Day Spa Glossary / Glossary of Spa & Wellness Terms

Abhyanga:
An Ayurvedic process. A deeply penetrating herbal oil massage that relaxes body and mind, breaks up impurities, and stimulates circulation of blood and lymph. Aids in detoxifying tissues and increase bodily awareness.
Acai:
Brazilian fruit, rich in nutrients and antioxidants used to prevent premature aging and promote cardiovascular health.
Acid Mantle:
The natural acidity of the skin and hair that helps prevent bacterial growth.
Acne Vulgaris:
Grade 3 acne, inflamed lesions and congestion
Actenic Keratosis:
Precancerous growths that develop from reoccurring sun damage.
Acupressure:
A type of bodywork that involves applying pressure to specific points on the body with the fingers, knuckles, and palms to relieve pain, reduce stress, and promote optimum health. This modality was derived in China some 5,000 years ago. Acupressure is part of the holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine that also includes acupuncture.
Acupressure:
Finger massage that releases tension and improves the flow of energy (chi) throughout the body by applying pressure to the "energy points" or meridians in the body.
Acupressure:
Traditional Oriental pressure-point massage used to increase the body's flow of energy.
Acupuncture:
An ancient healing therapy that places tiny needles just below the skin's surface at certain meridians in order to help remove energy blockages and restore health.
Acupuncture:
A part of traditional Chinese medicine, this modality employs the body's own energy to help heal itself. Working with the same points as in acupressure ' an acupuncturist will use tiny, fine needles to increase the flow of energy in the body to relieve pain, reduce stress and promote optimum health.
Acupuncture:
An ancient oriental healing technique discovered and developed more than three thousand years ago, acupuncture is based on Taoist philosophy. The aim is to balance the energy meridians to permit the body to "heal itself. A relatively painless technique, it is administered by inserting fine needles at key points of the body that relate to different organs in order to relieve muscular, neurological and arthritic problems, cure disease and relieve pain.
Acupuncture:
Traditional Oriental healing methods based on Taoist philosophy; needles are inserted into specific points on the body for healing purposes.
Adjuvant Therapy:
A treatment given in conjunction with the desired primary treatment in order to enhance the overall effectiveness of the primary treatment.
Adrenal Gland:
An endocrine gland located on top of the kidneys.
Aerobics:
Rhythmic exercises performed to music that stimulates the aerobic capacity of the heart and lungs, burn calories, and improve endurance.
Aerobics:
Any sustained rhythmic exercise (walking, jogging, dancing) that uses the large muscle groups and increases the efficiency of the circulatory and respiratory systems.
Aesclepions:
Greek healing centers named after the philosopher and healer, Aescleopios; these centers are thought to be evidence of ancient spa and healing techniques.
Aesthetic Medicine:
Use of equipment, such as lasers, to remove scars and blemishes to leave skin looking youthful; administered by a medical professional within their scope of practice.
Albino:
A person with no pigment in eyes, hair, and skin.
Algotherapy:
A seaweed detoxification wrap.
Algotherapy:
A heated seaweed bath that is a form of thalassotherapy. The seaweed acts as an anti-inflammatory treatment and can reduce pain.
Alkalarian:
A person and/or diet that emphasizes use of alkaline food, drink, and lifestyle in order to maintain a balanced acid-alkaline body chemistry for optimal health and vitality.
Alkali:
A substance used to neutralize acids; capable of making soaps from fats.
Alkaline:
A non-acid substance, or base, with a pH greater than 7; usually contains above average amounts of sodium, potassium, magnesium, or calcium.
Alopecia:
Hair deficiency; baldness.
Alternative therapies:
Treatments based on speculative or abstract reasoning as compared to common practice.
Amenity or Resort Spa:
A spa facility located within a resort or luxury hotel.
Amino Acid:
An essential building block of proteins.
Aminomethyl Propanediol:
Substance used to adjust ph levels in cosmetics
Amonium Laureth/Sulfate:
A detergent cleansing agent usually derived from coconut, said to be mild, gentle and effective
Anabolism:
Constructive metabolism; the process of converting living matter to living substances.
