facilities that work for people of all ages,” explains Nareerak. “So, if a family came to stay, the mother might do a wellness programme, the children can enjoy the Kid’s Club [a supervised area dedicated to looking after kids from four to 12 years old, which offers group exercise classes such as yoga and kickboxing] and the husband could rejuvenate by the pool.” Staff are also introducing leisure guests to the site’s wellness services in smart ways, based on the client’s record and

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preferences. “For example, guests on a leisure holiday may be dealing with back pain, so they could benefit from seeing one of our physiotherapists on the wellness programme, which we can easily add on to their holiday itinerary,” explains Nareerak. “We want them to tap into some aspect of wellness and take that home with them.”

New era of customisation This leads on to Nareerak’s biggest project of the year, progressing into more personalised programmes – “figuring out how we can further enhance guests’ stay and help them reach their wellness goals,” she says. All guests will be given a complimentary wellness consultation when they arrive, which would result in a recommended à la carte menu of treatments and activities, rather than undergoing a full pre-set wellness programme. Staff have also been trained on wellness cuisine, so now they know how to take care of wellness guests’ dietary needs. “They need to know before the guest arrives what meals we’re supposed to serve them that perfectly fit with the package they’re booked in for,” says Nareerak. “It really is a new way of thinking for our staff.” The spa is also working with visiting practitioners to expand its wellness offering, including the likes of metta healing with David Stojanovic and self-healing with Leela Sylvia Isani. The wellness centre is undergoing an uplift, with everything due to be completed

by April 2019, as WSW went to print. “We’ve started refreshing a few areas already but because of the high occupancy of the spa, we’re looking into doing it section by section to cause minimal disruption,” explains Nareerak. The spa has also taken on French skincare brand Guinot’s anti-ageing firming facial technology, previously only offering the brand’s body treatments. Apart from being results-driven, Nareerak says Guinot was chosen because it has a good heritage and “helps attract more European clients”, adding, “It is challenging sometimes if all the product houses we use in the spa are ones they’ve not heard of before.” Nareerak is also planning to increase the number of PT sessions the resort offers with its in-house trainers so it can target a broader range of clients. “I want to bring all these elements of wellness together – spa, holistic therapies, fitness and lifestyle – into a successful 360-degree offer,” she adds.

“I always remind staff that ‘we are Thai’ – our mission is to provide a memorable stay so guests return”

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30/11/2018 13:13

EXPERT VIE W Matthew Mackaness

The great outdoors With nature-bathing a hot trend in spas, Matthew Mackaness, spa director at Rudding Park Spa in Harrogate, UK, outlines how to create outdoor spaces and experiences that are profitable, even in cool climates

e-connecting with nature is growing in popularity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whether that is forest bathing, stargazing or simply relaxing in a beautiful space which makes the most of the natural surroundings. Taking time out to appreciate the outdoors can reduce stress and increase our sense of wellbeing. There is something really special about being among nature. If you can incorporate this into your spa offering, it can help to create unique experiences, which guests are craving more than ever before.

Using glass in the design of any structures allows guests to benefit and bring the outdoors in. Offering easy access from thermal experiences to the outdoors can maximise health benefits. And clever use of the landscape, so there is always something interesting to see all year round, can help make your outdoor offering popular all year. In the UK, Galgorm use the landscape really well with hot tubs along the riverside and its River House, which is raised on stilts to offer views over the cascading River Maine. Being able to hear and see nature is very >

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EXPERT VIE W Matthew Mackaness

sauna. Three pools use natural waters from the grounds. Natural daylight is a key element of wellbeing and the use of glass maximises this so our guests benefit from as much light as possible, even when inside. The spa was designed to work with the landscape from the outset, taking into account existing topography and established, mature trees. The result is a building in harmony with the natural environment, further enhanced by the landscaped roof terrace.

Material gains

Above: Rudding Park’s glass-fronted relaxation space Below: The spa’s pool with a view

tranquil and calming. Further afield, Terme Grand Hotel Bagni Nuovi in Italy offers incredible views from its hydrotherapy pool across the valley to the mountains. My own spa, Rudding Park, is also as much about the outside as the inside, in so much as the two seamlessly work in tandem with each other. The Roof Top Spa Garden, with shrubs and trees, takes the spa experience into the landscape with a spa bath, hydrotherapy infinity pool and a

