Questions and Answers

There are a couple of things to think about before you are ready to have your manicure. With every service not only do we want you to be happy with the end result; beautiful looking hands and nails but we want you to enjoy your experience and ensure that you have had a chance to relax and feel pampered. With our manicures you will enjoy a moisturising hand and lower arm massage. So please ensure that you are wearing a short sleeve top or are able to roll up your sleeves as you really don’t want to miss out. We also recommend that all clients who are going to be having a colour varnish or gel polish applied to please arrive at least 10 minutes before your appointment time to make your selection as you may have trouble decided between our 200+ colours!

Having a pedicure is certainly a treat that will leave your feet and toes feeling rejuvenated and looking great. As this is intended to be a relaxing treatment please remember to wear something comfortable as we want to ensure you enjoy your lower leg and foot massage thoroughly. If preferable, we do supply cosy robes to wear during your treatment. If having varnish on your toes then don’t forget to bring your flip flops so that you don’t smudge your freshly painted toes as it does take several hours to harden. If you opt for a gel polish then not to worry as this is completely smudge free.

At Gilded Dreams, we have chosen to use high end, top quality products to ensure consistent gorgeous results that have the potential to last 2-3 weeks. However, wear time is highly dependent on the condition of the nail plates to begin with. Wear will always be longer on healthy nails. Damaged, brittle, peeling, ridged or uneven nail plates are prone to chipping and peeling and are not likely to last the 2-3 weeks. It is worth the time and effort to strengthen and treat the nail plates prior to having gel polish applied. When gel polishes are applied to healthy nails and the correct aftercare is maintained it should last at least 2 weeks and often even longer. We even have clients that get 4 weeks wear with no chips. At Gilded Dreams, we will advise you on the condition of your nails and if any specific treatment would be beneficial to improve the condition of your nails and cuticles. Please also see our aftercare advice as this is equally important to keep your nails and gel polish in beautiful condition.

To ensure your gel polish stays looking gorgeous and lasts there are a number of things that you need to consider. Firstly, always wear gloves when doing household cleaning, gardening or hobbies that are hard on your hands and especially when using harsh chemicals. It is equally important to apply cuticle oil daily (or even better twice a day) to keep your nails and skin hydrated and healthy which will increase the longevity of your gel polish. If you do this you will see a huge difference in the overall health and appearance of your cuticles and nails. Best to leave a bottle of cuticle oil on your bedside table to remember to apply it when you go to bed and wake up. It’s like magic in a bottle! Always wash your hands immediately after applying suntan lotion or insect repellent as many of these products contain chemicals that will damage your polish. To avoid colour fading always wipe your hands/nails immediately after coming out of a chlorinated pool particularly when followed by extended sun exposure as this may bleach or fade your colour.

Don’t panic we are here to help. We offer a nail repair service for a nominal fee to keep your nails looking fabulous. So, if you chip a nail or pop an extension off then gives a call and we will fit you in asap and repair you nail in a matter of minutes.

No. By following the proper application and removal process there should be no damage rather it should protect your natural nails and leave them perfectly healthy. Always resist the temptation to pull or tear off the polish if it is chipping or tearing as this can lead to extensive damage to the nail bed. It is always best to let us take off your gel polish or at least let us show you the proper technique.

No. Nails do not breath in fact all the nutrients that nail needs comes from the nailbed underneath. Wearing Gel polish overtop the nail actually provides a layer of protecting keeping them nice and healthy.

Going out and your gel polish doesn’t match your outfit don’t worry as you can paint varnish over gel polish temporarily. Simply paint nail varnish over the gel polish. Then to remove and reveal your gel polish use an acetone-free remover to remove the nail polish. Voila!

You must be at least 14 years old to have gel polish or nail extensions at Gilded Dreams. For those that are under 16 they must be accompanied by a parent. If younger than 14y.o. we do offer a Little Miss Sparkle manicure and pedicure using nail varnish.

Our Callus Peel treatment will make your feet feel soft, rejuvenated and look beautiful!

A busy and active lifestyle can lead to a build up of hard skin and calluses on the foot. Our Callus Peel Treatment will remove this unsightly skin in 4 steps without the use of any blades or drills leaving your feet soft and smooth. This treatment is suitable for everyone including diabetics and pregnant women. Callus Peel can be a stand-alone treatment, or can be added to your pedicure!

