Sea Therapies Today

While there are no recent studies proving the benefits of algae for the many therapeutic and beauty purposes for which it has become known, folklore and tradition continue to perpetuate its popularity in European and American spas alike. From sea-salt scrubs to thermal seaweed wraps, ocean-mud packs to sea-algae baths, kelp facials to algae buffs, ocean products are experiencing renewed popularity in spas all over the world, resulting in exotic therapies that effect powerful healing.

Seaweed therapies are great for all clients because they nourish the skin, reduce cellulite and remove toxins from the system. They are easily our most popular type of treatment, besides the typical facial or one-hour massage," says Gohar Thomas, owner of Gohar Beauty Clinique in Glendale, California.

At Thomas' spa, specialty baths are a popular accompaniment to other services. "Our sea-algae bath with [Dead Sea salt] and aromatherapy is probably the most popular," Thomas says. "Oftentimes clients will opt for a marine-based bath before a massage to loosen up the muscles and complement the detoxification process that comes with deep-tissue work."
The Limu Seaweed Body Wrap offered at the Kohala in Waikoloa, Hawaii, is among that spa's most popular services. This treatment uses processed seaweed from the Brittany Coast of France, and includes exfoliation and detoxification.

Among the marine-based services offered at The Spa at the Four Seasons Hotel in Las Vegas is the four-layer facial, which involves applying layer upon layer of fresh European seaweed to rejuvenate and tone, followed by a warm, mineral-rich thermal masque to moisturize and nourish the skin.

Seaweed-based products are one of the classics, because seaweed is such a complete plant source of nutrients and benefits," says Michelle Bartok, owner of International Beauty Solutions (IBS), a manufacturer of spa, health and beauty products.
One of the more innovative spa treatments of late is the "sushi wrap," says Bartok. "We wanted to combine all of the therapeutic ingredients that should go into an effective body treatment while keeping the service fun and interesting," she says. "The combination that we came up with is a ginger-wasabi solution that is healing and anti-inflammatory. This is followed by a rice putty that is rich in amino acids and creamy to the touch. Finally, a seaweed paste is layered onto the body and the client is wrapped."

Spa client Stephanie Kersulis of Los Angeles tries to visit a spa on a monthly basis and typically gets some kind of sea wrap or buff because she believes it is good for her entire system. "The last spa that I visited was the Gaia Day Spa in La Jolla [California]," she says. "I received a French algae all-over body buffing, which was divine. They combined fruit acids with essential oil and the algae for an invigorating buff.

I followed the treatment with a hot shower and then a massage, Kersulis continues. "Before leaving I stocked up on some new balneotherapy algae bath soak for at home. I try to keep up with the ritual when I can't get to a spa for a professional treatment."
Kersulis isn't squeamish at the idea of having algae on her skin. "I don't think I have ever been to a spa where the seaweed was anything but wonderful," she says. "I would go every day for a seaweed wrap if I could."