Trying something new — especially something where you lie back and let a stranger look after you for an hour — can come with a little flutter of "but what if I get it wrong?" There's no getting it wrong here, but we'd much rather you arrive relaxed than uncertain. So here are honest answers to the questions first-timers ask us most.

Do I need to wash my hair first?

No. Come exactly as you are. Part of the ritual is a deep, warm cleanse, so there's genuinely no point washing beforehand — in fact, your natural day-to-day scalp is perfectly fine to arrive with. One less thing to think about.

What should I wear?

Whatever's comfortable. You'll be reclining for the hour, so soft and easy is ideal. We take care to keep you warm and dry throughout, and we'll look after your clothing so you don't leave damp. There's no gown-and-slippers performance required unless that's your thing.

Do I have to make conversation?

Not a single word if you'd rather not. Some guests like a quiet chat to settle in; many prefer silence, close their eyes, and drift off completely. Both are absolutely welcome. If you fall asleep, we take it as the highest compliment — it means the room did its job. We follow your lead.

How long does it take?

Our signature ritual runs for a full 60 minutes from start to finish. It's worth setting aside a little buffer either side so you're not rushing in flustered or watching the clock on the way out. The whole idea is to step out of the hurry, not bring it with you.

Will my hair be a mess afterwards?

The opposite. We finish with a gentle dry and a slow return to the room, so you leave looking — and very much feeling — better than when you arrived. You won't be walking back to the car with a dripping head.

Will it actually do anything, or is it just nice?

Both, happily. The immediate effect is deep relaxation — a calmer nervous system, looser shoulders, often a great night's sleep to follow. Alongside that, your scalp gets a proper deep cleanse and warm, hands-on care it rarely receives, which supports a healthy foundation for your hair. It feels like a treat and quietly does you good at the same time.

How often should I come?

There's no rule. Some people come for a one-off reset when a season or a stressful stretch calls for it; others fold it into their routine every few weeks as ongoing maintenance for scalp and sanity alike. Start with one, see how your body responds, and go from there.

What if I have a sensitive scalp or a skin condition?

Just let us know when you book or when you arrive. We work slowly and gently as a matter of course, and we'd always rather you tell us about anything we should be mindful of so we can look after you properly. If you have a diagnosed scalp condition, a quick word with your GP or dermatologist beforehand never hurts.

Still wondering something?

If your question isn't here, ask us — there's no such thing as a silly one, and we'd genuinely rather answer it than have you arrive unsure. You can message us anytime, or simply mention it when you book.

Your first head spa should feel easy from the moment you book. We'll handle the rest in Chartwell, Hamilton.

Book your first ritual whenever you're ready.