Our PerfectSense Paraffin wax is melted through a self-heating process and whilst melting you will enjoy an invigorating aromatherapy that will rejuvenate your senses. Once melted your hands/feet will be placed into the paraffin filled mitts/booties coating your hand/foot in the soothing paraffin wax. Your hands/feet will then be placed in thermal mitts or booties to trap the heat for 10 mins. Afterwards, the wax is easily peeled off and the rest of the manicure/pedicure will proceed.

There are many benefits to having this luxury treatment. Having a paraffin wax treatment is not only very relaxing as it soothes aching joints and tired muscles, it will leave your hands or feet feeling rejuvenated, supple and looking younger. The heat of the wax will open your pores, which allows the lubricants in the paraffin wax as well as the moisturising oil from your massage to further penetrate to soften your skin and hydrate your nails. If you suffer from dry, cracked skin, cuticles or nails then a paraffin wax treatment is definitely for you. In addition, there are also many therapeutic aspects to this treatment such as improving your circulation in your hands or feet as well as providing soothing relief from arthritis, rheumatic, eczema or carpal tunnel pain. We often neglect our hands and feet which do so much for us. Why not give your hands and feet a treat they deserve!

Every day wear on your hands can cause your skin to become dry and your nails to become brittle and break easily. It is an excellent treatment for those that have dry overgrown cuticles that have a tendency to crack as well as for those nail bitters! A hot oil treatment will improve the overall health of your nails, cuticles and skin. Oil will be gently heated and your fingertips will be submerged into the oils for 5-10 mins for a deep conditioning treatment as it will nourish the nail plate, softens the cuticles and surrounding skin.

For your feet, we use a hydrating mask that is specifically formulated to relieve dry, hard skin. It will lock in moisture and with leave your skin smoother, softer and moisturised. With its cooling sensation it will make your feet feel refreshed and energised. For your hands, we use a citrus illuminating mask that is formulated with firming peptides and citrus and grapeseed oils which will help reduce visible signs of ageing. With this lustrous hydrating mask your hands will have a silky smooth younger looking appearance.

There are only a few reasons why you should not be waxed:

• If you are on Roaccutane or acne medication
• If you are using anti-ageing or skin thinning products for facial waxing
• If you are sunburnt or have been exposed to UV rays within the last 12 hours
• If you have surface varicose veins
• If you are diabetic*
• If you are allergic to essential oils*
• Had recent piercings, tattoos or scar tissue (within 6 months) in the area to be waxed

*means this needs to be discussed to evaluate if treatment is possible or not.

We want to make your experience to be as pain free and comfortable as possible which is why we have chosen the award winning Waxperts waxes which are specially formulated to be gentle on the skin and minimise discomfort. If it is the first wax or if you have been clipping, shaving or using depilatory creams, your hair will be stronger and thicker, so you may feel slight discomfort although this only lasts for a few seconds. Once you have been waxed the hair weakens and is finer so each time it becomes more comfortable. For best results return every 4-5 weeks for your waxing.

It is normal to be apprehensive, after all it’s not every day you’re half-naked in front of a stranger is it?! As Waxperts, we have seen it all as this is our job so there is no reason to be shy or embarrassed. We want you to just relax, enjoy the experience and become a smoothie like us!

You must be at least 12 years old to have waxing. If under 16yr you must be accompanied by a consenting parent. For intimate waxing you must be at least 16yr.

Yes. At Gilded Dreams we offer all our services including waxing to both men and women.

For hair to successfully be removed by waxing, the hair needs to be approximately 1cm in length. For those clients who normally shave or use hair removal creams, you will need to grow out your hair 3-4 weeks before waxing. For those clients who regularly wax, return every 4-5 weeks.

One or two days before your appointment exfoliate the area. This helps to get rid of dead skin cells and release trapped hairs from under the skin. On the day of your wax, do NOT moisturise, apply deodorant or have any hot showers or heat based treatments (i.e. sauna, steam, sun beds). If you have hypersensitive skin or have allergies, you should have a complimentary patch test 24-48 hours prior to your appointment. Avoid drinking caffeine on the day of your wax as it sensitises you. Weird I know!

No, you can still be waxed, just wear a tampon. Remember, we wear gloves and do not double dip, so you can be assured of hygiene. If you can, try to avoid being waxed in the run up to your period as you may be more sensitive although is still more than bearable.

