Spa in New York

Open on Sunday (1 provider): Sunshine Health Spa.

Pick a provider, choose a service and an open slot, and confirm. It takes a minute, no phone calls.

Start with the neighborhood you can reach without a rushed commute, then compare the treatment focus of each spa. Read recent client reviews for comments on therapist skill, cleanliness and how closely the spa keeps to its schedule, and call with questions if the menu descriptions are vague.

Confirm the length of the session, whether consultation and changing time are included, and what the cancellation policy is. Ask which product lines are used if you have sensitive skin, and check whether the spa has private changing rooms or shared facilities.

You will usually arrive a little early to change, complete a short health and skin questionnaire and speak with your therapist about pressure, focus areas and anything to avoid. After the treatment most spas give you time in a quiet lounge with water or tea before you head back out.

Many people schedule a treatment seasonally for relaxation, while skin-focused clients often go on a more regular cycle their esthetician recommends. Weekday mornings and early afternoons tend to be the quietest in New York, and weekends and the holiday season fill up first, so reserve those further ahead.