The Low Down on Brazilians with Nara, Master Waxer at Essentials MediSpa and Salon
So many people are curious about Brazilian waxing, or Boyzilian waxing for men, and at one time or another the idea of whether or not to get this treatment will probably cross your mind. Some individuals tend to be both curious and embarrassed when contemplating Brazilian waxing, and this can make it difficult to get accurate answers. I can help to eliminate embarrassment and curiosity in this very candid blog about Brazilian wax procedures.
Growing up in a Brazilian household and working as a professional Master Waxer five days a week at Essentials MediSpa and Salon has provided me with more than enough experience in this area of expertise.
Part of being raised in a Brazilian household included my mother heating up a green block of the most foul-smelling wax you could imagine on a regular basis. We would use it to wax our eyebrows, upper lips, under arms, legs, and yes…our “Brazilians.” Simply put, it was part of our culture. Over the years many people have asked, “Why do they call it a Brazilian?” And my reply is always, “Have you ever seen what Brazilian people where at the beach?” Therefore, starting from a young age I was very accustomed to this procedure and didn’t think twice about it. So, to put your mind at ease I’m going to go over the most common questions that I am asked:
Which parts on the bikini area get waxed when you get a Brazilian (for both men and women)?
It depends on the client. More than likely when this service is booked it will be a full wax on both the front and back. Some prefer to leave a little more on the front, which easily can be accomplished.
Does it hurt?
It is a tolerable pain and usually takes less than an hour. Keep in mind that everyone’s pain tolerance is different. However, for most people that are being waxed for the first time tell me that they were very surprised it didn’t hurt as badly as they initially thought it would. This can also be credited to the fact that I have been waxing for over 25 years, so there’s a tremendous amount of experience that I bring to the table (literally). In addition, we use a hard wax that is top notch for this procedure that is also infused with essential oils from France. Don’t worry, I promise I won’t subject you to the stinky wax my mom used on us.
Does waxing make the hair grow back thicker?
No. Keep in mind, that if you shave or use a cream for hair removal, it is only removing the hair on the surface of the skin. Those hairs will continue to grow back thicker and pricklier. When waxing , the hair is pulled from beneath the skin. This means that over time, and with regular waxing treatments, clients find that the hair grows back softer and thinner.
How often is it necessary to get waxed?
I advise most clients to wax every 4-5 weeks. If you shave on a regular basis and want to book an appointment, wait at least 3 weeks. This way, the hair is long enough to guarantee that most of it will be removed with the wax. It is better to have longer hair than shorter when you wax for the first time.
If you still have any reservations about getting a full Brazilian or Boyzilian for the first time, you can ease yourself into it by booking a “bikini” wax, and then the “teeny bikini” wax. After that a “quickie Brazilian,” which is everything in the front, but nothing from the back. This is the best way to slowly work your way to a full Brazilian. Of course, you can always book a free consult with me at Essentials MediSpa and Salon to go over these options and which is the best fit for you and your lifestyle.
The Spa – Not Just for Women Anymore
A trip to the spa is one of the best ways to have a great time, but boys, you can get in on the fun, too. The spa, once thought of as a women’s retreat, is starting to see quite the diversified guest list. From women of all ages, teens, couples, and men. Yes, men. Men taking a trip to the spa is the new norm. According to the International Spa Association, 47 percent of spa clientele are men, compared to 31 percent just a decade ago. Nothing to do with men getting in touch with their feminine side or the return of Queer Eye on Netflix, men simply deserve a little pampering too. Below are five med spa services that every man should try.
In a professional setting, it’s important to keep a neat appearance. No need for the fancy stuff; a quick manicure provides necessary filing, a flash massage, and a nail buff. Soar through presentations and shake everyone’s hand with confidence. Chronic nail-biter? Keeping well-manicured nails can help you quit that habit.