It is a wax that does not require paper strips to remove it as it peels off. As the wax sets it shrink wraps around the hair and lifts it up from the follicle. When it is set then it simply peels off. Hot wax is used on the face, underarms, and bikini areas.

It is a wax that uses a muslin/paper strip to remove the wax and unwanted hair. Waxperts Strip Wax is specifically designed to glide off the skin during the removal, leaving no sticky residue post wax. Strip Wax is used on legs, chest, back and arms.

Basic                     This is a modest bikini wax, removes all hair outside the underwear line and inner thigh. Most suitable for “Bridget Jones” underwear!

Treatment time: 15mins

Extended            Removes bikini hair from the inner thigh and comes further under the underwear line as well as a small strip on the top of the bikini line to neaten it up. Suitable for high cut underwear or swimwear.

                              Treatment time: 30mins

In Betweeny

Not quite a Brazilian, leaves some hair on the lips. Hair is also removed from the bum. Suitable for G-string underwear.

Treatment time: 30-40mins

Brazilian              Removes all hair leaving a strip or small triangle of hair just above the pubis. All hair underneath on the lips/labia and bum is removed. Suitable for any underwear.

                              Treatment time: 45-60mins

Hollywood          Totally bare! All pubic hair is removed.

                              Treatment time: 45-60mins

Manzillian           Is the male version of the Brazilian where all hair is removed leaving a strip or triangle just above the shaft of the penis. All hair on the penis, scrotum and bum is removed.

                              Treatment time: 45-60mins

The no-no’s:

No touching/scratching the waxed areas

No tight restrictive clothing for 24hrs

No hot showers or baths, saunas, steam rooms for 24 hours

No sun beds or sun exposure for 24 hours

No excessive perspiration for 24 hours eg. gym, swimming etc.

No fake tan, moisturisers, makeup or deodorants for 24 hours

Do not shave or epilate in between waxes

The yes-yes’s:

Exfoliate 2-3 times weekly

Moisturise daily

Book your next wax treatment in 4-5 weeks

We kindly ask that you do not wear any makeup and especially mascara to your lash treatment. If you normally wear waterproof mascara, please refrain from using it at least a couple days before your lash treatment. If you wear contact lenses these will need to be removed during treatment so please bring your contact lens case with you.

LVL Lash Lift is the revolutionary lash phenomenon that reveals your natural lashes in all their glory. By straightening your natural lashes at the root and then tinting them, the LVL Lash Lift gives you the appearance of longer, thicker lashes. No mascara. No messing. Just perfect lashes from the moment you wake up. Results last up to 6 weeks. Whilst you are enjoying this treatment on our heated bed we will also provide you with a relaxing lower arm and hand massage. Chill time!

Our Beautiful Brow Lamination, waxing and tinting treatment can transform even the worst natural eyebrows into a perfect shape enhancing the facial features. This is the ultimate solution for eyebrows that do not have symmetry where the hairs follow a different pattern, with brow relaxing we can realign the brows in such a way to give them the desired shape you want. This treatment solves the messy, unruly, or curly brow issue, creating volume and fullness, whilst giving a sleek well-kept brow shape for up to 6 weeks.

You must be at least 16 to have LVL, Brow Lamination or Lash Extensions. For lash or brow tinting you must be at least 14yr. For those 14&15 you must be accompanied by a consenting parent.

Aftercare treatment is just as important as the treatment itself because if it is not followed you can undo the effects of the treatment completely.

• IT IS VITAL NOT TO GET YOUR LASHES/BROWS WET for 48hrs for LVL & Lamination whilst the bonds in the hair set/heal. OR 24hr for Lash Extensions until the adhesive is completely set.
• No bath, showers, saunas, steam rooms, hot tub, swimming or steam from cooking.
• May even be worth avoiding intense exercising (perspiring) for the first 24hrs.
• Avoid strong sunlight or UV light for 24hrs as this can affect the tint.
• Do not touch or rub eye or brow area as this can transfer oil and bacteria and disrupt bond formation.
• Avoid sleeping on your front or side as this can disturb the lashes/brows form and cause lash extension loss.
• Use non-oil based makeup & removers. Stay away from waterproof mascaras.
• After washing your face always pat your lashes/brows dry – never rub!
• Brush lashes/brows morning and night to keep them neat and to avoid crossover.
• Moisturise your lashes and brows daily.
• Gently cleanse lash extensions 2-3 time per week.

