House Etiquette
At Skin, hospitality isn’t just part of the experience—it is the experience. We’re not a traditional spa. We’re a wellness house. A community rooted in care, ritual, and thoughtful intention.
In a world where “community” is often talked about but rarely practiced, we believe in showing up with active kindness. Hospitality, to us, is an art—a daily practice of how we make others feel seen, safe, and cared for. It’s in the way we warm your tea, the rhythm of our touch, the music we play, and the way we look after each other, staff and guests alike.
But to offer that level of care—consistently, thoughtfully, and wholeheartedly—it takes structure. It takes aligned expectations. Every service we offer, every team member we onboard, and every policy we implement exists to protect the ecosystem that makes Skin feel like Skin.
So before you visit, we ask that you take a moment to understand the etiquette that guides our house. These are the standards we live by—not just for our team, but for our guests too. They allow us to preserve the integrity of this space, and ensure that everyone who enters leaves feeling better than they came.
A note on Our Culture
House Etiquette
-
Skin by HC isn’t your typical spa—it’s a wellness house. A sanctuary built on cultural reverence, thoughtful ritual, and a deep commitment to true hospitality. We’re not here to check you in—we’re here to welcome you in.
From the moment you enter, the pace softens. Our concierge greets you with intention, offering a warm house tea or chilled spa water, and inviting you to sit where your body feels most at ease. Your shoes? Gently swapped for clean, cozy slippers as part of our grounding ritual.
We believe hospitality is felt, not just performed. Every detail—sound, scent, light, and tone—has been designed to support presence and restoration. Whether you’re here for a treatment or simply pausing in our space, the atmosphere moves with care, honoring both your nervous system and our shared energy.
This is Skin.
More than service—it’s soul care.
-
To preserve the energy and cleanliness of our space, we ask that all guests receiving a service change out of their shoes and into our cozy, house-provided slippers upon arrival. It’s a grounding ritual and a small act of care—for both you and the space.
Once you check in, our team will gently collect your shoes and return them to you when your visit concludes. Slippers are sanitized between each use with hospital-grade cleaner. Prefer your own pair? We offer Skin by HC slippers for purchase so you can slip into something familiar every time you visit.
Guests stopping in for a quick product pick-up or to-go order from Lolo’s Tiny Kitchen are welcome to remain in their shoes. However, if you plan to stay longer than 15 minutes—including at the café—we kindly ask that you join us in changing into slippers. This simple shift helps us maintain the serene, shared energy we pour into every corner of the house.
-
Rooted in Ritual + Respect
Skin by HC is a place of welcome—but not without intention.
This is a wellness house, where we honor both the art of care and the energy exchange that comes with it. Everyone who steps through our doors—guest or team—deserves to feel respected, seen, and treated with kindness. We approach each interaction with warmth, and we ask that our guests meet us there too.
If communication feels dismissive, harsh, or out of alignment—whether it happens during intake, over the phone, through messages, or in person—we may choose not to move forward. This isn’t personal, it’s cultural. Our community thrives on mutual respect, and we believe hospitality is a shared rhythm—not a performance.
We love aesthetics, but we are not an aesthetic-driven space. We are rooted in presence, ritual, and connection. If your values align, we welcome you fully. If not, we trust you’ll find a space better suited for what you’re looking for.
-
Skin by HC is a wellness house built on inclusion, not assumption.
In many spaces, spa and self-care are still marketed as luxuries for women. We’re here to flip that script. Whether you’re here to unwind, reconnect with your body, or begin your wellness journey—Skin was made for you.
If you have skin, this is your space.If you have wellness goals, this is your house.
We are proudly anti-racist, anti-sexist, anti-ageist, anti-ableist, pro-LGBTQIA+, and pro-people simply feeling good in their bodies. Every one of our services is designed to meet real human needs, not outdated beauty standards or assumptions. And our community reflects that—diverse, curious, and here to feel better.
Guests must be 15 years or older to receive services. We created this policy to preserve the intentional energy and respect of our shared space.
If you’re seeking a space rooted in care, culture, and connection, you’ve found your people.
-
Skin by HC isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling.
From the moment you arrive, our environment is intentionally paced, warm, and grounding. We’re not here to rush you through a checklist of treatments—we’re here to invite you into your body, your breath, and the present moment.
