Nails
Foot Reflexology – Is It A Foot Massage?
What is foot reflexology? Most people assume that foot reflexology is just another name for a foot massage. Other people think it’s a type of pedicure. After talking with our massage therapists, I realized it might be helpful to shed some light on what exactly this service is. In this blog, I will explain what foot reflexology is and how it differs from a foot massage. I will also explain what to expect during your foot reflexology service at Oliver's Salon & Spa.
What is "reflexology"?
Reflexology is the therapeutic act of using pressure points on the body to trigger pain relief. However, most reflexology services are done on the feet due to the abundance of pressure points that connect to the rest of your body. Reflexology stimulates circulation, reduces stress and pain and restores balance. Some people say it's helpful for women who are experiencing menstrual cramps, however, reflexology is suited for anyone.
Foot Reflexology at Oliver's Salon & Spa
I asked one of our massage therapists what her definition of foot reflexology would be and she said:
Reflexology is the relief of pain by stimulating pressure points by using specific thumb, finger and hand techniques. She also included that reflexology works with your central nervous system to help communicate to the body where to releave tension.
Therefore, foot reflexology is pressing on certain pressure points on your feet that correlate with different parts of your body to relieve pain and tension.
What can I expect?
Reflexology is done in one of our calming massage rooms. In these massage rooms, spa music plays and the lighting is moody, which creates a relaxing environment. It is not required for you to change into a robe, however, you are welcome to if it would make your experience more relaxing. At Oliver's, we have lockers available to store all of your belongings during your visit with us!
Is there any massage involved?
Typically, no massage is involved in foot reflexology. This therapeutic service is directed towards pain and the correlating pressure points. Although we offer foot spa related services, we are not entirely a foot spa. If you’re looking for a foot massage, check out one of our luxurious pedicures! Lately, our clients have been telling us how great our pedicures are!
However...
Our massage therapists understand that each person is not cut and dry. Our services are customizable as long as they are within reasonable request. For example, if you're having issues with your digestive system, they may focus on the pressure point on your foot that correlates with your digestive system a little more intensely. It's best to communicate with our massage therapists before your appointment if there are any areas currently troubling you.
If you're looking for overall healthy feet, make a day of it and book a pedicure in addition to a foot reflexology service!
We recommend this service for clients who are looking for a more holistic healing experience. If you’re interested in one of our other holistic healing services, check out our Reiki Therapy, Rain-Drop Therapy and Chakra Balancing Massage. If you're interested in booking one of our foot reflexology services, give us a call at (610)-366-8808 or book online!
What are you waiting for? Put your best foot forward with us!
Benefits of an Oliver’s Manicure
We use our hands more than any other part of our body, but are we giving them the appreciation they deserve? Manicures are not just for cosmetic reasons. Everyone can benefit from a healthy manicure. Those benefits include destressing, improving the health of your nails, keeping your skin soft and confidence benefits. Read more to find out how an Oliver’s manicure could benefit you!
Money Saving Mani
Life can be stressful. We all deserve a spa day! At Oliver’s, we have fair pricing, so a day of relaxation won’t break your bank. A manicure can help clean up your hands and nails while giving you some time for relaxation. I don’t know about you, but there is nothing better than a hand rub! Plus, chatting with our nail techs is always a great stress reliever.
Healthy Nails, Please!
Our hands are used every day. If you work, you’re technically being paid to use your hands, so it should be a requirement to take care of them. Your hands are probably lacking the attention they deserve. Dry cuticles can crack and bleed, causing more harm to the health of your hands. A manicure will take care of those issues and keep your hands looking and feeling amazing!
Hydrate so you don't Die-drate
Besides the stress relief, our skin is probably in need of some extra hydration. If you’re washing your hands constantly, your skin can dry out. Cold weather can also cause dry skin. A manicure can help shed that dry skin and moisturize your hands giving you baby soft skin in the middle of winter!
Nailed It!
I don’t know about you, but I feel like I have my life together when I get a manicure. If not, my nails are uneven, my cuticles are overgrown and I feel gross. Keeping your hands nice and neat somehow makes your life feel a little more organized. Every time you look at them, you’re suddenly not afraid to show your hands in public. In fact, you might be tempted to show them off a little more. There is an unspoken confidence of having your nails done. If you have ever had a manicure, you know exactly what I mean.
