FAQ

Read below for a list of frequently asked questions

If would like to speak to one of our specialists, please contact the closest Vixen® location.  We’d be happy to help.

SPA SERVICES

Spa FAQs

What is Shellac?

Say HELLO to the future! It goes on like Polish. Wears like Gel. Off in minutes. Shellac is the breakthrough technology that combines the ease of polish with the performance of gels, a true innovation in extended nail care.

What colours are available?

Vixen Nails & Spa carries all available Shellac colours and latest collections.

Can anyone have Shellac?

Anyone with suitable nails can have Shellac. Parental consent will be required for girls under the age of 16.

Is there such thing as “FAKE” Shellac?

Yes. Shellac is a gel polish brand made by CND. Several discount nail salons offer no-name or imitation Shellac brands at low prices. The quality does not measure up to real Shellac and does not offer the same benefits from ease of application to the removal process. Beware of “fake” Shellac and other gel polishes that can be damaging and unhealthy to your nail beds. Look for the CND Shellac label when receiving a Shellac service.

What does the Shellac Manicure involve?

Nails will be shaped, cuticles are tidied, and Shellac is applied and finished with a relaxing hand massage.

How long does the treatment take?

The treatment can take 45 to 55 minutes.

Do I need to do anything before Shellac is applied?

DO NOT cut nails too short. It is better to have a little bit of length for free edges to be capped for a cleaner finish.

How is Shellac applied?

Shellac applies exactly like a polish. Four layers are applied; A basecoat, 2 x colour coat and topcoat. Each layer is cured under a LED lamp.

How long does it take to dry?

Shellac dries instantly! No drying time at all.

How long does it last?

Depending on how vigorous you are with your hands. Up to 14+ days of glorious high–gloss shine that is truly addictive!

How much does Shellac Cost?

A Shellac Polish application only is $29, Shellac Soak-off and Polish Change is $35, A Shellac Manicure is $45.

How is it removed?

Removal is just 5-10 minutes in an acetone soaked wrap. Nails are never soaked in a bowl of acetone and never removed with a nail drill or cuticle cutter.

Will my nails be damaged from wearing Shellac?

No. It is highly recommended that Shellac be removed professionally at the spa. Apply cuticle oil such as Solar Oil twice daily. Shellac allows product to penetrate through to the nail plate keeping it hydrated and free from damage.

How long does the redness last after a wax?

Depending on your skin type, redness can last a few minutes to 1 hour. We use a delicate wax that is suitable for sensitive skin and apply witch hazel to cool the area and significantly reduce redness and prevent irritations.

Does the hair grow back thicker in those areas?

This is one of the great myths about hair removal – but the answer is a definite NO. Usually, re-growth will be finer, thinner and slower in areas that are waxed on a regular basis.

How long with the results last?

After your first wax, the results can last 2 to 4 weeks, depending on the individual’s hair re-growth. In most cases, hair growth is minimal during the first week or two and noticeably increases in the third and fourth week. With regular waxing, the length of time required between treatments will increase significantly.

Does Waxing hurt?

Everyone’s tolerance for pain is different. It may be more the anticipation of not knowing what to expect that makes one feel uncomfortable or vulnerable to any discomfort. However, this will quickly subside and lessen with each visit, as the hair thins and less hair is required to be removed from the area.

Any possible side effects from waxing?

VERY IMPORTANT: Some physicians do not recommend waxing for persons suffering from diabetes or who have varicose veins or poor circulation as they are more susceptible to infection. Waxing is never done on clients taking Accutane and is not recommended for clients using Retin A, Renova, Differin or other types of skin thinning acne medications. Please read the label carefully and consult your dermatologist if you are taking any medication or using any topical cream that contains these medications. Individuals do react differently to these medications and sometimes waxing can be done if proper patch testing is completed.

Why wax in the first place?

Waxing is one of the best ways to temporarily remove unwanted hair. It is more effective than shaving because it removes hair from the roots, not just from the skin’s surface. Over time, hair in waxed areas regrows lighter and sparser or not at all. Even fine hair shadows the face, distorting and aging your features. Waxing the brows opens up the eyes, providing a non-surgical face lift. You keep the hair on your head well-maintained, so why not everywhere else.

What do I do during a massage treatment?

Make yourself comfortable. If your Registered Massage Therapist or Certified Esthetician wants you to adjust your position, she/he will either move you or will ask you to move as needed. Otherwise, change your position anytime to make yourself more comfortable. Many people close their eyes and relax completely during a session; others prefer to talk. It’s up to you. It is your massage, and whatever feels natural to you is the best way to relax. Do not hesitate to ask questions at any time.

How long is the massage?