This is a space to redefine rest. Whether your version looks like a deep tissue massage, a quiet sit in our café, or simply taking your time to do nothing—we honor it all. We offer experiences in a range of lengths and energies so you can choose what best suits your day, your body, and your capacity.
Our house rhythm is soft. The volume is low. The presence is high. You’ll feel the difference—and you’re invited to meet us in it.
-
At Skin by HC, we care for energy just as much as we care for the body.
With every treatment, conversation, and moment shared in our space, energy moves—and it’s our responsibility to reset the atmosphere with intention. Between guests and throughout the day, we smudge and cleanse using incense, palo santo, or sage, depending on the needs of the room and the rituals taking place.
This isn’t a trend. It’s our way of making sure each guest walks into a space that feels renewed—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
Because energy is transferable. And your visit should feel like it was made just for you.
-
Presence Over Ping
At Skin by HC, we believe in being where your feet are. The world demands your attention all day long—our house is an invitation to unplug. This isn’t just for you, it’s for those holding space and offering care.
We are a no-phone zone.
We ask all guests to turn their phones completely off or place them on silent upon arrival. If you’re joining us for the hammam, your concierge will kindly collect your phone at check-in. If a phone is seen out, we’ll gently ask you to tuck it away. If it happens again, we’ll hold it for you.
If this feels too hard, Skin may not be the place for you.
It’s not about rules. It’s about respect—for your body, for your providers, and for the sacred pause this space is here to offer.
-
At Skin by HC, the energy in our space is just as important as the treatments we offer. We believe that sound carries, and silence heals.
The front of house is a soft-tone zone. While we love when guests arrive excited, we kindly ask that voices are lowered immediately upon entering. It’s not unusual for guests to walk in on the phone or chatting at full volume—but this is your gentle reminder: hush tones, always. Our therapists and concierge team are trained to kindly cue guests into the space, but we appreciate when that awareness starts with you.
Inside our treatment rooms, we practice intentional silence. There is no talking during services unless prompted by your therapist, who will gently check in as needed. This quiet allows you to fully surrender into your treatment and honors the experience for everyone in the space.
This is not a rule—it’s a ritual of respect.
-
We don’t rush ritual. After your service, we invite you to linger—at least five minutes—to let your body catch up with your mind. Whether you choose to soften into the Pillow Room or sip something warm in the front of our house, this quiet pause is a gentle extension of your treatment. Take your time. Stay present. We designed this space for that very reason.
About Us
-
This is where our hospitality begins.
At Skin by HC, we believe wellness starts with connection—not just convenience. While we love the ease of online booking and quick texts, your first visit deserves more than a digital exchange.
If we reach out by phone before your appointment, it’s because we want to welcome you, hear your voice, and make sure you feel fully prepared. Our services are thoughtfully layered, and every guest experience is curated with care. That means we may need a few extra minutes to walk through what to expect, especially if it’s your first time with us.
Please don’t skip the call. When guests bypass this step, they often arrive unaware of important details about our space, rhythm, or policies—which can lead to confusion or discomfort. And we want your first visit to feel aligned, not rushed or misunderstood.
So if you receive a call from us after booking, know that it’s not a formality. It’s the start of your Skin journey. Please call us back—we can’t wait to get to know you.
-
Cancellations, Commitments + Consideration
We are a small team with a big commitment to care—and every appointment reserved is time, energy, and preparation we hold just for you.
Because of this, we require a credit card on file to secure all bookings. This card will only be charged in the case of:
Late cancellations (less than 48 hours’ notice)
Missed appointments (no-shows)
Same-day reschedules
Cancellations or changes made after the 48-hour window will be charged 50% of the service total. No-shows and same-day cancellations will be charged 100%.
Please note: Filing a false claim through your bank after receiving or missing a service doesn’t just impact our small business—it jeopardizes your ability to book with us in the future.
We ask that you communicate with us directly. We understand that life happens, and we will always try to meet you with grace, but mutual respect is the foundation of how we do business here.
-
Our time together is sacred—and reserved just for you. When guests arrive late, it not only shortens your experience, it affects everyone scheduled after you.
If you are running behind, please call us as soon as possible so we can walk you through your options. If you arrive more than 10 minutes late, we reserve the right to either shorten or reschedule your appointment. If we are unable to accommodate your delay, 50% of your service total will be charged along with 20% gratuity based on the original service price.
