Ómra Beauty should be on your radar for everything from spray tans to therapeutic face and body treatments …
I love to hear about a small beauty salon that goes above and beyond. You might not expect to find therapeutic beauty treatments in a shopping centre, but anyone who’s been to Ómra Beauty in the Merrion Centre Dublin knows better. Rachael Foley’s salon has been here since 2013, offering an extensive range of treatments from brow threading, manicures, waxing and tanning to massage and reflexology.
Ómra uses French brand Payot skincare, along with the renowned Alpha H glycolic acid exfoliating treatment, which contains bamboo for a gentle yet effective approach. Foley is a huge proponent of exfoliation, saying; “It’s essential that you exfoliate your skin to remove dead skin cells; otherwise, you’re wasting time and money on other products.”
She advises double cleansing too, especially at night, likening it to doing a pre-wash in your washing machine. “I always recommend using a muslin or warm cloth rather than cotton wool, which can leave a film.” And tone after cleansing; “Pores can’t open or close, but they can get blocked and enlarged. Toning after cleansing helps to remove any film on the skin, which can block pores. A toner will bring your skin back to an ideal pH more quickly, and ensure it’s balanced.”
The advice is to visit a professional once a year to check in with your skincare routine to make sure it’s right for you.
She encourages mothers to bring in their teens for expert advice. “A simple routine is so important: less is more with young skin. Clean make-up brushes are vital, too. They should use mineral make-up, and can use a mix of water and surgical spirit to kill bacteria on brushes.”
I was also intrigued to discover a 100 per cent organic range made in Cornwall in England, Made for Life Organics, which they use exclusively in their touch therapy and head massages. It’s particularly incredible for cancer patients, notes Foley, and it suits drier skin types as the formulas are so rich.
What sets this salon apart is Foley’s compassionate approach; she has built this business single-handedly.
Ómra is a one-stop shop, whether you want your make-up done, ears pierced or a spray tan (they have a dedicated spray tan room, using Irish brand He-Shi). City express manicures cost €29; express pedicures are €37.50; a spa pedicure is €66; a half-body tan is €34; and cancer touch therapy treatments start from €55. They also offer three treatments for the price of two on Tuesdays. Check out available packages here.
Before you go, grab a coffee at the always busy Fiji Coffee Bar, who use Badger & Dodo beans and delicious chocolates by Benoit Lorge in Co Kerry.
Ómra Beauty, The Merrion Centre, Dublin 4; 01 219 5822; www.omrabeauty.ie.
