FAQ

Q: What is the difference between Gel and Acrylic?
A: The difference between Gel and Acrylic is a timeless debate in the Esthetic world and you will likely hear different answers depending on where that tech was certified and if their preference is gel or acrylic based. A lot of nail techs will mistakenly tell you one is better than the other, maybe because that is what they they specialize in or are even told in school. The truth is the ingredients are fundamentally the same there is not a huge actual difference in Gel and Acrylic other than the properties and curing abilities, but neither is better or healthier on the natural nail than the other. Although, people who find they have allergies or sensitivities do tend to be able to wear the opposite product with no issue.
Gel is slightly more flexible and less porous than acrylic. Acrylic is harder which can be beneficial to clients who are hard on their nails or like a lot of length. Acrylic also tends to hold up better on very oily nail beds where as gel can be more prone to lift. Which product is better completely depends on YOU and your individual lifestyle.

One product DOES NOT damage your nails more than another, both, if put on and taken off PROPERLY should not damage the natural nail. Nail enhancements don’t damage natural nails, poor application, maintenance, or removal will though so do your research and treat your nails like jewels not tools regardless of the product on them!

Q: What are Solar nails, and why do you not offer them?
A: Solar Nails is an old brand of acrylic manufactured by CND. It is one of their original brands and is a true acrylic and nothing more. Some NSS salons are promoting it as better then gel and acrylic, and charging more for it. Simply put it is pink and white acrylic with a gel top coat. CRYSTAL NAILS, DIAMOND NAILS, PORCELAIN NAILS, POWDER GEL -The above service names are most frequently used as ploys to charge more for “enhanced” acrylic nail services. It is important is to understand what service you are really getting and paying for.

Q: How do I know I will receive the same safe sanitary treatment I do at salons with you?
A: What you probably didn’t know is that at this time, Canada does not regulate the Esthetic trade industry which means poor work practices often go unnoticed during inspections and many unsanitary salons continue operating.  You can feel safe knowing Obsession takes sanitation seriously and will never sacrifice your health for profit. We are City of Calgary and Alberta Health Certified taking all the necessary precautions and extra steps to ensure you are not exposed to infectious diseases, fungi, bacteria or other contagions that can easily be avoided. You wont see fingerprints in the lights before you put your hands in, there will never be other peoples nail dust left over on the counter and a new sanding bit and file are used with every client. We are by appointment only and make sure to treat each client like the valued member of our business they are.

Q: What are the advantages of artificial nails?
A: For people who bite or pick at their nails, there is a 90 percent success rate of stopping this habit with artificial nails  This is because people are less likely to ruin something they’ve spent time and money on and are inspired by having beautiful nails that they want to last. Finally you can have natural looking nails you have always dreamed of without having to work at it! We specialize in nail bitten and difficult to work on nail beds as we hand sculpt all of our nails. We can also re-conscruct damaged and broken nails.

Q: Will my natural nails continue to grow?
A: Yes, and gel nails can actually improve the health of your natural nails by protecting them from biting, picking, excess moisture and other elements that could weaken or damage your natural nails. Many nail biting clients are excited to see their natural nails longer then they had ever thought after just a few short months.

Q:Should I let my nails breathe or take my artificial nails off for any reason?
A: Nails, just like hair are dead keratonized cells and do not need to breathe.  Keep nails trauma free by getting a proper application by a certified technician, maintaining them properly and removing them properly when needed. The healthy condition of the nails should not be affected with regular nail fill maintenance, it can actually be more harmful to remove nails frequently rather then up-keeping them.

Q: How often do artificial nails need to be maintained?
A: We recommend every 2-3 weeks (depending on the individual),  fills includes shortening and rebalancing the original product, cuticle maintenance  and applying product to the nails new growth.  You can change colours and design at this point for a completely new look. Finished with cuticle oil and lotion.

Q: How long will my nails last?
A: Nails should be maintained every 2-3 weeks. It is important to have regular fills because if the product lifts away from the natural nail, moisture and bacteria can accumulate between them. Your technician can spot problem areas best and will provide adequate advice.  It is also very important to follow maintenance such as applying cuticle oil and hand cream daily as this will keep the nail healthy and will prevent lifting and dry cuticles.

Q: How long will it take for my nails to return to normal after removing my nails?
A: If your natural nails were treated correctly in the beginning, and if you’ve been maintaining your nails with regular visits to the studio, your natural nails will be in good condition after the nails are removed   Your technician will offer advice on what products to use and how to best strengthen your natural nails after your gel nails are removed.

Q: I bite my nails down so far there is no free edge, do you use tips and will the nails stay on? I am looking for gel -V
A:  We prefer and recommend sculpted nails especially if your nails are really short because it offers a stronger complete structure that acts more like an actual nail where as tips can lift in the middle when hit or banged causing pocket lifting and weakening the overall nail.  I have sculpted MANY long nails on short nails and have not had any problems thus far.

Q: Do you charge extra for decals, crystals, broken nails or colored gels? – R
A: I have a full list of my prices here, some basic designs as well as bonuses like free birthday month art and monthly specials are all included in loyal client bonuses.

Q: Do you offer duckbill or flare nails?
A: Yes I do offer them but because I must re-sculpt the entire set each time they are always considered full set pricing. We can make the flare as extreme as you like it to be.

Q: Do you offer Shellac nails?
A: Shellac has been commonly mistaken for a nail service when it is actually a brand of Gel Polish. Much like most people will ask for a Kleenex instead of tissue, people will ask for Shellac rather than a gel polish service. I do offer gel polish manicures and pedicures with a much larger colour variety than just shellac.

Q: Is there anything I should/shouldn’t do before a Manicure or Pedicure service?
A: Please refrain from shaving at least 24-48 hours before your service. Why? It can cause micro abrasions that may allow pathogenic microbes to enter and can also increase the risk of some products stinging, irritation or infection. It is essential for infection control.

Q: How long should I wait after shaving before booking a Brazilian wax or a first wax in general?
A: A common rule is that if the hair is about the length of a grain of rice it is long enough to wax. This can range anywhere from one to three weeks depending on the client and growth cycle. If you have never waxed before and have a special event coming up, such as your wedding or a vacation we don’t recommend getting a first wax ever only a couple of days before you leave or the big day. Try to plan ahead and get in at least two wax cycles before you leave, that way the first wax, or the more uncomfortable one, is out of the way and after the second wax the results will be better and you won’t be uncomfortable for your big event.

Q: How long do Brazilian wax results last for?
A: It can really vary with a few factors. Hair grows in different cycles depending on the person and sometimes even cultural background. Also, note that shaved hair is much thicker, because it gets cut off at its thickest point and does not grow back in one cycle so often after a first wax shaved hair can appear days afterwords. This is typically because a client didn’t wait long enough for ALL of the hair to grow out. The normal growth time is about 4- 6 weeks though clients do typically notice that after a few Brazilians the hair starts to grow back much slower and finer. Don’t have unrealistic expectations of perfect smooth skin after your first wax. This can take a few sessions and the patience to grow all of your hair out at the same time, but believe me, its worth it!

Q:I’m pregnant can I get a Brazilian wax?
A: Yes but please clear this with your doctor first. Just like getting waxed while menstruating, being pregnant can leave clients feeling extra sensitive during and after the waxing service. Some recommend it is also best to wait until the second trimester to wax. Its also best that we not provide a full Brazilian if a client is 5 months pregnant or more and has never had a Brazilian Wax, or has not been getting waxed for over a year. It is just too much shock for skin that is already sensitive and engorged.

Q: Can I book with you online?
A: Yes! Obsessionspa.ca/book  please call or text 403-305-6906.