Beauty therapist Michelle Dougan made the most of the lockdown and says her business has emerged stronger than ever with a fresh new look.

The 31-year-old is owner of the Arcadia Beauty Spa at the family-owned Riviera Hotel in Alum Chine, Bournemouth.

After months of lockdown she reopened this month after a £15,000 makeover which included a refurbishment and a new range of beauty products.

The revamp included splitting the dual treatment room into two in order to maintain the current one metre guidelines.

New beauty products include l’Organiq from Dorchester and Westbourne’s Simone Thomas Wellbeing range.

Michelle, who did her four-year apprenticeship in beauty therapy with Esporta, said the lockdown had provided a welcome respite to review her business.

She said: “I sat down and evaluated how I should spend the time.

“I had a new website and developed new beauty treatments.

“I also got to grips with things like spreadsheets.

“I feel really on top of things now.”

Special procedures have been brought in to ensure clients receiving treatments such as massages, body treatments and now facials can have total peace of mind.

Alongside the physical revamp, Michelle has added additional cleaning times between each and every client, as well as ensuring there is plenty of PPE in place for staff and clients.

The business, which employs three women, is also expanding with the addition of another member of staff.

Michelle, who has been in the beauty business for 14 years, said: “After months of feeling like the forgotten industry, it is just great to be able to reopen by following the government guidelines and regulations.

“We’re busier than before the lockdown and, with our new treatment rooms, it feels so good to be back again.”

Arcadia Beauty Spa opened at the Riviera Hotel in January 2016.

Special pamper sessions can be booked combining afternoon tea with a massage and other beauty treatments.