Finding spa treatments for less

Soothe yourself and your post-holiday budget with a spa treatment from an area cosmetology school.

The new Aveda Institute in The Woodlands is one of several the environmentally conscious cosmetics company operates in the United States. Even if you don't live in the area, it's worth the drive.

The new Aveda Institute in The Woodlands has everything a spa should have, but will cost you much less.

Students learn about the company's philosophies and techniques at the 39,000-square-foot facility, then practice at a comfortable, modern spa -- equipped down to the requisite fluffy robes -- that is open to the public.

The real draw is the amazing prices. A 30-minute facial is $20; an hourlong treatment is $35. A pedicure is $14; manicures are $12; and body wraps are $40.

The spa also offers hair-care services ranging from a simple blowout for $11 to highlights starting at $30. While the services are performed by students, a licensed teacher is always on hand.

Have a few knots in your back? The thought of an inexpensive massage by a student intern trained at Memorial Hermann Massage and Spa Therapy School should make you even more relaxed. The $30 one-hour massages are performed at the Wellness Center near Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital, which is a Zen-like spot in the middle of the city.

Remember though, that, unlike traditional spas, schools keep hours that are more convenient for the students than the customers.

Details: Aveda Institute, 19241 David Memorial, The Woodlands. 936-271-7700. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays;
8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Saturdays.

Details: Memorial Hermann Massage and Spa Therapy School, 7731 Southwest Freeway. 713-456-8116. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fridays; 9 a.m.-4 p.m Saturdays.