FAQs

Important information about Hoʻāla Gift Cards:

• We offer traditional and printable options.
• They are non-refundable and cannot be exchanged for cash.
• Ho’āla Salon and Spa is not liable for lost, stolen, or damaged cards, but we will assist you to the best of our abilities.
• Gift Cards are valid for purchasing products and services exclusively at Ho’āla Salon and Spa, located at Ala Moana Center, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd. #3201, Honolulu, HI 96814. They cannot be used online or over the phone.
• For any technical issues with printable Gift cards, please report the problem within three working days of the purchase date. Contact us at 808.947.6141.
• When using a printable gift card, ensure that it is legible for redemption at the salon.
• Gift card must be used in full or a balance will remain on the card.  Cash is not given back.
• Gift Card must be present at check-out to redeem.

Prices are subject to change. We reserve the right to refuse service.

Unless they are receiving a service, we ask that you do not bring children to your appointment with you. Once they are done with their service, they will need to be supervised by an adult not receiving a service. This is for your relaxation and for those around you. Plus, there are sharp objects, trip hazards and hot tools around that make it unsafe for little kiddos.

Yes, please! We love positive reviews and make it a point to celebrate them as a team. If you have feedback to share that is constructive, please talk to us in person so we can be aware.

Our online booking is designed to make things easier for you! Our most common services are listed. If you don’t find the service you need or have a package to book, give us a call for personal assistance.

A 25% deposit is collected to reserve your appointment and on the day of your appointment credited to your charges. We look forward to serving you!

We have a 48-hour cancellation or reschedule policy.

• If you contact us before the 48-hour mark you will not be charged.
• Without a 48-hour notice you will be charged 25% of the service cost or your deposit will be kept for missed services.

Our cancellation policy is in place to provide a predictable livelihood for our service providers. Thank you so much for your understanding!

Major Credit Cards are accepted. Ho’ala gift cards/ certificates, Aveda gift cards and cash.

Gift Cards/Certificates must be present to redeem at check-out and change is not given out.

A $5 guest fee is charged to each service visit. This is necessary to help cover the increasing costs of doing business in Hawaii, residual pandemic costs and the increasing costs of our support teams. We thank you in advance for your understanding.

We want you to love your service. If something is not right, please let us know before checking out or no later than 48 hours after your service. We will do our best to make it right and get you back in asap. In most cases this is a complimentary service unless the service plan has changed. If this is the case there may be an additional charge.

Once a service is provided, it cannot be refunded. All service sales are final. In regard to salon services, if you are unhappy and opt to visit another salon to have it adjusted or cut or color it yourself, our service guarantee will be null and void. Please contact us so that we may do our best to satisfy you.

We have a 30 day return policy on AVEDA and WISH products. If you are not satisfied with your product, you can exchange it or return it with a valid receipt. Returns are done in the same form of original payment. Returns of over $50 cash will be returned in the form of a check and sent in the mail. Please allow 3 weeks for mail check refunds.

All other lifestyle and wellness products are final sale.

Here at Hoʻāla Salon, we go to Great Lengths for our hair extension services. What are hair extensions?

• Hair extensions are pieces of hair that are bonded to your natural hair to create a length and add thickness without damage.

Are hair extensions real or synthetic hair?

• Hoʻāla extensions are high-quality, 100% authentic human hair.

How do the hair extensions stay in my hair?

• Great Lengths Hair Extensions are bonded to your natural hair with a unique keratin protein bond. We do not use techniques like welding, waxing, gluing or knotting, which can cause a high level of damage to your natural hair.

Will hair extensions cause damage to my natural hair?

• Great Lengths Extensions are non-damaging to your natural hair.

Will the bonds be visible and noticeable? Will the extensions look natural?

• The Great Lengths Extension System is the most natural-looking extension process we can offer to our guests. They seamlessly blend with your own hair for a flawless appearance.

How much do hair extensions cost?

