Developed in Asia over 5,000 years ago, Acupressure is an ancient healing art where the therapist uses their fingers to gradually press key healing points to stimulate the body's natural self-healing abilities.

Acupressure Therapy can be effective in releasing tension, increasing circulation, reducing pain, and developing spirituality.

For more information: www.acupressure.com

Advanced Electrolysis uses an electric current and a tiny needle inserted into the area being treated (see Electrolysis). Electrolysis offers effective treatment of skin blemishes including skin tags, milia, thread veins (Telangiectasia), blood spots (Campbell de Morgan spots), age spots, warts and verrucae.

The Alexander Technique is a skill for self-development, teaching clients to change long-standing habits that cause unnecessary tension.

Alexander Technique practitioners teach clients to recognise their usual reactions to the stresses of life, and how to prevent problems and regain control. The technique can help boost performance in any activity, and relieve pain and stress caused by postural habits.

Aromatherapy is a complementary therapy which uses essential oils, distilled from plants, to improve psychological and physical wellbeing. The inhaled aroma is said to stimulate brain function, whilst oils absorbed into the skin can enter the bloodstream.

Aromatherapists are skilled in blending different oils which can be beneficial through inhalation, or via topical application through massage. Aromatherapy therapy oils are also blended into skin care products.

Aromatherapy treatments can reduce stress and anxiety, enhance energy and relaxation, pain relief and increased cognitive function.

Also see Essential Oils.

Ayurveda is a Hindu health care practice. Ancient texts tell accounts of Dhanvantari, Hindu god of Ayurveda, who incarnated himself as a king of Varanasi and taught medicine to a group of physicians. Ayurvedic therapies are usually based upon herbal compounds, minerals and metals.

Practitioners believe that each person is a combination of five basic elements - space, air, fire, water, and earth - and these combine to form elemental substances, the doshas of Vata, Pitta and Kapha; Ayurveda aims to balance each of these within an individual.

Blend Epilation is an electrical method of permanent hair removal using a combination of warmth produced by Short Wave Diathermy (SWD) and the effectiveness of Galvanic currents, along with a tiny needle.

SWD uses an alternating current at a high frequency and low voltage which causes the water molecules around the hair follicle to vibrate resulting in the production of heat, stopping the blood supply to the root, which weakens and destroys the hair. Galvanic current causes a chemical reaction in the salt and water in the follicle which creates a chemical called Sodium Hydroxide or Lye, which stops the nourishment to the cells that cause hair growth.

Body Massage works on the body's soft tissues with the aim of relieving tension, and thus promoting relaxation. Regular massage can help clients to manage ongoing physical conditions, whilst others enjoy a relaxing massage as part of their regular wellness regime.

Therapists massage the skin using a topical oil or lotion making slippage easier and deliver a free-flowing massage treatment.

Body massage can take place on most areas of the body, and is most commonly enjoyed on the back, neck, shoulders, and legs.

Body Wraps can be used for slimming and toning, reducing the appearance of cellulite, detoxifying, and to hydrate and moisturise the skin.

The body may be exfoliated prior to wrapping to ensure topical products are absorbed into the skin. Wraps can consist of bandages, plastic, algae or seaweed, along with a topical product containing active ingredients.

Chemical peels used in the salon involve the application of Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, fruit enzymes, Citric Acid, or Malic Acid, or products that contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or enzymes that loosen the substance that holds the cells together, allowing dead cells to be eased away.

Beauty salons should only offer superficial peels, which work on the epidermis (top layer of skin); stronger peels (medium and deep) should be carried out by a trained medical adviser.

Also see Exfoliation.

Cleansing can take place on any area of the body, but is most commonly associated as a step within a facial treatment.

Therapists will apply a cleansing product (cleanser) to the skin in a cream, gel or liquid form, and which removes make-up, dirt and excessive sebum from the skin. Double cleansing is often recommended, which involves repeating the process.

A pre-cleanse product may be applied at the start of some treatment rituals, which is often an oil formulation.

Colour therapy - also known as chromotherapy - is a complementary therapy where colours are used to balance the body's chakras according to the spectrum of red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo and violet. Practitioners advocate that benefits of colour therapy in re-balancing and stimulating the chakras' energies.

Colour may be applied by placing coloured fabric onto the body's chakra area, or alternatively, by utilising pulsed light and low-level laser therapy (LLLT).

Craniosacral Therapy is a holistic therapy working with the whole person and, during and after sessions, may deliver changes in body, mind and spirit.

It is a hands-on therapy, where the therapist uses their hands to 'listen' to the client's body.