How We Do Things
The Oliver’s Spa Manicure includes nail shaping, cuticle service, a relaxing scrub with warm hand mitts, a massage and a polish (if you chose). If you’re someone who keeps it simple, you could do a clear coat or nothing at all! Otherwise, we have a selection of colors both gel and normal!
New Color Alert!
With each new season, OPI (a popular nail polish brand) releases a new collection. This fall, they released a Scotland themed collection with the clever names to match that we have at the salon. More recently, we have the Hello Kitty collection with an assortment of fun, poppy colors!
Check out more of our work below
Convinced?
Give us a call at (610)-366-8808 or book your appointment here.
Danger of Dip Powder & Acrylic Nails
Acrylic Nails are so yesterday. Dip Powder nails are unsanitary. Here at Oliver’s Salon & Spa, we use a different nail building system called "Polygel nails" that is less harmful for the health of your natural nails. We also stand by our sanitary guidelines no matter what is trending. Most people are uneducated on the alternative service we offer, but once you know, you will leave acrylic & dip powder nails where they belong- in the past. Trust us on this one, your nail beds will thank you.
Below are some examples of Polygel nails done by our technicians here at Oliver's Salon & Spa:
I felt the need to write a blog on Polygel nails after I had a discussion about a crappy acrylic nail job that was done on a friend of mine (not at Oliver's of course). She was showing me the imperfections and explaining how rough the nail technician and how she definitely didn't get her money's worth. I asked her if she had ever heard of Polygel nails and she had such a confused look on her face. Considering her to be pretty trendy, this surprised me. I realized that maybe a blog about Polygel nails would be helpful for those of you who get your nails done pretty often.
Polygel is technically a name under the brand "Gelish", but it is what most people refer to when talking about this type of nail enhancement. It's also the brand we carry here at Oliver's.
Acrylics? So yesterday.
Acrylic nails are long-lasting and look amazing. Unfortunately, they ruin your natural nail. The process of putting acrylic nails on is a rough one. Your nails are filed until they are rough which thins them out and leaves them brittle. Moreso, they are gluing a nail on top of that rough, damaged surface. Removal is pretty brutal as well. When removing acrylic nails, you have to soak them first, then file them off. That's a lot of trauma to the nail! Remember, your nails are a part of your body. Improper care can lead to serious issues down the line.
The Danger of Dip Powder
A lot of clients ask if we do dip powdered nails here at Oliver's. We always feel bad turning them down, however, it's for the most sanitary reason.
It's a very popular service that is considered the cousin to acrylic nails. Dip powder nails are just as strong as acrylic and Polygel nails, however, they are the most unsanitary. Most salons have one dip powder pot for all clients. Do you really want to double dip with strangers? You never know who dipped their nails in the pigment before you!
This is the reason why dip powder nails are not offered at Oliver's Salon & Spa. Taking sanitation seriously, we use an autoclave for cleaning our tools for each and every client.
How about that picture? EW.
What are Polygel nails?
Polygel nails are another form of artificial nail enhancements. They are enhancements that can be applied as an overlay or used to sculpt a whole nail with a shape of your choice. It's a soft gel that looks like a putty that is formed on top of the nail. This method is great for clients who have short nails and decide to take the plunge into long nails or if you just want to add just a touch of shape and length.
Why Polygel?
Different shapes of nails are trending right now. Instagram is the perfect place to browse all nail shapes for inspiration! Polygel nails are perfect for those of you who like stiletto, square, oval and coffin shapes. They are the best for any sort of fake nail enhancements due to how easily it can be modified and shaped.
The formula delivers a strong, flexible, light nail that is just as strong as an acrylic nail and less harsh on your natural nails. You're bound to have less breakage and brittleness between appointments, too. Removing Polygel isn't as difficult as the removal of acrylic nails. There is no soaking, only filing, and they come right off!
Did we nail it?
I hope this blog was helpful for those of you who have acrylic nails or dip powder nails. It's our responsibility to take care of our bodies, including our nails. Now that there are alternatives to dip powder and acrylic nails that are healthier, it's a no-brainer! Book your appointment online or give us a call at (610)-366-8808 if you have more questions.
