These are the most searched spa treatments in the UK
Brits are more spa-obsessed than ever, with new data revealing the UK’s top trending wellness treatments.
According to a study by Virgin Experience Days, massages are by far the most Googled spa treatment in the UK, with 541,891 average monthly searches – over eight times more than the next most popular treatment.
The findings are based on Google Keyword Planner data between April 2024 and March 2025, analysing 25 popular spa and wellness search terms.
As the UK's appetite for self-care continues to grow, the research shows how Brits are increasingly turning to spa experiences not just for pampering, but for genuine health benefits.
Wellness expert Hannah Luke, senior partnerships manager for spa and beauty at Virgin Experience Days, also weighs in on the physical and emotional benefits of these trending treatments.
The 10 most searched spa treatments in the UK
|
Rank |
Treatment |
Avg Monthly Searches |
|
1 |
Massage |
541,891 |
|
2 |
Pedicure |
63,335 |
|
3 |
Facial |
44,809 |
|
4 |
Reflexology |
17,118 |
|
5 |
Manicure |
16,367 |
|
6 |
Steam room |
11,763 |
|
7 |
Cupping therapy |
8,214 |
|
8 |
Reiki |
7,563 |
|
9 |
Infrared sauna |
5,721 |
|
10 |
Cryotherapy |
5,497 |
Massage therapy outpaces all other treatments, confirming its place as the UK’s most beloved wellness ritual. But other entries in the top 10 suggest a rising interest in holistic and recovery-focused therapies too.
Why massage remains the UK’s favourite spa treatment
With over half a million Google searches per month, massage therapy is the clear winner. It’s not just a luxury – regular massage offers proven physical and mental health benefits, explains Luke.
“The physical and mental benefits go way beyond the treatment room, with regular sessions cutting muscle tension, boosting sleep quality and dropping stress hormones,” she says.
Pedicures and facials offer more than just aesthetic appeal
Pedicures came in second with 63,335 searches per month, showing strong demand for professional foot care. While often seen as a cosmetic treatment, pedicures can also support foot health and circulation.
“Most think pedicures are just for looks,” Luke adds, “but they stop nail problems, catch early signs of issues like corns or bunions, and can even improve blood flow.”
Facials, ranking third with 44,809 monthly searches, are similarly functional. “These treatments promote cell renewal, boost collagen production, and target concerns like acne or early signs of ageing,” she notes.
What is reflexology and why is it trending?
With 17,118 average monthly searches, reflexology ranks fourth. This foot-focused therapy applies pressure to specific points that correspond to other areas of the body.
“People often report improvements in anxiety, digestion and headaches after sessions,” says Luke.
Reflexology's rising popularity reflects the broader trend of consumers seeking non-invasive, whole-body wellness solutions.
Brits embrace holistic and alternative spa therapies
The rise of treatments like cupping therapy (8,214 searches) and reiki (7,563 searches) signals a growing interest in alternative wellness. Once considered niche, these treatments are now appearing on more mainstream spa menus.
“Each treatment brings something different to the table,” Luke advises. “Someone needing stress relief might benefit from massage or reiki, while people with skin issues should consider facials or steam therapy.”
Interest in temperature-based treatments is heating up
Steam rooms, infrared saunas and cryotherapy also feature in the top 10, showing that temperature-based recovery treatments are gaining ground.
- Steam rooms (11,763 searches) offer relaxation, skin benefits and detoxification.
- Infrared saunas (5,721 searches) are used to relieve pain and improve circulation.
- Cryotherapy (5,497 searches) uses extreme cold to reduce inflammation and support muscle recovery.
“Cryotherapy might sit at number 10 but it shows Brits are exploring more advanced, recovery-led treatments,” says Luke. “Users often report less pain and better post-exercise recovery.”
Seasonal trends in spa treatment searches
According to Luke, treatment searches shift with the seasons. “Foot treatments like pedicures always spike in summer when sandals come out,” she says. “But facial treatments maintain steady interest all year because skin maintenance is a consistent priority.”
How to choose the right spa treatment for you
With so many trending treatments, Luke urges consumers to select therapies based on individual wellness goals.
“Always check for qualified therapists and places with good reviews for the best results,” she says.
About the study
The data was sourced using Google Keyword Planner, analysing monthly average search volumes for 25 spa treatments between April 2024 and March 2025. Search terms included:
- “[treatment] spa”
- “[treatment] near me”
- “[treatment] benefits”
These were combined to calculate overall treatment popularity in the UK.
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