Anagen Phase:
The early phase of the hair cycle wherein hair synthesis takes place.
Anaphoresis:
The process of forcing liquids into body tissues from the negative to positive pole.
Androgen:
Hormones that control the development of male characteristics; also the hormone that causes abnormal hair growth.
Anerobics:
Opposite of aerobic exercise, the body uses more oxygen than it takes in, such as in weightlifting or bodybuilding.
Angioma:
A tumor formed of lymphatics and blood vessels.
Anidrosis:
Perspiration deficiency.
Anode:
The positive portion of an electric force
Antibiotic:
Substance produced by microorganisms that destroy or inhibit other competitive organisms
Antioxidant:
Biochemicals that slow down free radicals by donating an electron.
Antiseptic:
Chemical agent that prevents the growth of bacteria
Aqua (water) aerobics:
Aerobic exercises performed in a swimming pool where the water provides support and resistance.
Aqua Aerobics:
Aerobic exercises performed in a pool of water using the support and resistance of the water to burn fat, strengthen bones, and increase cardiovascular activity. The buoyancy of the water reduces the chance of injuring joints or muscles.
Aqua Massage:
Hydrotherapy technique in which a person is submerged in a tub of water and massaged by underwater jets, or hand held jets used by a therapist.
Aquaerobics/Acquacize:
Exercise using water resistance to strengthen and tone muscles.
Aqueous:
Pertaining to water, or watery.
Arbutin:
A natural skin lightening agent consisting of glucose and hydroquinone; derived from bearberry extract.
Aromatherapy:
The use of essential oils to provide valuable therapeutic benefits for the body and mind. These benefits are usually achieved through either inhalation or application of the diluted oil into the skin.
Aromatherapy:
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils, extracted from plants, trees, and herbs, for therapeutic purposes. Application during treatments such as massage, facials, body wraps or hydro-baths assist with acute conditions, including; acne, blood circulation, detoxification, digestion, and overall stress reduction.
Aromatherapy:
The use of fragrant, natural, botanical essential oils from plants, leaves, bark, roots, seeds, resins and flowers as a healing art. Aromatherapy refreshes and relaxes the skin while soothing the mind by helping to induce a sense of well-being. Each individual essence is used to produce a specific beneficial effect. Used in massage and facials.
Aromatherapy:
This practice relates to therapeutic healing by utilizing the fragrances of natural essential oils to stimulate the senses. Aromatherapy refreshes and relaxes the skin and soothes the mind while stimulating circulatory and respiratory functions. Individual essences are used to produce a specific and beneficial effect.
Aromatherapy:
Spa treatments, such as massage and body wraps that incorporate fragrant essential oils with various therapeutic benefits.
Asanas:
Yoga poses or postures.
Asepsis:
An absence of pathogenic bacteria.
Ashiatsu:
Ashi meaning "foot" and "atsu" meaning "pressure", in this luxurious deep tissue massage the therapist walks along the client's back.
Aslan Therapy:
Developed Dr. Ana Aslan of Romania as an anti-aging formula and procedure, using Gerovital H3 and Aslavital or Novocain.
Asteatosis:
An absence or deficiency or sebaceous secretions.
Astrigent:
Substance that dries or tightens the surface in on which it is applied.
Atom:
The smallest quantity of an element.
Atomize:
Reduce to a fine spray or minute particles.
Atrophy:
A process in which body tissues waste away due to lack of nutrients.
Auricle:
The external ear; also the upper cavities of the hearth.
Axilla:
Under arm hair.
Ayurveda Treatment:
An ancient Indian folk medicine that employs a large variety of treatments by waters to restore and revitalize the body. Ayurveda utilizes the curative properties of plants, herbs and essential oils to improve the skin's health and relieve the stress, tension and emotion of daily life.
Ayurveda:
Founded in India some 5000 years ago, and recognized as one of the oldest medical disciplines, this modality now stretches worldwide. It incorporates a variety of techniques from meditation to massage and from diet to herbal medicines. The Ayurveda belief is that health results from harmony between mind, body and spirit.
