Hydrotherapy

While other types of ancillary services are labor-intensive, hydrotherapy—the therapeutic use of water-is popular in tanning salons because machines do most of the work.

Rather than a massage therapist applying hand pressure to sore or tight muscles, water massage or hydromassage involves heated water applied by therapeutic jets. Heat has been known to soothe the body. Also, massage stimulates blood circulation, which helps a person achieve a more even tan, says one industry expert.

Water is contained in rubber and plastic liners, so users can stay fully clothed. Since there is no disrobing, clients feel more comfortable; plus, salon owners don’t need to put the machine in a private room, thus freeing the room for a tanning unit or other profit center.

Hydrotherapy massage units are evolving into sleek, attractive additions to the salon. Manufacturers have improved the technology of user controls, allowing for a wider variety of massage programs and more personalized sessions.

A hydrotherapy machine can be used as an eye-catching piece of equipment to attract customers. By continuing to upgrade salon quality, most tanning salons will gain market share.

Steam is another method of hydrotherapy. Steam can provide much the same benefits of hydromassage or body wraps: toxin cleansing, increased circulation and inch loss. It also can be used as a pretreatment to enhance other body services.

Since hot tubs and saunas aren’t practical in tanning salons where square feet are at a premium, manufacturers have developed space-saving machines that produce similar end results. Some manufacturers offer machines that incorporate steam with a number of other therapeutic effects in one session, such as heat, oxygen and massage.

The No. 1 cause of the development of the signs of aging is dehydration, says an industry veteran. By integrating steam, infrared and oxygen therapy into the tanning regimen, the client is re-nourishing the skin with what it needs most to stay soft, supple and glowing: moisture and oxygen.