Behind the Scenes: How We Put Spa Products to the Test
Ever wonder what goes into selecting the products you use every day? Unlike large online marketplaces, we source directly from manufacturers, so you’ll never receive old, diverted, or counterfeit products. And we put every product through a rigorous, hands-on testing process. In this post, we’ll share why and how we ensure every product meets our high standards.
Why We Test Every Product
We know you rely on trusted, high-quality products for your spa treatments—and so do your clients. That’s why we don’t just sell products—we test them first. Every item that touches your client’s skin is vetted by our licensed team. If it doesn’t meet our high standards, it doesn’t make it to you.
How We Test Products
We put every product through its paces. Our licensed professionals assess products in real-world spa treatments at our in-house spa, using volunteers from the community. This ensures you get the results you expect. Here are a few examples of what we check:
- Wax & Hair Removal Products – Does the wax heat evenly? Adhere well? Remove cleanly? We find out.
- Massage Oils & Creams – We check glide, absorbability, and non-greasy finish.
- Lash & Brow Tints – Each shipment is batch-tested for color consistency and performance.
- Scrubs & Skincare – We evaluate texture, effectiveness, and scent—because details matter.
- Implements & Tools – Durability and ease of use are key; we make sure they hold up under real spa conditions.
- Cotton Rounds & Disposable Supplies – Softness and absorbency are non-negotiable.
We don’t just test once—every product faces multiple rounds. And we only onboard products approved by both our practitioners and the guests who experience them. That’s why we’ve created dedicated spaces to ensure each one performs exactly as expected.
Where We Test Products
- In-House Spa – Every item is tested in real treatments with volunteers from our community at our fully equipped in-house spa.
- Dedicated Wet Room – We have a dedicated wet room for products that require water exposure, such as scrubs, masks, and hydrotherapy treatments. This ensures every product is evaluated under real treatment conditions.
- Protocol Testing Area – It’s not just about testing products. When we create treatment protocols for you, we test them rigorously. With three treatment tables in our dedicated testing space, we refine techniques, troubleshoot issues, and perfect protocols—ensuring the best experience for you and your clients.
Our Commitment to Your Success
We get it—your clients expect consistently high quality, and so do you. Before any product makes it to your spa, it must earn approval from our licensed professionals and the guests who try it firsthand. That way, you get products that are truly tested, trusted, and ready to deliver results.
Universal Companies is proud to have a team of experienced spa advisors on staff and welcomes you to consult with our professionals about spa products and supplies, including ingredients, equipment, and retail. Dedicated to the success of spa professionals everywhere, we're grateful to be recognized with multiple industry awards (thank you!) and proud to support the spa industry through mentorship and sponsorship.