• At Hoʻāla Salon and Spa, the cost of hair extensions varies depending on several factors,such as hair thickness, texture, and desired length. We offer a complimentary consultation with one of our extension specialists, who will assess your hair’s condition and discuss your desired outcome. A lengthening service typically starts at $1200+, but services for fullness, highlights, dimension, or vibrant color flashes can cost considerably less than lengthening services. To get an accurate quote, we recommend scheduling a consultation with our specialist.

Do I pay for the service all at once?

• During the consultation, when scheduling your extension service appointment, you will be asked to pay a deposit of half the total cost. A credit card will be required to secure the remaining balance.   Please note: extensions are special ordered, so refunds cannot be granted once the service is booked.

How long does the hair extension service take?

• A hair extension application can vary depending on your natural hair and your desired look. The service takes approximately four hours on average.

Do I need a haircut after the extension application?

• A haircut is required to complete the hair extension service to blend the extensions with your natural hair and create a beautiful, seamless looking style. The haircut is included in the quoted price for the hair extension service.

What if my hair is colored, permed, or relaxed?

• We advise having your hair colored, permed, or relaxed at least one week before your extension appointment. We strongly recommend that you return to Hoʻāla for all chemical services while you are wearing extensions. Our team is highly trained in Great Lengths extensions, and we want to ensure your extensions last as long as possible.

With hair extensions, will I be able to blow dry, straighten, or curl my hair?

• Yes – hair dryers, curling Irons, flat irons and hot rollers are safe to use with hair extensions. Be prepared for your regular styling routine to change… longer, thicker hair does take more time to style.

How long will my hair extensions last?

• The Great Lengths hair extensions will last approximately three to six months, depending on individual hair growth and care.

How are the hair extensions removed?

• Hair extensions require professional removal by appointment with your Hoʻāla Extensions Specialist. Removal can take anywhere from two to six hours based on the number of extensions and the maintenance of the extensions during wear. Note: An hourly fee is charged for removal.

Will any of my hair extensions fall out?

• Some extension loss is normal and to be expected.

What is Thermal Hair Straightening (also known as a Japanese Straight Perm)?

• Thermal Hair Straightening is an advanced chemical service utilizing Japanese technology to achieve sleek, straight, and beautifully shiny hair. This innovative treatment is perfect for those seeking a solution to tame and transform even the curliest, frizziest, or highly textured hair. Say goodbye to the hassle of daily straightening routines! Ideal for natural curls, kinks, frizz, highly textured hair, or even permed hair, this service offers long-lasting results.Please note that Thermal Hair Straightening is not recommended for hair highlighted with bleach or hair that has undergone relaxing treatments.

What makes the Hoʻāla Thermal Straightening Service different?

• Our continued commitment to excellence and the highest quality of services has made Hoʻāla Salon and Spa an expert in Thermal Hair Straightening and it shows in our rigorous training schedule. Hoʻāla professionals have each completed more than 60 hours of extensive, professional, hands-on training.

How long does the service take?

• The Thermal Hair Straightening process generally takes about three to four hours but can take longer, depending on your hair type, length and thickness. We highly recommend scheduling your appointment on a day when you have no other commitments.

How much does Thermal Straightening cost?

• To determine the exact cost of your Thermal Hair Straightening service, we require a complimentary consultation with one of our specialized Thermal Straightening Specialists at Hoʻāla. During this consultation, our specialist will assess your hair type, length, and thickness, discuss the process and expected results, estimate the service duration, and provide you with a personalized cost estimate. Typically, the price for a 3 to 4-hour service starts at $360 and varies based on the stylist’s experience and expertise. It’s important to note that the service duration and cost may vary for each guest depending on their unique hair type, length, and thickness.

What if my hair is colored?

• If you color your hair, the color service must be done at least 1 full week prior to the straightening service and the hair may not be colored until at least 2 weeks after the service.

Will I be able to curl my hair after thermal straightening?