From a practical perspective, it’s important to consider the materials you use; for example, ensuring floors don’t become icy so spaces don’t have to be closed due to health and safety concerns. The variety of plants used within the scheme and proximity to water should also be considered to minimise leaf fall into the water. Guests love experiencing the landscape but they also like comfortable temperatures. This makes heat experiences such as hydrotherapy pools and saunas with views of the outdoors the perfect way to spa. Since opening, we’ve spent time observing and learning how guests use the space. This has allowed us to evolve the product and the guest experience. Our Roof Top Spa Sun Deck is a very generous space, and with last year’s glorious weather it was the place to be. In winter, however, this space was

“Outdoor relaxation spaces will accommodate additional guests and could be suitable for private hire”

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EXPERT VIE W Matthew Mackaness

underutilised so we have installed a cabana – an additional relaxation space for our guests with soft sofa seating, a fire bowl and louvered roof to allow sunlight in or keep rain out. We’ve also recently opened a Sunlight Therapy Room. Of course, outdoor spaces also need to increase revenue. One way to achieve this is by creating outdoor relaxation spaces that will accommodate additional guests and could be suitable for private hire. Consider the logistics of food and drink provision as well to create upselling opportunities. With so many new spas opening, it is vital you have something new to shout about and encourage guests to visit time after time. If you don’t have new facilities, use seasonality to create a buzz. Yes, you might have a great image of your pool on a beautiful summer day – but what about a shot on a cold winter’s day in the snow, or at night time with incredible lighting to get the wow factor to support your marketing activity?

Look to the skies

Many spas refer to their evening packages as ‘Twilight Spa’. However, as Rudding Park Spa features the first Roof Top Spa in the UK, Starlight Spa seemed more fitting for us, as guests can literally bathe in the warming waters under the stars. We always want to offer new experiences and our head of marketing recently visited Kielder Observatory and had an incredible time at a stargazing event. She approached a local astronomer who we have been working with. Our new Stargazing Experience packages include an introduction to astronomy and time for stargazing on the Roof Top Spa. It’s another example of people reconnecting with nature and has proved incredibly popular. We are currently developing plans to introduce eco and natural spring hot tubs in the Woodland Glade, a secluded space where guests will be able experience forest bathing in natural spring water from our own mineral-rich aquifer. When the Woodland Glade comes alive during spring with a colourful burst of rhododendrons, guests will be able to reconnect with nature throughout the seasons.

Above left: Stargazing on The Roof Top Spa Below left: Winter shots market the outside space all year round Above right: Rudding Park’s Roof Top Spa

Matthew Mackaness is spa director at Rudding Park Spa in Harrogate, UK, which opened in May 2017. He was an integral part of the design team, leading the pre-opening and delivery for the hotel spa, which has gone on to win several national awards.

Creating fresh opportunities to use the outside space in the traditionally quieter evening times can also help boost revenue.

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PRODUCT NEW S

ELEMIS Elemis is adding to its Superfood range with four launches, including two masks – Vital Veggie Mask and Berry Boost Mask, plus a Blackcurrant Jelly Exfoliator and its first skin spritz, Kefir-Tea Facial Mist. The brand is also launching new Sea Lavender and Samphire Salt Scrub, formulated with sea lavender, rock samphire, sea salt and chondrus crispus to soothe and condition dehydrated skin. RRP: from £26 for the face mist elemis.com

Nourished by nature This month, skincare brands turn to natural ingredients to rejuvenate dull skin

SKIN REGIMEN

PHYTOMER

Skin Regimen’s Enzymatic Powder is a foaming exfoliator with chlorella, rice starch and papaya enzymes, which gets rid of dead skin cells to reveal a brighter and smoother complexion. The powder exfoliator, once mixed with water, turns into a creamy foam that eliminates pollutants. Trade: £20 skinregimen.com

Lotion P5, a new water-gel from Phytomer, contains laminaria digitata brown algae to reduce fat storage; the brand’s signature seaweed concentrate to target fat cells; red algae to boost microcirculation; and green algae to reshape and tone the skin. Trade: £31.47 phytomer.fr | phytomer.co.uk

World Spa & Wellness | March/April September/October 2019 2017

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PRODUCT NEW S

BIO SCULPTURE The Gemini Range is a new nourishing nail polish line that matches Bio Sculpture’s gel colours. The thick bristle brush promotes even application while a hardening plant extract adds strength to the nails. Trade: £4.50 each biosculpture.com | renewbeauty.co.uk

CLARINS Clarins’s spring make-up launches have been formulated to perfect, define and highlight clients’ features. The collection comprises the multipurpose Ready In a Flash Eye Palette, containing two matte shadows, two highlighting shadows and two matte brow powders, two Glow 2 Go Duo contour and highlight sticks, and a Pore Blurring Primer. RRP: from £24 for the primer clarins.fr | clarins.co.uk

AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES

BABOR

New from Aromatherapy Associates is the Skin Treatment Eye Zone Concentrate. The combination of bio-fermented actives, advanced amino acids and essential oils lifts, tightens and smooths the area around the eyes. RRP: £19.60 aromatherapyassociates.com

Oxygen Foam Cleansing Mask is new from Babor, providing a fun-filled cleansing experience while hydrating and purifying the skin. The sheet mask reacts with water on the skin to create moisturising foam and a gentle tingling sensation. RRP: €14.90 babor.com

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SPOTLIGHT:

MOSS OF THE ISLES

Moss of the Isles is a new range of spa products and treatments created by four international luxury spa and wellness experts – Fiona Byrne, Maria Herrera, Peigin Crowley and Nigel Franklyn. The range is inspired by a passion for ethical, sustainable and effective ingredients that create nurturing and healing products. The range uses formulas inspired by natural remedies with high-quality raw ingredients including Irish moss, white poppy seed, black mitcham peppermint, thistle and rosemary, all sourced from small organic harvesters and packaged with sustainable beech wood, recyclable card and glass. Co-founder Maria Herrera said “Working as consultants both internationally and in Ireland and Britain, we saw a clear gap in the market for a brand that embraced the therapeutic heritage of Ireland and the British Isles. “Coming together and working synergistically to combine our various talents and passions gave us the opportunity to develop a product line that lives and breathes in all of us.” The range will initially launch in the new spa at The Monkey Island Estate in London on March 1, although Herrera says it is only a matter of time before they will partner with other high-end spas: “We are looking to launch in properties that we feel speak to our values, excitement and passion for authentic experiences.” The offering currently comprises body products to go alongside treatments such as plant seed oil, bath salts and scrubs, with a facial skincare range currently in production. For more information on becoming a Moss of the Isles partner visit mossoftheisles.com

BC SOFTWEAR New from BC Softwear is the Supremesoft range, which comprises a jumbo sheet, fitted couch cover, header towels and a matching face cradle. The fabric is made from 55% polyester fleece and 45% cotton that feels soft on the skin. Trade: from £9.50 for the header towel bcsoftwear.co.uk

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PEVONIA Pevonia’s new Radiance Mask Collection features three products to treat all skin types – Ageless Skin Collagen, Bright Skin Green Apple and Pure Skin Charcoal. The masks use micro-emulsified technology for deeper absorption of the product. Trade: from £18 each pevoniaglobal.com | pevonia.co.uk

HD BROWS HD Brows Bare Your Beauty gift box contains four full-sized versions of the brand’s most popular products – Brow Highlighter in shade Pink Nude, Lip Palette in Bombshell, Lip Gloss in Buff and Glow Stick in Champagne. There are also 10 fluid foundation samples to help clients find their perfect match. RRP: £26.50 hdbrows.com

QMS MEDICOSMETICS New from QMS Medicosmetics is the EpiGen Pollution Rescue Overnight Mask, which has been formulated to revitalise tired skin for a smoother, firmer and healthier appearance. Its velvet-foam texture is designed to provide intensive moisture and nourishment. Trade: £32.77 qmsmedicosmetics.com

REPÊCHAGE New from Repêchage is the Seaweed Body Cream containing nutrient-rich, sustainably-harvested seaweed to deeply moisturise the skin’s surface and reduce the appearance of dryness. Ingredients vitamin C and E also help to work against the visible signs of ageing. Trade: £19 repechage.com

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T R E AT M E N T L AU N C H E S

Face value An assortment of facials with lifting, detoxifying and wrinkle-defying results are in the limelight

Nimue Skin Thermal Detox Peel Following the flash facial trend, this 30-minute treatment aims to deliver rapid results in a fraction of the time that traditional peels require. Following a consultation with a Nimue-trained therapist to address clients’ needs, skin is cleansed before the Thermal Detox Peel, a charcoal-based multifunctional peel that delivers instant hydration, plumping and all-round radiance, is applied. The peel combines a bubbling action to deep cleanse skin from environmental pollutants, toxins and impurities, with a thermo-sensory mechanism which creates a warming sensation to boost blood circulation and oxygenation of cells. Post-peel, skin is protected with an aftercare hydrator and a high factor SPF, such as Nimue Sun-C SPF 40.

