Frequently Asked Questions

Waxing (Depilatory treatment)

What length should my hairs be for waxing?
Answer: Generally the hairs will be trimmed to a maximum of 10mm. A minimum of around 5mm is required.

Is waxing painful?
Answer: It’s rather like removing a plaster. If you are a wax virgin then you may find it slightly more uncomfortable at first. The more waxing you have the less uncomfortable it becomes. It really depends on your threshold – taking pain killers around one hour prior to any waxing treatment may help.

Will the hair stop growing after waxing?
Answer: Waxing makes the hair finer, but it’s not a permanent hair removal method.

How long should I leave it between waxing sessions?
Answer: 4 to 6 weeks is recommended to allow the hair to grow to at least 5mm.

What measures can be taken to help prevent ingrown hairs?
Answer: Exfoliate before waxing and again 2-3 days after so that the hairs can grow freely through the skin.

Am I likely to suffer from any skin reactions?
Answer: You may suffer with red and or blotchy skin after waxing. This normally lasts for around 2 hours but may last up to 24 hours. If you are particularly concerned about the effect waxing will have on your skin, we are able to offer a free patch test at least 24 hours to your treatment. Call for information.

Do you offer after care advice?
Answer: Your therapist will offer advice on the day of the treatment but the general advice given is as follows:

• No hot baths or showers for 24 hours
• No sunbeds or sun exposure for at least 24 hours
• Wear loose clothing after treatment
• There may be products on the market that can help to soothe the skin after waxing and we will be pleased to discuss this with you during the treatment

Electrolysis

How much does electrolysis cost?
Answer: Our prices are displayed on the electrolysis page. Most treatments last for a minimum of 15 minutes or more although small areas may need less.

Can Electrolysis be used on the Bikini Line?
Answer: Yes it can be used on the Bikini area, but as the hair tends to be much stronger it can take a lot longer to weaken the hair to stop growth.

What kind of electrolysis machine does your salon use?
Answer: We use the Sterex SBX.

How successful is this treatment and what is the average time you tell your patients that this will take to remove hair permanently?
Answer: Electrolysis is a progressive treatment. Overnight results should not be expected as the hairs will weaken over time. It is difficult to say exactly how long this will take as there are several deciding factors but we will be able to discuss this and give estimates during your initial consultation.

Is it possible to have hair removed by electrolysis on my breasts if I have recently had a breast enlargement?
Answer: We advise discussing this with a medical professional prior to visiting the salon for treatment.

I have unwanted hair around my nipples and just below my navel and was enquiring whether electrolysis would be suitable to treat these areas?
Answer: Yes, electrolysis is effective at treating the hairs around the nipples and navel area.

How much would it cost for electrolysis treatment of the bikini line, and how many treatments are needed on average?
Answer: Treatments last 15-20 minutes. It is difficult to say exactly how long this will take as there are several deciding factors such as hair strength and the total area covered but we will be able to discuss this and give estimates during your initial consultation.

I have extremely hairy legs, which is incredibly embarrassing! If I have to let the hairs grow for waxing, I get ingrown hairs, blotchy legs, spots and end up very self-conscious. Is it possible to have electrolysis on your legs, or if not, is there another form of hair removal that you can recommended?
Answer: Electrolysis can be used on the legs, but as the process is time consuming, we usually recommend only using electrolysis on smaller areas. Depending on the strength of the hair, you may be better seeking advice from a therapist who offers laser treatments.

Dermalogica Facials

Question: What products do you use in your salon for facials?
Answer: We use a professional range from a company called Dermalogica. We have used this range for several years and clients have seen fantastic results with them.

Question: I am not sure on which facial to have or which one would suit my skin type. Can you give me any advice?
Answer: When you visit in for a facial, your therapist will be more than happy to assist you to determine which facial would be best suited to your particular skin type.

Question: What actually happens during a facial treatment?
Answer: When you come in for your facial, you will be asked to remove the clothing from the top part of your body and you will be provided with a towel and blanket to cover up. If you have long hair, we would also tie this back in to a hair band to keep it out of the way. A facial treatment is definitely one of the most relaxing beauty treatments you can have.

Question: I already have wrinkles, is skincare really going to reduce them?
Answer: A combination of a rigorous homecare program of active anti-ageing products and frequent visits to a professional Beauty Therapist for more intensive treatments, will help to soften existing lines and minimise further fine lines from becoming deeper and more obvious. It is never too late to start using skincare and you are never too old to prevent further fine lines and wrinkles.

Question: My skin is very sensitive and I react to everything I use, what can I do?
Answer: A visit to a professional Beauty Therapist is your first step. She will help you determine what it is you are allergic to and can advise you on a simple skincare routine to calm your skin down.

Dermalogica products are based on organically/naturally obtained ingredients for anyone who suffers with a sensitive skin. The ingredients contain the many different vitamins that a sensitive skin requires to function properly. It is very rare that a skin will experience any irritations with a natural vitamin based skincare range.

