Spa therapy is a rewarding career that combines cosmetology, massage therapy, esthetology, and performing manicures, pedicures, aromatherapy, and hydrotherapy, among other spa specialties. Aspiring spa therapists often enter the field after receiving training as massage therapists or cosmetologists, or after completing a spa therapy course of study, but there is no set path to becoming a spa therapist. Aspiring spa therapists must obtain licensing in accordance with country or state requirements after completing training and receiving a diploma from an accredited beauty or spa therapy school. To work as a spa therapist, graduates must find an entry-level position at a spa and refine their spa skills while working alongside experienced spa therapists. Once a spa therapist has gained experience, he or she can work as an employee or as an independent contractor for resorts, spas, hotels, or cruise ships.
To be competitive in the job market, a candidate for the position of spa therapist must have experience performing a wide range of spa services. Traditional Swedish massage technique, anatomy, physiology, draping, and business practices are all covered in massage therapy schools. A spa therapist will learn specialized techniques such as reiki, shiatsu, deep tissue massage, stone therapy, and pregnancy massage while on the job. If a student decides to attend cosmetology school to become a spa therapist, he or she may learn how to cut and style hair, perform chemical hair services, use nail technology, and possibly give facials, perform skincare services, and remove hair.
Anyone interested in becoming a spa therapist must be willing to work long hours for low pay at first in order to build a loyal clientele. Spa therapists must be willing to work weekends, when the majority of spa customers have free time. While some spa therapists work as employees for spas and resorts, others may be considered independent contractors who must learn how to run and manage a business, including how to obtain a business license, obtain insurance, and file taxes. Spa therapists who work for themselves are typically responsible for purchasing their own supplies, keeping their own records, and setting their own business hours.
After gaining experience and building a clientele as a spa therapist, typical pay can be competitive with other full-time jobs. Some spa therapists will want to further their education in spa therapy management or obtain certifications to work with specific products. This will improve a spa therapist’s marketability and earning potential, as well as give them the opportunity to manage a resort or spa.