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Frequently asked questions

What Is the Proper exhālō Spa Etiquette?

We kindly ask that you arrive 5-10 minutes before your service start time to get settled and prepare to relax your body, mind, and soul. Why not arrive early to enjoy a complimentary beverage and relax with our free Shiatsu Foot Massager? 

Please note, children under 10 are welcome to visit exhālō on our "Family Day" Sundays and must be accompanied by an adult. 

Does exhālō Serve Refreshments?  

We offer a selection of complimentary herbal teas, Colombian coffee, hot chocolate, natural flavoured spring waters, and sparkling Bubly water for our guests. We also fully licensed if you'd like to enjoy a selection of delicious alcoholic beverages for an additional fee at our Kanata location. These include Sparkling Prosecco & Rose, Red & White Wines, and locally-made Hard Cider and Beer.

Does exhālō Accept Gratuities?

Yes. If you were thrilled with our services, it is always greatly appreciated! Should you choose to leave a gratuity for your service provider, you may do so in the form of cash, VISA, Mastercard, AMEX or debit options at our front desk. Each exhālō Dream Team member has their personal gratuity envelope they pick up in cash daily or it's directly sent to them through our software banking. Please note, Gift Cards and Wellness Packages do not include gratuities. Thank you!

What Is exhālō’s Return and Exchange Policy?

Unopened products may be returned for a full refund within 2 weeks of purchase. If you had an allergic reaction (excludes body brushes or styling tools) from a product within 2 weeks of the purchase, we will gladly exchange the product or issue a spa credit for the amount paid upon completion of our manufacturer’s Allergic Reaction form. Please note, exhālō does not issue refunds for spa or salon services received.

What Is exhālō’s Cancellation Policy?

In the rare event that you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide 24 hours notice to open the space to other clients. Cancellations with less than 24 hours notice may be subject to a 50% charge on your account. All group bookings require a Credit Card to reserve appointments. 

Cancellations after 24 hours may only be done by phone, please call:

Barrhaven  613-825-2226 

Kanata  613-435-1114 

What Method of Payment Does exhālō Spa Accept?

We currently accept cash, Debit, Visa, and Mastercard and American Express. All of our prices listed exclude tax and it will be added upon check out, along with a 4% Green Circle eco-fee. This Canadian sustainablity program helps us recover and recycle salon & spa waste, keeping materials out of landfills and waterways supporting a cleaner, more sustainable future. Thank you for partnering with us to make a positive impact on the environment.

What Safety and Cleaning Measures Does exhālō Undertake?

exhālō has passed all health inspections since opening in June 2017. All spa implements used on clients are cleaned with antibacterial soap, rinsed, then submerged in PREEMPT CS20 which is a high-level disinfectant of accelerated hydrogen peroxide recommended by Ottawa Public Health. All of our pedicure basins are 100% stainless steel and without jets to prevent possible cross-contamination. Sinks are thoroughly rinsed and disinfected between EVERY pedicure with Pre-Empt wipes or BioTEXT Micrylium spray. Spa slippers are sanitized between client use with Lysol disinfecting wipes. All glassware used by staff & clients are also cleaned and sanitized in our high-temp commercial-grade dishwasher. Our staff is trained on up-to-date sanitation and disinfection methods within our care industry and have each completed mandatory public health online modules and testing. We take health & safety, cleanliness, and sanitation at exhālō seriously to protect our valued clients and staff.

Booking and Appointments

Are group bookings and special events welcome at  Exhalo?

Yes, celebrate with us at exhālō Spa! We love to host events and group bookings such as bridal parties, birthdays, retirements, and team-building time. Let us know what you have in mind and our Coordinators may assist with simple decorations, alcoholic beverage selections, and possible catering. Group specials may also be available for parties of 6 or more. For any inquiries on spa group bookings contact our team at info@exhalo.ca.

Do I need an appointment, or do you accept walk-ins?
We recommend booking in advance to secure your preferred stylist and time. Walk-ins are welcome when availability allows.

How do I book an appointment?
Appointments can be booked online, by phone, or in person.

Are consultations included?
Yes, all services include a consultation to ensure we understand your goals.

Should I arrive with clean hair?
Some services include a wash, while others (such as styling services) require clean, dry hair prior to arrival. Please check your service description.

Do you offer shampoo and blow-dry with all services?
Not all services include a wash and blow-dry. Details are listed under each service.

Do you offer regular and gel polish manicures/pedicures?
Yes, we offer a variety of manicure and pedicure options with regular or gel polish. Please refer to our service menu for details.

How long should my hair be before waxing?
Hair should be approximately ¼ inch long (about the length of a grain of rice) for best results.

Is waxing safe during pregnancy?
Generally yes, but sensitivity may increase. Always let your esthetician know if you are pregnant.

What Products Does exhālō Use and Sell?

We believe in providing the best services and cleanest products possible! Our core brand partners, AVEDA, Kuene Hair Care and Eminence Organic Skin Care products, are proudly free of parabens, animal by-products, propylene glycol, sodium lauryl sulfates, harmful colorants and fragrances, mineral oils, petroleum, and other harsh cosmetic chemicals. We've also chosen to work with a "clean" Canadian makeup line and pay close attention to not offering any product that’s credited as an endocrine disruptor. We've eliminated talc and synthetic fragrance and any ingredients that have the potential for causing skin irritations. We're also passionate about supporting our local community and have hand-picked a few outstanding locally made beauty, wellness, and jewelry selections for the ultimate self-care regime. Be sure to visit our boutique walls during your visits as they change often!

Health and Safety Measures

exhālō Spa takes the safety of its customers, staff, and community very seriously by following the Guidance for Personal Service Settings from Ottawa Public Health. Such includes a rigorous sanitation schedule for high touch areas, equipment, professional instruments, treatment room beds, chairs, and stations. Staff are mandated to frequently wash and sanitize hands between services.  It is also mandatory for customers and staff to wear a PPE mask in enclosed spaces if you are feeling unwell while at exhālō Spa at any time. 

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