Question: Are natural based products better than chemical products?
Answer: Absolutely! The skin absorbs everything that is applied to it topically, this is easily demonstrated – if you rub a piece of garlic on the soles of your feet, after a while your breath smells of garlic! A natural product range is filled with active ingredients that fight the ageing process.

Question: At what age should I start using skincare?
Answer: A basic skincare routine of Cleansing, Toning and Moisturising prescribed for your skin type by a professional Beauty Therapist can be started at the early age of 13.

Question: What is the difference between professional skincare you can purchase at a beauty salon or a range you buy over the counter?
Answer: Professional skincare ranges are full of very active ingredients that stimulate and enhance the skin, they are prescribed by a trained professional Beauty Therapist that knows and understands the skins functions and how it should be treated for a successful result.

Question: What 4 products are essential in a beauty regime?
Answer: The 4 most important products to use are:

1. Cleanser – to remove make up, grime and impurities.
2. Exfoliant – to remove dead cells from your skin and give luster to your skin.
3. Toner – to remove the excess cleanser and to allow the proper absorbtion of a moisturiser.
4. Moisturiser – to replace lost moisture from throughout the day and to protect the skin against the damaging effects of the environment.

Question: What is wrong with using soap and water, my mother used it when she was growing up?
Answer: Most soaps are detergent based and can alter the pH level of the skin. The normal ph level is 5.5; the aggressive actions of soap can strip the skin of its natural protective layer of oil leaving the skin dry and susceptible to bacterial infections such as blemishes.

Back in the “old days” it was acceptable to use soap on the face as they were often home made with pure natural ingredients (there was nothing else available, you couldn’t go to the Mall to purchase your skincare) and the climate conditions then, are not like the harsh environment of today.

Question: Why should I use a separate sunblock when my moisturiser & foundation contains it?
Answer: Due to the amount of sun protection that is mixed into these products, it is not enough to provide you with all day protection. A separate sunblock (SPF30+) should be applied after your moisturiser and before your foundation to give you a good 6 hours of protection against the UVA ageing rays, UVB burning rays & UVC cancerous rays.

For maximum protection a sunblock should always be applied 20 minutes before going out in the sun.

Question: Are toners really necessary? Can I just use water?
Answer: Yes toners are necessary – they remove the excess cleanser and prepare the skin for the application of a moisturiser. Toners are pH balanced and contain active ingredients to allow your moisturiser to penetrate into the skin. It restores the skins pH levels after a cleanser has been removed with water.

If you use water as a toner you may alter the pH levels of the skin due to the chemical content found in water.

A moisturiser will always last longer when used in conjunction with a toner.

Question: I would like to purchase some homecare products. Can you advise which products I should be using?
Answer: Our therapists are professionally trained in the Dermalogica skin care range and would be happy to prescribe a routine that suits your particular skin type.

Question: I do not live locally, neither do I intend on using you for this treatment, can I still get more advice from you?
Answer: We are unable to reply to every email we receive and are not staffed to offer an advisory service on facials and skin care. Please seek out your local beauty salon or carry out a specific search on a search engine such as Yahoo/Google. However, if you have a genuine enquiry on our services or would like to book in for this treatment, please do feel free to use our contact methods below. Of course we are always more than happy to offer support to our clients.

Question: Are there any preparations I need to make before my appointment?
Answer: It is best to not eat for at least 90 minutes before your massage treatment. And only a light meal at that time.

This is a similar process to swimming or a work out when your body will take all the blood away from the digestion process and take it to the working peripheral tissues therefore causing poor digestion and possible discomfort.

Massage

Question: What can I expect when I go for a massage appointment?
Answer: On your first visit you will complete a confidential health history form. Your therapist will go over your health history form with you to determine your treatment needs and goals.

Question: Must I undress for my massage?
Answer: Massage therapists are required to cover/drape you with a sheet so that they expose only the area which they are working on. You may need to undress for therapy. However, you do not need to expose yourself in any way that you are uncomfortable.

Question: What if I am uncomfortable with my body?
Answer: It is possible to work on a client who is dressed. So just let your therapist know your comfort level.

Question: Does the gender of the massage therapist make a difference?
Answer: This is an issue of personal preference.

Question: I bruise easily, can I still get a massage?
Answer: It is important to let your massage therapist know (this should be asked on the health history form you will asked to fill out on your first visit). Massage therapy is not recommended for people who suffer from haemophilia.

Question: Am I expected to talk during the massage?
Answer: If you wish to have silence, you should say so at the beginning of the treatment. The therapist may, however, require verbal information pertinent to health findings during the treatment.

Question: After my appointment, is there anything I need to have on hand or anything specific I should do?
Answer: An epsom salt bath is recommended to soothe and to calm muscles, and enhance the benefits of the massage. It will help to alleviate stiffness you may feel the next day, and it is also recommended for use after workouts for the same reason. Drink plenty of water to keep your tissues hydrated.

Question: Should I Stretch before and after exercising?
Answer: Yes, you should do both:

After a 5 minute warm up as simple as marching on the spot to get the blood circulating through your muscles you can start your stretching routine safely. Hold each stretch 20 to 30 seconds and breath deeply. No bouncing and no pain.

