In our fast-paced and unforgiving world, self-care should be a priority.There are a number of wonderful, Black-owned spas that are dedicated to helping you center your wellness. Whether you just want to get your nails done, or get a deep tissue massage, you can be assured of fantastic service at these Black-owned, luxury spas across the U.S.
Salamander Resort & Spa- Middleburg, Virginia
Salamander Resort & Spa is the ultimate site to unwind, and it’s owned by a powerhouse Black woman. Aside from owning the spa, Sheila Johnson is the co-founder of Black Entertainment Television. She’s also involved in the sports world. Before opening Salamander Resort & Spa in August 2013, Johnson envisioned a facility that would exceed expectations. Fast forward a few years, and that’s exactly what happened. The resort has accrued a number of accolades, including a prestigious five star rating from Forbes Travel Guide in 2019.
As of now, Johnson has the distinction of being the only Black woman who owns a five start resort. But she didn’t achieve this feat alone, and credits those who helped make her dream possible.
Set on 148 lush acres, and within sight of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Salamander Resort & Spa has a beautiful, natural setting. The spa itself offers a series of signature treatments. The Calming Antara Ritual is offered in 90 minute or 120 minute sessions, and CBD products are used. For pregnant mothers, try the Prenatal Pamper, which is a body and face massage.
Amenities include private stone treatment terraces, luxurious changing areas, sunny relaxation spaces, an infinity-edge pool and cabanas, among many more.
Iwi Fresh Garden Day Spa- Atlanta, Georgia
Head to Atlanta, and book an appointment at Iwi Fresh Garden Day Spa. The website says, in part, “we believe in the power of the feeding your skin the Truth with raw veggies from the farm.”
The spa’s founder, Yolanda Owens, was making her own skincare products years before the spa opened its brick and mortar facility in 2010.
Unfortunately, Owens passed away. But her commitment to natural, chemical-free skincare, and to providing for her community, is carried on by the staff.
What services are available? There’s the yoni steam, body scrub, or a selection of facials, including one that is vegetable based. There’s also hand and feet treatments. If you want to go with your partner, any of those services can be made into a couples’ experience.
If you love plants, you’ll love Iwi Fresh Garden Day Spa. The business not only sells plants, but the staff is well versed in proper plant care.
Bettye O Day Spa- Chicago, Illinois
Kick back in The Windy City, courtesy of Bettye O Day Spa.
Located in the Hyde Park area, it was founded by Bettye Odom- a truly, versatile woman. In addition to establishing the Betty O Day spa, she’s been an actress, author, model and even a registered nurse.
As far as skin care goes, there are so many services to choose from. No matter which facial you choose, an esthetician will first analyze your skin, and go from there. They will communicate their suggestions, based on the the specific needs of your skin.
The Bettye O. Signature Facial can make your skin soft and luminous. The Aromatherapy facial involves botanical oils, which “awaken the senses.” There are a number of other facials that you can view here.
There’s a variety of body wrap, waxing services, massages, nail services, and eyelash tint services. A number of treatments are designed for men only.
Just For Men, includes the Men’s Executive Facial and a pedicure- to ensure he leave the spa looking his best from head to foot. The King’s Glory involves a mud bath and a hot stone massage.
The Mansion at Noble Lane- The Poconos, Pennsylvania
Just a two hour drive from New York City, this 25,000-square-foot mansion has 14 guests rooms. There’s an impressive amount of facilities and activities on site, such as tennis, a fitness facility, movie and game nights, and more.
Year ago, When Monique Greenwood came across this one decaying mansion, she saw its potential. After an extensive renovation, she turned it into what it is now. The house itself and its grounds are ideal backdrops for special occasions, or that special, social media post.
The spa is open to guests of the mansion, and outsiders by appointment only. There are seven treatment rooms, and a great deal of effort went into hiring the very best in the wellness business.
You may not be “Stella,” but you can still get your groove back, courtesy of the Get Your Groove Back massage. This is an ideal option for folks with back trouble, as well as those prone to soreness in the back of the neck and shoulders.
For something really decadent, luxuriate in a milk bath for 15 minutes. You’ll sit in a jetted tub in the massage suite, where there’s also a working fireplace.
Healing Waters Wellness Center & Spa- Birmingham, Alabama
Revitalize yourself, courtesy of this proudly Black-owned spa in Alabama.
Show your face some love with the acne facial, hydrating facial or the hydrojelly mask. There are also services that aren’t so common, like the biocleanse foot bath.
What does this entail? It’s basically a way to remove toxins from the body via the soles of the feet.
According to the website: “bio-cleanse is a painless and efficient way to remove toxic accumulations from the body. The EB305 unit generates a mix of positive and negative ions, which attach themselves to the oppositely charged toxic particles, and draws them out of the body through the pores of the feet. The result is a release of many different toxic materials; and for many a feeling of well-being and an increase in overall energy.”
There’s also colon hydrotherapy, and cryolipolysis, otherwise known as cool sculpt. This can give you midsection a noticeably tighter look, without invasive surgery.