Low-cost spa sessions let locals indulge

Arizona's spas shouldn't be the exclusive domain of celebrities on secret getaways or big-spending tourists.

The luscious sanctuaries are the spoils of braving life in this inhospitable desert, the birthright of every Valley woman roaming the sun-scorched streets with flaky skin, rough cuticles and enlarged pores.

Or so says Kari Stolley of Arizona Spa Girls, an online salon and spa guide that's co-sponsoring a series of chichi, easy-access spa events across town. The Summer "Spaaah" Series allows locals to sample "destination" spas at a cut rate.

"These sessions are 100 percent unintimidating," says Stolley. "A lot of people don't know how to 'spa.' You walk into some of these places and they're so luxurious, you don't know how to handle it. With these events, you get to come in and really enjoy yourself and just not worry about anything."

Held at a different spa every other Sunday, the sessions offer mini spa treatments, fitness classes, beauty demonstrations and perks, like getting to use a spa's pool for the day or learning how to make salsa from a chef. There are also refreshments, prize raffles and oh-so-coveted giveaways.

"The goodie bags are killer," says Stolley. "Full-size Philosophy products, coupons you'll actually use at the spas and boutiques, a lot of nice products - not junk. They're fantastic."

Each event costs $25, and a portion of the proceeds benefit Fresh Start Women's Foundation for women in need.

Summer Spaaah Series schedule

Tickets must be bought in advance through the Summer Spaaah Series Web site.

Sunday: Dolce Salon & Spa of Arrowhead, Peoria

July 6: Aji Spa at Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort, Gila River Indian Community

July 20: Golden Door Spa at The Boulders Resort, Carefree

August 3: Dolce Salon & Spa at the Borgata, Scottsdale

August 17: Southwest Institute of Healing Arts & Southwest Institute of Natural Aesthetics, Tempe

August 31: The Spa at Gainey Village Health Club, Scottsdale