The average full-body massage treatment lasts approximately one hour. A half-hour appointment only allows time for a partial massage session, such as neck and shoulders, back or legs and feet. Many people prefer a 60 session for optimal relaxation. Always allow relaxation time prior to and after the session.

Will the massage hurt?

This depends on the type of massage and the depth of the strokes. A light, relaxing massage that doesn’t probe very deep into the muscles, shouldn’t hurt. With that being said, there is a ‘feels good’ hurt and an ‘ouch, stop it’ hurt. A good massage, even a really deep tissue massage, should always stay in the ‘feels good’ hurt range. Pain can be an indication that the muscle is possibly injured or inflamed and pressure should be adjusted. Also, pain can cause you to tighten up and negate the relaxing effects of the massage. The most effective and deepest massage always works with your body’s natural response, not against it.

What are the benefits of a facial?

When received regularly, facials can result in noticeable improvements to skin tone, texture and appearance. A facial can also restore the skin’s normal balance of oil and pH. Additional, temporary results may include: heightened skin softness and pliancy, increased circulation of blood to the face and an overall soothing of the spirit. An added bonus, most people find receiving a professional facial to be exceptionally relaxing and enjoyable.

Can I use makeup after a facial?

The answer is most likely “yes”, at the very least, especially if you undergo skin extractions, be sure to wear a high quality sun screen to ward off sun damage. Also, some mineral makeup bases are considered an extension of your skin care.

Does a facial help with acne?

Facials can treat the symptoms of acne, but are unlikely to prevent new acne from forming. Our spa offers holistic acne facials that involve deep cleansing and extraction of whiteheads and blackheads.

How often should I get a facial?

We recommend monthly facials along with occasional intense, deep cleansing facials. Your skin condition and how your skin responds to each facial will dictate how often you get a treatment.

Will facials make me break out?

Our facial line contains naturally active organic ingredients and is very mild on all skin types. Facials may bring impurities, if they exist, to the surface. That’s the only way they will get out!

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Laser hair removal is designed to achieve permanent hair removal, but in a few cases when the follicle is not completely destroyed or when the hair growth cycle is not timed properly, the hair may grow back. In that case, the area can be retreated for permanent results.

What areas on my body can be treated?

Hair from the face, upper lip, chin, neck, back, chest, shoulders, arms, underarms, hands, legs, feet, buttocks and all bikini areas can be treated.

What type of results can I expect?

Results vary from client to client, expect to see a huge decrease in the hair thickness and in the amount of hair present.

How long does the treatment take?

Treatments are extremely quick and depending on the size of the area, can be done in just minutes. We have the best equipment to treat small areas and large areas making your appointments quick and effective.

What does the procedure feel like? Does it hurt?

As our certified estheticians guide the laser handpiece over the treatment area you will feel cooling on the skin. This contact cooling will maximize your comfort during the treatment, making it a very tolerable experience.

How many treatments will I need?

Most people see results in the texture and amount of hair in just one procedure, but usually 4 – 6 treatments are needed to achieve a permanent reduction in hair, especially in large treatment areas. That’s because hair grows in cycles, and the hair and follicle must be treated at specific points during that growth cycle in order for the laser to be effective.

What conditions prevent me from getting Laser hair Removal?

  • Diabetes
  • Pregnancy
  • Diseases which may be stimulated by light
  • Cancer; particularly skin cancer
  • Epilepsy
  • Use of photosensitive medication/herbs
  • Active infection of Herpes Simplex in the intended area
  • History of Keloid Scarring
  • Active skin diseases in the intended area (ex. Psoriasis)

Can I Laser over my tattoos?

We can easily work around your tattoo if possible. A tattoo is created by permanently inserting high concentrations of pigment into the uppermost layer of skin. The high concentration of pigment will absorb laser light, causing discomfort and lighten your tattoo. Remember, lasers are also used for tattoo removal.

Can I return to my regular activities after my treatment?

Laser hair removal is recovery free, you may return to your regular activities immediately following the treatment, although redness around the follicle could be expected 24 hours following the procedure. To avoid discomfort 24 hours following the treatment avoid strenuous activities that would make you sweat.

HAIR SERVICES

Hair Services FAQs

What is balayage?

Balayage is a French colouring technique that was developed in the 1970s. It’s a freehand technique where the colour is applied by hand rather than using the traditional foiling or cap highlighting techniques. Balayage can be used in even the shortest pixie crop however the best results is in hair below the shoulders.

The appeal

You can achieve so many different effects from soft, natural highlights to something strong and punky. The fact it’s so low maintenance is such a drawcard for women too. People want to look fashionable and feel good about their appearance but in this day and age we don’t all have the time to be in the salon every few weeks for a touch up.

