SPA TREATMENT GLOSSARY
From Abhyanga to Watsu, this practical A–Z explains what common spa treatments involve, what they may feel like and what to check before booking.
How to use this guide
Treatment names and protocols vary between spas. Ask what is included, who delivers it and whether it is suitable for pregnancy, allergies, medicines, recent surgery or an existing condition. Complementary treatments should never replace medical assessment or prescribed care.
The best treatment is not the trendiest one; it is the one whose purpose, practitioner and precautions are clear.
A
Abhyanga
A rhythmic Ayurvedic oil massage, usually performed with warmed oil. It is generally offered for relaxation; immunity and “detoxification” benefits should not be treated as established medical outcomes.
Acupressure
Finger, palm or occasionally elbow pressure applied to points used in traditional East Asian practice. Some guests find it relaxing, but claims about unblocking qi or healing disease are traditional concepts rather than proven clinical facts.
Acupuncture
Fine needles are inserted at selected points by a trained practitioner. Evidence and regulation vary by indication and practitioner; check qualifications, hygiene and suitability, particularly with pregnancy, infection risk or blood-thinning medication.
Affusion shower massage
A massage performed beneath a gentle warm shower or seawater cascade. Confirm water temperature and tell the therapist if heat, pressure or positioning is uncomfortable.
After-sun treatment
A cooling, moisturising body or facial treatment, often using aloe or fragrance-free products. It is for comfort—not a treatment for severe sunburn. Seek medical advice for blistering, extensive burns or illness.
Algotherapy
Algae or seaweed used in baths, masks, scrubs or wraps. Benefits are primarily sensory and cosmetic; check for iodine, seaweed, fragrance or skin sensitivities.
Anti-stress massage
A shorter relaxation massage, commonly concentrating on the back, neck, shoulders and scalp. Persistent pain, weakness or neurological symptoms need clinical assessment.
Aromatherapy massage
Massage using diluted essential oils selected for scent and relaxation. Disclose asthma, allergies, pregnancy and sensitive skin, and ask which oils and concentrations will be used.
Ayurveda
A traditional Indian system incorporating lifestyle, diet, movement, massage and herbal practices. Spa rituals inspired by Ayurveda are complementary experiences and should not replace medical care.
Ayurvedic massage
Massage using warmed oils and flowing or rhythmic movements. Product ingredients and temperature should be explained before treatment.
Shirodhara
A traditional Ayurvedic ritual in which a steady stream of warm oil is poured across the forehead, often followed by scalp or body massage. Ask about eye protection, oil ingredients and hair care afterwards.
B
Balinese massage
An Indonesian-inspired massage combining long strokes, kneading, pressure and aromatic oils. Pressure and products vary widely between spas.
Balneotherapy
Bathing in mineral-rich water, thermal water or seawater. It may feel soothing, but medical claims depend on the condition and evidence; check heat and access precautions.
Body scrub or body polish
Salt, sugar, herbs or other particles are used to exfoliate the skin. Avoid immediately after shaving, waxing, sunburn or on broken or inflamed skin.
Body wrap
The body is coated with mud, cream, herbs or seaweed and wrapped for warmth and product contact. It can moisturise the skin but does not “detox” the body.
Body mask
A clay, cream or algae product applied to the body for a cosmetic skin-conditioning effect. Ask about allergens and whether showering is required.
Beauty treatment
A broad label covering facials, manicures, pedicures, hair removal and other cosmetic services. Confirm the exact procedure, products, patch-testing and practitioner credentials.
C
Craniosacral therapy
A very light-touch complementary practice focused on the head, spine and sacrum. Evidence for treating medical conditions is limited; it should be described as a relaxation practice, not a cure.
Crystal and gem therapy
Crystals or stones are placed on or around the body in a ritual associated with chakras or energy. There is no established evidence that crystals diagnose or treat disease.
Cupping
Cups create suction on the skin and can leave temporary circular marks or bruising. Discuss skin conditions, bleeding disorders, medicines and pregnancy with a qualified practitioner before booking.
Chromotherapy
Coloured light is used to create atmosphere or support a relaxation ritual. Claims that particular colours correct physical disease or “energy imbalance” are not established medical facts.
D
Deep-tissue massage
A firmer massage aimed at deeper muscle layers and areas of tension. More pressure is not automatically better; it should remain tolerable, and unexplained or recurring pain should be assessed clinically.
