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 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.