It is a gentle and non-invasive treatment, often experienced for specific physical issues such as reoccurring backache or headache, as well as for ongoing support in clients' everyday lives.

Crystal Therapy is a non-invasive and relaxing complementary therapy, where the therapist places different crystals on the client's body. Each crystal has its own energy, and advocates of the treatment believe that the tiny electrical impulses released by the crystals are received and recognised by the body's neurological system, bringing a sense of calm.

Crystal therapy is said to be particularly helpful in the treatment of stress, migraines, panic attacks, muscular pain, and digestive disorders.

Dermal Planing, sometimes referred to as Dermaplaning, uses a blade to exfoliate the epidermis whilst also removing vellus hair (the fine, peach skin hair covering a woman's face) which can contribute towards a build-up of oils in the hair follicles. In effect, the epidermis is shaved.

It delivers a deep exfoliation of the skin without the application of chemicals.

Electrolysis is an electrical method of permanent hair removal which utilises a tiny needle and electric current. In order to achieve optimum results, the current must target hair in the right stage of growth (the Anagen stage) to destroy its dermal papilla.

Short Wave Diathermy, also known as thermolysis, uses an alternating current at a high frequency and low voltage which causes the water molecules around the hair follicle to vibrate resulting in the production of heat, stopping the blood supply to the root, which weakens and destroys the hair.

Galvanic current causes a chemical reaction in the salt and water in the follicle which creates a chemical called Sodium Hydroxide or Lye, which stops the nourishment to the cells that cause hair growth.

Blend Epilation uses combination of warmth produced by Short Wave Diathermy (SWD) and the effectiveness of Galvanic currents.

See Advanced Electrolysis for information on how electrolysis can be used to treat skin conditions.

Cosmetic electrotherapy is a general term for any face or body treatment that includes the use of electric currents passed through the body to stimulate nerves and muscles, resulting in muscle toning on the body and micro-lifting of the face.

Galvanic treatments improve the skin through chemical results of desincrustation (cleansing), and iontophoresis (nourishing), using a small, constant current. Active substances penetrate the skin's subcutaneous tissues, improving vascular and lymphatic actions, resulting in improved function of the cellular membrane dispersing and eliminating excess fluid and fat. Treatment is effective on the face and neck, and areas of cellulite.

Faradic treatments use a short pulse of interrupted direct current which repeatedly contracts muscles, firming and toning. The treatment is sometimes referred to as neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES).

High-frequency treatment uses low-current high-frequency alternating currents. In beauty therapy, high frequency is used to help desquamation (exfoliation) and stimulate sweat and sebaceous glands.

Microcurrent treatments (MENS) use a very small direct current through muscle tissue (a micro-ampere current), which is hardly perceptible, but mimics the body's own bio-electric currents. Treatments increase ATP (which produces energy within cells), and ca be used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and rejuvenate the appearance of skin affected by hyperpigmentation, acne scarring, stretch marks and cellulite.

Microcurrent is particularly effective on facial muscles, as they are directly connected to the skin, and applying a microcurrent can energise muscles and have a lifting effecting.

Essential oils are highly concentrated forms of oils found in the leaves, petals, berries, roots, resins, zests and the bark of plants, and are associated with numerous therapeutic properties.

Oils are usually extracted from plants through steam distillation or expression. When used in Aromatherapy, the oils are used in their purest form. When used in massage, the oils are often diluted into carrier oils. Essential oils are also blended into skin care products.

When buying essential oils, look out for those labelled 100% pure and natural. Note that some oils are not suitable for use during pregnancy. Clients should consult their Aromatherapist / therapist for more information.

See also Aromatherapy.

Exfoliation aims to remove dead cells from the stratum cornea (the outermost layer of the skin) on the face or body, which can reduce scarring, rejuvenate the appearance of skin, and allows for better absorption of topically applied products into the skin. There are several methods that can be used.

Mechanical exfoliation involves physically removing the dead skin cells using an abrasive substance, often referred to as a facial scrub, which may have particles from nut kernels, salt, sugar etc. Exfoliation can also take place using an abrasive tool, such as a pumice or loofah (on the body), or using crystals or the diamond tip of a Microdermabrasion tool (see Microdermabrasion). Dermal Planing is also a form of manual exfoliation (see Dermal Planing).

Chemical exfoliation involves the application of Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid, fruit enzymes, Citric Acid, or Malic Acid, or products that contain alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or enzymes that loosen the substance that holds the cells together, allowing them to ease away (also see Chemical Peels).

