This is what a 90-minute head spa at our Basking Ridge retreat actually looks like, in order, including the parts nobody mentions — where you put your bag, what happens to your clothes, and how long you have at the end.
From arrival to leaving
- Arrival and tea (5 minutes) You are shown in, given slippers, and offered tea. There is somewhere secure for your things. If it is your first visit there is a short form about allergies, medication, and anything we should avoid.
- Consultation and scalp check (3 minutes) Your therapist looks at your scalp and hair and asks how it usually behaves — dry, oily, flaky, product build-up, recently coloured. This decides which products are used.
- Settling in (2 minutes) A gown goes over your top to keep it dry. You recline in the treatment chair with your head supported. You stay fully clothed underneath.
- Dry scalp, neck and shoulder massage (20 minutes) Slow acupressure across the whole scalp, into the temples and the base of the skull, then down through the neck and shoulders. This is the stage most people remember and quite a few sleep through.
- Warm-water cleanse (10 minutes) A double cleanse under flowing warm water. Water temperature and pressure are set to what you find comfortable — say if you want it warmer or gentler.
- Deep-conditioning treatment (5 minutes to apply) A treatment mask or oil is worked through the lengths and left to sit while the next stages run.
- Foot reflexology (20 minutes) Sustained pressure-point work across both feet while the conditioner does its job. You remove only shoes and socks.
- Mini facial (20 minutes) Cleanse, tone, hydrate, and an eye treatment, with a facial massage as the products go on.
- Rinse and blow-dry (15 minutes) The treatment is rinsed out and your hair is dried and styled to your preference.
- Tea and leaving You are offered tea again. There is no rush — most people sit for a few minutes. Payment and any rebooking happen at reception.
What should I bring or wear?
Nothing in particular. Wear whatever is comfortable — a gown goes over your top for the cleanse. There is no need to wash your hair beforehand, and skipping heavy styling product on the day helps.
How should I plan my day around it?
Allow about 15 minutes beyond the treatment length in total. We would not suggest booking something you need to be sharp for immediately afterwards — the most common feedback we get is that people wished they had left the rest of the afternoon free.
Common questions
Do I need to wash my hair before a head spa?
No — and slightly unwashed hair is easier to work with. Skip heavy styling product on the day if you can.
Can I talk during the treatment, or should I stay quiet?
Entirely up to you. Some clients chat throughout, most go quiet after the first ten minutes. Your therapist will follow your lead.
What if I need to use the bathroom mid-treatment?
Just say — it is completely fine and happens regularly. The treatment pauses and picks up where it left off.
Is a 60-minute head spa worth booking, or should I wait until I can do 90?
The 60-minute includes the scalp massage, cleanse, conditioning and blow-dry, which is the core of the treatment. Book it rather than not coming. The 90 adds reflexology and the mini facial.
