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What product would you suggest someone use on nails that have splits down the middle?
If nails are soft, use Formula 2 in conjunction with Nailtiques Oil Therapy. If nails are hard from using Formula 2, use Formula 1 in conjunction with Nailtiques Nail Moisturiser. If nails are naturally hard, use Formula 3 in conjunction with Nailtiques Nail Moisturiser.
My nails split and break from being too hard (naturally). Why is it necessary to use Nailtiques Nail Moisturiser if I am using the Oil Therapy?
Nails that lack moisture or flexibility are targets for splits or breakage. Dryness could prevent the nail protein from promoting beneficial results. Nailtiques Nail Moisturiser PROMOTES moisture and flexibility within the nails. The Oil Therapy SEALS in moisture to nails. Therefore no matter how often the Oil Therapy is applied, the nails will not soften.
What are the white spots on my nails?
Some white spots are caused by air pockets where the nail does not adhere to the nail bed. Other white spots are a result of dry nails.
Solution(s): Use Nailtiques Nail Moisturiser or Oil Therapy on the nail surface as often as possible when there is no protein or polish on the nails. When there is protein or polish on the nails, apply underneath the tip of the nails.
Does Nailtiques have any product(s) for ridges?
Yes. We recommend Nailtiques Nail Protein, Nail Moisturiser or Oil Therapy and Nailtiques Pink & Green Sponge File. Apply the Nail Moisturiser or Oil Therapy to bare nails and gently file the ridges using the pink side of the file. This will remove the ridges without damaging the nail. The nail protein will help prevent the ridges from coming back.
Does Nailtiques have any product(s) for dry cuticles?
Yes. Nailtiques has several products that will help replenish lost moisture. Nailtiques Cuticle & Hand Conditioner, Cuticle & Skin Gel and Oil Therapy are perfect when used alone or in combination with one another.
Nailtiques Cuticle & Hand Conditioner is a highly concentrated combination of pure aloe and jojoba oils that rehydrates and conditions hands and cuticles. The Cuticle & Skin Gel is a glycerine and aloe based crème ideal for extremely dry or calloused areas; this product is the most beneficial when applied moderately. Nailtiques Oil Therapy is a unique blend of vitamin enriched oils, specifically designed to treat dry, brittle nails, soften cuticles and to replenish the skins natural oils and seals in moisture to nails without making them softer. To enhance the benefits, put on a pair of cotton gloves or socks; the heat will help the crème penetrate into the skin
Is it a problem to remain on Formula 2 after your nails become healthy?
No. However, Formula 2 may cause nails to become too hard or brittle. Healthy nails are firm yet flexible. If someone insists on remaining on Formula 2, the protein should not be applied any more than three times per week. Use Nailtiques Nail Moisturizer and Oil Therapy in conjunction with Formula 2.
I am in my first trimester of pregnancy, can I have a body massage?
85% of miscarriages occur in the first trimester of pregnancy. For liability reasons, many massage practitioners and most spas do not massage women in their first trimester. Unless otherwise advised by a doctor,massage during the first trimester is safe. We are specifically trained to assist you at all times during your pregnancy.
I heard you shouldn't have your feet massaged when you are pregnant. Is that true?
Not true. Now more than ever your feet need relief from joint pressure and swelling. But there are acupressure points around the ankles and feet that, when actively and aggressively worked, can bring on contractions. This is handy during labour, but those specific places and techniques are carefully avoided until then. This is one of the many reasons to see a knowledgeable, pregnancy-certified therapist.
Do I have to stop receiving massage close to my due date?
You may be relieved to know that in most cases it is safe (and beneficial!) to receive massage up to your due date and beyond. Many women schedule a session on their due date so they have something to look forward to if they have not yet gone into labour. A massage is a great way to prepare your body for the experience of giving birth.
Sometimes the skin on my belly feels so tight. Is it safe to have it massaged?
With proper technique and pressure levels, absolutely. By policy we do not massage abdomens in the first trimester. It is completely safe, as your uterus is still the size of a plum and protected by the bony structure of the pelvis. However, due to the high incident of miscarriage in the first trimester we avoid it because it tends to cause some anxiety, and the object of the massage is to reduce stress. After 12 weeks it is your option to request massage on your belly with light, circular strokes. This promotes skin elasticity and circulation to the general area.
