The UK was named one of the world’s most spa-obsessed countries, according to Google Trends data. But which forms of self-care are the most popular and why? In a study by Virgin Experience Days, researchers analysed searches for 25 different spa-related treatments between April 2024 and March 2025. They used Google Keyword Planner and were able to uncover the most Googled treatments in the UK and list the ten most popular spa treatment in the UK
Ten Most Popular Spa Treatments
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy was the most searched treatment in the UK. The term had a whopping 541,891 monthly Google searches. But there is a reason why this term is so widely searched, said Hannah Luke, the Senior Partnerships Manager for Spa and Beauty at Virgin Experience Days. “The physical and mental benefits go way beyond the treatment room, with regular sessions cutting muscle tension, boosting sleep quality, and dropping stress hormones”. Massage therapy also improves circulation, increases flexibility, and enhances relaxation, which can lead to reduced stress, improved sleep, and overall better well-being.
Pedicures
Pedicures came in second with 63,335 monthly searches. Luke believes that many Brits are unaware of the benefits of getting a pedicure and that the treatment offers more than just aesthetic benefits. “Most think pedicures are just for looks, but they offer serious health benefits too. Regular foot care stops nail problems, highlights early warning signs of issues like corns or bunions and can boost blood flow in the feet.” Pedicures can also help with foot pain by fixing calluses, hard skin and ingrown nails. Pedicures also promote lymphatic drainage, making them a relaxing and therapeutic experience. The treatment can also boost self-confidence and overall mood.
Manicure
Pedicures and manicures offer numerous benefits beyond their aesthetic appeal. The treatment had 16,367 monthly google searches. Manicures help promote nail health, improve skin texture, boost circulation, and, like pedicures, provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience.
Facial Treatments
Facial treatments ranked third with an average of 44,809 monthly Google searches. Getting a facial doesn’t just help your skin feel good; it can also speed up cell turnover, increase collagen production, and address specific skin concerns such as aging and acne. Facial treatments are one spa treatment that stay consistently popular regardless of the season. “We see clear seasonal patterns with foot treatments like pedicures, which surge as warmer weather approaches and sandals come out of storage,” Luke said. ” facial treatments maintain steady search volume throughout the year as skin maintenance stays a priority regardless of season.”
Reflexology
Reflexology had 17,118 monthly Google searches, revealing a significant interest in the therapy. Reflexology is a foot-focused therapy and targets pressure points in the feet that link to different body parts and organs.
Steam Room
Steam rooms are a great tool not only to promote relaxation but also to improve circulation and aid in respiratory health. The warm steam can also help loosen joints, hydrate the skin and clear congestion. This treatment ranked sixth place with 11,763 monthly Google searches.
Cupping Therapy
Cupping therapy involves placing heated glass or plastic cups on specific areas of the body. The suction created by the cup gently pulls the skin upward, increasing blood flow. Cupping therapy had 8,214 monthly Google searches, placing it seventh on the list. Cupping can aid in pain relief, lymphatic drainage, improved blood flow, relaxation, stress relief, and reduce muscle tension.
Reiki
Reiki is a traditional Japanese energy healing practice that helps promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance sleep. The therapy is done by a Reiki practitioner who uses their hands to channel healing energy into the client, who typically lies on a massage table. The treatment had 7,563 monthly Google searches putting it in eighth place.
Infrared Sauna
Infrared sauna has 5,721 monthly Google searches. These saunas use infrared light to heat your body directly. They can detoxify your body, help eliminate toxins, relieve pain, improve circulation, and promote relaxation and skin health. They can also aid in weight loss as a 30-40 minute session can burn around 200-600 calories.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy ranked tenth with 5,497 monthly Goggle searches. Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures for short periods of time. The treatment can help with pain relief, muscle recovery, reduced inflammation, mental health support, skin health, improved circulation and weight management. Luke says that this trend shows a growth of interest. “Cryotherapy might sit at number ten but shows Brits are getting more interested in recovery-focused treatments. It’s still building mainstream awareness, but many users say they get less pain and inflammation after sessions.”
In summary, it is the most important to find the treatment that works the best for you to match your personal wellness. Each treatment brings something different. It is important to check for qualified therapists and places with good reviews for the best results. Do you use of the one or more of the ten most popular spa treatments in the UK?
