Patch Picks: Local Spas

1. Scotts Valley Spa and Boutique, 4301 Scotts Valley Dr., offers a comprehensive menu of services all designed with customization in mind. From nail services to skin treatment to massage, the professionals at Scotts Valley Spa and Boutique will adapt each treatment to your own unique needs. They also carry a complete line of products including PCA Skin Care, Glo Minerals make-up and Revitalash. You will also find an assortment of locally made jewelry, handbags and other artisan-crafted items. First-time visitors receive $10 off on any spa treatment. For more information, visit the website.

2. Skin Essence Day Spa, 16 Victor Square, is the place to go for all your skin care, body care and make-up needs. The spa offers Alpha Hydroxy Peels, microdermabrasion and body bronzing, in addition to complete spa packages that include at least two hours worth of a combination of spa services. A complimentary 15-minute make-up application session comes with every session. Gift certificates are available. To learn more about Skin Essence Day Spa, visit the website.

3. Luminescence Day Spa and Tea Room, 13140 Highway 9 in Boulder Creek, believes that laughter is the best medicine. In addition to a full line of spa services, the spa aims to boost your immune system with free Laughter Yoga every Saturday at 4:30 p.m. Enjoy a relaxing massage, facial or skin care treatment and follow up your appointment with a visit to the Tea Room and Kava Bar. There is also a full calendar of events, including an open mike night for acoustic musicians on Saturday night. To learn more about Luminescence, visit the website.

4. Well Within Spa, 303 Water St., Suite 100, in Santa Cruz, provides a quite sanctuary for each guest to relax. Private indoor or outdoor spas and saunas overlook a Japanese garden. This is a place where they say “Japanese traditions are blended with a California lifestyle.” Tub rooms are open from 11 a.m. to midnight daily, and prices begin at only $13 per person. Couples and group rates are also available. Well Within also has a complete list of massage and body care packages. For more information, visit the website.

5. Farmacy Apothecary and Spa provides a unique alternative to department-store cosmetic counters and typical day spas. The online store features niche brand cosmetics, skin care and fragrances, including Kiehls, Jan Marini, Color Science and Epicuren. Farmacy also offers a complete line of skin and body treatments. It has two locations, 1101 Pacific Ave., in downtown Santa Cruz, and 7556 Soquel Dr., in Aptos. To learn more, visit the website.