Everything you need to know before your first appointment at MAN-LAB
WE aRE men-only grooming studio near Clapham South STATION, London. Every treatment is carried out by a male therapist/DOCTOR, in a private STUDIO, by appointment only.
The basics
Are all the therapists men?
Yes. Every treatment at MAN-LAB is carried out by a male therapist. Chris and Marc, who own MAN-LAB, have over 15 years’ experience each in the beauty and grooming industry.
Is it private?
Yes. Treatments take place in a private room in an appointment-only studio, with no walk-ins.
Where are you?
Unit 4E, Man-Lab Studios, 18–20 Hillgate Place, London SW12 9ER, a short walk from Clapham South and Balham (Northern line) and Wandsworth Common (rail) stations.
How do I find the entrance?
Hillgate Place is just off Balham Hill, a short walk down the hill from Clapham South station. We’re on the right-hand side of the building: walk down to the second-to-last door at the end, press the buzzer labelled “Man-Lab” and we’ll buzz you in. We’re on the top floor, so just follow the signs. There’s no parking on site. See the map and photos.
How do I book?
Book online to see live availability. Appointments often book 2–3 weeks ahead, and evenings and weekends go first. Some body treatments aren’t bookable online; for those, or if you can’t find a slot, email info@man-lab.co.uk or send us a WhatsApp. (We dont take walk ins)
What happens when I arrive?
We’ll send you a short consent form by text or email to complete before your visit, and we may ask for photo ID. Your therapist will talk through what you’d like and check anything that affects the treatment, such as medication or skin conditions.
Waxing
What can I have waxed?
Anything from brows, ears and nose to back, chest, arms and legs, plus intimate waxing. We use strip wax on larger areas and hot wax on intimate and facial areas. Prices start at £16; a back wax is £44. See waxing prices.
How long should my hair be?
About 6–12 mm (¼–½ inch). Don’t shave or trim beforehand; if you have shaved, allow 2–3 weeks of regrowth.
Does waxing hurt?
Removing hair from the root can cause some mild discomfort, but the exact level varies from person to person. We will do everything we can to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
Who can’t be waxed?
We can’t wax skin where retinoids, retinol or tretinoin have been used in the last 7 days, or while you’re taking Roaccutane. Intimate waxing is for clients aged 18 and over; other waxing is available from 16. The maximum waxing time is 75 minutes per client per day.
What should I do afterwards?
Some redness, small bumps or soreness are normal and usually settle within 24–48 hours. For 24–48 hours, keep the area clean and avoid heat and friction: no hot baths or showers, saunas, hot tubs, tanning, gym or sport, or chlorinated pools. Wear clean, loose clothing and avoid touching the area. Full details: waxing aftercare.
Manscaping (trimming)
What is manscaping?
Body and intimate hair trimming with clippers, for men who want less hair without waxing, or who can’t wax because of medication. A back trim is £20 and a full intimate trim £40; Zone 90 gives you 90 minutes of trimming for £130. See manscaping prices.
Men’s facials
What happens in a facial?
A consultation, double cleanse, exfoliation, hot towel, extractions and massage, a mask chosen for your skin, then toner and moisturiser. Facials work around beards, and you can go straight back to work. Choose the 30-minute Super Speed facial (£50), “The Lab” Facial (45 minutes, £72), the 60-minute Deep Cleanse (£80), or the Groomsman with brow, ear and nose wax (£111).
Can I have a facial if I’m on Roaccutane?
Not during treatment. We recommend waiting at least six months after you stop.
Body facials
What is a body facial?
A facial-style deep cleanse for the back, chest, buttocks or bikini line. It helps with ingrown hairs, blemishes, gym acne, clogged pores and dry skin. It includes a hot towel cleanse, scrub, extractions and a detoxifying mask, and can be booked on its own or between waxes. From £48 (up to 45 minutes) to £75 (up to 60 minutes). See body facial prices.
Intimate lightening
What is intimate lightening?
A treatment to even out darker skin around the anus, perineum, inner thighs, underarms or nipples. Darkening in these areas is very common and can be caused by friction, genetics or age. We offer two options: Standard (£250, a mandelic acid peel that causes some visible peeling) and Premium (£350, a medical-grade formula). Other areas start from £200. Your therapist will help you choose at a consultation. Read Standard vs Premium.
Doctor-led TREATMENTS
Do you offer consultations with a doctor?
Yes. Our in-house doctor offers face-to-face consultations for the treatment of lines and wrinkles, skin boosters and dermal fillers. Any treatment is only offered after the doctor has assessed whether it’s suitable for you. Adults 18+. Find out more.
Payment and cancellations
How do I pay?
By card, including American Express, or with the exact amount in cash (we don’t hold change). Gift cards are available online.
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellations with less than 24 hours’ notice, and no-shows, are charged 50% of the booked treatment.