FAQ’s
SPA ETIQUETTE
To ensure that you and those around you experience the full benefits of pHresh, we suggest the following: Arrive early. Arriving late will cheat you of precious minutes of your Spa treatment. Should you arrive late, your treatment will end on time so that the next client isn’t delayed, regardless of how late you start. The pHresh Spa environment is one of tranquility and relaxation, so please respect the other guests’ right to privacy and quiet. NO CELL PHONES in the spa or retail area.
PAYMENT INFORMATION
pHresh Spa accepts MasterCard, Visa, Debit and cash. Personal cheques are not accepted. pHresh also requires a valid credit card number with expiration to hold all spa reservations, even if a client intends to pay with a gift certificate. pHresh Gift Certificates are available for purchase at the spa or can be purchased online. pHresh also accepts Life Experiences Gift Certificates.
SPA RESERVATION & CANCELLATION
pHresh spa strictly adheres to our Spa Cancellation Policy. If you must cancel or reschedule an appointment, as a courtesy to other guests and our therapists, 24-hour notice is required to avoid being charged 50% of the price on all treatments scheduled.
TAX + GRATUITY POLICY
Prices are subject to 12% HST. In appreciation of quality service performed by your pHresh practitioner, gratuities are recommended. Tips at pHresh average between 15% – 20% of the treatment price. Tips may be given in cash or by credit card at the front desk at check out.
WHAT TO WEAR DURING A SPA TREATMENT
Our practitioners are trained to drape you discreetly and to protect your privacy at all times during your Spa treatment, so being in the buff underneath your robe or on the table is the norm. You may of course wear undergarments if that is more comfortable for you.
PREP FOR YOUR SPA TREATMENT
Arrive 20-30 minutes before your first appointment to allow yourself ample time to check in, change and familiarize yourself with the Spa. We recommend that you shower, steam and enjoy some refreshments in the lounge prior to treatment. Steaming and showering are essential before any treatment, as the beneficial oils used in treatment are best absorbed through clean skin and softened pores.
PRE-WAXING TIPS
What to do before your wax:
Allow 3-4 weeks between waxing and/or shaving. A quarter of an inch outgrowth is required for bikini, legs and underarms.
For Brazilian and bikini waxes, if your hair is long it is best to trim so that the waxing is more comfortable.
Female clients may have heightened sensitivity during the week prior or during menstruation.
Be careful before you wax:
Do not use Retin A/Renova up to 30 days prior.
Do not use Accutane up to 90 days prior.
Do not use peels (glycolic, AHA, etc.) or dermabrasion on the waxing area up to 24 hours prior.
Do not drink alcohol heavily or sunbathe up to 24 hours prior.
POST-WAXING TIPS
To keep from irritating the skin: Aloe Vera or Hydrocordisone cream can be used as a topical application if skin in the waxed area becomes irritated. Keep the waxed area clean, but do not use harsh cleansers or creams for 24-48 hours post wax. No hot tubs, hot showers or baths, sunbathing or tanning for 24-48 hours post wax. Don’t mean to spoil your fun! To get the most out of your wax: Do not exfoliate the skin for 2-3 days post wax, then exfoliate regularly to help prevent ingrown hairs. Avoid shaving between waxes.
LASER TIPS
What kind of laser do we have?
We have a Bella Luche laser
Is it a hard or soft laser? IPL?
It is a soft laser. IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light. IPL creates heat which destroys the capillary system at the root of the hair so that it can no longer grow.
Can I wax/pluck/tweeze in between appointments? Why?
No, because you are pulling the hair from the root and we need the roots to be intact for treatment to be effective. You must cease all waxing and tweezing at least 4-5 weeks prior to your laser appointment.
Can I tan during treatments? Why?
No. The IPL is attracted to melanin in the hair and excess melanin in the skin (i.e. a tan) can contribute to hyperpigmentation or dark spots on the skin.
How far apart will my appointments be?
Anything on the face will be spaced 6 weeks apart, the rest of the body, 4 weeks apart.
How many appointments will I need?
Generally speaking, most people achieve 80-90 % reduction rate after 6 treatments. Some clients, usually those of darker skin types, require additional treatments, anywhere between 8-12.
How long will appointments take?
Chin & lip – 15 minutes
French/brazilian – 20
Underarms – 15
Do I need hair for appointments/treatments?
No, the area to be worked on must be freshly shaven either the night before or morning of.
What does it feel like?
It can be hot and sometimes it feels like a rubber band snap on the skin, or a small electric shock. The pain goes away very quickly and the treatments themselves are short.
Can I use Emla?
The technicians do not recommend using emla on your first visit so they can get an accurate base line, however, on subsequent visits use of emla is acceptable.
Who is a suitable candidate for laser hair removal?
Anyone up to skin type 4, darker skin types are not suitable candidates. The hair must have colour in it. IPL will not work on crystal blonde, white, grey, or red hair.
MEDICAL CONDITIONS & ALLERGIES
Please notify a Spa Coordinator when booking your appointments about physical ailments, medical conditions and allergies. This will allow us to further personalize your treatments. Special conditions may include pregnancy, high blood pressure, heart conditions, or other. pHresh practitioners cannot work on clients with open wounds, abrasions, etc.
HEALTH BENEFITS TO SPA VISITS
The guaranteed benefit of a Spa visit is your immersion in a calming environment, which reduces stress. Stress reduction is one of the major contributors to good health. In addition, many Spa treatments are geared to easing various aches, pains and increasing blood flow and circulation. Take-home programs developed for you can help you make lifestyle changes for long-term benefits.
PREGNANCY & SPA TREATMENTS
Many women find that spa treatments are very helpful in relieving some pain and stress from pregnancy. However, during pregnancy, treatments using deep pressure and heat, such as Deep Tissue or Thai Massage should be avoided. Mom’s-to-be should also avoid using the steamroom. Consult your doctor with any other concerns or questions.