It’s no surprise that in Chocolate City (or what was formerly referred to as such), that you’d find “for us, by us” spa options to cater to all your wellness needs. From customized facials to signature massage packages, you can spend an hour or even a day at all of these places — and likely never want to go home.
It’s time to make time for you sis. So the next time you visit the Nation’s Capital — or if you’re simply looking for staycation inspiration, make an appointment at one of these local, Black-owned wellness retreats. You’ll leave feeling relaxed, rejuvenated and refreshed — all at the same time.
01
Skin Beauty Bar
Meka Mathis is revitalizing spa culture in DC — and looking good while doing it. Her Skin Beauty Bar offers every service from facials to massages to lashes to microblading and then some. Located in the Capitol Hill area of DC, it’s centrally located for any DMVer looking indulge in the best form of self-care. Your senses will be soothed by their soft lush color tones as soon as you walk through the door and the warmth of the relaxing aromatherapy that subtlety encompasses the interior areas of the spa.
02
Paris Alexander’s Day Spa
This full service boutique-size spa is owned and operated by Paris Alexander, also known as the “Godmother of Facials,” having catered and treated Black skin for decades. Specializing in wellness facials, clinical aromatherapy and reflexology with citrus essential oils, Paris Alexander Day Spa is a naturally-inspired destination of calm. Their body treatments include a honey body wrap and an intricate raindrop treatment.
03
Turn Bluu Massage
Owned and operated by Leon Joyner, Turn Bluu Massage is located just minutes from metropolitan Washington, in the Silver Spring area. Offering everything from massages to facials, this spa is changing the narrative on “feeling blue” with their signature treatments that leave you feeling renewed and rejuvenated.
04
Salamandar Resort & Spa
Founded by Sheila Johnson (also cofounder of Black Entertainment Television), this premier 5-star Salamander Resort & Spa is just an hour outside of Washington, D.C. and boasts 168 luxurious guest rooms and suites. The 23,000-square-foot spa and wellness center features: 14 treatment rooms, a couple’s spa suite, infinity-edge spa pool open year-round, full-service salon featuring hair, make-up, manicure and pedicure stations, and a fitness facility with both indoor and outdoor workout areas.
05
Spa at Ivy Hotel
Looking for more options in the greater Washington region? Go a few miles up the road and visit the Spa at the Ivy Hotel in Baltimore. Although the all-inclusive hotel has an array of treatments to choose from, they make it even easier to pinpoint your needs: through simple conversation. Each massage therapist uses this to pinpoints guests needs and preferences, and then allows this to tailor guests treatment for the most beneficial and relaxing experience. Guests may also bring the spa to them with in-room massages at the Ivy.