After your work out and cool down, you do your stretches all again with not pain.

Manicures

• Leave adequate time after your treatment to allow your nails to dry before leaving the salon
• To prolong the life of your vanish wear gloves to perform any household or work related chores
• Try and use hand cream and cuticle cream every day
• If you wish to change your nail enamel between visits use only “acetone free” nail polish remover (as this is kinder to the nail) and remember to use a clear nail enamel/base coat before any colour to prevent yellowing on the nail
• Apply a top coat to protect, prolong and help prevent chipping the polish

Pedicures

• Leave adequate time after your treatment to allow your toenails to dry before leaving the salon
• Wear open toe shoes if possible
• Where possible use a pumice stone in between appointments to avoid the build up of callus
• To remove polish use a non acetone nail polish remover as this is kinder to the toenail
• Use a base coat to avoid staining the toenail
• Moisturise feet daily to avoid roughness and dryness
• Exfoliate weekly to avoid dryness

Eye lash tint

• A patch test will be necessary 24 hours before these treatments
• Avoid rubbing the eyes
• Avoid heat treatments for 24 hours
• Avoid sunbathing for 24 hours, as this fades the tint
• Avoid putting your contact lenses back in for the rest of the day
• Although we do make sure every trace of dye is removed, it is possible that residues may remain
• Do not apply make-up or receive any other eye treatments for at least 24 hours after your treatment.

Spray Tan

• It is preferable not to apply any type of perfume, deodorant, or aromatherapy oils on the day of your treatment as these reduce the results
• Waxing or shaving should be completed at least 24 hours prior to the treatment to reduce sensitivity
• The evening before your treatment, exfoliate your entire body using body polisher. Pay special attention to dry areas of your body such as hands, elbows, knees and feet
• Wear dark loose fitting clothing, together with a dark coloured bra, or preferably no bra at all. Please be aware that the guide colour can stain light hair, man-made fibres and wool
• Paper briefs will be provided or you can wear your own
• If you have sensitive skin or have not had a spray tan treatment before I recommend that you have a patch test 24 hours prior to your treatment
• Your tan will begin to develop immediately after the treatment
• Do not shower or bathe for a minimum of 4 hours after the treatment
• Do not participate in any activity which may cause perspiration for at least 12 hours after the treatment
• It is fine to leave the guide colour on overnight and wash in the morning. If a little colour does appear on the bed linen, it is a naturally-derived dye and will wash out of cotton but not so easily from man-made fibres and wool

Tan maintenance Tips

• With the correct aftercare your tan will last longer
• Apply body moisturizer daily. This hydrates skin ensuring your tan lasts the longest time possible
• Exfoliate your skin with body polisher every 3 days to ensure your tan fades evenly
• Do not rub, but pat your skin dry after showing or bathing
• Avoid Swimming pools as chlorine will bleach your tan

Swedish Massage

After your treatment please follow the advice below in order to gain the most benefit from your Swedish body massage.

• Increase your water intake following a massage to assist the body’s detoxification process
• Have a suitable rest period after the treatment
• Cut down on consumption of stimulants (ie alcohol/coffee/tea)
• You may experience the following reactions. These are beneficial to your body, but some can be unpleasant and short lived. Over a period of time your reactions will diminish. The main reactions you will experience are pleasant.
• You may feel generally sleepy or tired
• Weepy / emotional due to the release of tension
• Warm due to your improved circulation
• Increase in urination due to the body releasing toxins
• Aching and soreness in the muscles, this will be short-lived and followed by a relief from muscular tension
• Less stressed and more relaxed
• Improved sleep patterns

Hopi ear Candle

For the next 24 hours:

• Client to use collar/scarf/hood or hat to cover ears
• Protect ears from cold and wind
• Keep water out of ears
• Drink plenty of water
• Some initial discomfort/itchiness in the ears may be experienced, but this will soon pass

Threading

WHAT IS THREADING?
By using a piece of thread, hair can be removed swiftly yet meticulously from the most delicate areas of the face. Facial threading is the best alternative to waxing and tweezing, especially for sensitive skin. Unlike waxing, threading does not remove a layer of skin, which may cause sun damage. Threading is by far the least invasive method of facial hair removal, leaving the skin clean and smooth.
Originated in the Middle East, threading has been practiced for centuries. Only a handful of salons and spas offer this exclusive service.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
By knotting the thread and creating a trap, hairs are caught and forced out by the root. The rapid back and forth movement, removes the hair in efficient manner. Depending upon the client’s needs, hair can be removed individually or a few at the time.

BENEFITS OF THREADING VS. WAXING:
– Does not peel off a layer of skin.
– Hair does not grow back as fast.
– Skin does not get as red and irritated.
– Can pull out individual hairs.
– Hair does not need to be long, but just above the skin.
– Will not produce more hairs or make hairs stronger.
– Will pick up the finest hairs from the skin surface
– Leaves skin smooth
Threading is an art form, creating clean lines with precision while refining the appearance of the face. Threading is the solution for those looking for a natural and beneficial technique of hair removal.