Information is power, especially when it comes to the male spa-goer. Help them avoid discomfort and embarrassment by educating them beforehand on spa protocols and you’ll have a very happy client before and after the treatment. Enrique Ramirez, spa director at Face to Face NYC Day Spa, offers these 10 tips on what to tell men before they go to the spa (and he should know: 85 percent of his patrons are men!).

1. shave before a facial.
Although not a major requirement, it does make a difference to the esthetician. A smooth beard area gives the opportunity to treat any signs of razor burn, ingrown hairs, or neck irritation caused by use of an old razor. Otherwise, these concerns will go unnoticed.

2. arrive 10 minutes before the appointment.
This will allow a stress-free check in. Many spas require an intake form to be filled out before the scheduled treatment. It also gives the client time to change, freshen up or decompress.

3. underwear is a choice.
There is a choice to keep on boxers or not during a massage or body treatment. Whatever the client chooses, it will be fine with the professional spa technician. No need to explain!

4. shower before a massage.
Clients should arrive early to hit the shower; a fresh scent will make the experience better.

5. tip the spa technician.
A 15-20 percent tip for the spa esthetician is common practice.

6. turn off cell phones and mobile hand-held devices.
Spas create a soothing, relaxing and mellow environment, which can be ruined with the piercing sound of a mobile phone. Ask clients to shut them off.

7. no body lotion before waxing.
It will make back waxing less painful and easier to remove the strip wax. Also, it’s very important to ask clients if they are using Retin-A or Accutane, as this can affect the treatment.

8. keep voices down when entering the spa.
Calm and reflective tones are welcomed, loud chatter is not.

9. be open with your spa technician.
Inform the technician of any body, mental or skin ‘imbalances’ such as allergies, medications that may affect your skin, torn ligaments, claustrophobia, etc. Spa technicians will then customize a massage, facial or nail treatment.

10. don’t work out after a spa treatment.
You’ve just paid all that money to relax your muscles. Why would you want to go and tense them up again?

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