For the first 24hrs AVOID

• wearing make-up (or at least 6 hours after a facial treatment)
• direct sin light or heat such as sunbathing, sunbeds, saunas, hot baths, showers, steam rooms, hot tubs, hairdryer
• perfume or perfumed products
• smoking or alcohol
• Do not undertake any other facial skincare treatments within 48 hours of having a facial.
• Do not apply any other exfoliating skincare products for 48 hours after having a facial.
• Always use an SPF sunscreen to block ultraviolet B rays.
• Always cleanse, tone and moisturise your face. To prevent loss of moisture, protect the skin from make-up and to keep the skin soft and supple.
• Always remove all traces of make-up at the end of the day.
• Drink plenty of water (recommend 6-8 glasses per day).
• Eat a healthy balanced diet.

There are many benefits to having a massage whilst pregnant. In order to have a pregnancy massage you however need to obtain consent from your GP or midwife and must be beyond 12 weeks pregnant.

A Lava Shell Massage is an indulgent and truly pampering massage which offers an idyllic treatment combining the warmth of the shells with deeply relaxing massage techniques, creating a sense of balance to the entire body. During the massage, the shells are worked over the palms, arms, feet and legs in slow deep moves to warm and de-stress. This is followed by a wonderfully tranquil massage on the back, neck and shoulder area to ease away all tension, knots and stress. An unforgettable and sublime spa experience.

PLUS AN ADDED TREAT…..

Our Lava Shell Massages are further enhanced by incorporating a Luna Eyes self-heating eye mask for ultimate immersion of the senses. The comforting heat, blackout properties and scents of this mask will help you fully relax your mind, taking your treatment to an even deeper state of tranquillity.

The most used, abused, and neglected part of the body is our feet. They are always in motion and over time can make us miserable with annoying pain and discomfort. Reflexology foot massages relieve stress and built up tension. Adding this to your personal health and wellness plan will advance your efforts to live a healthier and less stressed lifestyle.

This ancient form of massage is able to aid in several aspects of relaxation, improved wellness, and pain relief. Below are seven reflexology benefits and reasons to book your foot reflexology appointment.

#1 – Encourages Relaxation – Reflexology can flood the neural pathways with relaxation, inducing a state of peace and tranquility within the body and mind. This physiological change results in the reduction of stress.Stress reduction through reflexology therapy is frequently associated with relieving sleep disorders. This is accomplished by helping your body return to a more relaxed and balanced state, simultaneously working to restore a healthy Circadian rhythm, which is needed for sufficient sleep.

#2 – Promotes Nervous System Stimulation – Open neural pathways benefit our central nervous system in a variety of ways. The brain is able to handle inputs more effectively, essentially speeding up cognitive strengths; thus, increasing the speed of physical reactions, which boosts your memory. Overall, the entire brain is able to work faster and more efficiently.

#3 – Relieves Migraines and Headaches – Reflexology is often sought after by people in pain, because reflexology can reduce the severity of migraines and headaches by increasing blood flow and relieving muscle tension. Since stress and psychological factors often manifest themselves as migraine symptoms, stress-induced headaches can also be eliminated.

#4 – Revitalizes Nerve Function – Nerve endings lose sensitivity in parts of our body as we age (more so in the extremities). Reflexology has been associated with the stimulation of more than 7,000 different nerve endings during a 1-hour session, naturally increasing nerve functioning and reactivity. The opening and cleansing of neural pathways helps improve overall functionality and reduces toxicity within the body.

#5 – Improves Circulation – Probably the most well known and verified results of reflexology is an improvement in circulation throughout the entire body, which means blood and oxygen are being cycled throughout the body more effectively. Due to this benefit, oxygen reaches vital organ systems, optimizing their function and increasing the metabolism.

#6 – Increases Energy Levels – By aligning functions of organ and muscle systems, reflexology has the potential to increase the metabolism and energy creation. In other words, reflexology sessions can help to re-energize your body and mind.

#7 – Relieves Plantar Fasciitis Pain – Reflexology can help ease the pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis. Reflexology is beneficial as it uses pressure point techniques to release tension, relieving the heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis.

Hopi Ear Candling is in fact an age-old therapy – also known as thermo-auricular therapy. Not only is it relaxing and rejuvenating, it’s also helpful for a variety of ear, nose and throat conditions.