Contact Nimue recommends charging £45 for a 30-minute peel. nimueskin.com / sweetsquared.com

Mary Cohr Age Firming Treatment The brand has created a stimulating massage for this antiageing facial which, coupled with active ingredients, reduces the signs of fatigue and ageing on the face, neck and décolleté. A double exfoliation is performed to eliminate dead skin cells and create a smoother complexion through a combined mechanical and enzymatic action, followed by a firming massage technique to stimulate the subcutaneous tissue and lift the skin. A serum is then applied to help even out skin texture and diminish wrinkles in the eye contour, forehead, smile lines and décolleté. Finally, Firming and Lifting sheet masks for the face and décolleté are applied to restore radiance.

Contact Mary Cohr recommends charging £82 for the 50-minute treatment. marycohr.com / uk.marycohr.com

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T R I E D & TE STE D

Sweet spot Skin Regimen’s new facial claims to tackle pollution damage on the skin as well as help ease acne flare ups. Amanda Pauley gives her verdict This month we tried… Skin Regimen Urban Detox Facial The lowdown: Billed as the perfect antidote for skin congested by pollution, as well as those dealing with adult acne, this 60-minute treatment from Skin Regimen, Comfort Zone’s standalone unisex skincare collection, fuses active ingredients with the healing powers of qigong and aromatherapy to give skin a much needed boost. A further dimension is added with the Macro Waves Sound Therapy – a soundscape designed to allow clients to detach from life’s everyday rhythm. The experience: I had my 60-minute treatment with Kirsty Eaton, field trainer and promotional specialist for Comfort Zone, at private members’ club Cloud Twelve in, London, UK. Eaton explained that the facial works on two levels: it keeps sebum production under control and re-establishes the skin’s optimal level of hydration – perfect for acne sufferers, but also counteracts damage caused by stress and pollution – ideal for city workers. It’s also highly personal, with the client able to choose which facial oil “booster” is used in treatment from a variety created to treat different needs. With the music signalling the start of the treatment, Eaton began with a welcoming massage on my face, neck, décolleté and arms, using a mixture of qigong techniques to encourage energetic detoxification and realignment.

Next came a double cleanse and tone, followed by a rolling roullage massage to shape the facial contours and work the product deeper into the skin. The standout moment was the Detox Peel-Off Mask, packed with chlorella and plant-based charcoal, which draws out impurities. The mask was cold on application and thick in texture. It was left on for 15 minutes to really draw out sebum and dirt, and when removed, it peeled off in one swift movement, which felt so satisfying. My chosen custom booster was Dullness/Uneven Tone and it was worked into my face using application techniques inspired by modern physiotherapy. The treatment was completed with Microalgae Essence, Tripeptide Cream and Urban Shield SPF 30. Business benefits: As a unisex skincare and treatment range, Skin Regimen is ideal if your spa wants to adopt a more gender-neutral approach to services. Plus, the treatment taps into two of the biggest skincare issues at the moment – adult acne and pollution, making it a must-have service to attract beauty-savvy millennials into your spa.

Contact Skin Regimen recommends charging from £90 to £120, depending on location. skinregimen.com

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T R I E D & TE STE D

Standing firm Guinot’s new facial promises to counteract slackening skin using a combination of smart ingredients and lifting techniques. Amanda Pauley puts it to the test This month we tried… Guinot Lift Summum Treatment The lowdown: The latest firming facial from Guinot uses a combination of stimulating massage techniques in conjunction with active ingredients to reduce the signs of ageing and fatigue. It’s aimed at older clients who want to target loss of firmness as well as younger customers who are invested in age prevention. The 50-minute facial is split into three parts – manual lifting manoeuvres, use of serum “filler” Wrinkle Eraser to plump out lines, and application of radiance-boosting masks to the face and décolleté. The experience: I headed to The Guinot Salon in Earlsfield, London, UK, for my facial where I was greeted by franchise owner Justyna Rostek. She began with a double exfoliation using papaya extract and fruit acids to sweep away dead cells, followed by a firming massage – the longest part of the treatment. A series of lifting movements were performed to redefine my facial contours and firm sagging skin. Starting on the jaw line and working her way up, Rostek switched between long, sweeping motions and quick, pinching techniques to stimulate cells and aid skin elasticity. The pressure was firm and immediately created a tightening sensation, but was by no means uncomfortable.

