Portland Spas: A Recessionista's Guide
Updated: May 28, 2009
With highlights topping $100 and massage prices skyrocketing, it's hard to stay beautiful and blissfully stress-free in town. The secret to savings: beauty and massage schools and under-the-radar spas that provide the same services on the cheap. When your wallet is feeling the pinch, schedule an appointment at one of Portland's budget-friendly spas to keep looking and feeling your best at a price you can afford.
Stealing Beauty
-
Aveda Institute
Read Reviews325 NW 13th Ave, Portland, OR 97209 (map)
Let your fellow polished Pearl District condo dwellers spend the big bucks for trims and highlights from a famed hair artist. Thrifty locals head instead to Aveda's training salon to save a buck on that cut. It might take longer for a student stylist to perfect the long bob you desire, but your patience will pay off in the form of a drastically reduced rate.
-
East-West College-Healing Arts
Write a review525 NE Oregon St Ste 350, Portland, OR 97232 (map)
Call ahead to snag an appointment at one of this reputable healing art school's two clinics. Tense men and women can relax under the hands of an advanced student at the Student Clinic or schedule an appointment with a licensed massage therapist at the professional clinic. The best part: There's not one massage that tops $70 bucks.
-
Loyly Sauna
Read Reviews2713 SE 21st Ave, Portland, OR 97202 (map)
Eastsiders duck into to this Scandinavian-inspired, communal-style facility to unwind after a stressful work day. The appeal lies in the inspired combination of a cedar sauna, a wet steam room and a relaxation lounge. Research Loyly's special packages in advance by visiting the website and you'll be justly rewarded: A recently posted steal was a Head to Toe package (foot soak, face mask, body scrub, and cleansing-spice tea) offered for less than $20.
Oregon School Of Massage-Clnc
Read Reviews9500 SW Barbur Blvd Ste 100, Portland, OR 97219 (map)
The school calls this place a clinic, not a spa, so don't expect to be wowed by the atmosphere. Do expect to feel sticker-shock over its unbelievably low prices. Swedish and Shiatsu massages range from $30 to $50 depending on the length.
Paul Mitchell-The School
Read Reviews234 Sw Broadway, Portland, OR 97205 (map)
Downtown office workers spend their lunch breaks at this teaching salon, where students and their supervisors style their locks at discounted prices. The menu expands beyond cuts and colors to include classic European facials, exfoliating peels and French manicures for less than you'd pay at those chintzy strip-mall salons.
Ziva Salon - Store
Read Reviews610 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, OR 97210 (map)
Stylish gals and guys save big on haircuts and coloring services by learning the lingo at this trendy Northwest salon. Ask for an appointment with a New Talent designer, and you'll save 20 percent off the service. Schedule one with an Apprentice and you'll save even bigger: 40 percent to be exact.
Follow Us on Twitter