Proving that you don’t need to head overseas to get the benefits of some time in the sunshine, Donnington Valley explains all about the treatment that’s adding a bit of an SAD solution to your spa day …

What exactly is the Aqua Sun Mineral Treatment?

Aqua Sun itself is a warm mineral bath with a UV canopy.  The bath itself contains 21 minerals from the Dead Sea - seven of which are key.  When a client arrives, a therapist explains the treatment and then you are left to enjoy it.  The bath is already run so you are free to turn on the Jacuzzi jets and just relax.  It’s about 25 minutes in total.

Where does it come from?

Spa Find is the brand behind this particular treatment, and they specialise in blending natural de-ionised water with Dead Sea minerals and organic plant extracts.

What is it supposed to do?

The sun canopy is a source of vitamin D and is particularly good for treating Seasonal Affected Disorder (SAD), depression, dry skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis, acne and as a stress reliever - although we do have to treat it a bit like a sun bed so precautions including eye protection are necessary.  The key minerals in the treatment all have their part to play as well - sulphur is anti-fungal and antibacterial; sodium is hydrating; potassium is good for fluid retention; calcium is anti-ageing; bromide is a natural relaxant; iodine is good for detox and fat burning; and magnesium has anti-stress properties.  The quickest way to absorb minerals is through the skin rather than digestion, so by the end of the session you will have gained any that you are lacking.

Is there anything you recommend clients to do pre or post-treatment to get the most out of it?

Avoid being in direct sunlight both before the treatment and for the rest of the day afterwards, but other than that it doesn’t affect what you do, which is one of the reasons a lot of people like it - because there is no reason not to use the pool and spa facilities afterwards.

Is there anyone you particularly recommend the treatment for?

It is particularly good for anyone with dry skin, eczema, or SAD, and because of the self administering element of it, it is also good for anyone who isn’t comfortable with hands-on treatments.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t have it?

It isn’t for anyone under the age of 18 years old; or if you are pregnant, have a heart condition, circulatory problems, cancer, epilepsy, allergies to any of the minerals, sun burn, thyroid conditions, skin pigmentation concerns as it can make them worse; and anyone with claustrophobia is advised to have a look at the canopy before the treatment to make sure they are happy with it because it does lower.  Anyone with high or low blood pressure should also speak to a therapist before the treatment.

To visit Donnington Valley go to Spabreaks.com or contact the team on 0808 163 3216.