Ask the expert: What factors should I consider when putting treatments together for pregnant clients?

The regular "Ask the experts" feature in Professional Beauty magazine talks to Liz Holmes, spa director at five-star hotel spa Rockliffe Hall in Hurworth, County Durham, on what factors to take into account when putting treatments together for pregnant clients.

Pregnancy is such a special time for both the mum to be and the family and friends around them and spas and salons have an opportunity to create memorable treatment experiences, which could introduce new clients to the business and lead to loyal relationships long after the pregnancy.

There are three main areas for spas to consider: gifting and the baby shower; comfort and security; and home use.

First, offering gifts specific to the mum-to-be provides a great service for family and friends, and with the growing trend towards the baby shower, an opportunity to create a social element.

We use Mama Mio because our therapists and clients trust that the ingredients and treatment protocols are safe and well considered for the mum-to-be. We make sure treatments feel nurturing and comfortable and choose our most experienced therapists for pregnancy treatments. The temperature of the room must just right for the client and extra consideration given to placement of cosy blankets and pillows.

Skin changes during pregnancy mean therapists should recommend the right omega-rich skincare to deliver a visible result. This gives an opportunity to offer retail products that work on the elasticity of skin well after the pregnancy.

Ask the Expert can be found in Professional Beauty magazine, the monthly magazine for beauty and spa professionals. For the latest news and expert advise, subscribe to Professional Beauty magazine for only £37 per year here.