CT Spas see customers return, along with effects of pandemic skin neglect

John Breslin, regional director for spa operations for Mandara Spa at Mohegan Sun, noted that COVID restrictions have changed some of the ways things are being done at the spa, but he’s noticed skin care has been on the rise as the year comes to an end. 

“People are doing a lot more self-care and I am seeing an uptick in aesthetics, specifically facials,” he said. “People can talk to our aestheticians about what facial works best for their needs at the current time.”

Also, the cold, sometimes brutal winter weather can take a big toll on skin, as many people suffer from dry, cracked, or even bleeding skin during the winter months.

“When the temperature outside drops and the heat goes on, our skin health is always impacted,” Donahue said. “One of our best treatments to help relieve dry skin is our Milk, Honey and Lavender Treatment. Inspired by the local countryside, this nurturing body treatment will melt away tension, increase microcirculation and renew your skin. The experience begins with an indulgent massage using warm lavender infused honey to soothe tired, aching muscles. The honey is gently washed away using organic local milk to refine and nourish the body.” 

Ashley Beck, owner and aesthetician at La Spa in Mystic added that monthly facials with dermaplaning, a procedure that exfoliates your skin and gets rid of dirt and vellus hair, is recommended in winter. 

During the dry winter months, Breslin recommends facials that are more hydrating. “Typically, hydrating services are really good,” he said. “Most facials will have some type of skin analysis that determines what protocols are best for the guest, and most will have a cleansing component as well.”

At the Mayflower’s spa, two of the most essential skincare treatments are the Hyper-Customized Facial, a treatment that can focus on specific conditions such as dehydration, aging and acne; and Micropuncture Lab Facial, which uses superficial micro-stimulations at the intra–epidermal target zone.

“The Micro-stimulation of collagen synthesis through the skin allows optimal penetration of serum to deliver immediate and lasting results,” Donahue said. 

She said the East Meets West Facial, which incorporates acupuncture, is becoming increasingly popular at THE WELL. “This expansive, rejuvenating treatment begins with a targeted acupuncture session, including facial acupuncture which increases blood flow and stimulates the facial muscles to improve its tone and elasticity,” Donahue said. “It is followed by a warm herbal compress and gua sha which helps relieve tension in the face, reduces puffiness, inflammation and stimulates lymphatic drainage all while toning and sculpting your face.” 

Mandara Spa is seeing a rise in the luxurious facials. Some of the newer treatments gaining in popularity at La Spa spa are aesthetic lasers and bio-revitalization peels. Specifically, the InMode FDA approved laser, Morpheus8, which is microneedling plus radio frequency skin tightening. Plus the PRX-T33 “no peel, peel.”And one of the specialties at Elm City Wellness in New Haven is microdermabrasion, which resurfaces the skin with the aid of a gentle vacuum. The treatment removes dead and damaged cells at the skin’s surface.

 Regardless of the specific treatment, Beck noted the most essential skin care treatment is a monthly facial. 

“A monthly facial alone will treat the tone and texture of your skin as well as fine lines and wrinkles,” she said.