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A lot of people think that havingacne-prone skinis a neck-up problem.
Courtesy of author
But for me, its an all-over issue.
If I dont exfoliate at least twice a week, Im repaid in stubborn body breakouts.
Thats how I stumbled upon the wondrous world of Korean spas and their full-body scrub services.
But when it comes to Korean spas, its a very communal affair.
you could invite your friends, and you could basically stay there all day.
Its just a different take on spa culture.
I wanted to get the 90-minute traditional Korean Body Scrub Premium special.
It also sounds kind of aggressive andpotentially painful.
It depends on your pain threshold, Cho says when I ask her if the experience hurts.
I generally love the whole experience because you feel pounds lighter after.
They really get everywhere.
Cho made it sounds like an amazing time, so I was down to try it at least once.
(Yes, its like a spa playground for adults.)
I made sure mine was in the late afternoon, so Id have time to properly eat and explore.
(This is a necessary step to ensure your skin is thoroughly prepared for whats to come.)
Take off your clothes, she said.
Lay down face up.
Korean spas surely arent for the shy.
Nudity at public bathhouses is very normal!
Being nude while getting a scrub is apparently an important element of getting the best service.
She proceeded to scrub my legs and upper body.
It felt ticklish and a bit uncomfortable, but soon it became bearable.
Ive never rubbed sandpaper all over my body, but Im guessing it feels about the same.
I instantly wanted to cover up, but then realized there was nothing to be ashamed of.
Then came the relaxing part.
It was followed by her massaging me from head to toe in circular motions with lavender oil.
More warm water was poured over me and then some room temperature milk.
She was so gentle that not once did I feel her tug on my hair.
I was thoroughly impressed.
You dont have much dead skin, the attendant told me before sending me on my way.
Well I guess myat-home exfoliating routineis doing something if I have this womans seal of approval.
It was seriously the smoothest its ever been.
Theres not even one pimple on my back, which is usually a big trouble area.
Its a major improvement from the five or so whiteheads I got on each arm virtually every week.
It was the ultimate self-care day.
One that Im looking forward to recreating more often.