Faradic treatments use a short pulse of interrupted direct current which repeatedly contracts muscles, firming and toning. The treatment is sometimes referred to as neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES).

Also see Electrotherapy.

Galvanic treatments improve the skin through chemical results of desincrustation (cleansing), and iontophoresis (nourishing), using a small, constant current.

Active substances penetrate the skin's subcutaneous tissues, improving vascular and lymphatic actions, resulting in improved function of the cellular membrane dispersing and eliminating excess fluid and fat.

Treatment is effective on the face and neck, and areas of cellulite.

Also see Electrotherapy.

High-frequency treatment uses low-current high-frequency alternating currents. In beauty therapy, high frequency is used to help desquamation (exfoliation) and stimulate sweat and sebaceous glands.

Also see Electrotherapy.

Derived from Asia with its roots in the Hindu health care practice of Ayurveda, Indian Head Massage therapists work on the head, scalp, neck, shoulders, upper back and facial areas.

The treatment takes place seated, and during this deep massage the therapist uses a variety of pressure and techniques to stimulate the client's chakras, to encourage balance and healing.

The treatment is said to be useful for stimulating the lymphatic system, relieving sleep issues, reducing stress and anxiety, and helping to prevent migraines, headaches and back pain.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) uses a high powered hand-held, computer controlled flash gun to deliver intense, broad-spectrum light pulses to the area being treated. The light has a spectral range which targets melanin in hair and oxyhemoglobin in blood vessels, which are heated to destruction.

IPL systems use a spectrum of light wavelengths enabling one system to treat a number of concerns. It can be used to permanently reduce hair and is most effective on darker, coarser hair due to its melanin content.

It is also effective for skin rejuvenation, reducing the appearance of photo-ageing, acne, broken capillaries, and pigmented lesions.

During Laser Hair Removal, a concentrated beam of light is applied to the skin, which is absorbed by the skin's melanin, and the hair follicle is so damaged by the heat created that further hair growth is retarded.

Ruby, Diode and Alexandrite lasers have all been FDA-approved for laser hair removal.

The treatment is suitable for hair removal on all areas of the body, with six to eight sessions usually recommended, and clients reporting an estimated 20% decrease in hair growth after each treatment.

Manicure is a treatment for the hands and nails; a basic manicure will include cuticle removal, filing of fingernails, application of moisturiser, and a nail colour.

More luxurious treatments may involve exfoliation of hands and arms, the application of a moisturising mask, a paraffin wax treatment, and heated mitts.

See also Paraffin Wax Treatments.

Microcurrent treatments (MENS) use a very small direct current through muscle tissue (a micro-ampere current), which is hardly perceptible, but mimics the body's own bio-electric currents. Treatments increase ATP (which produces energy within cells), and can be used to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines, and rejuvenate the appearance of skin affected by hyperpigmentation, acne scarring, stretch marks and cellulite.

Microcurrent is particularly effective on facial muscles, as they are directly connected to the skin, and applying a microcurrent can energise muscles and have a lifting effecting.

Also see Electrotherapy.

Microdermabrasion is a form of mechanical exfoliation using a fine jet of inert crystals or a or diamond tipped handset. The tool is moved across the skin's surface, removing dead skin cells and debris which is sucked away via a vacuum.

Blood flow is stimulated, which encourages the production of collagen and elastin.

The treatment is ideal for most skin types, and is particularly effective for the treatment of acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, and blemished skin, rejuvenating complexions and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

On the body, microdermabrasion can be used to reduce the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite, and on the hands to reduce the signs of ageing.

See also Exfoliation.

Nails are extended or enhanced using a system known as Liquid and Powder, commonly referred to as Acrylic. Tips can be applied to the natural nail plate, and overlaid with product created from a liquid monomer and powder polymer.

Alternatively, product can be applied directly onto the nature nail plate and sculpted into a tip shape to extend the nail, or simply applied to shorter nails to add strength. The product sets hard, and is then filed and buffed by the nail technician, to a high shine. Product can be applied in a French manicure style (known as Pink and White), or natural finish.

For removal, product must be removed by a professional to avoid damage to the natural nail plate.

Acrylic or Liquid and Powder nail enhancements are safe when applied and removed by a qualified nail technician.

Nails are extended or enhanced using a Gel product, which is then cured under an LED or UV lamp. Gel can be applied direct to the natural nail plate or overlaid onto tips, or sculpted into a tip shape.

Gel can be applied in pink and white colours to create a French style finish. Coloured gel is also available to create a non-chip manicure.