Oliver’s Looks at Current Beauty Trends
The beauty world is creative, competitive and inspiring. There are trends constantly emerging. With the help of Instagram and other social media platforms, we are able to see these trends on a daily basis. In this blog, I will dig a little deeper on some current trends that are considered influential and tell you exactly what we think here at Oliver's!
DIP POWDER MANICURES - YES OR NO?
One trend I’ve been seeing in particular is the dip powder nails. They are supposed to be stronger and longer lasting than gel nails. They are being compared to acrylic nails. I researched all that is the dip powder manicure to learn more about this trendy nail. Essentially, it is what it sounds like; you dip your nail in powder. Instead of using UV rays to seal your polish, the pigmented powder does the job. They are rumored to not ruin your nails the way that other manicures do.
However, if you’re getting a dip powder manicure at a salon, chances are you will be dipping your nails in a pot of pigmented powder that other people have dipped into. I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t want to double dip with a stranger. Although they turn out beautiful, it doesn’t make sense for a salon to be unsanitary for beauty reasons. This is exactly why Oliver’s does not partake in the dip powder manicure. In other words this trend is considered a NO for us.
SKINCARE - YES OR NO?
Less makeup, more sunscreen. With new skincare companies emerging, they are shedding some light on the importance of the health of our skin. They are pushing products that improve the look and texture of your skin, fight aging and repel the harmful UV rays. More than ever before, people are getting more facials, dermaplaning, peels, etc. Instagram models and influencers have perfect, soft skin with no makeup thus making it trendy. YES, this is a trend we can totally get behind.
Here at Oliver’s we offer a range of services for skincare. From facials to products, we have a lot to choose from. For example, we have more than five different facials as well as add-ons to customize what is most beneficial for your skin. We have a product for every issue you have as well as educated aestheticians who can provide you with tips and information to better your skincare routine.
LASHES - YES OR NO?
People are lashing out and ditching the mascara. Lash extensions, lash lifts and lash tints are everywhere. This trend has become so in demand that we are starting to need more aestheticians trained in lash services to keep up with the clientele. Can you blame everyone? Long lashes gives a sort of confidence that is unexplainable and cuts down makeup application time. This would be perfect for busy bodies, moms on the go and well, pretty much anyone. We say YES to this trend. Here at Oliver’s, we offer lash extensions, lash lifts and lash tints.
If you have any questions on the current trendy services we offer, call us at (610)-366-8808. Remember, we offer online booking as well!
Here Comes the Bride
Looking for a place to provide you with the perfect look on your big day? Well, Oliver’s has all the brides-to-be and their bridesmaids covered. As an all service salon, we have a number of services to choose from. Whether it’s for the big day or for your bachelorette party, we would love to serve you!
BRIDAL HAIR
On your wedding day, you want to look picture perfect. Here at Oliver’s, our stylists can do all sorts of up-dos and wedding hair. As long as you have a picture for reference, we can make it happen. Here are some examples of wedding do’s that will inspire you.
BRIDAL MAKEUP
Putting your best face forward is important on your wedding day. While there are makeup tutorials all over the internet, having a professional do your makeup limits your risk. Our mua’s are aestheticians who have had extensive training and practice in the makeup field. They know how to properly apply and make your look last the whole day! We use mostly Aveda products, but we also carry several others. If you’re like me, you have your favorite shade of lipstick. Bring it in. We don’t mind teaching you how to properly apply it!
BRIDAL NAILS
Most brides also get their nails done at Oliver's. We have a wide range of different nail styles. We have regular polish, gel polish, LCN and poly gel. You can keep it classic or add designs. Either way, our nail techs are skilled in the wedding nails area. If you're a Pinterest wedding planner, bring a picture. Our nail techs are always up for a challenge!
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Besides makeup and hair services, we offer a number of services that a bride or bridesmaid would enjoy. We have had many brides get their nails done, a facial and a massage. We do offer several packages containing a number of services, but you can always choose your own. The important thing to remember is to book ahead, especially if there are a lot of people in your party. We want to make sure we have enough time to make the day all about you!
If you have any questions about scheduling services for your special day, give us a call at (610)-366-8808 or book online.
Autoclave 101
When it comes to your nail services, are you getting what you pay for? You should expect (and get) a clean manicure with no problems to follow. Little does the common client know, some salons are not so sanitary. That’s why Oliver’s goes above and beyond to make your service as sanitary as possible. In this blog, I will explain why Oliver's takes sanitation seriously and uses an autoclave.
