A table shower, often called a Vichy shower or hydrotherapy shower in a spa setting, is a specialized treatment performed while the client reclines on a waterproof table. This system uses a horizontal bar fitted with multiple showerheads, typically five to seven, that cascade warm water over the body. The primary function of this hydrotherapy is to induce deep relaxation, promote circulation, and efficiently rinse off body treatments like scrubs or wraps. The experience provides a unique sensory blend of water and manual cleansing, preparing the skin and muscles for further treatments or offering a sense of renewal.
Preparing for Your Table Shower Treatment
The process begins with an initial consultation to discuss any skin sensitivities, areas of concern, or preferred water temperature and pressure settings with your therapist. This discussion ensures the experience is customized to your comfort and maximizes the therapeutic effect. It is recommended to remove all jewelry before the session, as it can be uncomfortable or potentially damaged during the treatment.
You will be guided to a dedicated wet room, which is designed for hydrotherapy treatments and features tiled floors and an integrated drain system. The environment is usually dimly lit, often incorporating calming music or aromatherapy to initiate relaxation before the water begins. Most spas offer disposable undergarments for modesty, though the treatment is often conducted with the client nude beneath a sheet or towel for a thorough application of products.
The therapist will step out of the room to allow you privacy to disrobe and lie face-up on the waterproof table. This table is often padded and covered with a sheet or plastic layer, sometimes heated, to keep you warm and comfortable before the water starts. Taking this time to settle in and communicate any last-minute preferences sets the stage for the treatment flow.
The Step-by-Step Experience
Once you are situated, the therapist re-enters the room and activates the overhead shower system, adjusting the flow to a gentle, warm cascade. The multiple showerheads are positioned to provide an even distribution of water along the body, creating a rhythmic, rainfall-like sensation. The therapist monitors the thermostatic mixing valve, which controls the water temperature, ensuring it remains consistently comfortable.
The therapist then begins the hands-on portion of the treatment, typically applying specialized products like sea salt scrubs, sugar exfoliants, or cleansing gels. Using their hands or soft mitts, the therapist gently massages the product into your skin, starting with the limbs and torso. The combination of warm water and manual exfoliation stimulates blood flow and lymphatic drainage, promoting the removal of dead skin cells and improving skin texture.
As the product is applied, the overhead water simultaneously rinses it away, preventing sticky residue from building up on the skin. You will then be prompted to turn over, often with the assistance of the therapist and a towel for draping, allowing the therapist to repeat the exfoliation and cleansing process on your back. Communication remains important, and you should speak up if the water pressure is too intense or if you feel discomfort.
The final stage is a thorough rinse, where the therapist uses the overhead jets and sometimes a handheld shower nozzle to ensure all product residue is washed away. In some variations, the therapist may briefly adjust the water temperature to a slightly cooler setting toward the end to provide an invigorating finish and further stimulate circulation. The rhythmic, continuous flow of water keeps the muscles relaxed and the body warm, creating a seamless and deeply soothing hydrotherapy session.
Post-Treatment and Spa Etiquette
As the water is turned off, the therapist immediately wraps you in warm, plush towels to prevent a chill and help you dry off. This immediate thermal comfort maintains the relaxed state achieved during the hydrotherapy. Following the initial drying, the therapist often applies a nourishing body oil, lotion, or hydrating cream while you are still on the table.
This application seals moisture into the newly exfoliated skin, helping to replenish the skin’s natural barrier. After applying the products, the therapist steps away to allow you time to slowly sit up, gather your composure, and transition back into a robe before moving to a dry area.
It is not uncommon to feel slightly light-headed or drowsy after this treatment due to the profound relaxation and increased circulation. Moving deliberately is encouraged.
Once you are re-dressed in your robe, you will transition out of the wet room, and the spa often provides a refreshment area with water or herbal tea. Hydration is recommended post-treatment to assist the body in flushing out metabolic waste products released by the increased circulation and lymphatic stimulation. Standard spa etiquette suggests a gratuity of 15–20% of the service price for the therapist, as this is a hands-on treatment.