What should I expect during my first massage therapy visit?

It is strongly recommended you arrive to your appointment 5-15 minutes early to acquaint yourself with the space, use the restroom, and to ensure ample time to get checked in and mentally prepared for your massage. A brief tour of the space will be provided from Evolutions staff to help you acclimate to the spa. Your massage therapist will call your name in the waiting area at the time of your service and end the massage at the scheduled time (60, 75, or 90 minutes). You will be undressing inside of the massage room due to temporary COVID safety protocols but typically would have a locker as well as a sauna and shower to use at your leisure. The massage therapist will show you to the room that you will be in and step outside with the door closed to give you privacy while undressing and climbing under the bed linens.

Do I have to be completely undressed?

We recommend you undress to your comfort level. It is easiest for a massage therapist to have smooth strokes when massaging a muscle if undergarments are not present but they can still give an effective massage should you choose to keep them on. Keep in mind, if undergarments are worn, massage oil or lotion could soil and stain the material.

Do I have to cover myself with a sheet or towel?

It is important to share with your massage therapist if you have any areas you would like to focus on, experience higher tension levels, and current injuries or areas of pain that should be handled with care or avoided.

What do I do during a massage treatment?

Regardless of what type of massage you choose, it is best to focus on breathing slowly in through your nose and out through your mouth with deep belly breaths. This type of breathing gives your body and mind permission to relax. If at any point of the massage you would like more or less pressure, it is important to verbalize your preference to get the most out of your experience.

Will the massage hurt?

Massages are characterized on a pressure instead of a pain scale and is subjective to each person. 1 = Mild pressure such as applying massage lotion, 5 = Moderate therapeutic pressure that should release a muscle but not register pain, 10 = Intense pressure that is unbearable which most likely is painful. The massage therapist will check in a few times during your massage about pressure which it is important to express the need for more or less pressure to receive the best massage. A Swedish massage should never be painful and involves light to moderate pressure(3-5 range) with long fluid movements to release your muscles and increase blood flow.

How often should I get a massage?

The frequency of scheduling massages depends on your stress levels, physical activity, and financial means. It is a common misconception, that massages are only to be experienced on a special occasion, although that is great reason to plan a massage but more importantly massage are a tool for muscle recovery and great to implement into a self-care routine. It is helpful to ask your massage therapist at the end of your treatment to suggest how often your body would benefit from a massage and to come up with a plan to implement a routine. A spa membership is a great way to budget for massages each month.

What are the benefits?

1. Increased circulation 2. Decreased muscle tension 3. Increased mobility and range of motion 4. Activation of parasympathetic nervous system

How will I feel after my massage treatment?

You could experience a bit of sore muscles shortly after your massage and up until the next day which is a common experience especially if you prefer higher pressures between the 6-9 range. If a muscle adhesion is released a small bruise can be noticed 1-3 days after a massage.

How many sessions will I need?

Once a month is a good place to start on a self-care routine for the general public focused who prioritizes their health and great to find a spa that offers membership and/or package options to help you budget financially. If you exercise regularly 2-5 times per week, depending on the intensity, a massage can be needed biweekly and in some instances weekly to address a specific concern or to complement a vigorous training program.

When should I NOT get a massage?

There are rare instances that a massage would not be helpful and to wait until a condition is cleared by your doctor or you are no longer experiencing symptoms. After an acute injury, surgery, car accident, presence of an active skin rash that will be massaged, or if you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms.

Testimonials | Best HydraFacial Therapy in Santa Barbara

Evolutions Medical & Day Spa delivered an exceptional experience with their Hydra Facial service. The expert care left me feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. I can’t recommend their Signature Hydra Facial enough!

Samantha

I’ve been a loyal customer of Evolutions for 14 years. Their Hydra Facials are amazing, and the treatments are quick and gentle. The spa’s atmosphere is top-notch!

Jules J.

My mom and I had a fantastic spa day at Evolutions. We started with a rejuvenating Hydra Facial and left feeling completely relaxed. It was a special experience from start to finish.

Calla

Evolutions Medical & Day Spa is my go-to for Hydra Facials. I’ve had many facials here, and I’m never disappointed. Highly recommend giving them a try.

Barbara R.

I had an outstanding experience at Evolutions for my Hydra Facial. The concierge was welcoming, and Erika was gentle and kind during the treatment. Left with glowing skin!

Anna

Evolutions is an oasis of peace and relaxation. The newly-designed spa area is beautiful. Their Hydra Facials are fantastic, and the staff is highly knowledgeable and professional.

Svetlana

The exceptional staff at Evolutions Medical & Day Spa provided heartwarming service. My sister and I had an incredible experience with her Hydra Facial and massage. We felt well taken care of and warmly welcomed. Thank you!

Amy

I’ve been a loyal Evolutions customer for years. Their Hydra Facial treatments are consistently pampering and professional. Even with a move to a larger location, the quality remains excellent. If you’re in Santa Barbara and seeking pampering, Evolutions is your best bet.

Debra

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