Ayurveda:
An Eastern Indian medicinal philosophy using herbal treatments and hot oils, combined with meditation, nutrition and aromatherapy to create an overall balance of self. The Ayurvedic body functions, called doshas, consist of Vata, referring to blood, circulation, and healing; Pitta, referring to heat and metabolism; and Kapha, the structure of one's spiritual and philosophical self.
Ayurvedic Massage:
Similar to the Swedish massage, but with specially formulated fragrant oils, mixed specifically to a client's doshas.
Bad:
The German term for bath. Many German spa towns use "Bad" in their name to refer to the town's emphasis on their mineral springs.
Baden bei Wien:
A spa town located near Vienna, Austria
Baden:
The German term for bathing
Baden-Baden:
A famous spa town located in Germany
Balneotherapy:
One of the oldest medical procedures, balneotherapy utilizes natural elements such as hot springs and mineral waters. It's used for such things as pain relief, increase circulation and stimulate the bodies natural healing mechanisms.
Balneotherapy:
The use of water to improve circulation, strengthen the immune system, and reduce pain and stress.
Balneotherapy:
A therapeutic procedure using purified, mineral, or salt water to improve circulation and the immune system, and relieve various ailments, such as stress and arthritis.
Basel Cell Carcinoma:
Cancer of the basel cell.
Basti:
An Ayurvedic herbal cleansing treatment designed to pull toxins from the colon.
Baths:
The act of soaking or cleansing the body, as in water or stream.
Benign:
Mild; non-cancerous.
Bentonite:
Clay used as an absorbent in cosmetics.
Benzophenones:
Sunscreen used in cosmetics to combat UV rays.
Beta-Carotene:
A precursor that helps form retinol (vitamin A)
Biocatalyst:
A substance, usually involving enzymes, vitamins or hormones, that modifies a physiological process.
Bioenergetics:
A system of therapy that combines breathing and body exercises, psychological therapy, and the free expression of impulses and emotions and that is held to increase well -being by releasing blocked physical and psychic energyBioenergetics - a system of therapy that combines breathing and body exercises, psychological therapy, and the free expression of impulses and emotions and that is held to increase well -being by releasing blocked physical and psychic energy
Biofeedback:
A process used to better understand human behavior in order to develop modification programs to promote well being. The process involves tracking physiological activities and habit patterns using electronic instruments, and recording the data in order to help people better understand their body and change any unwanted patterns.
Bioflavonoid:
Large range of substances containing many fruits and vegetables know to have strong antioxidants to fight cancer, and regulate gene activity.
Blackhead:
An open comedone; plug of sebaceous matter.
B-Lymphocytes:
Immune system cells that produce antibodies
Body Brushing:
Dry brushing the skin to remove dead skin cells and stimulate circulation. Also called dry brushing.
Body Composition Analysis:
An evaluation process used to establish the percentage ratio of body fat to lean muscle; assists in determining individual nutrition and exercise programs.
Body Composition Test:
Computerized evaluation of lean body mass determining the percentage of body fat.
Body Polishing:
Use of various scrubs to exfoliate skin and remove dead skin cells and cleanse the body.
Body Scrub:
A full-body treatment using products such as sea salt mixed with natural oils to assist in the removal of dead skin layers and increase blood circulation. A Body Scrub is sometimes referred to as a Body Polish or a Body Glow.
Body Wrap (Herbal Wrap):
Treatment that involves wrapping the body in heated cloths soaked in special oils and herbs to promote detoxification and healing. Usually part of a longer treatment regimen.
Boil:
Subcutaneous abscess.
Borage Seed Extract:
Contains anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Boreh:
Balinese cleansing and exfoliating body treatment using herbs, seeds, grains, special oils and grated carrots to stimulate and increases circulation. Not recommended for pregnant women.
Bowen Therapy:
A non-intrusive therapy using gentle moves on soft tissue at key pressure points to help the body to re-balance itself, release tension and blockages, and to help in the natural healing process.
Brush & Tone:
Dry-brushing exfoliating of skin to remove its dead layers and impurities and stimulate circulation.
Brush and Tone:
Body brushing treatment followed by an application of hydrating oils or moisturizers to soften skin.
