Bath salts, fancy soap; they’re right up there with novelty socks and knitted scarves as the Christmas gifts that no-one really wants. And the worst part is that they’re always so well-intentioned: “It’s a loofah! ‘Cos you love your spas!”
Christmas spa gifts are an absolute minefield. If you go too personal, you risk offending your loved one (“A loofah? Are you saying I have cellulite?”); too broad and you end up contributing to a bubble bath collection that will never be used – or worse, re-gifted.
That doesn’t mean that spa people are impossible to buy for – in fact, if you choose the right gift they will be in your debt for the rest of the year. Luckily for you, we’ve put together a list of the five best spa gifts to give to your favourite spa obsessive this Christmas. Or keep for yourself, it’s up to you…
Available at ESPA from £26
Our sense of smell is incredibly powerful and evocative, so the right combination of scents will transport your loved one back to that relaxing day they spent at that spa all those months ago. Most spas use essential oils such as geranium, lavender, bergamot and jasmine, all of which promote relaxation.
Available at John Lewis for £40
The perfect complement to a spa routine. Silk pillowcases don’t leave crease marks on your face while you sleep, and the natural fibres allow your skin to breathe overnight.
Available at Boots for £30
These have really hit the mainstream in recent years, and with good reason – they work! Sonic cleansing brushes deep clean and exfoliate without irritating, which makes them perfect for use between spa appointments.
Available at Mankind for £66.50
There’s something so indulgent about a traditional wet shave, and there are some surprisingly high quality options available for home use. Choose a beautiful, traditional set which will take pride of place in his bathroom, and make sure the brush has organic bristles (badger hair is particularly effective) for that barbershop-style shaving experience at home.
Available at SpaFinder – plus save an extra 10% when you spend £50
Simple and effective. You can order vouchers or gift cards from any spa, but for an extra special touch, choose one of the spa’s signature massages or facials.
However, you should probably avoid any vouchers for aesthetic treatments (e.g. Botox or slimming therapies) – they are not likely to go down too well, especially during ‘turkey and wine’ season. It’s also wise to avoid any treatments which may not be suitable for everyone, for instance, laser therapies, or chemical peels.
Stobo Castle
Rockliffe Hall Spa
Nirvana Spa
