The current trend in spa treatments is focused on wellness.
Day spas are extremely popular for a variety of reasons, convenience being near the top of the list. A trip to the spa is no longer something that has to be planned for a weekend getaway. Day spas are opening in cities all around the country. Some are brick and mortar stand-alone places while others can be found in malls, gyms, hotels and medical facilities. If you are thinking of opening a spa or purchasing a franchise, management training is advisable.
Consultants
Hiring a consulting firm is one way to get started in the spa industry. Potential spa owners can contract with experienced professionals who will create business plans, perform feasibility studies and train you on get the operation up and running. Consultants can advise on floor-plan design and marketing strategies. Recruiting staff and product line selections are other areas relevant to the consultant's guidance and training.
Classroom and Online Courses
Live start-up courses for owners and spa directors range anywhere from eight hours to five days or more. Typical modules include finance, marketing, staffing management, operations and customer service. Online learning and traditional textbook training is available through independent firms and spa associations. Owners and spa supervisors may also wish to gain a spa certification through the International Spa Association.
Spa Specialist Training
Almost all day spas employ aestheticians who perform facials and other spa treatments. These skin specialists are trained in beauty schools and colleges on skin care regimens. Coursework includes anatomy, sanitation, makeup application, waxing and business practices. States regulate the number of clinical hours an aesthetician must have in order to apply for a license. The majority of states have a 600-hour requirement. Connecticut is the only state that does not mandate clinical hours.
Advanced Training
Licensed aestheticians can train in more complex procedures, such as laser and pulsed light treatment. Master programs are available that add another 600 hours of clinical work and training. Advanced modules offer in-depth hands-on training in pre- and post-surgery care, rosacea treatments, manual microdermabrasion and specialty masks. Also included may be courses on cellulite, stone therapy treatments and chemical acid peelings.
Considerations
Joining the spa industry as an owner is a popular form of entrepreneurship. Keeping up with and training on what is in vogue in the beauty business is important to the profitability of the spa. According to Spa Finder, Inc., the new trends in spa treatments are aligned with prevention as opposed to the traditional pampering theme of the past. Hybrid spas-those incorporating more fitness and wellness elements-are on the upswing. Due to the still recovering economy, offering special deals and memberships are highly recommended.