We use Tweezerman nail clippers at Oliver's and YES, we sanitize them correctly!
What Even is an Autoclave?
What exactly is an autoclave? For those of you who have never heard of an autoclave, you’re not alone. The autoclave originates in a medical setting, being used to clean and sanitize medical equipment that has been used in surgery. It’s a sterilization unit that uses water and steam at a high temperature to kill microorganisms, or as we refer to it, bacteria.
So… why are we using this in a salon?
Well, a nail tech uses tools while performing services such as pedicures and manicures. Fun fact: the average human hand has about 150 different species of bacteria living on it. So, using these tools then transfers those bacterias from the hands and to the tools. Also, if you have sensitive cuticles like I do, you bleed during manicures. Blood-born pathogens can also be transferred to and from tools. Do you really want to deal with all of that on a spa day?
The Dangers of Poor Sanitation
Salons should be held to a much higher standard when it comes to sanitation. If the tools used on you during your service are not properly sanitized, you could be at risk for a lot of things, as could the salon. Some states are required by law to use an autoclave. These laws are updated annually and each state has a different requirement. You can read each state’s specific requirements here. Pennsylvania requires that any tools that come in contact shall be sanitized immediately after each use and maintained in a sanitary condition at all times.
I have been to a few salons where I have witnessed a nail tech pull tools from the drawer and put them back in there after using them on me and that is a huge problem, especially when there is a possibility of me bleeding due to my sensitive cuticles. I should have said something, but I assumed that all salons just followed the rules.
Why Oliver's Uses an Autoclave
Here at Oliver’s, we take sanitation very seriously and follow the rules. Although Pennsylvania does not require salons to use autoclaves, we find that it’s best to keep our clients safe and reassured that they are getting exactly what they pay for. Going the extra mile is something Oliver’s is used to, so we are always on top of any new and safe way to improve our services. Some benefits of using the autoclave are a certified clean manicure, no risk of bacterial infection and peace of mind.
Oliver’s makes sure that we give our clients the best experience possible. We are focused on quality, not quantity of our services. Any sort of beauty service should be relaxing. You shouldn’t have to worry about the cleanliness of the tools being used during your service. Going the extra mile in sanitation makes sure that you’re happy with the service you receive, and our technicians can focus on their art without having to worry about their tools. We believe that every single one of our clients deserves to be treated like a queen.
Conclusion
Besides manicures and pedicures, Oliver’s has a wide range of other services that are conducted in a safe and sanitized way. Head to our website and check them out! Also, if you have any questions about our autoclave, tools or systems, don’t hesitate to give us a call!
The information about autoclaves came from here.
Our nail technicians are trained and updated with all of the sanitary requirements to perform various nail services. If you're interested in booking an appointment or have additional questions, call us at (610) 366-8808 or book online.
Oliver’s Top 3 Beauty Brands
Most beauty lovers have spent more than a couple years narrowing down our favorite makeup, skin care, and hair care brands. Similarly, salons have to make decisions about which beauty brands they’re going to use for the services they offer. At Oliver’s, we want to make sure our customers receive an amazing experience. The different products we use all go into making sure of that. In this post, I’m going to give you a look into the different beauty brands Oliver's uses and sells and why they make our already excellent services even better!
Here's our beautiful reception area and part of the retail space at Oliver's! It's the perfect place to snag some last minute products on your way out of the salon.
Want To Look Great Even After Your Appointment?
Getting your hair done is fun, relaxing, and exciting, but what's the point if you can't recreate how awesome you look and feel the next day? Our staff at Oliver's aren't just here to make you look amazing for the afternoon after your appointment. They're also here to educate and show you how to maintain your look so you can feel great 24/7.
When you get a service done, especially a new hairstyle, your stylist will be able to recommend specific products that can relieve some of the issues they've noticed in your hair. So, not only are you getting a new look, you're also learning how to maintain your new style and create it yourself at home. The products we sell mirror what the stylists are using while you're sitting in the chair. So if they recommend a product, it's because they use it day in and day out.
Personally, I'm not big on reading directions. It's a character flaw I'm willing to admit. However, its pointless to spend money on products and not use them correctly. If you use too much or to little, it can sometimes counteract the entire goal of the product. Also, depending on your own features, you may have to slightly alter how you use a product. To get the most bang for your buck, theres no one better than your stylist to tell you how to use what you're buying.
