Frequently Asked Questions

Ordering & products

Do I have to be a Beauty Bar Muskoka client to order?

No. The Back Bar was built for our clients, but anyone in Canada can order. If you've never been assessed by us and you're unsure what suits your skin, email us before you buy — we'd rather help you choose than have you spend money on the wrong thing.

How do I know which products are right for me?

Start with Build Your Routine, which walks through how to structure a routine and choose one active. If you want a specific recommendation, email info@beautybarmuskoka.ca with your main concern, your current routine, and any sensitivities. There's no charge and no obligation.

What does "medical-grade" actually mean?

Higher concentrations of active ingredients, more stable delivery systems, and distribution through trained providers rather than retail shelves. It also means these products can irritate skin if they're used incorrectly or introduced too quickly — which is the reason we ask questions before recommending.

Are these products authentic?

Yes. Everything we sell is sourced directly through each brand's professional channel. Medical-grade skincare bought from marketplaces or discount sites is frequently expired, counterfeit, or improperly stored — it's a genuine problem in this category.

Can I use these while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Some ingredients — retinol in particular — are generally avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Please check with us or your own healthcare provider before starting anything new.

I have a treatment booked. Should I stop anything first?

Often, yes. Retinols and exfoliating acids are usually paused before laser, peels, and resurfacing. Check your pre-care instructions or call us at (705) 224-0044.

Using your products

How long until I see results?

Skin turns over roughly every 28 days, and most actives need around three cycles — about twelve weeks — before you can judge them fairly. Hydration improvements show up faster; tone and texture take months.

My skin is flaking since I started a retinol. Is that normal?

Mild dryness or flaking in the first two to four weeks is common while skin adjusts. Burning, weeping, swelling, or raw skin is not — stop using it and contact us.

Do I really need sunscreen in a Muskoka winter?

Yes. UVA passes through cloud and glass year-round, and snow and water reflect a meaningful amount of UV back at you. If you use any active ingredient, daily SPF isn't optional — without it you're undoing the work.

How should I store my products?

Cool, dry, out of direct sunlight, lids closed. Antioxidant serums like vitamin C are especially sensitive to light and air. Not on a sunny windowsill, and not in a steamy shower.

Orders, shipping & returns

Where do you ship?

Across Canada. See Shipping & Returns for rates and timing.

Can I pick up in-store instead?

Yes — you're welcome to collect from the clinic at 8 West Street South, Huntsville, during opening hours. Please wait for your confirmation before coming in.

Can I return a product?

Unopened products in original condition can be returned within our stated window. For health and hygiene reasons we can't accept opened skincare. Full details on the Shipping & Returns page.

Something arrived damaged or wrong.

Email info@beautybarmuskoka.ca with your order number and a photo within 7 days of delivery and we'll sort it out.

Still stuck?

Call (705) 224-0044 or email info@beautybarmuskoka.ca. For treatments and bookings, visit beautybarmuskoka.ca.