Pampering for penny-pinchers

Spas are recession-proof.

That was the recent finding of the International Spa Association based on 2008 spa visits and revenue, according to a Reuters report. According to the industry study, revenue grew 18 percent to $12.8 billion, while the number of visits were up 16 percent from 2007 to 160 million.

No better way to deal with stress than a relaxing massage, after all. However, it stands to be noted that this report records findings of the entire year, not just the latter part of 2008 when the economy took a dive that was evident to all.

There are those who haven’t gotten the memo and are not inclined to continue pampering themselves with back rubs and such while on a budget. Nevertheless, there is a way to relieve stress without stressing out your finances: professional service schools, where pampering is just right for penny-pinchers.

Massages:

How does a 50-minute massage sound? Nice, right? Even better if it’s at a bargain price. There are deals considerably less than you’d pay at a spa treatment facility or a five-star hotel. Students, with the help when necessary from trained instructors, provide massages to customers as part of the students’ practical study. At Atlanta School of Massage, for instance, the service is $40. Services differ depending on the school, such as a holistic menu of offerings at Rising Spirit Institute in Dunwoody. Check here to find more massage therapy schools in the area.

Manicures and Pedicures:

Unlike massages, some might deem manis and pedis more of a necessity. Going to an interview in need of a nail job, for instance, might not be wise. It may not make sense to dole out big cash for these services, either. No worries. Nail schools can deliver for as little as $5. A professional salon can be three times as much for a regular manicure, alone. The International School of Skin and Nailcare in is just one of numerous places where students recognize that concern for your appearance doesn’t have to cost a lot.

Refer to this directory to find student nail technicians near you.

Haircuts

In these times, do-it-yourself hairstylists have become more common. A good pair of sheers and clippers, quality products, and you’re set. But if the results haven’t been great, you could head to a barber or beauty school for a trim or to get your tresses in order. A student barber’s cut won’t run you more than $5, and at some places, kids are in and out for just $2. With those kinds of rates, you can save yourself the time, the headache and possibly the embarrassment of a botch job.