73 years old internationally, 26 countries, and 23 years in South Africa, a spa and wellness information network that spans the globe.

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques was established in Paris in 1952 and has grown to a magazine with a worldwide reputation. It is currently published in 30 countries spanning the globe for the USA, Brazil, France, Italy, Russia, China, Japan, South Africa to Australia, and distributed to close on 70 countries.

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques is a publication dedicated to the up to date knowledge in the world of Spas, Well-being and Beauty and encompasses all aspects of the spa industry: skincare, bodycare, nails, make-up, haircare, spa therapies and business management, with a high fashion feel to complement its contemporary nature.

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques, South African Edition was launched in October 2002, by Max Café and is now available monthly, on relevant platforms including digital, mobile and social, so allowing you to read and enjoy anywhere.

3 images of multiracial women receiving different spa treatments

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques & Spa Magazine

Editor’s Note

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Magazine #121

THE NEXT CONVERSATION

Innovation is one of those words we hear constantly. In an industry driven by new treatments, technologies, ingredients and experiences, it is easy to assume that innovation simply means what comes next. But perhaps the more interesting question is: what needs to change? That is the conversation running through this issue of Les Nouvelles Esthétiques & Spa.

Innovation can be a new technology, a new formulation or a new approach to wellness. But it can also be a different question, a different way of listening, or the courage to challenge something we have always done. What if innovation is not about adding another treatment to the menu, but reconsidering the journey that surrounds it? What happens before, during and after the treatment — and can the experience continue to create value long after the guest leaves the treatment room?

Throughout this issue, we explore recovery, skincare science, nutrition, mental wellbeing, technology, environment and the evolving spa experience. Together, these articles suggest that innovation is not always about adding more. Sometimes it is about seeing differently.

Perhaps innovation is less about predicting the future and more about questioning the present. What could we do differently? What could we do better? And, most importantly, what does the guest genuinely need from us now?

That is where the next conversation begins.

Enjoy the read.

Dr Nadine de Freitas

Managing Editor

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Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Conference 2026

21–22 June 2026
The President Hotel, Bantry Bay
Cape TownTheme: Beyond Relaxation: The New Era of Intelligent WellnessWellness is evolving. Beyond relaxation lies a more intelligent, integrated approach to wellbeing — where touch meets technology, nourishment meets neuroscience, and spa experiences deliver measurable, long-term impact.The Les Nouvelles Esthétiques Spa Conference 2026 will explore how spas are transforming into environments of true restoration and sustainable growth. From functional spa cuisine and therapist sustainability to immersive wellness tourism and evidence-informed innovation, this gathering will unpack the strategies shaping the future of spa leadership.This is not about adding more treatments.
It is about thinking differently.Join industry leaders, educators, operators, and innovators as we explore how smarter systems and deeper restoration are redefining modern wellness.For more information: info@lesnouvelles.co.za / whatsapp: 083 267 2773

Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Spa Awards 2026

First introduced in 2005, the Les Nouvelles Esthétiques Spa Awards have become the benchmark of excellence in the spa, health, and wellness industry, celebrating outstanding quality, innovation, and guest experience across Southern Africa.

Building on this legacy, and following the success of previous awards hosted in association with Les Nouvelles Esthetiques Paris, the programme continues to recognise and elevate the region’s leading wellness destinations. The 2026 Gala Dinner will take place on 21 June 2026 at The President Hotel, Cape Town, bringing together industry leaders, spa professionals, and media for an evening of recognition and celebration.

Entering the Spa Awards places your brand in the spotlight, enhancing credibility, building trust with discerning clients, and positioning your spa among the industry’s most respected names. Recognition also unlocks valuable media exposure and increased visibility, both locally and internationally.

The awards reflect the diversity and growth of the industry, with categories remaining unchanged for 2026: Day Spas, Hotel Spas, Boutique Hotel Spas, Safari Spas, Unique Spa Concepts, Aesthetic/Medi Spas, and Wellness Retreats.

More than a celebration, the Les Nouvelles Esthétiques Spa Awards inspire excellence, encourage innovation, and support continuous improvement across the Southern African wellness sector.

For more information on entering the LNE Spa Awards 2026, please contact: info@lesnouvelles.co.za / whatsapp: 083 267 2773

See the 2025 Winners & Finalists Here