My husband and I are going on vacation together next month and I want to feel great while I'm there. I have never spray tanned or waxed before and have a couple of questions.
1) Spray Tanning - Can anyone recommend a good spot? I would prefer a machine to do it as I don't really want to stand in front of someone else with barely anything on. How long does it last? How do you make your face match the tan? I am extremely fair skinned and do not want to look fake.
2) Bikini Waxing - I have never done this but know that I should! I am really self-conscious about my legs and thighs and don't really feel comfortable having a stranger see me in my underwear. Can anyone recommend someone that really has made them feel at ease even if they are a little overweight? Also, how long does this last and once you start do you have to always keep it up?
Thanks for your help!
The tanning salon on the corner of Cretin & Marshall has a Mystic Tan machine...it was really easy! As for waxing, I would call Juut. You will be surprised at how laid back the estheticians are (it's kind of like going to the Dr. They have seen it all!) Enjoy your vacation!!
I have a good friend who is an avid waxer (eye brows, bikini, etc.) She goes to the Refinery in Dinkytown by the U of M.
She is not skinny (I wouldn't say she is over weight, but her body type is heavier set) and she feels VERY comfortable going there. I've been there for a massage, and the spa is a great place. I'm sure they would make you feel comfortable, especially if you let them know you are new to the whole waxing thing.
Jess
There is a great place on Grand Ave called Grand Tan. It is across from Caribou (near intersection of Grand and Victoria - few blocks down). They do spray tanning for around $25. It only takes a few minutes, and you are standing in front of a machine. It will also spray your face. If you want optimum results, you can go one week and then come back about five days later and do it again. The second one should be right before you leave because the results will still only last for about a week. If you have the option, I always choose the clear coating over the bronzer. They have the same results, but the clear coating you can't see right away and thus it doesn't smear on your clothes when you are leaving. However, I still wouldn't wear anything white when you go and don't wear anything overly tight because sweat is what causes it to come off at first. You won't be able to shower for 24 hours, so just keep that in mind for whatever time/day you choose to go. They will tell you that you can shower after 8 hours, but wait 24 for best results. Also, by the time the 24 hours is up, your hands will start to look orange. This is normal and will wash off when you first shower.
I have never done bikini waxing there but I know that they also do it. I have done other spa services however and have been happy with them. Once you start waxing, you will have to come back between 3-6 weeks after the first time and do it again. Whatever interval you choose at that point is the interval that you will keep up with. You should also start growing your hair now because it is easier to pull out if it is longer. FYI - the closer you get "in," the more sensitive it is, so if you aren't sure how far you want to go, you can have her do a simple bikini wax on the edges and then do in stages from there.
Hi J. -
I would recommend Catch a Tan in West St. Paul. It's near Burlington Coat Factory/Cub Foods - off of Mendota/Southview Blvd and Robert Street for the spray tanning. I talked to the gals at the front desk and told them I was a little "shy" when it came to disrobing for the spray tan. You can wear whatever you want for the spray tan (but I recommend black b/c it will get sprayed). I wore underwear and pasties (which I bought at Target). The gal that they said was "the best" IS awesome! She was probably in her mid-20's and wasn't a little teeny thing. She chatted with me through the whole thing and before you knew it - I was done. Make sure you put lotion on your hands (between your fingers) and feet too b/c it will help. They'll give you more of the details (if you ask over the phone). I have really sensitive skin and usually break out in hives easy (in the sun or regular tanning booth). This was a GREAT alternative. I did it right before my sister's wedding.
My advice would be to get a mystic tan now to see how you like it and how it looks on you so you don't end up getting it right before your vacation and hating it. Also make sure you prep for it because it will make a world of difference. Look on line if you want step-by-step directions, but basically you should shave, really exfoliate and moisturize. You can also put vaseline on your heals and other dry areas so you don't get super dark spots and so it doesn't look "fake" because no one has tan armpits or palms :)
As for waxing...if you find a good person they won't care one bit what you look like...they have seen it all. I know what you mean though as I am overweight and it has kept me from going. I have a good friend who goes to the JUUT salon at the mall of america and highly recommends them. Maybe you could take a good girl-friend with for some moral support.
J.--I'm not sure about the tanning, but I go to the Rocco Altobelli in Woodbury for waxing--I see Keisha (I'm not sure of the spelling). She is very professional and makes it feel very comfortable and not awkward. She is very friendly and we usually carry on a very enjoyable conversation during the whole procedure. I first started going when I was pregnant and was very pleased with the whole experience. I was very nervous and didn't know what to expect! I just told her up front that this was my first time doing this and I was a little wierded out by this. She was very accomodating. If you are still feeling uneasy about it, just think of it this way: do you feel uncomfortable going to the OB/GYN? Probably not--it's the same thing with them. It's their job to do this!
A little pain management tip that I learned from Keisha if you decide not to see her... Just before they pull the wax off, take a deep breath in. When they pull it, blow hard like you are blowing out a candle. I don't know why, but it REALLY helps with the pain! It especially comes in handy for some of the more sensitive areas!
Also, you may want to do this pretty close to your trip--it has been my experience that my results don't always last as long as they are supposed to. Usually there is new growth after a couple of weeks.
Good luck! Have fun on vacation!
I don't know about spray tanning, but I can recommend a great waxing specialist. Her name is Kristin at the Southdale Juut. The number there is ###-###-####. She does all kinds of waxing--try not to be self conscious. She always makes me feel at ease.
Have fun on your trip!
