Korean body scrub.

    As a gift for babysitting, a friend treated me to a scrub at the Korean Spa. What would this mean? Would they massage sugar mixed with oils or salt like at home? Is it a dry brush? How could this possibly take thirty minutes? Is this going to be like "Naked and Afraid?" I had no clue what I was getting into.

    Let me tell you, it was beyond expectation. In not your typical spa like setting, naked women are just strolling around the spa area, sipping tea, rinsing off in these kiddie-type toddler stools and hoses, and going to and from the hot tub to the cold bath. I am supposed to either soak in the bath or steam room for twenty minutes so my pores can open and be ready for a hardcore scrubbing. Do I make small talk with the other spa goers? Do I sit quietly and try to relax? WTF am I supposed to do? I chose to drink their sweet bread like corn tea and awkwardly overheat by myself in the steam room. (Legs up of course, thanks Momma for teaching me that one!) 

   Finally I am called, my (scrubist?) in her black lace bra (they are all dressed like this I have no clue why) throws some warm water on me, tells me to lay down and we get crackin'. Heads up- there is no privacy, others are getting massaged or scrubbed in the same room, this spa is not for the modest. With her glove type things and some salt, she starts from the feet up. Since I dry brush, the sensation was nothing new, but it is slightly weird having someone do it for you. When I was flipped over I saw rolls of grey stuff coming off. "IS THAT SKIN?" I shriek. Hong laughs and replies, "Yes." EW. AMAZING. WHOA. Every adjective is crossing my mind as I glance down at my glowing skin.I told her I look like a newborn baby fresh out of the womb. She seemingly agrees. Hong seems to really be focusing on my thighs and booty (sorry honey, the stretch marks are there to stay!) After she tosses my head and neck around for the world's quickest massage, she throws my hair up in a perfect bun, and I am off feeling light as a feather.

   The verdict? So worth it. My skin looks incredibly even, has a beautiful glow, and feels so new. If you are shy or uncomfortable being naked around others, I would suggest a private scrub. 
                           
                               x jules


p.s. I went to Imperial Spa on Geary, $60 for a scrub, and $25 for a day pass with access to sauna, steam, and hot and cold tubs.


Tips
-Rinse off before getting in the steam room or hot tub.
-Bring your own sandals and hair brush.
-Tell her if you prefer lighter or heavier pressure.
-Go in the steam room and then the hot tub right before to relax your muscles if you are apprehensive.
-Bring a heavy lotion or oil to apply after the massage (they rinse you with soap, but you will want something super hydrating.
-Bring a sheet mask to enjoy while you wait in the spa area.
-Bring cash gratuity.