Do I need a skin test every time I need a colour?

If you are having a new colour, are a new client to the salon, or haven’t had your hair coloured with us for at least 6 months, then you will need a skin test. This must be done at least 48 hours before your colour appointment and is for health and safety reasons.

The skin test process is completely free and quick to complete. We will make up a small amount of colour and dab a spot on your arm. You will need to leave this on for 45 minutes before wiping it off with a damp cloth or cotton wool. If any itching or irritation occurs, please let us know and we can look at alternative colours. If not, then you can come in for your hair appointment as planned. 

What’s the difference between the levels of Hair Stylists? 

Every stylist at Locks and Shades is trained to a very high standard. In addition, the team are regularly attending ongoing training in the salon and external training centres to constantly develop their skills and knowledge. 

We have a range of stylists whose prices vary depending on their level of experience and education.

If you have a style or colour in mind and you’re not sure of the level of stylist that you require, please don’t hesitate to chat with one of our team. We can also book you in for a consultation to discuss your hair goals at a face to face appointment. 

How long should I allow for my service?

Different hair services will take different lengths of time. When booking services online you will be given an estimated appointment length, or upon request we can also give you an estimated completion time at the beginning of your appointment or on the phone.

We have magazines available for you, as well as free WI-FI, that you are welcome to use during your visit to Locks and Shades. You will also be offered hot and cold beverages along with a little chocolate treat to indulge during your appointment. 

I love my new hair colour; will my stylist know for next time what formula she’s used?

At Locks and Shades, we use a system called VISH which records the colours that we use to the exact gram which means that every time that you visit the salon, you will leave with your perfect custom colour. If your usual stylist isn’t available when you need your hair coloured, all our stylists have access to these colour notes and will be able to create that perfect colour that you love – time and time again. This system also helps us reduce colour wastage which in turn is more environmentally friendly

 Do you offer hair extensions?

We offer a range of hair extensions from multiple brands here at Locks and Shades. If you are interested in having extensions fitted, we recommend booking a hair extension consultation which will allow us to discuss your reasons for wanting extensions (lengths, thickness, filling gaps) and will also be able to give you a quote of how much the hair and fitting will cost. 

Our Style Directors Donna and Hayley both offer extension services such as LA Weave and Tape extensions. Prices vary depending on the thickness of your hair as well as the colour. 

If you have any other questions regarding extensions, please book a hair extension consultation. 

What’s the difference between the levels of Hair Stylists? 

Every stylist here at Locks and Shades is trained to a very high standard. In addition, the team are regularly attending ongoing training in the salon and training centres to constantly develop their skills and knowledge. 

We have a range of stylists whose prices vary depending on their level of training, experience and education. The pricing of each stylist is based on their experience, expertise and how in-demand the stylist is. 

If you have a style or colour in mind and you’re not sure of the level of stylist that you require, please don’t hesitate to chat with one of our team. You can also book in for a consultation to discuss your hair goals. 

How do I book my wedding hair with your bridal team? 

We would recommend either calling or emailing the salon with your wedding date and we can confirm that we have availability for this specific date. We would then recommend booking a bridal consultation, from there we can secure your date in our calendar. 

From this point on we will work with you to arrange a trial date for you to test out some styles and finalise the details for your big day. It may be that you are also wanting a new colour or style in preparation for your special day, and we would recommend discussing this sooner rather than later. 

During the bridal trial, lots of photos will be taken for them to refer to on your big day. 

What do I need to wear on a Sunbed?

This is entirely down to you. Many people chose to tan in their underwear so to protect more sensitive parts of the body, whilst others prefer to avoid the tan lines. However you chose to tan we would always recommend cleaning the bed before and after use, each of our beds are fully stocked with the cleaning materials you may need.

How long should I go on the beds for? 

The length you go on the beds for is completely up to you, and it depends on your skin type and previous sun exposure. We will always recommend starting on the lowest amount of minutes possible and building up from there. If at any time during your session you begin to feel too hot, we advise that you come off the bed. Minutes are sold in denominations of 3mins.

Should I buy a sunbed course?

The sunbeds can be paid for as you go or brought as a course. The courses will save you money on your minutes, but they do expire after a year. If you pay for a package the information on how many minutes you use are held on our computer records and deducted accordingly.