This policy ensures our team can deliver thoughtful care to every guest without compromise. We appreciate your understanding and respect for the rhythm of our house.
-
We accept all major credit cards.
At Skin by HC, gratuity is not just a tip—it’s a part of our philosophy of care. Our treatments are rooted in presence, detail, and deep hospitality. Every experience is the result of thoughtful energy, whether it’s the hands offering your treatment or the team preparing the room before you arrive.
To honor the labor behind every moment of your visit, we include a mandatory 22% gratuity on all services. This policy is listed on our website, your booking confirmation, and at checkout to ensure full transparency.
We understand this may feel different than what you’re used to—but at Skin, we don’t believe in leaving care up to chance. This is our way of protecting the integrity of our work, honoring the hands behind it, and shifting the standard of how wellness practitioners are valued.
We kindly ask that all guests come prepared to support this practice with intention. If this approach doesn’t align with your values, our house may not be the right fit—and that’s okay. We’re building something a little different here.
-
All gift card and e-gift card purchases are final sale and non-refundable. They cannot be exchanged for cash or credit and may only be redeemed toward Skin by HC services.
Please note: Skin by HC and Holy Chic + Co. operate as separate brands. Gift cards are not interchangeable between the two.
Gift cards are valid for two years from the date of purchase.
As a small, high-touch business, we plan our services, inventory, and staffing intentionally. When gift cards are redeemed years after purchase, it affects our ability to deliver the kind of thoughtful, elevated experience we’re known for. This policy allows us to honor your investment while preserving the integrity of our guest care.
We encourage all guests to book and redeem their gift cards with appropriate planning so we can meet you with the fullest care and attention possible.
-
Item description
-
Item description
-
Nope. We’ve got you covered with everything from towels to post-service amenities. Just bring yourself (and maybe a favorite journal if that’s your thing).
-
At Skin by HC, we care for every part of you—including your hair. We know how much time, energy, and intention can go into caring for your crown, and we’re here to honor that with thoughtful options for protection.
We offer bonnets, shower caps, and other coverings to keep your hair protected and preserved during treatments. Whether you’re fresh out of a silk press, rocking natural curls, wearing a protective style, or simply want to keep your edges laid—we see you, and we’ve got you.
Let us know your preferences before your service begins, and we’ll meet you where you are—with care, not assumption.
House Amenities
-
More than check-in. More than support.
Our concierge team is the heart of the Skin experience. They are not front desk staff. They are trained hosts, care coordinators, and culture keepers who curate your visit from the very first phone call to the moment you walk back out the door—and often, long after.
From helping you select the right treatment to learning your name, your rhythm, and your wellness preferences, they hold the space so our rituals feel seamless. They don’t just manage schedules—they manage energy. And their presence is why Skin feels like more than a spa.
This is also why gratuity is required across all services—because every element of your visit is intentional, and the people behind it make it exceptional.
-
In traditional bathhouse culture, being bathed is more than cleansing—it’s ceremony. It’s often said that only three people in life will bathe you with true intention: a parent, a lover, or a healer. This is your fourth.
In a world that rarely slows down, this is a sacred invitation to be cared for, without rushing or self-consciousness. You’re not “just getting scrubbed.” You’re being honored.
-
Our hammam is kept between 90–98° Fahrenheit—warm enough to invite your body into deep rest, but not overwhelming. Warm water will be poured over you throughout most of the service, helping your body release tension while softening the skin.
We recommend drinking at least 8 oz of water before your visit to stay hydrated and relaxed. This treatment involves full-body exfoliation and closeness with your practitioner, who will care for every visible inch of your skin with presence and intention. Expect warmth, water, and a moment of deep stillness.
-
You are welcome to wear whatever makes you feel most at ease—this can include a bathing suit, undergarments, or nothing at all. Our hammam treatments are rooted in care and consent. Our therapists are fully comfortable working with nude bodies and will always meet you at your comfort level.
This is a sacred ritual of bathing, exfoliation, and stillness. Choose what helps you feel most present in your body.
-
After your treatment, we invite you to rest—and the Pillow Room is our softest landing. Born from the founder’s deep love of naps, it’s a sensory space designed for decompression, stillness, and reset. Filled from floor to ceiling with pillows, it offers a low-lit atmosphere with sound therapy and candlelight for journaling, meditating, or simply closing your eyes.