It’s also a very economical way to colour your hair as you never have a solid demarcation line or regrowth, so if you can’t afford to get it done for another month it won’t look atrocious. However, if your balayage isn’t done correctly you can end up with excessive overlapping that can cause damage.

What is the difference between Ombre and Balayage?

The main difference between Ombre and Balayage is that Balayage is a more natural looking way of doing the ombre. Balayage comes from the French word for “sweeping” and ombre comes from the French word for “shading”.
Balayage is the technique of light sweeping of colour onto the hair making it look more natural and “sun-kissed”. Balayage is good for hair lengths longer than passed the shoulders.

Ombre is the shading of colour from the roots to ends. Typically in Ombre the root colour is darker and lighter on the ends. Ombre is good for almost all hair lengths except very short lengths where it would not be as noticeable.

How is it applied?

Balayage is applied on the surface and not saturated through the section until the very tips, otherwise you would have a streak of colour that isn’t very soft at all. It can also be called a freehand technique because no foil is used to create the highlights.

What sets it apart from traditional hair colouring?

It’s totally tailored to you! Our balayage experts will be able to place the colour to suit your skin tone so it’ll look amazing and really light up your features.

What’s making it so popular recently?

It has become better known because all the models and A-listers are wearing it. Clients are seeing it on the catwalks and red carpets and want to get that finish rather than the uniform highlights that foils give.

Does it require a lot of maintenance?

Very little, it grows out beautifully and more naturally so you don’t get an obvious regrowth line and can wear it for longer between appointments. All you really need to do is protect it as you would any other colour: use a colour protecting shampoo and conditioner, regular treatments and heat protection when styling.

Is it suitable for all hair types/lengths?

It works on both light and dark hair, so anyone really. Balayage is perfect for darker haired or naturally blonder haired clients who want to try out a subtle lighter colour, it can be warm, neutral or cool. Balayage pretty much works for all lengths except very short cropped hair.

What makes it timeless?

It’s low maintenance, looks more persponalized, more natural, and is a modern technique that’s much more flattering. Healthy hair is attractive hair and that’ll never go out of fashion. Balayage gives a gorgeous healthy finish that looks nature-enhanced, glossy and expensive. It can be natural or strong, whatever you want, it’s all about the application technique that is applied.

Top maintenance tips

Balayage will dry your hair out no more than classic foiling as long as you have a trained professional applying your colour. As with foils you should always use salon professional shampoos and conditioners as well as have regular treatments. No matter what the technique, your colour will always look its best if your hair is in good condition.

A variety of professional products are available online and in store

What is a Partial Highlight Service?

A partial highlight is literally a highlight service that applies highlights to only part of your head. Highlights are placed, typically, in only the mohawk section of your head, although some stylists consider a partial highlight to be the top half, or the top and side sections of your head.

What is a Full Highlight Service?

A full highlight involves highlighting hair in every section of your head from the nape of your neck to the hairline in your fringe and everywhere in between.

Full highlights can be very heavy in nature allowing for a natural brunette to become a beach blonde, or they can be very designed to only slightly lighten all of your hair.

Many women that love the look of a full highlight will opt to alternate between full and partial highlight appointments to save money, as the highlights placed in the back of the head don’t show the same growth as the highlights on the top of the head

What is the difference between a t-section, partial, and full highlight?

A t-section highlight can be thought of as a face-framing highlight. There are very few pieces of highlights in a t-section highlight and is typically on the part of the hair and around the face.

Partial highlight is all around the head except for the bottom of the hair. If you were to put your hair into a ponytail and lift it, there would be no colour on the bottom of the hair. Partial highlight is good for brunettes and in-between full highlights for blondes.

Full highlights are lightened pieces all over the head. If you were to put your hair into a ponytail, you would be able to see highlights all over the head. Full highlights is typically recommended for blondes.

What to do When You're Confused

When you’re trying to pick which service is right for you, don’t worry if you don’t get it just right. When in doubt, contact us or call to clarify any questions you have and for a little guidance.

What hairstyle & design should I get?

First you need to ask yourself some questions.

  • What’s your face shape?
    • Oval – only slightly narrower at the jaw line than at the temples, with a gently rounded hairline
    • Oblong – Long and slender, about the same width at forehead and just below cheekbones
    • Round – Full-looking face with a round chin and hairline. Widest point is at the cheeks and ears
    • Square – A strong, square jaw line and usually an equally square hairline
    • Heart – Face is wide at the temples and hairline, narrowing to a small delicate chin

 

  • How much time do you have to do your hair?

This will determine the hairstyle that fits your lifestyle, there is nothing worse than trying to maintain a hairstyle you have no time to maintain

  • Choose a hairstyle that fits your interests and age

Getting a hairstyle that is age appropriate and that matches your interests is key to completing you refined look.

How do I maintain my hairstyle?

