Cosmetic Surgery & Beauty #72

eauty & spa
Ah, the eternal questions posed by the beauty
treatment arena. Do you wear underwear
during a Brazilian wax? Are therapists
offended if you fall asleep during a massage? Do
you have to warn your beautician if you’re pregnant?
We answer some of the most common questions
for navigating proper spa guidelines.
If I prefer a female therapist, can I
say so?
It’s perfectly acceptable if you don’t feel comfortable with a
male therapist – and the customer is always right, right!? A
client is usually asked when they make the booking if they
are happy to be assigned a male therapist. Everyone has
different comfort levels and the salon’s main aim is for you
to feel comfortable, so feel free to say you would feel more
comfortable with a female.
I really don’t feel like talking. can
I tell my therapist to stop?
Telling your therapist to be quiet may sound rude, but as
long as you mind your manner it is perfectly acceptable
and they will take a subtle hint. A polite line about looking
forward to zoning out with a relaxing treatment today should
do the trick without offending.
Should I get naked for a spray tan?
Most salons will advise you that they don’t mind if you
go completely nude to avoid tan lines. All salons should
provide a disposable g-string for anyone who doesn’t want
to get tan on their own underwear. The reason some salons
require you to wear some type of underwear is for hygiene
and protection reasons. You’re obviously welcome to wear
your own underwear, bearing in mind it will leave a tan mark.
Should I turn off my mobile?
If you or anyone else are having relaxing treatments within
earshot, it’s good manners to turn off your phone so as not
to detract from the salon experience – for both yourself and
others around you.
What should I do if I’m late?
Being on time for your appointment is basic manners. If you
need to cancel or change an appointment, it’s customary
to give 24 hours notice. However, if you’re stuck in traffic,
ring to say you are still on your way and be prepared to
have the time deducted from your treatment time.
Alternatively, the salon may be able to move around
appointments to ensure your therapist has enough time
to give a thorough treatment.
should i shower prior to treatment?
There is always some sheepishness involved in coming
direct from a long day at work, but such appointments
are expected with our busy schedules. If you are able to
shower prior to treatments such as bikini waxes it will make
both of you feel more comfortable, but this isn’t always
practical. Obvious courtesy such as showering if coming
straight from a workout certainly applies though. Sweat and
body odour after exercise isn’t pleasant for anyone involved!
What type of underwear should I
wear for my wax?
Granny undies aren’t very glamorous but it’s not the done
thing to wear your sexy underwear either. Choose a pair
with an appropriate cut for your wax – if it’s just a general
bikini higher cut briefs are fine, if it’s a g-string wax a simple
cotton g-string. Many salons offer disposable underwear.
No underwear is preferred for a Brazilian wax, but your
salon will advise you in preparation for your treatment
whether nothing or a disposable g-string is preferred.
should i do something about an
embarrassing bikini line prior to
my wax?
It’s not a case of suffering judgment from your therapist –
believe me, they’ve seen it all. This is entirely up to you,
however if you’re waxing it will be less painful and quicker if
your hair is shorter so a quick trim might be advisable. If the
therapist has to do the trim it may cost you more due to the
extra time needed.
Is it ok to fall asleep?
Some therapists will actually take it as a compliment if you
fall asleep during treatment! Massage, body and facial
treatments are for pampering and relaxing. If you fall asleep,
it’s a sign you are truly relaxed and enjoying the treatment.
What do they need to know?
You should advise your therapist about any existing health
conditions that may influence the course of the treatment – in
particular, any medical conditions such as high or low blood
pressure, recent surgical procedures, any medications you
are on, and if you are pregnant. csbm
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