For many curvy and plus-sized women, the experience of visiting a spa is often memorable, but it can vary dramatically. It can either be a delightful and welcoming retreat or an uncomfortable experience that lacks inclusivity and respect. While every individual has unique experiences, one common concern among plus-sized individuals is the lack of comfort and accommodation in spa environments. Issues such as robes that are too small and the unwelcome attention from onlookers can dampen what should be a relaxing experience. Thankfully, there are strategies to mentally prepare for your visit and to discover plus-size friendly spas that prioritize comfort and inclusion!

Here, we present your ultimate guide to navigating the world of plus-size friendly spas with confidence!

Essential Preparations for Your Spa Visit

While it shouldn’t be necessary to jump through hoops just to enjoy a moment of relaxation, taking a few preparatory steps can significantly enhance your experience at plus-size friendly spas.

Make a Call Ahead to Confirm Inclusive Size Options.

When booking your appointment, inquire about the availability of inclusive sizes for robes, flip-flops, and other spa attire. It’s important to note that many curvy and tall women have larger feet, and they deserve options that fit comfortably. Let me share a personal anecdote: I vividly remember my mother’s disappointment when she couldn’t find her size at a spa, a feeling that resonates deeply with many women. Therefore, it’s crucial to ask what sizes are available prior to your visit. If they can’t accommodate, don’t hesitate to ask if you can bring your own robe or flip-flops to ensure you feel at ease.

Prioritize Your Mental Well-Being, Especially for First Visits.

It’s essential not to assume that all women feel insecure about being seen, as many of us embrace our bodies unapologetically. However, for curvy women, our size often invites unsolicited stares when we confidently enter spaces that have not always been accommodating to plus-size bodies. Embracing the spa experience may take a mental shift, and it’s perfectly fine if it requires several attempts to feel truly comfortable. Remember, you have every right to speak up if you encounter dismissive or unwelcoming service from staff members.

Enjoying Your Time at Plus Size Friendly Spas

Now that you’re prepared, it’s time to indulge in your self-care regimen.

Whether you opt for a deep-tissue massage, body polish, or facial, always remember that you are the client, and your comfort is paramount. Don’t hesitate to request adjustments to your treatment—whether that means adding an extra towel for coverage, selecting a chair that accommodates your physique, or simply allowing yourself adequate time to relax. Even high-end spas, which often appear polished and perfect, may need reminders that genuine inclusivity is about practice, not just marketing.

Pro Tip: When booking a body treatment, always inquire whether you’ll have enough time and privacy to undress and dress at your own pace. This seemingly minor detail can significantly enhance your comfort level and set the stage for a truly enjoyable experience.

If you’d like to recreate your spa experience at home or complement your treatment with familiar items, consider bringing along some of your own products. This isn’t a requirement; rather, it allows you to maintain your personal wellness rituals before or after your spa visit.

Exploring Diverse Treatment Options at Plus Size Friendly Spas

While many are familiar with the standard options like massages and facials offered at plus-size friendly spas, it’s important to broaden your horizons and explore additional treatment options. Many women with curvy figures may hesitate to try services that are marketed less frequently toward their body types, often due to concerns about comfort or invasiveness. If you’re eager to enhance your spa experience as a curvy woman, consider trying:

Lymphatic Drainage Massage: This treatment is particularly beneficial for improving circulation and reducing inflammation, especially after travel or during stressful periods in our lives. Not only does this massage feel rejuvenating, but it effectively helps detoxify the body and restore your natural glow from within.

Hydrating Body Wraps: Many spas offer body wraps that deliver deep hydration to the skin. Be sure to request an extended wrap or additional coverage if necessary. There’s no need to feel embarrassed about making this request, and keep in mind the plus-size friendly spas that accommodate your needs for future visits.

Facials Utilizing LED or Oxygen Therapy: These advanced, often non-invasive treatments don’t require disrobing, making them ideal for those who are still acclimating to the spa experience. If you enjoy these facial services, be sure to ask about additional body-focused treatments that reflect inclusivity in their approach.

Hand and Foot Treatments: These types of treatments are low-pressure, cost-effective ways to indulge without the stress of full-body exposure. As noted earlier, these treatments offer insight into how a spa handles more intimate services, helping you gauge their suitability for your future needs.

Curating Inclusive Products for Your Spa Experience

Now that you’ve made your inquiries and engaged with the staff, you’re ready to embark on your self-care journey. Whether you plan to bring your beauty products or create a spa-like atmosphere at home, consider these inclusive brands that cater specifically to our unique skin types, body shapes, and wellness journeys. This is especially beneficial if the spa you visit does not carry products that align with your personal needs.

Buttah Skin: This melanin-rich skincare brand offers luxurious and effective cleansers and moisturizers, providing excellent options for enhancing your skincare routine.

Golde: A favorite among New York City’s wellness community, Golde, co-founded by a Black woman, specializes in superfood lattes and supplements that promote your glow both inside and out, before and after spa treatments.

Hanahana Beauty: Their luxurious whipped shea body butters are ethically sourced and perfect for moisturizing after a steam or sauna session, providing the perfect consistency needed for curvy bodies.

Topicals: For individuals with sensitive skin, eczema, or hyperpigmentation, these body serums are designed to deliver outstanding results while prioritizing the needs of Black and Brown skin.

Embracing Your Spa Experience

Ultimately, the spa is a sanctuary for all bodies. Every body deserves relaxation, indulgence, and care—regardless of size. With some thoughtful preparation and a healthy dose of self-confidence, your next spa visit can transform from a daunting task into a rejuvenating experience that you’ve been longing for.

Take the time to prepare effectively, ask any questions that arise, and make sure to occupy the space you deserve while you’re there. The aim is to allow yourself to unwind completely. You are deserving of the wellness that you seek—no robe size should ever make you doubt that.

Have you visited any plus-size friendly spas? We’d love to hear your experiences—share your insights in the comments!