A price before you sit down

Not a range, not a "from" — a number for what you've asked for. If a studio can't give you one, that's information too.

A question about your history

Recent lash work, gel that needs soaking off, retinol in your routine, allergies. Good hands ask before they start.

An honest answer about timing

Two hours or four? Knowing that before you arrive changes what you plan for the rest of the day.

Space to change your mind

You're allowed to stop at a shape you don't like, or ask for a shade that isn't the one you picked from a chart. Say it early.

Aftercare you can repeat back

How long to keep nails dry, when to come back for an infill, what to use on a sensitive patch of skin.

A clear way to reach them after

If something lifts or reacts, you want a number, not a comment thread. The studio's number is on every page of this site.

Nails: the week before and after

Nail work lasts longer when the nail underneath is in decent shape. Small habits make a visible difference.

Before

• Turn up with clean, product-free nails if you can — it saves prep time.
• Tell the studio about existing gel or acrylic. Removal is usually a separate step, and sometimes a separate charge.
• Don't cut cuticles in the days before; it leaves small openings that products can sting.

After

• Keep hands out of water for the first few hours if you've had gel or polish.
• Oil the cuticle area a couple of times a week — it helps with lifting at the base.
• Book removal rather than picking product off; picking takes nail layers with it.

Brows and lashes: patch tests matter

Anything involving tint, adhesive or a chemical near the eye is worth a conversation first.

Ask about

• Whether a patch test is done, and how long before the appointment.
• What adhesive or dye is used, if you've reacted before.
• How long the result is expected to last, and when infills are due.

Practical notes

• Arrive without mascara or eye makeup for lash work.
• Avoid oil-based products around extensions; they break down adhesive.
• If you feel stinging that doesn't settle within a minute or two, say so immediately.

Waxing: timing is everything

Most waxing problems come down to hair length or aftercare, not technique.

Before

• Hair generally needs a few weeks of growth — ask the studio for their minimum.
• Skip strong exfoliation and retinoids on the area for a few days beforehand.
• Don't book the day before a big event if it's your first time in that area.

After

• No hot showers, saunas or heavy gym sessions for the rest of the day.
• Loose clothing reduces friction on freshly waxed skin.
• Exfoliate gently once the skin has settled — not the next morning.

Skin and facials: say what you're using

What's already in your routine changes what's safe in the chair.

Tell the studio

• Any prescription skincare, especially retinoids or acids.
• Recent peels, laser or waxing on your face.
• Known sensitivities, and whether your skin reacts to fragrance.

Timing

• Leave a buffer between a facial and a big event — skin can be flushed for a day.
• Ask for the product list if you have a patchy history with skincare.
• Don't book a first-time treatment in the week of your wedding.

Booking for an occasion

A wedding, a graduation or a shoot needs a timetable, not a single appointment.

• Work backwards from the time you need to leave, not from when you'd like to start.
• Ask whether nails, hair and makeup can be done in one visit or need separate days.
• For a group, send names and numbers early — chairs are finite.
• Confirm the total price in writing (a text is fine) before the day.

Phoning a salon: a short script

If you only take one thing from this page, take this.

• "Hi — do you do [what you want]?"
• "How much is it, and how long does it take?"
• "Do you have anything on [day], morning or afternoon?"
• "Is there anything I need to do before I come in?"
• "Can I get your name so I know who I spoke to?"

That's five sentences and it removes almost every surprise.