You only have to browse a spa menu these days to see how far the spa industry has come when it comes to new technology, with several pages of mind-boggling options to choose from - some impossible to pronounce, let alone fathom. As Cryotherapy, DermaGlides and Wave Touch Therapy get comfortable in our spas, Stylish Spy gets the low-down on the technological advances on offer.
Cryotherapy
What is it? A real buzz word in the wellness industry, Cryotherapy is a high-tech treatment that exposes the body to extremely cold temperatures (up to -150C) for approximately three minutes. Willing participants pop gloves on their hands and Crocs on their feet before entering a Tardis-like box which they remain in for as long as they can muster.
The benefits? Reduced inflammation, boosted immune system, improved skin and weight loss. It’s also great for wellness; a mood booster that can help with depression and anxiety.
Try it at: Re:Treat at The Lowry Hotel, Manchester
Pure Air Bubble
What is it? Brainchild of Spanish product house Natura Bissé, the pioneering Pure Air Bubble is a pop-up dome that spa goers enter to breathe in 99.99% pure air whilst enjoying a treatment. While the original Air Bubble was launched a decade ago, new and improved Bubbles are continually hitting the market - look out for the new and improved version coming soon.
The benefits? Skin is left healthy and glowing; dead cells are zapped and antioxidants activated, ridding the body of toxins.
The Perfector
What is it? A two-pronged electrical device that’s used as part of a facial to stimulate skin regeneration and rejuvenation. Spa-goers will feel a vibration – and hear a buzzing sound – but the gentle treatment will leave none of the abrasions synonymous with Laser Resurfacing or Microdermabrasion.
The benefits? The cell regeneration process leads to a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles; the device also lifts the skin, stimulates the production of collagen and increases elasticity.
Try it at: Lincombe Hall Hotel & Spa, Devon
Dermalux LED Light Therapy
What is it? A large machine that delivers light waves directly to the skin; it's used to combat medical and cosmetic conditions in the face and body, and comes in different shapes and sizes – hand-held; contoured. Different colours dominate, depending on the level of charge used.
The benefits? Destroys the bacteria that causes acne (blue); rejuvenates the skin (red), calms redness and irritation (near infrared), delivers long-lasting results (pink).
Try it at: The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, London
DermaGlide
What is it? A professional, ergonomic tool designed by Million Dollar Facial to give therapists more control when dermaplaning – a minimally invasive procedure that shaves away the top layer of the skin. It’s often used for acne, skin brightening and hair removal.
The benefits? The rounded shape and adjustable handle glides around tricky areas such as the nose, lips and chin, giving more control – and better results.
Try it at: Champneys Spa at Mottram Hall, Cheshire
Wave Touch Massage
What is it? A bed made of warm water jets that massage the body from head to toe – simply climb on and relax. A sound system built into the bed can deliver a choice of soothing music during the session, which last for as little as 25 minutes.
The benefits? Loosens muscles, relieves tension, relaxes the body and mind, and encourages an increase in collagen production (after several uses).
Try it at: The House Spa at Dormy House, Worcestershire
Stylish Spy
2nd March 2023
Spy Likes:
Minimalist lines; organic products; facial massage; tranquillity; interesting people-watching.
Spy Dislikes:
Discarded towels on loungers; steam rooms that aren't steamy; mobile phones.