Buffer:
Solution that reacts with acids and bases to limit changes in pH.
Bulla:
Blister.
Callous:
Skin that has thickened, usually on the feet and hands at points of pressure or friction.
Cam:
CAM is the acronym for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Complemenatry and Alternative refer to such therapies and lifestyle sciences as homeopathy, Aryurveda, chiropractic, aromatherapy, therapetic tourch massage and energy work to name just a few.
Cartilage:
A non-vascular connective tissues; softer than bone.
Catagen Phase:
The transitional phase between hair growth and the inactive hair follicle phase.
Catalyst:
Substance that increases the yield of a chemical reaction without becoming part of the reaction product.
Cataphoreisis:
The process of forcing medicinal substances into deep tissues using galvanic current from positive to negative.
Cathiodermie:
Low-voltage electrical stimulation on the face; used to oxygenate the skin and invigorate circulation.
Cellulite Treatment:
This holistic treatment assists with circulation and lymph flow and moves the toxins out of the body, allowing for a more shapely and contoured leg and buttock. This also helps to aid edema and allows for more movement in the knees, hip joints and ankles. This treatment works best if done in a cure series of six. In order to achieve the maximum results, home care is a must.
Chair Massage:
A brief backrub usually performed in a portable massage chair to relieve stress and increase well-being; common to workplace settings.
Chakra:
Refers to the seven energy centers of the body. Taken from the Sanskrit word meaning "wheel".
Chakra:
Energy center. There are seven Chakras that are interconnected. One achieves the state of health and well being when the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of oneself are balanced and in a state of harmony. Chakras run along the base of the spine to the crown of the head. Meditative disciplines and therapies such as reiki, color and light, craniosacral, crystal and stones are believed to rebalance the chakras.
Chakra:
Ayurvedic for energy center. Many presume there are seven chakras that are all interconnected. When balanced, the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of "self" are in a state of harmony, contributing to a state of wellness and health.
Chemical Peel:
A medical procedure to remove damaged outer layers of the skin through the use of a chemical solution.
Chemical Peel:
Chemically removes the top layer of dried or damaged skin to reveal a more even texture and fresh skin layer.
Chi Kung / Chi Kong / Qigong:
A Chinese energy exercise where breathing and body movement recharge energy.
Chi Nei Tsang:
A massage of the abdomen using circular strokes to alleviate bloating and constipation, and improve digestion.
Chi-Kung:
(see Qigong)
Cillia:
The eyelashes.
Circuit Training:
A high-energy aerobic workout combined with weight resistance equipment in a series of stations, stopping only briefly before each exercise to keep your heart rate within an acceptable range.
Circuit Training:
Exercise routine using weight training equipment that combines resistance with aerobics.
Clay Wrap:
Natural clay is applied to skin to remove toxins and ease muscle pain.
Clinical Esthetician:
A skin care specialist in a medical environment trained to work with skin ailments.
Club Hair:
Non-living hair that is detached from the lower part of the hair follicle, after telogen phase. See also telogen phase.
Cold Plunge:
Person is immersed in a pool of cold water after a sauna treatment to increase circulation.
Collagen Facial:
Freeze-dried collagen is used to plump the skin to fill in the fine lines acquired by stress, sunbathing, or the environment.
Collagen:
The main connective tissue of the skin; responsible for strengthening skin.
Colon Hydrotherapy:
Colon hydrotherapy is one of the most effective means of cleansing the lower intestinal tract and detoxifying the overall system. Waste material that has remained in the colon for some time contributes to many health problems because the waste material causes a toxic condition in the body. If you suffer from headaches, constipation, abdominal bloating or gas pain, irritable bowel syndrome, candida, parasites, food allergies or skin problems, you may be suffering from a toxic colon.
Colon Therapy:
A high colonic enema that cleanses using water. Benefits include detoxification, cleansing of the blood, and the stimulation of internal organs.
Colonic:
The process of cleansing the colon of toxins with an enema developed specifically for the individual.
Color Therapy:
Based on the idea that certain color frequencies hold specific healing energy; applying certain color rays to various areas of the body may correct physical imbalances and promote healing. It is also believed that color induces mood changes in a person, for example increases or suppresses appetite, calming effects, etc.
