Spa Treatments Explained: Massages, Wraps, Facials and More
A plain-language guide to the most common spa treatments — what each one involves, what it is good for, and how to choose.
Reading a spa menu for the first time can feel like decoding a foreign language. What is the difference between Swedish and deep-tissue massage? Is a body wrap worth it? This plain-language guide walks through the most common treatments so you can book with confidence.
Massages
Massage is the heart of most spa menus, and the styles vary widely.
Swedish massage
The classic, all-purpose massage. Long, flowing strokes and gentle kneading relax the whole body and improve circulation. If you are new to massage or simply want to unwind, start here.
Deep-tissue massage
Firmer and more focused, deep-tissue work targets knots and chronic tension in the deeper muscle layers. It is ideal after strenuous activity or for stubborn shoulder and back tightness, though it can feel intense.
Hot-stone massage
Smooth, heated stones are placed on the body and used to massage. The warmth helps muscles release more easily, making this a deeply soothing option for cold days or tense muscles.
Aromatherapy massage
A gentler massage combined with essential oils chosen for their effects — lavender to calm, citrus to energise. As much about mood as muscle.
Facials
A facial cleanses, exfoliates and nourishes the skin of the face. A good therapist tailors the products to your skin type, whether dry, oily or sensitive. Facials often include a massage of the face and shoulders and leave the skin clearer and brighter. In Morocco, facials frequently feature argan oil and other natural ingredients.
Body treatments
Body scrubs and gommage
An exfoliating treatment that removes dead skin, leaving the body smooth. The Moroccan hammam scrub is a traditional version; spas also offer salt and sugar scrubs.
Body wraps
After exfoliation, the body is coated in a nourishing mixture — clay, mud, seaweed or moisturising creams — and wrapped to let it absorb. Wraps hydrate the skin and can feel wonderfully cocooning.
How to choose
Start with your goal. For pure relaxation, a Swedish or aromatherapy massage is perfect. For muscle relief, choose deep-tissue or hot-stone. For your skin, book a facial or a scrub-and-wrap combination. And if you are in Morocco, consider pairing any of these with a traditional hammam for the most complete experience. When in doubt, tell the therapist what you are hoping for — the best treatment is the one matched to your needs.