Spa Therapist

Spa therapists offer therapies and treatments such as:

• hydrotherapy, flotation, whirlpool and steam baths
• massages
• body treatments
• facials
• manicures and pedicures
• specialised treatments such as light therapy.

Before starting any treatments, therapists talk to their clients to get an understanding of their needs and expectations and to complete a health questionnaire with them.

Spa therapists may also prepare and clean the spa environment, and maintain a supply of products in their treatment areas.

Full-time spa therapists work between 37 and 40 hours a week, often including weekend and evening work. There are opportunities for part-time and flexible hours.

Individual therapies take place in treatment rooms or private cubicles. Giving treatments can involve long periods of standing and bending. People with allergies or sensitive skin may find that some products irritate their hands.

Salaries range from around £12,000 to £40,000 a year or more for managers.

A spa therapist should:

• have a caring attitude and an ability to put people at ease
• be tactful and aware of the need for confidentiality
• have a smart appearance and good personal hygiene
• have time management skills to ensure appointments run to schedule
• have an interest in issues that affect physical appearance and well-being, such as stress, ageing, lifestyle, exercise and diet.

This is a growing industry. Spas can be part of the facilities on offer at holiday resorts, hotels, fitness centres and health farms throughout the UK.

Spa therapists need qualifications in the treatments or therapies they intend to offer.

Most spa therapists will have at least a BTEC National Diploma in beauty therapy sciences or NVQ Level 3 in spa therapy, or equivalent health or beauty qualifications.

Many young people enter the career by working in a salon, gaining experience and adding to the therapies they can offer. An Advanced Apprenticeship in spa therapy may be available.

Spa therapists can extend their skills by gaining additional qualifications.

They may choose to move into supervisory or management posts. They could also become a trainer or lecturer, or move into a wide range of beauty-related occupations.

Further details