How often should I receive massage when I am pregnant?
Each woman and each pregnancy is different, so there is no standard answer for this question. If you are planning to use massage therapy as an integral part of your prenatal care we suggest once a month in the first trimester, twice a month in the second and third. If you are having a difficult pregnancy with back pain, sharp leg and hip pains or sleeplessness we recommend increasing your session to 1 1 /2 hours or coming once a week in the last trimester.
Do you use a table or cushions that allow me to lay face down during a massage?
We do not use tables with holes for the belly. We place you on your sides or semi-reclined with cushions so there is no pressure on the abdomen whatsoever, and the spine and surrounding muscles are able to relax.
What is Micro-Needling?
The basic idea behind Micro-Needling is to stimulate the production of new collagen. Using the skin’s ability to heal itself, puncturing the dermis with microscopic needles triggers the production of new collagen.
Micro-Needling is used to improve skin tone and texture; treating the appearance of ageing; scarring; stretch marks and pigmentation marks from acne and sun damage.
Topical products applied directly after Micro-Needling can be absorbed to a far deeper level in the skin, making them more effective.
How does the Micro-Needling Treatment work?
Collagen is a protein that gives our skin its structure, working like a netting to hold skin cells together. It also gives skin a smooth and youthful appearance, as we have it in abundance when we’re young. As we age, collagen starts to break down.
The tiny needles used in skin Micro-Needling make microscopic channels in the dermis, triggering the body’s healing response to kick-start production of new collagen and elastin, plumping up the skin.
What skin conditions can Micro Needling treat?
Medical Micro Needling also referred to as Collagen Induction Therapy, works for a variety of skin conditions, including:
The micro-needling produces channels in dermis which sufficiently stimulate the body’s natural defences to repair the skin, producing concentrated amounts of collagen and proteins to the treated areas of skin. This results in the skins thickness being increased by up to 80% smoothing scars, visibly reducing stretch marks and erasing wrinkles
Is there any down time and does it hurt?
There is very little down time, although expect your skin to look and feel mildly sunburnt for about 24 hours after the treatment. It will also start to flake after a day or two as the skin cells slough off. This is a normal reaction and after about a week you’ll see the new, brighter, smooth skin. A topical cream is used to lessen sensitivity on the face, so there is no pain during the treatment
Are there any side effects?
It varies by client, but immediate side effects include redness, flaking, and mild irritation on the treated areas. These aren’t anything to worry about and will subside within 24-72 hours. It may be difficult to apply make-up over treated skin whilst it is flaking; similar to skin peeling after sunburn. Do not exfoliate the skin for 3- 4 days as this will irritate the skin.
Why should I book a trial?
A trial is a test application of your bridal make-up. This is so you can be sure you are happy with the look and style of your make-up beforehand. If there are specific products that you like to use we ask you to bring them along to the trial. This trial run also gives you a chance to see how the make-up suits and lasts on your own skin. Also it give us the opportunity to assess your skin, and advise you on a skin care regime. Skin peels are a fantastic treatment before your big day to brighten, illuminate and improve the overall texture of the skin this will allow for a flawless finish to your make-up. Should you for any reason choose not to book a trial, bare in mind that the application time for the wedding could be longer.
I have no idea what look I want! What should I do?
Searching images on-line can be a great inspiration, as well as looking through magazines. Bringing images with you to the trial will give us a better idea of what you are thinking of. The thing with make-up is that one person's 'smokey eye' or 'natural look' is different to another's, so visuals are very handy. Wedding photos will be looked back on in years to come, most brides do opt for a more natural look with depth to the eyes.
When is the best time to have my trial make-up session?
The average time to do so would be approximately 2 months in advance. This should allow your skin to be in a similar condition and tone to as it will be on the day. Going through summer or winter after the trial can sometimes mean a natural tan appears or fades before the wedding. That being said, it is totally up to you. You might prefer to have your trial done and have one less thing to worry about. You may of course also book a second trial if you then feel you would like one closer to the date, or indeed if you would simply like to try another look!
Will a false tan affect the make-up?
