Treating yourself to a spot of DIY TLC (tender loving care) has never been so easy with the array of products on the market. But for a session of sheer pampering, accept an invitation to indulge with the ultimate tonic for a hectic modern lifestyle. Yes, it's time to splash out at the spa and detox, cleanse, buff, exfoliate and relax your way to sheer heaven.

For a full-on experience, a residential centre to totally recharge the batteries is the answer, but these days there are also many places that cater for busy city girls wanting a quick treat or a fun time with friends. "Body treatments fall into two categories," explains Catherine Beattie, spa expert. "Wet, which includes things such as mud wraps and body scrubs, and dry, which are massages." Regular Swedish massages are as popular as ever and provide good, all over attention to your body.

Hot stone therapy (upwards of £35) is a relatively new treatment in the UK but is fast becoming a must have. Originating in Arizona, it involves various sized smooth, heat-retaining stones being warmed up and used as massage tools, then placed on 'meridian' points across the body.

According to Catherine, the influence of the East is still very much with us and Thai massages are becoming very en vogue and more widely available too. Think Shiatsu and you're on the right tracks and be prepared to be trodden on because therapists use various body parts - not just their hands - to work some magic. Apparently this gives a thorough workout and good stretching in ways you never imagined and because you stay fully clothed throughout, it's ideal for shyer types.

Another increasingly popular choice is Lymphatic Drainage massage which uses specific movements designed to aid the removal of toxins by encouraging them to move to the lymph nodes, resulting in a deep cleansing effect. And to help get rid of cellulite, try a Futur-Tec Body Treatment (from around £25), which combines the effects of ultrasound, micro current, laser and vacuum suction, to leave the skin smoother, tauter, toned and more dimple free.

If you're after something a bit gooey and different, Thalgo have a range of "bracing treatments that are very therapeutic and really get your circulation going," says Catherine. Their Micronized Marine Algae Body Wrap is rich in minerals, vitamins and micro nutrients which help activate circulation, increase metabolism and relieve aches and pains for general well-being and relaxation. They also do the Frigli-Thalgo Body Wrap to help eliminate excess fluid from the hip and thigh area, and the Thalgomince Pregnancy Pamper which helps lessen the appearance of stretch marks.

One of the big trends at the moment is CACI Quantum (from £20) which is an advanced face and body treatment system featuring specific programmes for slimming, contouring, cellulite, lymphatic drainage, face lifting, wrinkles, acne and scar tissue.

"You have to take all spa treatments with a pinch of salt so to speak," Catherine advises. "They won't totally transform you, but they can make a difference and certainly help you feel good about yourself."

Facials and facial massages can be a fantastic option if you don't have much time to spare as they only take around an hour and can cost as little as £20. There are various options to choose from that will help you relax, restore radiance to your complexion and protect your skin. One fantastic luxurious experience is the Japanese Silk Booster Facial by Elemis which is said to be 'the ultimate in scientific holistic skin therapy'.

Elemis make aromatherapy type products and aim to provide a full sensory experience and their spas stimulate sight, hearing, smell and of course touch. They do a range of body treatments too like Rasul which uses mud and herb infused steam to help cleanse the respiratory system, smoothe the skin, detoxify the body and revitalise your chi energy.

"With so much on offer, making a choice can be daunting but don't be afraid to ask questions because specialists are there to help assess your needs and make sure you're comfortable," explains Catherine.

And for something further afield such as a week-long spa indulgence in the Caribbean or Maldeves, or closer to home in Europe? Catherine says: "Overseas spa breaks don't tend to be cheap but they are a fantastic experience so do some research and find yourself a bargain. It will be well worth it."

Thermalia Travel (www.thermalia.co.uk) telephone 0870 165 9420 and Erna Low (bodyandsoulholidays.com) telephone 0207 584 7820, are both expert travel agents specialising in spa breaks overseas. Information about Elemis products is available from elemis.com.

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