• The Thermal Hair Straightening process will create straight hair that will likely not respond to a curling iron, a round brush or other curling techniques.

Do I need to get a haircut after my service?

• Yes, we recommend a haircut after the service to reshape your straightened look.

Will I need to redo the service after my hair starts to grow out?

• The average retouch for this service is 6 to 10 months after the original service. A minimum of two inches of regrowth is necessary for a proper, effective retouch.

Tips for Your Appointment:

• Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment. We will ask you to change into a service gown to protect your clothing.
• Bring lunch and/or snacks and something fun to do!
• Do not shampoo your hair on the day of your Thermal Hair Straightening service.

What to Expect:

• During the service, a number of solutions will be applied to your hair, processed and then rinsed out.
• Your hair will be 90% dried and will look frizzy at first. We will then straighten your hair extensively. Tension must be used for optimal results, so you will feel some pulling during this part of the service.
• Results depend on your hair texture and previous chemical services. In some cases it will be necessary to do a small amount of daily styling.
• If you desire some flexibility in your hair after the process so that the hair will still respond to a round brush or rollers, the service will need to be “underprocessed.” In this case it will be absolutely necessary to spend time styling your hair after each shampoo. Hair may revert back to your natural curl pattern in some areas.

Tips for Achieving the Best Results:

• To ensure optimal results, it is crucial to keep your hair completely dry for 48 hours following the service. This means refraining from shampooing, rinsing, styling, or exposing your hair to water. Avoid situations where your hair may get wet, including getting caught in the rain. Additionally, avoid ponytails, hairpins, and tucking your hair behind the ears during this period.

Where will I change?

• Before your service begins, you will be escorted into our amenities room to prepare for your treatment.

What if I need to cancel an appointment?

• We understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise, leading to the need for appointment cancellations. In such cases, we kindly request a 48-hour notice prior to the scheduled appointment. Guests who fail to honor their appointments or provide less than a 48-hour notice may be subject to a cancellation fee. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

What if I am not feeling well?

• For the sake of your health and the well-being of others, we kindly ask that you contact us as soon as possible to reschedule your appointment if you are experiencing symptoms such as a sore throat, high fever, chills, sneezing, or coughing. Your health and the safety of our staff and guests are of utmost importance to us. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

What if I’m late for my appointment?

• In the event that you arrive late for your scheduled appointment, we may need to adjust the duration of your treatment or reschedule it to accommodate our next guest. If your appointment is shortened, we will ensure that it ends on time to prevent any inconvenience for the following guest. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in this matter.

How far in advance do I need to schedule?

• To secure your preferred time slot, we recommend calling us as soon as possible. As availability may vary, we are more than happy to assist you with your scheduling request. For weekend appointments, it is advisable to plan ahead and schedule one to two weeks in advance for single services, and about three weeks in advance for package appointments. For weekday appointments, planning one to two weeks in advance is recommended. Please note that we occasionally have cancellations, so feel free to contact us and inquire about same-day appointments.

May I request a male or female therapist?

• Yes, of course. The utmost respect for your modesty is a priority. While body treatments require you to remove all of your clothing, careful draping procedures are observed at all times.

What about my jewelry and valuables?

• We recommend you leave your jewelry and watches at home. Unfortunately, we’re not able to take responsibility for your valuables while you are at the spa.

Should I shave prior to my spa service?

• For our exfoliating services, we advise against shaving prior to the treatment to avoid potential irritation on freshly shaven skin. However, for all other spa services, shaving or not shaving will not have any impact. For men receiving a facial, we recommend shaving prior to the appointment. Our goal is to provide you with the most comfortable and enjoyable spa experience.

Are children permitted in the spa?

• To ensure a tranquil and relaxing environment for all our guests, we kindly request that children are not brought into the spa. This policy is in place to promote a serene atmosphere and to enhance your overall experience. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Do you allow cell phones and pagers?

