What to Wear to a Spa: A Complete Guide

Have you ever found yourself unsure about what to wear to a spa? Planning a spa visit is exciting, but figuring out the right clothing can be confusing. Whether it’s your first time or you’re just looking to refresh your knowledge, dressing for a spa can seem tricky. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know to ensure you’re comfortable and fully prepared for your relaxing day.

What to Expect at the Spa

Before going into the specific wardrobe advice, it’s helpful to understand what happens at most spas. Spa days typically revolve around relaxation, treatments, and personal comfort. Depending on the spa, you may enjoy massages, facials, saunas, steam rooms, or hot tubs. As a result, what you wear must accommodate these activities. Spas often provide items like robes and slippers, but it’s essential to know what to bring with you.

The Basics: What to Wear to a Spa

When thinking about what to wear to a spa, the key is simplicity and comfort. Most spas aim to make your day as relaxing as possible, so your clothing should reflect that. Let’s break it down:

Arriving at the Spa

Upon arrival, you’ll likely be given a robe, towel, and slippers. As a result, you won’t need to worry too much about your clothing during treatments. However, what you wear when arriving at the spa is important. Choose loose, comfortable clothing, such as yoga pants, a soft top, or even a casual dress. Avoid tight or restrictive clothing, as it can be uncomfortable before or after treatments.

Swimsuits for Water-Based Treatments

Many spa facilities include pools, saunas, or hot tubs. Therefore, it’s a good idea to bring a swimsuit with you. A simple, comfortable swimsuit works best. If you’re uncomfortable in certain areas, you can opt for a one-piece or swim shorts that offer more coverage. Remember, the spa is a place for relaxation, so choose something that makes you feel confident and at ease.

What to Wear Under Your Robe

Spas generally provide guests with robes between treatments, but what should you wear underneath? In most cases, less is more. You’ll likely wear just your underwear or swimsuit under the robe. If you’re getting a massage, you may be asked to remove your clothing, but you’ll always be covered with a towel during the session. Some people prefer to keep on their underwear during massages, and that’s completely fine too. Choose whatever makes you feel comfortable.

Footwear

Footwear is another area where spas usually have you covered. Most spas provide slippers for guests to wear, ensuring that you’re not walking around barefoot. If you prefer to bring your own, opt for flip-flops or another lightweight, comfortable shoe. You won’t need regular shoes once you’re inside the spa, so leave them in the changing room or locker.

What Not to Wear to a Spa

When considering what to wear to a spa, it’s equally important to think about what not to wear. Avoid wearing tight or uncomfortable clothing, as spas are all about relaxation. Avoid heavy jewelry or accessories, as they can get in the way during treatments and may even be uncomfortable in saunas or steam rooms. Strong perfumes are also best avoided, as many spas aim for a relaxing, neutral environment where the scent of products doesn’t overwhelm anyone.

What to Bring to the Spa

While your focus should be on what to wear, it’s worth considering what to bring as well. Most spas provide essentials like towels and robes, but there are a few items you may want to pack to ensure your day goes smoothly. Here’s a simple list:

• Swimsuit: Essential for pools, hot tubs, or steam rooms.
• Hair ties or clips: If you have long hair, you’ll want to keep it out of your face during treatments.
• Change of clothes: After a day of pampering, you’ll feel refreshed and want something clean to change into when you leave the spa.
• Skincare products: While most spas offer products, you may prefer to bring your own for after treatments.
• Deodorant: After steam rooms or saunas, a quick refresh is always a good idea.

Dressing for Specific Spa Treatments

The type of treatment you’re getting may affect what you should wear. Here’s a breakdown of a few common spa treatments and what to wear for each:

Massage

For massages, you’ll typically be asked to remove most of your clothing. However, you’ll always be covered with towels, and only the area being worked on will be exposed. You can keep your underwear on if you feel more comfortable.

Facial

Facial treatments only involve your face and neck, so what you wear isn’t too important. You’ll be lying down under a blanket or towel, and robes are usually fine.

Sauna or Steam Room

A swimsuit is best for saunas and steam rooms. These areas can get very hot, so you’ll want something light and easy to wear. If you’re going between treatments and the sauna, wearing your swimsuit under your robe makes things easier.

Body Scrubs or Wraps

For these treatments, you may need to remove more of your clothing. As with massages, towels are always provided for privacy. Some spas offer disposable underwear for body treatments, but you can always ask beforehand if you’re unsure.

How to Feel Comfortable at the Spa

Some people feel nervous about visiting a spa, especially if it’s their first time. It’s completely normal to feel unsure about the process. Here are some tips to help you feel more at ease:

• Ask questions: If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to ask the staff. Spas are there to help you relax, so they will happily explain how things work.
• Relax: The entire point of going to a spa is to unwind. Don’t worry too much about what to wear or how things work. Once you’re there, everything will be taken care of.
• Listen to your body: If you’re uncomfortable at any point, let the staff know. Your comfort is the most important thing, whether it’s a treatment or the temperature of a room.

Conclusion

Deciding what to wear to a spa doesn’t have to be difficult. By focusing on comfort and simplicity, you can make sure that your spa day is as relaxing as possible. Loose clothing, a comfortable swimsuit, and keeping things light under your robe are all you need. Remember, spas are designed to help you unwind, so take the time to enjoy the experience.

Moreover, if you want to expand your expertise in the beauty or healthcare industry, enrol in the Luxury Spa course at the Wise Campus  to expand your repertoire.