Complementary Medicine:
Non-traditional forms of medicinal treatments such as herbs, vitamins, and massage; used to relieve various maladies.
Compress:
a folded cloth or pad applied so as to press upon a body part.
Constitutive Skin Color:
Natural skin color.
Contouring:
Deep toning of muscles using calisthenics.
Cortex:
Middle layer of the hair shaft.
Cosmeceuticals:
Cosmetic products that offer therapeutic benefits, such as nutrients and anti-aging elements, along with beautifying and enhancing the skin.
Cosmetic Acne:
Acne associated with the use of cosmetics and comedogenic ingredients;also known as cosmetica.
Craniosacral Massage:
A gentle hands-on massage centering on the head.
Craniosacral Therapy:
Using a light touch, the therapist monitors the rhythm of the craniosacral system of the body to detect potential restrictions and imbalances in the body. Using delicate manual techniques to release those problem areas, the client feels relaxed and energized. This treatment is especially effective for relief of headaches, pain, dizziness, and in rebalancing the body following surgery and injuries.
Craniosacral Therapy:
Massage therapy for the head and neck.
Cranio-Sacral Therapy:
A gentle, non-invasive bodywork that directly influences the brain and spinal cord. It is used to locate and release tension, calm over-stressed systems and over-stimulated nerves.
Creative Visualization:
A relaxation technique that involves the use of mental energy to transform and greatly improve health, beauty, prosperity, and the fulfillment of one's desires. It is usually done while lying in a quiet, dark room while an instructor asks the participants to imagine themselves in a serene, relaxing environment eventually bringing the participants to a state of deep relaxation.
Crenotherapy:
Treatments incorporating vapor, mineral water, and mud.
Cryoelectrophoresis:
Technique for deep conveyance of frozen natural active substances through the skin, to reach a specific target, using electrical impulses.
Cryogenic:
Used to describe systems at very low temperatures.
Cuticle:
The tissue that connects the skin of the finger and the nail plate; also called eponychium.
Cybex:
Patented exercise equipment used for isokinetic strength training.
Cytology:
The study of cells at the microscopic level.
Cytoplasm:
Living matter that surrounds the nucleus of a cell.
Dancercise:
Modified modern dance steps and movements to provide an aerobic work out.
Dancercize:
Aerobic routine using dance
Day Spa:
A facility offering a variety of spa treatments performed by trained professionals; salons that offer spa treatments are referred to as "Salon and Day Spa" , "Spalon" or similar. Visitors can come for a few hours during the day. Overnight accommodations are not available.
Dead Sea Mud Treatment:
An application (as in a wrap or soak) of mineral-rich mud from the Dead Sea used to detoxify skin and body, and to ease painful symptoms caused by such conditions as rheumatism and arthritis.
Dead Sea Mud Treatment:
The application of mineral-rich mud from the Dead Sea to detoxify the skin and the body and to relieve rheumatic and arthritic pain.
Dead Sea Mud Treatment:
Detoxification and exfoliation process using mineral-rich mud from the Dead Sea.
Deep (Tissue) Muscle Massage:
A type of massage designed to free congestion of the muscle attachments. Deep work brings about realignment of postural distortions and restores proper range of motion. Liberation of emotional tensions may also result. Muscle function and awareness are balanced, and elasticity is revived.
Deep Tissue Massage:
See Sports Massage
Deep Tissue Massage:
This type of massage is performed to eliminate knots, locked up areas, and to free up congestion of the muscle attachments. Deep works brings about realignment of postural distortions; restores proper range of motion and may also relieve emotional tension. Muscle function and awareness are balances, and elasticity is revived.
Dental Day Spas:
Day spas that provide dental services such as teeth whitening and porcelain veneers in addition to regular salon services such as facials and manicures.
Dental Spa and/or Spa Dentistry:
A facility whose dental program is run under the strict supervision of a licensed dentist. Services are provided that integrate both traditional and non-traditional dental and spa treatments (such as massage therapy, skincare and body treatments).