• To preserve the serene atmosphere of our spa, we kindly ask that you turn off your cell phone or pager during your visit. This allows you and other guests to fully embrace the tranquility and relaxation that our spa provides. Thank you for your cooperation in creating a peaceful environment for everyone.

Why should I wax instead of shave?

• Shaving may lead to visible hair growth and coarse stubble within a few days, along with the potential for ingrown hairs, bumps, and ongoing skin irritation. In contrast, waxing offers longer-lasting results, with hair regrowing slower and softer, without the presence of stubble. Over time, waxing can help diminish hair volume and promote finer regrowth. It’s important to note that some hair regrowth is inevitable, but waxing provides a more favorable and enduring outcome compared to shaving.

Does waxing hurt?

• The level of discomfort experienced during waxing can vary depending on individual pain tolerance. It’s worth noting that any initial pain subsides quickly. While waxing, especially during the first session, can be uncomfortable, regular visits typically reduce the level of discomfort over time. Our experienced estheticians strive to make your waxing experience as comfortable as possible.

How do I prepare for a Brazilian Wax?

• For a more comfortable Brazilian waxing experience, especially if you’re new to it, consider taking over-the-counter medication about an hour before your appointment. Taking a shower before your appointment is recommended, as the hot water helps to open pores and facilitates easier hair removal, resulting in reduced discomfort. In the event that you’re unable to shower, we provide personal wipes for you to clean the area that will be waxed. For optimal results, we advise allowing your hair to grow out for at least three weeks before your first Brazilian wax. Avoid trimming, as longer hair yields better and longer-lasting results.In addition, gently exfoliating your bikini area the night before your appointment is a beneficial step. Feel free to continue gentle exfoliation daily for ongoing maintenance. First wax? Anticipate slight skin irritation after waxing. With regular waxing, your skin will adjust and irritation should diminish. However, if you wax infrequently, expect some temporary irritation each time. It’s normal to experience small whiteheads after your initial waxing sessions, but these will fade as you continue waxing. To prevent pore blockage, gently exfoliate with a scrub after 24 hours.

How long does waxing last?

• The duration of waxing results varies for each individual, as it depends on the rate of hair growth. On average, you can expect your waxing to last between 2 to 4 weeks. The great news is that with regular waxing, you can enjoy longer-lasting results over time.

Will my hair grow back thicker?

• No, waxing does not cause hair to grow back thicker. In fact, with each waxing session, you can expect the regrowth to be lighter and softer. While it may take around three waxing procedures to observe a noticeable change in the rate of hair regrowth, you may notice the hair appearing softer even after the first waxing session. Enjoy the benefits of smoother and more manageable hair with regular waxing.

Will I have a reaction to waxing?

• In general, most people do not have a reaction to waxing. However, it is important to consider any medications or skincare products you are currently using. If you are taking prescription medications such as Accutane, Differin, Retin A, or antibiotics, or if you are using products that may cause sun sensitivity or contain ingredients like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, benzoyl peroxide, Obaji products, harsh exfoliants, or facial peels, we recommend avoiding waxing. Prioritizing your health and safety is our utmost concern, so please inform our estheticians of any medications or products you are using before your waxing session to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

What if I’m on my period?

• Some women find that when they are on their period, their skin is more sensitive and more likely to burn or peel. If you would like to reschedule, we completely understand. Please don’t hesitate to communicate your concerns or preferences with your esthetician.

What if I’m pregnant?

• Once you have completed your first trimester you can get waxing done. Many of our mothers-to-be like to have a Brazilian wax done before giving birth.

How should I take care of my skin after waxing?

• After waxing, avoid tanning and extended sun exposure for 48 hours. You will want to avoid hot showers or baths, sauna and steam room use immediately following the service. Scented lotions, perfumes, or colognes should be avoided for 48 hours.

When should I come back?

• Typically, you’ll need to wax every 3 to 6 weeks (depending on the area waxed) and the more you do it, the less painful it becomes. For Brazilian waxing we offer a maintenance savings if you return within 60 days.