So Why So Many Products?
Oliver's was created on a holistic basis, meaning that all of our services are connected and we want every client to leave here feeling the best that they can. Oliver's retail area is extensive and we have products for pretty much anyone. If you have heat damaged hair, we have products for that. Want to prevent wrinkles and dry skin? We have you covered. Looking for a new outfit to go with that new haircut? We also handpick adorable clothes, accessories, and jewelry from New York. Oliver's is a well-rounded salon and spa that can totally be used as a one-stop shop for many of your beauty and fashion needs.
If you're a dedicated shopper like me, once you're on a roll nothing can stop you. So instead of driving all around the Lehigh Valley, it's pretty convenient to have almost all of your beauty needs in one place. While big name beauty brand stores like Ulta have a large range of products, not all the products there are salon quality.
What Brands Do We Use
While were use many different brands at Oliver's, our top 3 are Aveda, MoroccanOil, and Jan Marini.
Aveda is an all natural beauty brand committed to using organic ingredients. The brand was founded by Horst Rechelbacher, who is called “a pioneer of holistic beauty, and a champion of environmental responsibility.” Just like how Oliver's was the first full service salon and spa in the Lehigh Valley, Aveda was the first full service beauty brand. Aveda has a large range of products from makeup, skin care, and hair care.
MoroccanOil
MoroccanOil is primarily a haircare brand that uses Argan oil of Morocco in their products. Carmen Tal, the brand's founder, had her hair badly damaged after a color service. (Fried hair after a salon appointment? Everyone's worst nightmare.) She was away traveling and received a MoroccanOil treatment that revitalized her hair, and she knew she had to share it with the world.
Jan Marini
Jan Marini is an innovative skincare brand that constantly researches and tests new products that provide proven results. In skincare, they're one of the most respected brands because of how thoroughly they test their products. Other beauty brands make wild claims about what their products are capable of, but Jan Marini makes sure that any claim they make is based in fact.
Some Fun Facts About Our Brands:
- Aveda uses ALL naturally derived ingredients, and is cruelty free and never tested on animals.
- MoroccanOil's signature product, the Treatment Oil, has been raved about by celebs like Jennifer Lopez, Taylor Swift, and Penelope Cruz.
- Jan Marini products are medically validated, meaning they undergo lab testing to prove they work.
- Aveda is the first beauty company to use 100% post-consumer recycled packaging.
- MoroccanOil products use oil from the argan nut, which can only be grown in Morocco.
- Jan Marini products are cruelty free and not tested on animals.
- The aromas in Aveda products are created completely from natural plant and flower essences - no synthetic fragrances are ever used.
Already Have Your Go To Beauty Brands? Here's Why What Your Salon Uses Still Matters.
Imagine after a rough week you decide to treat yourself to a facial. Do you really want to spend that hour worrying about what the products being used might be doing to your skin? Regardless of age, background, or skin type you should be conscious of what chemicals you’re putting onto your skin and body. Beauty brands make broad claims about hydration, or anti-aging. In reality, many have chemical ingredients like parabens, synthetic colors, or harsh fragrances that can do more damage than good.
Reading every single ingredient on the back of every product you own isn’t realistic. (To be honest, I can't even pronounce most of them.) With so many skincare products out there, it can get stressful trying to find what’s perfect for you. After taking your specific skincare or haircare needs into account, it seems like theres a product for everything. Even if you eventually find that “perfect brand” for yourself, your salon probably isn't going to be using the exact products you use in your personal routine. When you visit Oliver’s, you don’t have to worry about what chemicals might be going into your skin or on your hair. For us, the number one goal is that our clients leave looking and feeling amazing.
Make Sure Your Products Are The Best Of The Best
Obviously, everyone’s skin and hair are different. What works for me might not work for you, but harsh chemicals often found in cheap products are downright damaging. At Oliver’s, we make sure to use products that are high quality and well-researched. Even though we may not use your go-tos, you can feel comfortable knowing the beauty products we use and sell are top of the line.
For more information on Aveda, MoroccanOil, or Jan Marini, click to check out their websites. If you’re interested in these excellent brands and the services Oliver's uses them for, call us at (610) 366-8808 or book online.