Dermabrasion:
Procedure for smoothing skin by abrading the outer layer with a rotating metal wire.
Dermal Epidermal Junction:
The portion of the skin where the dermis and epidermis connect.
Dermal Papilla:
Contains capillaries that give nourishment to hair.
Dermaplanting:
Procedure for smoothing skin by shaving off the outer layer of the skin.
Dermatosis:
Any form of skin disease.
Desert Stone Massage:
This massage utilizes heated and cooled stones (thermo therapy) and essential oils that are applied to the body in various way to bring about relief to stiff and sore muscles.
Desquamation:
Cellular renewal process of the epidermis.
Destination Spa:
A spa, often times located in a secluded or desirable vacation spot, that provides all the services of a regular spa as well as accommodation for longer stays.
Destination Spa:
A spa whose sole purpose is to provide guests with lifestyle improvement and health enhancement through professionally administered spa services, physical fitness, spa cuisine exclusively served, educational programming, and on-site accommodations.
Destination Spa:
An entire program of spa treatments laid out over the course of a few days. Overnight accommodations are available, and guests can participate in weight loss programs, exercise and healing treatments, along with the usual pampering. Guests at these facilities are all on a spa program, the only program that is being offered.
Detoxification:
The elimination of toxin build up in the body through lymphatic massage using essential oils. The application of mineral-rich muds, or dry brushing techniques assist the body in stimulating lymph, and aid in the elimination of toxins. Drinking a litre of water per day will assist in flushing toxins, as will steam baths and high aerobic exercise.
Detoxification:
The process of cleansing the body of accumulated poisons often from over-taxation due to addictive behaviors.
Detoxification:
The metabolic process by which the toxic qualities of a poison or toxin are reduced by the body.
Dietitian (Registered Dietitian, R.D.):
A food and nutrition expert qualified in the practice of dietetics. A registered dietitian denotes a four-year college graduate and registration by the Credentialing Board of Dietetic Registration.
Dihydrotestosterone:
Derivative of testosterone believed to be responsible for increased sebum production in the sebaceous glands.
Direct Current:
An even, uninterrupted flow of current.
Doshas:
Refers to the three Ayurvedic body functions, consisting of Vata, referring to blood, circulation, and healing; Pitta, heat and metabolism; and Kapha, the structure of one's spiritual and philosophical self.
Dry Brush:
A brushing of the skin with a natural-bristle brush to remove dead skin and impurities while stimulating circulation and the lymph system. It's often used in the preparation of the body for massages, wraps or body masks.
Dulse Scrub:
Exfoliating body treatment using dulse seaweed powder, hydrated with water or essential oils.
Duo Massage:
Synchronous massage treatment performed by two therapists on one person.
Dysplastic Nevi:
A mole with an atypical appearance.
Ear Candling:
Ear candles are long hollow tubes made of wrapped muslin that is coated in beeswax. The tapered end of the candle is gently placed into the ear, forming a seal. When the other end of the candle is lit, smoke from the candle tube aids in creating a warm "vacuum" that draws out impurities from the ear canal. Ear candling can help with sinusitis, sinus headaches, hearing loss, tinnitus and vertigo and is a good maintenance treatment for just about everyone.
Edema:
An excessive accumulation of serous fluid in tissue spaces or a body cavity.
Effleurage:
Massage technique involving quick, long strokes at the beginning and end of a treatment.
Effleurage:
Quick, long massage strokes used in the beginning and end of the treatment.
Electrolysis:
Decomposing a chemical compound using electricity.
Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT):
This unique form of "tapping acupuncture" balances the client's meridian system to relieve psychological stress and physiological pain. EFT has been clinically successful in thousands of cases of trauma and abuse, stress and anxiety, fears and phobias, depression, addictive cravings and hundreds of physical symptoms, including headaches, body pains, arthritis, weight loss and more.
Endermologie:
A treatment that temporarily reduces the appearance of cellulite through the use of a machine that uses rollers and gentle suction to deep massage affected

Day Spa Glossary / Glossary of Spa & Wellness Terms

Day Spa Glossary / Glossary of Spa & Wellness Terms

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