I had a client ask me "so what is the proper tipping etiquette for a facial?". I wasn't sure what to tell her, felt akward telling her how much to leave me. What IS the tipping guideline for spa services? And how do you tell a client what they are if they ask?
In California it is about 15 - 20%. Whenever i was asked this i always used to say.... "people normally leave on average anywhere between 15 - 20% and if i am having a lucky day sometimes more!" i laughed when i said it and i usually got around 18% or higher. They seemed to pick mid range or the full 20%. Men always tipped 20% when i said that and more often than not more. Men are more generous when it comes to tipping.... (their ego!!) :)
Guideline for me has always been the same for anyone in a service industry. 15-20%. Usually 20%, unless the service was poor. If the service was outstanding, then a little more. I agree with Claire, men do tip more!