One of my all-time favorite parts about traveling is winding down and indulging in a professional spa treatment. It's obviously a major self-care moment, but in many instances it also gives you a unique glimpse into the local culture. I'm fortunate enough to have had some of these culturally intimate experiences in Thailand, South Korea, Israel, the Maldives and Mexico, among many others.
In the latter I discovered a therapeutic healing approach that dates back centuries. Making Mexico one of my favorite places to get a massage. They often utilize balms, herbs and ointments derived from native botanicals plus have a unique "touch" that blends aspects of acupressure with Swedish and Thai techniques. (Don't even get me started on their hydrotherapy circuits, an invigorating exploration of hot and cold water that makes you feel like a relaxed pile of jiggly pudding!)
I almost always opt for a massage in Mexico, but recently switched things up to try a completely customized full-body scrub instead. I was at the swanky Muluk Spa at luxury resort La Casa de la Playa and was intrigued by the customization options.
Keep reading to learn more about what a professional body scrub entails, what my experience was like and why you should opt for this treatment over a massage the next time you splurge on a professional wellness service.
Image via La Casa de la Playa
My Experience
To say that Muluk Spa is pure luxury would be an understatement. No detail is left to chance. My treatment began with a warm greeting where I was led to a private room to discuss which ingredients I'd like to include in my customized scrub and body cream. I went for an invigorating lemongrass-infused, whipped sugar scrub followed by a lavender-infused body cream. Pure heaven!
My therapist worked for about five minutes making sure each and every area received proper attention. It was never rough or uncomfortable, only soothing. Halfway through I rinsed off and then came back to fresh sheets on the massage table to complete the moisturizing half of my treatment. She finished by massaging my scalp, which always makes me feel completely relaxed.
Image via La Casa de la Playa
How to Prepare
Preparing for a professional body scrub is a bit different compared to going for a traditional massage. Page Buldini, esthetician and founder of Page Aesthetics Skincare, recommends showering in advance. Many spas have on-site showers that are quite lovely so arrive early to partake in that perk.
You'll also want to remove all of your jewelry and your therapist will remind you if you haven't already done so. Also plan for comfy clothing and shoes that are easy to slip on and off.
"This treatment will leave your body and possibly hair moisturized so I would be mindful of scheduling," notes Buldini. "Before and after 24 hours, I would also limit working out, sun exposure and swimming or hot tubs due to the skin being exfoliated."
Image via La Casa de la Playa
What to Expect
During a professional body scrub you'll strip down and likely wear a pair of disposable underwear and a disposable bra. From there your therapist will use a gentle physical exfoliator (sometimes mixed with a chemical exfoliating agent like enzymes or acids) and slowly start massaging it into your entire body one area at a time.
They'll scrub practically everything (arms, legs, back, stomach, between your fingers and toes, your ankles and knees and sometimes your scalp). The movements are massage-like so it's very relaxing.
"Scrubs can come in all different varieties, [including] creamy or oil-based, but will include some gentle exfoliation ingredient like sugar or a gentle granule," explains Buldini. "Dry brushes can also be used."
After you'll take a shower to rinse off. In some salons body scrubs are performed on a table where they can rinse you then and there. Others have you rinse off midway and then they'll repeat the treatment, this time with a moisturizing body cream.
Image via La Casa de la Playa
The Benefits
You might be thinking: "Can't I just give myself a scrub down in the shower?" Of course you can. But a professional body scrub offers a bit more.
"A professional body scrub will allow the entire body to be treated," notes Buldini. "Techniques for the massage and circulation aspect will be focused on, too, which you can't do to yourself at home."
In addition to exfoliating your skin and increasing blood flow, Buldini points out that professional treatments can help with lymphatic movement. And let's not discount the relaxing, soothing environment that can do wonders for your mental health.
Image via La Casa de la Playa