For removal, product must be removed by a professional to avoid damage to the natural nail plate.

Gel nail enhancements are safe when applied and removed by a qualified nail technician.

Usually used during manicure and pedicure treatments, paraffin wax treatments involve submerging the hand or foot into a bath of warmed paraffin wax. Once dipped into the wax, paraffin wax surrounds the hand or foot and creating a solid coating. The heat opens the pores of the skin and increases circulation whilst the wax moisturises.

After removal from the wax bath whilst the wax is solidifying, hands and feet are often wrapped in plastic and placed in heated mitts or booties to enhance the effects of the heated wax.

Pedicure is the treatment of nails and feet in the salon.

Basic pedicure treatments will include cuticle removal, cutting and filing of toenails, and removal of hard skin.

More luxurious treatments will involve exfoliation of the legs and feet, the application of a moisturising mask, paraffin wax, callus removal, and the application of nail colour.

See also Paraffin Wax Treatments.

Reflexology is a complementary therapy involving the application of pressure to reflex zones on the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques. Practitioners advocate that different zones on the hands and feet relate to different areas of the body, and therefore pressure on these points effects a physical change to the body.

Clients report improvement to conditions such as stress, insomnia, digestive problems, joint stiffness, hormonal products and irritable bowel syndrome through Reflexology treatments.

A Japanese form of healing, Reiki (pronounced Ray-Key) is performed by a therapist placing their hands on the client's body and channelling life force energy to improve the physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of the client.

Reiki can be performed by attuned practitioners as a standalone treatment or combined into facials or body therapies.

Spray Tanning carried out in a salon is either within automatic booth or by a therapist using a spray gun, and today's spray tan solutions enable clients to acheive a natural-looking and long-lasting all-over tan.

Clients must exfoliate their skin 24 hours prior to treatment to remove dead skin cells and promote an even coverage of product. Different levels of tan shade are available, enabling clients to choose their preferred depth of colour.

Professional spray tans applied to properly prepared skin will usually last up to seven days with proper maintenance.

During stone therapy treatments, hot or cold basalt stones are applied to the client's body and used by the therapist to perform a deep massage.

Heat from the stones relaxes muscles and increases circulation, whilst cold stones reduce inflammation and muscular injury whilst also stimulating the nervous system and increasing lymph flow.

Sugaring is a form of hair removal, sometimes known as sugar waxing or Persian waxing. A room temperature sugar paste applied to the area of hair removal, and is removed in a swift movement, catching hairs but not sticking to the skin.

Sugaring can be used for hair removal on all areas of the body, including the face.

The Bowen Technique is a hands-on therapy, where a therapist applies rolling-type movement of the thumbs and forefingers on very precise points on the body, involving the movement of soft tissue.

The treatment is designed to stimulate tissue and nerve pathways, and is particularly effective for musculoskeletal problems such as frozen shoulder, back and neck pain account, whilst clients have reportedly also seen improvements for conditions such as asthma, migraines, irritable bowel, and reproductive problems.

Thermo-auricular therapy, sometimes referred to as Hopi Ear Candling) involves the insertion of ear candles into the outer edge of the ear canal, which are then lit and, working on the chimney principle, warm air generated gently massages the ear drum, balancing the ear and sinuses, and softening ear wax.

Candles are usually made from beeswax with natural ingredients such as Chamomile and Honey.

The treatment is relaxing and is said to help relieve ear, nose and throat conditions including sinusitis, headaches and migraine.

Threading is a form of hair removal with its roots in Asia.

The therapist uses a thin thread, made of cotton or polyester, which is twisted and then rolled over the area, plucking out even the shortest hairs at follicle level.

Threading is particularly useful for eyebrow shaping, as the therapist has precise control over which hairs are removed. It is also suitable for removal of facial hair. It is not suitable for removing bodily hair, which is coarser than facial hair.

Hot Waxing hair removal treatments use a wax that is slightly thicker and hotter than 'warm wax'. It is used to remove shorter and more coarse hair, such as those on the bikini line and intimate areas.

The wax is applied with a spatula, left to cool during which time the wax contracts around the hairs whilst remaining peelable, before the therapist rips off the patch of wax in a single swift movement.

Hot wax is suitable for use on men and women, and can usually remove hair as short as 1mm in length.

Strip or Warm Waxing hair removal involves applying warm, liquid wax onto the area to be treated, rubbing over with a paper or fabric strip, and pulling the strip away from the skin, removing hair from the face or body.

Warm wax is suitable for use on men and women, and can usually remove hair as short as 2mm in length.