Yes. A false tan will affect the products chosen for your make-up, especially the foundation colour. For this reason you should trial your false tan for the same time you have your make-up trial.
My wedding is some time away, should I make a booking now?
It is best to book ahead of time. We book on a first-come-first-serve basis, so weekends and popular seasons fill up quickly. Booking early will secure your date.
Will my make up last all day?
The make-up applied is designed to last the day. We do recommends that your bridesmaid carry a translucent powder and some lipstick/ lip gloss for any touch-ups you require.
Do you apply false eye lashes?
We apply both individual and strip eyelashes. It can make a huge difference to your look on your wedding day/night out. False eyelashes can really open up your whether you want to apply just a few lashes the the sides or a full strip of lashes. It is advisable to trial eyelash extensions to ensure there will be no reaction on the day.
Do you travel to the brides house to do make-up's?
A wedding day is an exciting time, and can have its stressful moments, we find the salon environment allows appointments to run smoother and on time with no distractions to you or us, allowing us to achieve exactly the look you want. This means that you can relax and enjoy the atmosphere without any drama.
Do you offer make-up lessons?
Yes, we will take you through a skin care regime to suit you, and advise you on the products to use. Well will take you step by step on applying beautiful daytime look and will complete the lesson with a fabulous night time look. We also ask you to bring along your own make up bag and skin care products so we can advise you on how to apply what you have correctly.
HOW DO I KNOW WHETHER MY SKIN IS DRY OR DEHYDRATED?
It is quite possible for you to have dry / very dry skin AND be dehydrated. Your skin type will be:
Dry / Very Dry / Normal /Normal-Dry/ Normal-Combination/ Combination /Combination Oily/ Oily/Acne – these are all SKIN TYPES, and any skin type can be dehydrated. Skin which is dehydrated needs water not oil to restore it’s natural moisture content. Skin which is just dry needs a moisturiser with an oil content. If your skin is dehydrated it will feel very tight and uncomfortable after washing your face, the appearance will almost be a little ‘papery’ ‘translucent’, ultimately it will look completely dull and lifeless. We have an excellent line for skin which is dehydrated called Hydracure, this has a cream for each skin type and we would expect that your skin will recover its hydration levels before you finish using the product (unless you are on certain medications which often cause the skin to be dehydrated).
WHAT CAUSES THE SKIN TO BECOME DEHYDRATED?
Over exfoliation can strip the skin. Don’t exfoliate more than once a week, and if your skin is dehydrated mix a little exfoliator in with your cleansing milk which will make the process more gently on skin which will be delicate.
Using cleansing products which are too harsh, (often containing alcohol), these may be lower end cleansing products often purchased to help problem, acne type skin. These can dry the surface of the skin, but not treat the underlying problem, so skin will be very flaky and tight on the surface but full of congestion underneath.
Prolonged exposure to the sun causes water to be lost from the skin. Very cold, windy weather and central heating can also dry the skin leading it to feel uncomfortable. If you are undergoing a fat free diet – this will often affect the skin by depriving the body of essential skin friendly fatty acids. Excess alcohol can cause the body (and therefore the skin) to become dehydrated. But the good news is – its quick and easy to fix – as long as you use the right products. Products that specifically work on dehydrated generally have ‘HYDRA’ in their name (meaning water). Check out our Hydracure range.
WHAT EXACTLY IS A SERUM?
A serum is an intensive treatment that works directly at the heart of the cells. Generally, it is a thicker liquid type product with very active ingredients that are formulated with much smaller molecules than a normal moisturiser, so that they can penetrate deeper into the skin. Generally a Serum should be used when your skin really needs an extra ‘boost’ – this is often after a period of stress, perhaps after a holiday when your skin has been over exposed to the sun.
HOW SHOULD A SERUM BE USED?
If you have oily/combination skin, it may not be necessary to use a moisturiser whilst using a serum, but for those with normal / dry / very dry / dehydrated skin a moisturiser should still be used. Apply a few drops of the Serum to the face, neck and décolletage after cleansing an toning. leave to absorb for a few moments and then apply your moisturiser on top. You can use a serum morning and evening. Once you have finished the product completely, just go back to using your regular moisturiser. Whilst, in theory, you could use a serum all year round it is generally not necessary – but using a serum 2 / 3 times a year should be perfectly adequate! You can normally tell when your skin needs a little something extra!
