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What is a Vichy Shower?
A Vichy shower is a type of shower that is often used in salons and spas and is received while lying down. Vichy shower equipment consists of a horizontal bar with multiple showerheads attached, usually five to nine. Each one of the showerheads is slightly smaller than a conventional showerhead. The table or bed used during the shower is approximately the same length as a spa treatment table.
A Vichy shower, which is named after the town of Vichy, France, helps facilitate a spa treatment such as a salt scrub or mud treatment. These treatments are very messy and require a client to wash these items off his or her body before getting dressed. This type of shower keeps the spa client from getting up to go to a shower to rinse off the product, which could cause a great deal of embarrassment and could be messy for the spa.
The Vichy shower will be on an arm that can be moved from side to side. This is so the salon employee can move the shower mechanism away from the client in order to turn it on and adjust the temperature. Each one of the showerheads also can be adjusted for direction and flow of spray so that the water also can be at ideal pressure before it is directed over the top of a client.
The shower can be either free-standing or mounted to a wall. Below the shower system is a panel with temperature controls so that the spa therapist can see exactly what temperature the water is. Some more elaborate models might have a shield that extends from the end at an angle. This shield protects a client's face from water spray when he or she turns over.
Vichy showers are used in rooms that have tiled surfaces along with a drain in the floor so that water damage is not a problem. Specially designed wet tables enhance the use of the shower by providing a cushioned surface to lie on while showering and drainage holes so that water does not build up on the table. This can cause the shower to give a massage-like effect that relaxes the muscles and soothes away stress.
Most upscale salons and day spas incorporate Vichy showers as a part of their spa regimen. When deciding on a new spa, a client should inquire whether the spa offers the use of this shower, especially if planning to receive a body treatment. With proper use, a Vichy shower can soothe aching muscles and relax and invigorate spa clients while at the same time leaving them clean and refreshed.
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![When deciding on a new spa, a client should inquire whether the spa offers the use of a Vichy shower, especially if planning to receive a body treatment.]()
By: Kirill KedrinskiWhen deciding on a new spa, a client should inquire whether the spa offers the use of a Vichy shower, especially if planning to receive a body treatment. -
![Some upscale day spas offer a Vichy shower as part of a salt scrub or mud therapy treatment.]()
By: gofasadiSome upscale day spas offer a Vichy shower as part of a salt scrub or mud therapy treatment.
Discussion Comments
I think that getting Vichy showers regularly will prevent illness because the shower improves blood circulation and increases activity in the lymphatic system. It's more than a shower, it helps the body detox itself.
@SarahGen-- Yes, you can definitely go to a spa for just a Vichy shower treatment. It's very relaxing.
They are able to adjust the pressure of the water and apply it on particular areas for relief. So if you have spinal problems, this treatment with hot water can be very beneficial as it will warm up those tense areas and relax them. Heat is wonderful for these types of injuries.
I usually get a sugar or salt body scrub before a Vichy shower. If you go to a good, professional spa and explain to them your injury, they will be extra careful with your treatments. So I don't think that there is any risk of injury. You could also follow up your Vichy shower with warm stone massage/therapy which will also help relax your back.
I have a back problem, there is a herniated disc in my back that often aches and limits my movements. I've noticed that heat really helps. When I have pain, I use a hot pack or take a hot shower and I can feel my back muscles relax. The pain reduces or sometimes goes away altogether.
I can't go for massages because my back is very sensitive and I'm worried about an injury. But I wonder if I could go to a salon just for a Vichy shower experience? Has anyone had a Vichy shower without getting any body treatments? Is it nice? Would you recommend it for me?
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