Dry flotation bed
A water-supported surface that allows the body to float without getting wet. It is primarily a relaxation experience; claims about specific brainwave or medical effects should be treated cautiously.
F
Facial
A skincare treatment that may include cleansing, exfoliation, mask, moisturiser and massage. Tell the therapist about retinoids, acids, recent procedures, allergies and active skin conditions.
Flotation therapy
Floating in a quiet tank or pool containing highly salted water. Shower before and after, protect cuts from stinging and check suitability if you have mobility, seizure, ear or skin concerns.
Four-handed massage
Two therapists work at the same time using coordinated movements. Discuss pressure, draping and sensory comfort beforehand, as the experience can feel intense.
L
Lomi Lomi
A Hawaiian-inspired massage using long, flowing strokes, often with the forearms. Styles and cultural authenticity vary, so ask the spa to explain its approach and draping.
Lymphatic drainage massage
A light, specialised technique intended to encourage lymph movement. Clinical lymphoedema treatment requires appropriately trained healthcare professionals; spa versions must not promise detoxification or diagnose swelling.
R
Reflexology
Pressure is applied to areas of the feet or hands. Some guests find it relaxing, but reflex zones should not be used to diagnose organ problems or replace medical care.
Reiki
A gentle-touch or hands-off complementary practice described by practitioners in terms of energy. It may support relaxation for some people, but there is no established evidence that it treats disease.
S
Shiatsu
A Japanese bodywork style using pressure, stretches and joint movements, generally through clothing. Tell the practitioner about pain, pregnancy, injury or restricted mobility.
Stone therapy
Heated or sometimes cooled stones are placed or moved on the body during massage. Check temperature carefully and disclose reduced sensation, neuropathy, vascular conditions or heat sensitivity.
Swedish massage
A classic oil-based massage using gliding, kneading and rhythmic strokes, most often booked for relaxation and general muscle comfort.
T
Thai massage
An oil-free treatment combining assisted stretching and pressure, usually performed clothed on a floor mat. Ask for modifications for joint problems, pregnancy, injury or limited mobility.
Thalassotherapy
A collective term for seawater, seaweed, marine mud and coastal bathing treatments. It can be a pleasurable spa ritual, but broad restorative or medical claims require evidence.
W
Watsu
A warm-water bodywork practice combining supported floating, gentle stretching and movement. Check pool temperature, accessibility, practitioner support and suitability for pregnancy or relevant health conditions.
Waxing
Temporary hair removal using warm or cool wax. Avoid on broken, sunburnt or irritated skin and disclose topical retinoids, recent peels or medicines that affect skin fragility.
Brightening treatment
Previously marketed by some spas as a “whitening treatment”, this is a facial intended to improve the appearance of uneven tone or pigmentation. Avoid bleaching promises; persistent or changing pigmentation warrants professional assessment.
Wellness consultation
A discussion used to understand preferences, contraindications and goals before treatment. Unless conducted by a regulated clinician, it is not a medical diagnosis.
Before any treatment
- Tell the spa about pregnancy, allergies, medicines, recent procedures and existing conditions.
- Ask who performs the treatment and what training or registration they hold.
- Request ingredients and patch testing where relevant.
- Stop immediately if you feel pain, dizziness, breathing difficulty or distress.
For a current overview of complementary therapies and their limits, see the NHS guidance.
The Spa Traveller conclusion
A treatment name is only the starting point. Compare the description, practitioner, products, pressure, temperature and aftercare before booking. A good spa will answer questions clearly and adapt the experience without making unsupported medical promises.
Find the right spa experience
Use our guides to compare facilities and treatment styles, then confirm inclusions directly with the spa.
Find a spa Explore the massage glossary
Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from qualifying bookings, at no extra cost to you. Availability and inclusions are controlled by the provider.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose a spa treatment?
Start with your goal—relaxation, skincare, gentle bodywork or a particular sensory experience—then check the procedure, practitioner, products and contraindications.
Are spa treatments medical treatments?
Usually not. Some services may be delivered by regulated clinicians, but most spa treatments are cosmetic, relaxation or complementary experiences.
What should I disclose before a treatment?
Share pregnancy, allergies, medicines, recent surgery or cosmetic procedures, skin conditions, injuries and any relevant diagnosed conditions.
Can I stop a treatment?
Yes. Consent can be withdrawn at any time, and you can request changes to pressure, positioning, temperature, products or draping.
Wellbeing note: This glossary is general consumer information, not medical advice or diagnosis.