It isn’t about soaking in bubbles and picking out a colorful polish. Pedicures have a lot of therapeutic qualities that can be particularly beneficial for men. If you work on your feet or are athletic, your feet can be quite sore. They may also develop calluses, skin rashes, athlete’s foot or just hurt. Keeping an eye on them is essential. Regularly taking care of your piggies is a great way to do that.
A facial is a specialized cleaning and restoring treatment that deep-cleanses and conditions your skin to restore smoothness and suppleness. Facials can help enhance the skin’s moisture and elasticity, giving you a smooth and healthy complexion. Don’t consider it high maintenance, just maintenance. A professional can clean your face much better than you can. Men generally have coarser skin, larger pores and more oil on their faces, leaving them with an extra need for some skin TLC. Getting regular facials can also help you achieve that perfect shave!
Nothing relaxes the body as thoroughly as a professional massage. It can help reduce knots, relieve stress, chronic pain and lower blood pressure. If you are lucky enough to not need help with any of these issues, don’t worry, massages still feel amazing. When performed regularly, they can help reduce the chance of developing these problems. There are a wide variety of techniques used; some can even restore circulation of oxygen to alleviate repetitive head and neck pain.
IV drip therapy isn’t just for celebrities anymore. Anyone can utilize this life-altering experience with just a little drip. It’s a great way to maintain optimum health. The list of health benefits is endless. There are a variety of cocktails that each have their own strengths. IV drips can improve mental clarity, fatigue, immunity and the best hangover cure you will ever try.
Whether you’re a businessman or construction worker, there is something for everyone at a medical spa. So, put your “I’m too manly” mentality behind you, and make a date at the spa. You won’t regret it!
DIY DRY SHAMPOO
Overwashing your hair can rinse away beneficial oils that are good for your hair. If you have thin, fine hair, then you are probably aware that one day without washing can make you feel dirty. That’s where dry shampoo comes in. Dry shampoo has been a product that resurfaced a few years ago and made waves. Once we learned how bad washing our hair every day is, we discovered that dry shampoo could be the solution. It gave us a way to wash less while avoiding looking like a slob.
What Actually is Dry Shampoo?
All it is is an oil-absorbing powder that can soak up grease and dirt when applied to hair. You simply apply it to the greasiest part of your hair, usually the roots, and comb it through. Our hair goes through enough daily abuse and damage, mostly caused by environmental toxins and our daily activities, but also from our shampoos. There are a lot of great shampoos out there with natural ingredients, but they can still be harsh on our hair if we wash it every day. Dry shampoo is a life saver, and since we are putting it in our hair and on our scalp, it should be natural, too. Nothing is more natural than making it yourself!
For lighter hair colors, use:
- 2 drops essential rose oil
- 1/4 cup arrowroot powder
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 2 drops essential cedar oil
- 1 drop of lavender essential oil
For darker hair colors:
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons of arrowroot powder
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 3 drops essential peppermint oil
- 2 drops essential cedar oil
Put the drops of essential oil into the arrowroot or arrowroot and cocoa mixture, then add the baking soda. Blend together and store in a mason jar. If you have very dark hair, add more cocoa powder.
Once you’re done making your dry shampoo, you can use a makeup brush, such as the Handy Buki Brush, to apply it to your hair. It gives good coverage, helps you avoid excessive brushing and keep your hands clean. Less is more!
So, if you’re looking for a product that allows you to skip washing your hair for a couple days and still have locks that are fresh and full of body, you may want to consider dry shampoo. And by making it yourself, you can ensure it only contains natural ingredients that won’t do damage to your hair or scalp. Dry shampoo is a quick and convenient product for both men and women who are looking to maintain healthy hair for as long as possible.
Top Hair Trends For Spring 2015
Boho Waves, Braids & Twists, Big Buns, Bombshell Blowouts and hair accessories are the top trends for HAIR this season!
Which is your favorite?
#DoYouHaveAnAppointment #HairTrends #EssentialsSpaAndSalon
Photo Credit: Alberta Ferretti, Marissa Webb, Erin Fetherston, Jenny Packham, Dolce & Gabbana
