Why spas are noticing a big rise in male visitors
A weekend filled with luxurious facials, massages and a fluffy robe is most probably a lot of people's idea of heaven. Who wouldn't want to end their week indulging in some much-needed rest and relaxation at a spa? Sounds obvious, but for a long time the answer to that question was: men.
Packing an overnight bag and hitting the spa to unwind was once thought of as a strictly female past-time (perhaps with the exception of couples) and the idea of men indulging in a solo luxury break a rarity. However, over recent years the number of male spa-goers has dramatically increased. A study carried out by Lanserhof - an award-winning medical spa with over 30 years experience under its belt - showed that in the past 5 years 45% of its visitors attending the spa alone were men.
Indeed the boom of male grooming and modern-day 'self-care' attitudes may have something to do with it. As we've seen with the rise of male make-up brands and ranges within fashion and beauty giants such as Chanel, the taboo of men investing in their appearance (and overall well-being) is lifting.
"Unprecedented numbers of men are now living with rising stress levels thanks to growing work demands", says Dr. Georg Kettenhuber, Medical Director at Lanserhof Lans. "As a result of this, we have observed a growing awareness and invested interest among men in their personal wellness."
In London, ESPA is a leading spa brand with global status that offers male specific treatments, proving that men are beginning to realise that there's no need to be shy when taking pride in their appearance and well being. A therapist from ESPA at the Corinthia London noted: "Most of our male guests are booking in for deep muscle and deep pressure full body massages, back, face and scalp massage and sports massage primarily."
The best at-home spa products for men
This luxury bath oil will help ease stiff and sore muscles thanks to its Indian bay and clove bud calming oils that are both deeply soothing and warm to the skin.
Bulldog Original Face Scrub, ￡5
This male scrub contains aloe vera, camelina oil and green tea that will rejuvenate your skin by sloughing away dead skin cells leaving a smooth complexion.
Elemis De-Stress Massage Oil, ￡38.50
Elemis's massage oil is the perfect remedy for dissolving tension whilst nourishing your skin.
This face wash, revitalises skin with its vitamin-enriching formula and is great for those who have sensitive skin or are prone to beard-rash.
Clinique For Men Charcoal Face Wash, ￡19
A perfect face detox, that will cleanse your pores and leave your skin free of impurities. A great weekend treat to bring your skin back to life.
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