Who Can Benefit from Hopi Ear Candling?

A Hopi Ear Candle treatment can be enjoyed purely for relaxation purposes, but the process is believed to be helpful for many problems and conditions, including the following:

• Sinusitis
• Tinnitus
• Hay fever
• Catarrh
• Headaches
• Irritability and stress
• May help to loosen excessive ear wax
• Ear pressure due to flying
• Vertigo

How Does Hopi Ear Candling Work?

The treatment involves placing an ear candle – a hollow tube made of unbleached cotton that is coated with natural ingredients such as beeswax, honey and herbs – into the ear canal. Treating each ear separately, as the candle gently burns down it is believed to act like a ‘chimney’ creating a light vacuum effect. The flicker of the flame also creates vibrations that massage the eardrum. The herbal vapours from the lit candle also swirl into the ear canal, helping to soothe and balance.

What Does Hopi Ear Candling Feel Like?

As the candle burns down, many say it sounds like a fire softly crackling away which adds to the overall relaxing experience. The usual burn time of each candle is between ten and fifteen minutes. A pleasant feeling of warmth from both the candle and the reassurance of the therapist’s touch also makes this a deeply relaxing treatment. The ear candling treatment can be followed by a massage of the outer ear, followed by a pressure point and lymphatic drainage massage of the face which complements the effects of the ear candling by helping to release blockages in the sinuses and ears

Clinically proven and celebrated skin resurfacing treatment that offers flawless results for problem skin, pigmentation, lines and wrinkles, scarring and body treatments. A jet stream of crystals are projected onto the skin which exfoliates the surface removing dull, dry skin. Suction aids in clearing pores and removing all debris. Conclusively proven too dramatically and visibly improve the texture and appearance of the skin, reducing and smoothing lines and wrinkles and producing more beautiful rejuvenated skin.

Most people can have a spray tan however there are a few exceptions. For those individuals that suffer with any of the following would be advised to speak to their GP prior to obtain permission:

•     Asthma
•     Hypersensitive skin
•     Cosmetic injection in the last 72hrs
•     Open wounds or cuts on the skin
•     Active exzema or psoriasis
•     Severe acne
•     Recent body piercing or tattoo
•     Undiagnosed lumps or bumps
•     Chemotherapy patients
•     First term pregnancy
•     Diabetic

If you are a first time user of Morrocan Spray Tan products then we always recommend that you have a patch test 48hr prior to your appointment. Just pop into our salon and we can do this in just a few minutes.

For the best results,

• Wax or shave 8-24hr before the spray tan
• Shower & exfoliate prior to your appointment – avoid moisturising body washes/exfoliators
• No moisturisers, body butters or oils
• No deodorant, lotions or oils
• Wear loose fitting dark clothing

 Arrive for your spray tan with bare skin, free of makeup, deodorant and any perfumes as they may interact with the solution and cause a discoloration.

It should take about a 15 minute appointment where the actual spray tan should only take about 10 minutes to apply.

At Gilded Dreams we are all about making our clients comfortable. It can sometimes feel quite daunting getting undressed in front of a stranger but not to worry we have seen it all before as this is our job so there is no reason to feel shy. So, if you would like no tan lines then you are welcome to take it all off however if you would like a bit more coverage you can wear your knickers with or without your bra. If you do so please wear dark colours. We also provide disposable thongs. All clients are provided with a disposable hair net and sticky feet too.

We recommend that you wear loose fitting clothing after your spray tan. After 2 hrs you will need to have a shower to rinse off the guide colour. (Do not sleep in it as this will make your tan patchy!) Your shower should only be a rinse with luke warm water with no soap and do not wash your hair. Your spray tan will continue to develop over the course of 8-12hrs after you have rinsed off.

Whilst your spray tan is developing you should avoid

1. any water contact (showers, swimming pools, sweating, exercising, rain etc)
2. do not apply any products (deodorant, sprays, lotions, makeup, etc)

You should moisturise everyday to prolong your tan. After 5-7 days gently exfoliate. You can also prolong the life of your tan with Moroccan gradual tanning and extender spray or mousse.

On average a tan should last between 5-7 days. For best results, you should moisturise every day to prolong the tan. You can also extend the life of your tan with the use of Moroccan Tan Extenders which are available for purchase.