Okay, I feel all obnoxious here starting this thread, but STella made me
Just some info, from the 'inside perspective'
Skin CareMost spa/salon facials are "ok", but not highly effective. Microdermabrasion, Glycolic and AHA Peels are good, but quite frankly I would go to a doctor/med spa rather than a salon as US law permits them higher concentrations, hence more effective.
NailsA popular misconception which spas encourage is manicures make nails grow – they don't. Nice to get if you want your nails to look good for an event, but they have no long term effect. As I am sure many here have experienced, acrylics damage the nail beds.
Hair RemovalLaser hair removal is really the best option, if within your budget. Anywhere from 4 – 10 treatments your hair is permanently gone.
Body CareSalt glows/wraps/mud masques etc. are major rips offs.They have huge profit margins, so hence many spas will push them, mine does like mad
EyesMost eye treatments are well worth getting, and create a great aesthetic difference. Eyelash perming, eyelash and brow tinting and semi permanent eyelash extensions are all excellent, and really make the eyes stand out.
HairWell worth spending the money on in all areas.
ProductsIt is really far too many products out to even go through them, is better to be able to make informed choices. Look at ingredient listing; by US law the volume of ingredients must correlate with order listed, first thing listed is the main base then down. Water first in many cases means it's a cheap watered down product. Any mineral oil or petroleum listed, dump it – its crap. One can't really say that 'you get what you pay for' per se, as product pricing depends more on market positioning rather than quality, although higher prices are more indicative of quality in general. If you to a spa/salon, take any product recommendations with a grain of salt. Staff receives commission on sales. My staff recommends everything possible, as commissions can represent a good portion of their income