WHY IS IT NECESSARY TO EXFOLIATE YOUR SKIN?
Exfoliation is considered to be one of the most important parts of a good skincare regime. This can help resolve certain skin problems as well as achieving healthy, clear skin. The normal cycle of skin renewal means that a layer of dead cells can build up on the surface of the skin, causing the skin to become lackluster and dull. Make-up, if worn, can look ‘blotchy’, and a good regular exfoliation will also mean that any products you apply (serums/Moisturisers) will penetrate far more effectively and work to their maximum. Exfoliation also helps the pores to look smaller.
To use a scrub – massage in gently over the face, neck and décolletage, use circular movements and make sue you pay particular attention to areas where congestion is most commonly found (nose/chin). Remove with warm water, and tone afterwards. Check out ourFacial Exfoliating Scrub – it has a delicious menthol type feel and smell and leaves your skin feeling fab!
WHEN SHOULD YOU START USING AN EYE PRODUCT?
The eye area is finer and more delicate than the skin on the rest of your face, and the eyes therefore tend to be the first to show expression lines, fine lines and later on in life, deeper wrinkles. Generally we would advise starting to use an eye product from the age of 25-30. A good eye product will not only help correct – but prevent the formation of fine lines. As you get older, you simply use the product to give you the results you want – so you might want a lifting/firming action, in which case look at our Timexpert Lift Eye Cream, to specifically work on lines and wrinkles, check out our Timexpert Rides Eye Duo product. As a first eye cream, a light, refreshing, oxygenating gel is found with our Excel Therapy O2 Eye Cream. For skin which is looking particularly dull, with dark shadows under the eyes, the SRNS Detoxifying Eye Formula is truly excellent.
What is spray tanning and how does it work?
Spray tanning involves applying an active ingredient dihydroxacetone, or DHA, to your skin using a specialist low pressure machine. DHA is a colourless sugar that interacts with the proteins and amino acids in the outer layer of your skin to produce a golden brown colour. During your spray tanning treatment you will be sprayed with a lightly coloured solution of DHA, which you can wash off after eight hours when your actual tan will have developed.
Is it safe?
Spray tanning is MUCH safer than exposing your skin to the sun's rays, but you still get a great 'healthy' tan. Remember, with a sunless tan there is no risk of sunburn, peeling, sunstroke or sun-related skin diseases.
What about streaking and/or turning orange?
Fake tanning has come a long way since the early days. Better solutions, machines, training and spray tan technology virtually eliminates these issues. Our therapist are experienced in producing non-streaky tans and will ensure that the right solution is chosen for your colouring, giving you a beautiful healthy glow with long last results.
How long will my sunless tan last?
Your tan will last up to 5-7 days depending on your daily skincare regime and lifestyle. A sunless tan fades just like a tan from the sun, so as your skin sheds dead cells, your tan will fade. So the key is to moisturise twice daily and gently exfoliate after day 4-5. If you would like to keep your tan for two weeks we stock gradual tanning moisturisers which will help maximise the life of your tan.
How dark will I get?
There are different strengths of DHA in each of the tans that we stock, and your therapist will advise you of the best one for your skin tone. The darker you tan naturally, the darker you will tan with a spray tan.
Can I use tanning beds/tan outdoors with a spray tan?
Yes, you can do both if you choose, but remember that a spray tan is much safer than tanning beds. although you need to remember that spray tans do not contain Sun Protection, so you will need to apply a SPF of 20 or higher.
Can I still have a spray tan when I'm pregnant?
Yes, pregnant ladies can still be spray tanned. Some ladies do prefer to avoid the tummy area, in this case we provide a gown to cover up. We also provide a face mask if you choose to wear one.
Is it possible to be allergic to the tanning products?
Allergic reactions are extremely rare but we would always advise that you undergo a small patch test before having any tan for the first time.
Can I use the products if I have eczema?
This will depend on how bad your eczema is, as tan will grab in dry areas. If it is not too bad then barrier cream can be massaged into that area to reduce the tan absorption.
What will happen during my treatment?