  • Wash your hair sparingly and use a good quality shampoo – Washing hair too often can leave hair dried out, leached of its natural oils, and may damage your hair. Aim to shampoo your hair at most every other day or only twice a week.
  • Use shampoos that do not contain sulphates and parabens – Sulfates are the chemicals that make shampoos lather up. Parabens are preservatives that cause irritation and eye problems after prolonged use. Both of these chemicals aren’t healthy for you or the environment so try to use shampoos with natural cleansers. Choose a shampoo that suits your hair type. Don’t just go for any old shampoo; go for the shampoo that works for your hair type. Typical types include (but are not limited to):
    • Curly or coarse hair probably wants frizz-minimizing and softening shampoo
    • Straight or oily hair probably wants a gentle shampoo designed for daily washing.
    • Coloured or treated hair probably needs a shampoo that’s fortified with extracts or amino acids, because treating your hair is essentially damaging it.
    • Dry hair probably needs shampoos with glycerin and collagen to help restore some moisture into the hair.
  • Use a conditioner that matches your hair type, length & treatment damage – A good rule of thumb is to condition every time you shampoo your hair, although very processed or dyed hair probably needs a little more love than natural hair.
  • Deep condition once a week. Use a professional hair care product, deep conditioning is very good for your hair. It keeps hair soft, healthy and moisturized.

Choose from a variety of our products online & in store.

Is blow drying my hair bad for my hair?

If you blow dry your hair every day and you are not a professional, you are probably doing the wrong techniques and doing damage to your hair. Getting your hair blow dried weekly or biweekly by a professional exercising the correct techniques will not damage your hair. Also, your blow dry and styling will last a lot longer than doing it yourself.

How long does my blow dry & styling last?

Your blow dry & styling can last for days; it all depends on what you do to your hair after it’s done. Here are some tips.

  • Don’t touch your hair – I know your hair feels amazing after a blow dry but please don’t touch it. Your hands and dirty and it’s messing up your hair so stop it. I’m a nervous hair twirler so I know how addictive it can be. Be really aware and stop yourself from touching your hair.
  • Use a Dry Shampoo – Your oily roots threaten to undo your do, spray some dry shampoo and brush it through your hair. It is available online and in store.
  • Sleep on Silk – Switching to a silk pillowcase really does make a difference. A cheap alternative is to tie a scarf around your pillow. That’s also a great option for when you’re travelling.
  • Brush Gently – Choose a gentle brush like my beloved Tangle Teezer. These brushes will keep your hair looking smooth rather than fluffy.

Can I get a blow even if I have short hair?

Absolutely, you have to start with a good haircut. Without the correct shape your blow dry will look like a disaster. A Blow dry with volume looks best with short hair. Bevelled ends are recommended with a few subtly uneven layers. This will break up any overly clean, blunt edges, thus deflating the chance of a resulting newscaster rounded bowl look.

With a free consultation we will take care of you!

Looking to go lighter?

Do as the tortoise does and take it slow. A.k.a. don’t go any more than 2 shades lighter than your current colour. If you have medium brown hair, aim for a lighter brown before going blonde. Enjoy a few weeks as a brunette (they may be your last, after all) and then go for another shift into blonde-zone.

Looking to go darker?

Don’t go all hare with your hair.  Stick with that turtle and make slow, steady shifts. Stay within two shades of your starting colour and ease into brunette territory. 

How can I extend the life of the hair colour?

Opt to use colour-safe hair products that are design for coloured hair and are free of sulfates. The Redken® line of products has shampoos and conditioners designed to extend the life of your hair colour and keep it healthy and vibrant.

Will colouring my hair damage it?

If you are using a permanent hair colour you have to lift the hair using a hydrogen peroxide (developer). This process raises or opens up the cuticle layer of the hair to allow the colour molecules to penetrate the cortex depositing the colour which could damage the hair if not done properly. If you use the wrong level of peroxide or if you constantly change your hair colourr (over-processing) this is what will cause the damage to your hair. However, if you use a semi-permanent or demi-permanent they will help add extra shine and condition to the hair but will only last a couple of shampoos.

Once I'm finished colouring, how do I protect my hair and make my colour last?

Protect and fortify your hair colour with Redken® Colour Extend Shampoo and Conditioner. Also, use cool water to shampoo and condition your hair, and limit the amount of time you spend in direct sunlight and in chlorinated water.

What is the difference between semi-permanent, demi-permanent and permanent hair colour?

Semi will last for 6- 12 washings; does not contain peroxide so hair can only be taken darker. Demi has a minimal amount of peroxide so it will produce highlights, and has a lifespan of 12 to 26 weeks. Permanent colour will last until the coloured strands grow out; it can safely lighten hair by as much as 4 levels.