A new spa craze is sweeping the world and has particularly taken root in SE Asia. Fish are placed in a shallow, communal tank and people place their feet at the mercy of their tiny, sucking mouths. Dead skin then magically disappears – well it is actually eaten away – and pumice stones are needed no more.

Bikini waxing is part of many people’s beauty regime, but for those who have never tried it before it can be a daunting experience. However, good salons will provide a relaxing and soothing atmosphere and clear guidelines on not only how to undergo the procedure but how to look after the area afterwards.

Facials aren’t just a matter of slapping exotic ingredients onto your face anymore – although they still can be – now they include aromatherapy, massage and a host of complementary health treatments. From sunburn to scarring, psoriasis to wrinkles, facial therapies are flooding the market and promise to make you look younger, brighter and rehydrated within the hour.

Whether it is scented candles, oil burners or cosmetic products – the aromatherapy craze has well and truly taken off. In Thailand aromatherapy massages are some of the most requested in spa resorts and health centres and essential oils are being touted as the cure-all for everything from stress to the common cold. But how much do you actually know about essential oils and their particular properties and uses….?

We have to wear our own skin everyday and cannot throw it away when it gets worn and tired looking. Instead we have to rely on skin care products and body oils to revitalise and give it that outward appearance of health. There is an enormous industry that produces and supports these products and, spas where you can restore the vital life force within you are to be found in all the top hotels, resorts and in many other places around the world.