The International Spa Association’s (ISPA) annual conference held this week at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas has already reported a record-breaking attendance.
The conference’s exhibition and relaxation halls were alternately bubbling with enticing demonstrations and new product displays, with an emphasis on peels, innovative at-home beauty devices, and devices for use in salons.
Nail polish leader CND promoted its new Vinylux nail polish line. This exciting line, a departure from the company’s well-known and highly successful Shellac, is touted to deliver several superior benefits, such as remaining chip-free for up to week, and no base coat use. To demonstrate this product, the company offered complimentary manicures.
Staying one step ahead, at-home beauty device leader Clarisonic promoted its new Pedi product by treating conference attendees to a pedicure while brand ambassadors demonstrated the product in the brand’s Relaxation Room.
Foreo also showcased its appealing organically designed transdermal sonic cleansing device called LUNA. The two-speed device is portable and comes in array of colors.
At-home toning device marketer NuFace proudly displayed the latest attachment for its well-received Trinity device. The ELE (Eye Lip Enhancer) attachment is designed to treat fine lines around the eye and mouth areas and will be available in November.
Dermalogica relaunched its teen-oriented acne skin care brand Clear Start as Clean Start, in addition to a new line of peels, will ship to accounts next month. This will be the brand’s first foray into the back-bar market for peels.
The Hungarian-based Eminence skin care line was aglow with new products and complimentary shots of Naked Juice. The company proudly promoted its ecological commitment with its “buy a product, plant a tree” program.
Additionally, there were several exhibitors dedicated to enhancing the spa environment, with SpaEquip showcasing its WaveMotion rotating massage table designed to mimic gentle Watsu aquatic movements, as well as a Lenox Shiatsu Pedicure Spa massage chair an irresistible personal indulgence replete with a beautiful glass bowl and cherry wood arms.
Many brand stewards commented on seeing spa sales encouragingly close to pre-recession levels. While the number of spas has not grown with great significance, the average spa treatment price and/or take-home product sale have increased. Additionally, news of the expansion of Miraval and Travaasa resort/spa hotels was cited with cautious optimism, reflective of an increasingly positive economy.
Missed it? Don’t despair, the ISPA 2014 conference will be held next year, again in Las Vegas.
