Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/393439
10 ASCP Skin Deep November/December 2014 only have a fraction of the space, but you can take away useful inspiration. A five-star treatment room will touch all five senses: sight, smell, sound, taste, and touch. Everything your clients touch should feel clean, inviting, natural, soft, and warm— blankets, carpeting, linens, towels, and more. You might offer purified water infused with berries, cucumber, or lemon for a pleasant and refreshing taste clients can associate with their visit. Everything clients see in your room should be relaxing, calming, and promote health and well-being. Dim lights, flickering LED candles, beautiful art or sculpture, and natural elements like wood, plants, or stone can soothe the eyes and mind. Offer books and magazines in your waiting area that encourage healthy living. Soft music or trickling fountains allow many clients to further tune out the outside world and deepen their relaxation. You may opt to diffuse essential oils or set fresh flowers in your treatment room (avoid flowers with a strong fragrance, though, to avoid triggering allergies). You might be surprised at how memorable all these little elements are to your clients. With each visit, these simple touches will become part of their memories of the amazing service you provide. Add the Extras Moving beyond the essentials, focus on what your clients will actually experience. If they never see your computer desk, don't spend a fortune on it. Artwork or other decorative items should be attractive but inexpensive—remember, facial clients have their eyes closed most of the time they are in your room! Clients usually wish to check their hair and clothing once the session is complete. They will appreciate a makeup mirror or a full-length mirror. A strategically placed mirror can also open up a small room, adding depth and light. FURNITURE When it comes to furnishings, aim for quality over quantity. An uncluttered room helps people relax and creates physical and mental space. Include enough furniture so clients can sit down, change, and store their belongings. I like to have some containers in the client's changing corner: a nice cedar box for shoes and a small decorative bowl for watches, earrings, and other jewelry. Your containers might be glassware, pottery, or wood; choose the medium that best suits your office esthetic. Don't forget an umbrella stand if you live in a rainy climate! Purchasing used furniture can save you a bundle and clients will never know the difference. Terrific deals can be found on Craigslist, eBay, and at garage sales. Just make sure the items are in very good condition. View them in person if possible (and include a good smell test!) before buying. LIGHTING Your room should be bright enough for clients to move around safely, but dim enough so their eyes and mind can begin to relax. Adding a dimmer switch is a nice way to upgrade your existing lighting. Flameless candles are a nice touch, too; they give the ambience of a warm, flickering candle without the fire hazard. A five-star treatment room will touch all five senses: sight, smell, sound, taste, and touch. Photo courtesy of Kate Gardiner Photography