Next came the brand’s Wrinkle Eraser serum “filler”, which was worked into my fine lines using a roller ball applicator. Packed with mahogany bark extract, which stimulates collagen XVIII synthesis to help counteract slackening, and longevitine, which boosts hyaluronic acid synthesis, it works to smooth and plump the skin. A sheet mask packed with active ingredients was applied to my face and another brightening mask to my décolleté, with both left for 10 minutes while a hand and arm massage was performed. The treatment finished with application of eye and face cream. I was pleased with how noticeable my cheek bones were afterwards, they looked a lot more lifted. Business benefits: This facial is ideal for clients who want to tackle stubborn wrinkles without going under the knife. It’s a hardworking anti-ageing treatment and as such should be marketed to older customers as well as busy city workers who want quick results in their lunch hour. Clients are gifted the Wrinkle Eraser post-treatment to use at home, which is a great entry point to the brand, making retailing home care much easier. WSW

Contact Guinot recommends charging £82 for the treatment. guinot.com

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F I N A L S AY Spa and wellness calendar

Networking and other key events from the spa, fitness and wellness sectors

hared Beauty Secrets marked 10 years of success with a party at Café de Paris in London, UK (pictured top row, left and right). The 300 guests were given a first look at new product launches, complimentary Lava Shells massages and entertainment from impressionist Francine Lewis and singer Gemma Kalmakrian from ITV show The Voice UK. The event supported mental health charity Mind, raising a total of £2,120 from the sale of Fortune Cookies that offered the chance to win prizes donated from operators and suppliers. Margaret Dabbs’s Guildford, UK, salon was the setting for the launch of Aesthetics Collective (middle row, left), a new independent business started by South Lodge Spa manager Sara Young, nurse prescriber Rebecca Mattison and medispa director Karen Thomas, which will deliver medical aesthetic services such as dermal fillers in spas. Guests, including industry pros such as Spa Pulse founder Helena Field, Gaylia Kristensen distributor Lloyd Baker and PR specialist Juliet Wheater, were treated to cocktails, canapés and taster treatments. Lydia Sarfati, founder of luxury skincare brand Repêchage and chairwoman of Cidesco USA, joined educators, students and industry professionals at the launch of the first Cidesco USA skincare certificate at the Bellus Academy in San Diego, California (middle row, right). Sarfati held a workshop, demonstrating her signature Four Layer Facial, as well as giving a talk on her personal journey and signing copies of her memoir, Success at Your Fingertips: How to Succeed in the Skincare Business. Outback Organics distributor Essential Beauty Supplies celebrated the opening of its new training facility and showroom with an event featuring demos and mini treatments (bottom row, left and right). Guests were greeted with a glass of prosecco and an array of canapés. There were live waxing demos in the new treatment room and manicures downstairs by Orly. Guests were also gifted with goody bags.

Dates for the diary WORLD SPA AND WELLNESS ASIA May 6-7, Phuket, Thailand World Spa and Wellness Asia brings together top-level spa and wellness operators with industry suppliers for a conference featuring trend spotting, networking and education. worldspawellness.com/asia

SPA LIFE IRELAND May 13-14, County Meath, Ireland A two-day event where spa professionals can find out about the latest product innovations, share industry insights and network, as well as receive education. spalife.ie

SPATEC SPRING NORTH AMERICA May 19-23, Miami, USA An annual event for spa operators to gather together for networking and socialising with a range of spa product manufacturers and distributors. spatecspring.com

World Spa & Wellness | March/April 2019

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SPATEC 19 Europe

The spa, beauty and wellness industry’s key players will come together on Italy’s Lago Maggiore this June for SPATEC Europe 2019

Grand Hotel Dino, Baveno, Italy 19 - 22 June 2019

What do you get at SPATEC? • Guaranteed pre-qualified audience of key decision makers • Pre-set appointments with buyers of your choice • Limited competition • 2 full days of exceptional networking • Unparalleled value for money

For more information contact: Stephen Pace-Bonello, Event Director spacebonello@questex.com Tel: +356 99458305

www.spateceu.com

MLR Select Series The new spa table with maximum variety.

VISIT US

AT T HE

Italy, Marc h 1418, 2 Boot 019 h E4 6 in ha /F45 ll 30

MLR Select Alu MLR Select Wood CHOOSE YOUR DESIGN The MLR Select is available in three different versions: Alu, Wood and Static. The elegant and simple design provides optimum space for the therapists` legs. Two strong lifting columns allow the height adjustment and the inclination of the bed. The lowerable and swivelling armrests as well as the adjustable head, back, leg and foot sections make the MLR Select a versatile spa table. As an option, the bed can also be equipped with the integrated Smart-Thermo heating system and many other features.

MLR Select Static

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