The International Spa Association's 2007 Spa Industry Study showed that: 1) men account for 31% of spa-goers; 2) 48% of spas in the U.S. offer packages for men; and 3) the No. 1 spa treatment for men is the massage. Furthermore, according to Datamonitor research the male grooming market reached $30 billion in 2006, and that shaving and moisturizing products account for $16 million/year making skincare the fastest growing area of the male grooming market.

Perhaps getting your man to the spa is not a hopeless endeavor, nor is it hopeless to consider buying him some products to use. Here are some tips on ways you might be successful doing this. Set up a couple's treatment as it is easier to get him to the spa when he's with someone. Or, try setting up some spa time with another couple where your man and a male friend can bond over a treatment while you and your girlfriend go off on your own. Perhaps a son who enjoys spa visits can persuade his dad to give them a try.

A gift certificate is always a great way to introduce your man to a spa treatment. Let him pick the service or package. Otherwise, start slowly by choosing a massage or back facial. These are proven favorites with men. Also, try choosing services that are male-focused (i.e. use neutral terminology or male-oriented terminology) or better yet, send him to a male-only spa.

As for skin care products, men like multi-purpose functional products that neither look nor smell feminine. Clearly shaving products are very popular with men, as well as dual-purpose moisturizer/sun screen combos. Start with those first, and if your man can handle more go with an exfoliating product and then perhaps an eye cream. Make sure to get your esthetician's recommendation as to which products are appropriate for your man's skin type and condition. Yonka (yonkausa.com), G.M Collin (gmcollin.com), Pevonia (pevonia.com), and Dermalogica (dermalogica.com) all have developed skin care lines for men.

For any questions, email the beauty editor.

Velvetbell.com chose the following Father's Day promotions as the best in the network. For all promotions and deals in your area, visit www.velvetbell.com and search by your geographic area and personal services interest.

The Medical Spa at Nova in Ashburn, VA, is offering "The Executive Dad" special. This full day at the spa gives Dad his pick of a 50 Min. Swedish, Sports, or Deep Tissue Massage to start the day. Following his massage is a 25 minute Reflexology Treatment, a Gentlemen's Facial, a Salt and Eucalyptus Body Scrub, and a Spa Lunch. Dad will also receive a Massage Spa Gift, a $25 Gift Card to the Dulles Golf Center & Sports Park and a Spa Robe to take home with him. $450.00 (Value $500.00)

Fountains Day Spa in Alexandria, VA, offers many different options for the special Dad in your life. Packages are geared toward Dad's specific activities—whether it's golfing, running, or being a stressed executive. Services include massage, facials, body scrubs, reflexology, warm towel wraps, and more. They are offering limited-time discounts on their packages. Click here to see all of their promotions and deals.

Robert Andrew Salons & Spas in Gambrills, MD, has a contest, which could get Dad 6 months of relaxation! Stop in to any of their three salons or spas and pick-up your entry form. Tell them in 50 words or less why your dad deserves to win 6 months of relaxation, and he'll be entered to win 6 full-body massages at the Robert Andrew Dayspa. While you're there, choose from one of the men's spa packages, specialized men's treatments, or dollar value gift certificates for Father's Day. For a limited time, two new spa packages are available just for Father's Day: The Golfer's Dream - a deep tissue back massage with Reiki ($127 includes gratuity); and Basic Training – a back massage, gentleman's facial, & complimentary facial renewal kit for men ($125 includes gratuity).

Velvetbell.com is doing a special feature issue in two weeks for the bride-to-be! Our beauty editor will give advice on preparing your skin and hair for your wedding—whether you have 6 months or one week. We will also feature bridal specials at local businesses. If you are a bride-to-be or know someone who is, please submit your email to receive this special issue. If you are a business that offers personal services and has bridal specials, register your business here. As long as you meet our mid- to high-end classification, you will be accepted to the network at no charge. Velvetbell.com is a website where consumers find last-minute appointments, promotions & deals, events, jobs, business information, and technician profiles at top businesses in their area. Consumers can also receive monthly email newsletters chalked full of information on beauty, health, wellness, and pets, including notable promotions and new businesses in the network. Click here to subscribe to our monthly newsletter.