It’s a first-come, first-serve space—but priority is always given to our hammam guests, who are invited to use it as an intentional part of their bathing ritual. Whether you stay for five minutes or linger a little longer, let this be your siesta and soul space.
-
Named after our founder’s late father (affectionately called Lolo), this in-house café is where comfort meets culture. Lolo’s offers a curated menu of globally inspired snacks, seasonal cocktails + mocktails, our signature Filipino coffee, and street food-style treats from around the world.
It’s perfect for a pre-treatment pick-me-up, a post-service snack, or even a solo lunch hour. You’re welcome here whether you’re coming in for a full spa day or just a cozy moment to yourself.
-
Our front of house is more than a waiting area—it’s a place to land. Whether you’re working remotely, catching up with a friend, or simply soaking in the calm before or after your service, this communal lounge is open for you.
You’re welcome to read, relax, sip on tea, or connect to Wi-Fi while enjoying the environment we’ve curated with love. We want your time at Skin to feel expansive—not rushed.
Visit Us
-
We’d love to host you. The best way to book is through our online booking page if you already know what you’d like to experience. If you’re not sure which service is right for you, please call us directly at 804-773-0641 so we can guide you with care and intention.
Please note: we do not manage bookings or questions via Instagram DMs. We’re a small team focused on giving our full attention to the guests in our space, so we kindly ask that all booking-related questions come through phone or email.
This helps us keep our rhythm smooth and make sure your experience gets the attention it deserves.
-
Skin by HC follows a thoughtful schedule designed to support intentional rest—for both our guests and our team. Our current hours are:
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday + Wednesday: Closed
We are by appointment only and do not accept walk-ins. These hours reflect when our space is open for treatments, though our concierge team may not always be available for calls during all hours. If you reach out after hours, we’ll be in touch the next business day.
-
Skin by HC is nestled in the heart of the Fan District at 2300 West Main Street, Richmond, Virginia—right on the corner of West Main and Strawberry Street. You’ll find us directly across from Sticky Rice. Look for our tall black doors and distinctive arching window—a quiet invitation to step inside and slow down.
-
We recommend arriving at least 15 minutes before your scheduled service so you have time to check in, unwind, and ease into the energy of the house. That said, you’re always welcome to arrive earlier—settle in with a tea or coffee, enjoy something from Lolo’s Tiny Kitchen, or simply take a few quiet moments to yourself before your treatment begins.
This time is yours—use it to fully arrive.
-
Parking for Skin by HC is street parking only, and thankfully there are usually open spots nearby. We recommend checking along Strawberry Street, West Main, and Floyd Avenue—all just steps from our door.
We encourage you to give yourself a little extra time to park so you can arrive unrushed and ease into your experience. As always, you’re welcome to come early, get settled, and enjoy something from Lolo’s Tiny Kitchen before your service.
-
We’re here—and happy to connect.
If you have a quick question about skincare, product recommendations, or something you couldn’t find on our website, you’re welcome to send us a text. We do our best to respond within 24–48 hours, depending on how full our house is.
For anything more detailed—especially booking-related questions—the best way to reach us is still the classic one: pick up the phone and give us a call. It’s the fastest way to get real answers, real-time.
You can also email us for non-urgent questions or product inquiries at skin@teamhc.co.
A gentle reminder: Please don’t DM us about appointments, reschedules, or treatment questions—we do not manage booking through social media. That said, we love connecting with you there—so feel free to comment, share, and engage with the content we create for our community.
-
Nope. This is a space to soften into. Stay as long as you’d like after your service—whether that means sipping tea, journaling, or just letting your nervous system catch up. Our home is your home, for as long as you need it.
-
We keep it easy. If you’re receiving a treatment, you’ll be provided with cozy, clean robes or garments as needed. No dress code here—just comfort and ease.
-
Start by submitting your intake forms at least one day before your appointment—that helps us tailor your experience and begin on time. On the day of, aim to arrive 10–15 minutes early so you’re not rushing to find street parking or walking in flustered. We want you to have space to settle, breathe, and ease into your visit. Leave the outside world behind—we’ll take it from here.
The Details
2300 West Main St
Richmond, VA, 23220
Sun - 11am-5pm
Mon - 10am-6:00pm
Tues - Closed
Wed - Closed
Thur - Sat 10am-6:00pm
804.773.0641