The sexiest day of the year is less than two weeks away. Are you prepared? If you’re still scurrying about booking hair appointments and manscaping sessions, you’re not alone. We asked around* and, as it turns out, many of you are clueless when it comes to basic beauty issues. To help answer your most burning questions, we’ve enlisted several of Miami’s top skin-care experts and hair gurus. Here’s what they had to say.
Skin troubles
I want to surprise my girlfriend and get my chest waxed. When should I book my appointment if I want to avoid stubble and ingrown hairs?
“If you are someone who waxes regularly (every three to four weeks, and have been getting waxed for four months or longer) then you can probably get away with waxing the same day. If you are new to waxing, or don't wax on a schedule I would recommend coming in 24-48 hours in advanced. Using a serum or wipes specifically created for ingrown hairs will help to calm and soothe the skin. Finally, we say don’t worry about it and just be your confident self!”—Melanie Coba, Brand Ambassador for European Wax Center
Last year, I woke up hungover and with puffy eyes the day of my big date. What can I do this Valentine’s Day if the same thing happens to me again?
“Two words: Cryo Facial. In just 12 minutes, the flow of cold nitrogen vapor will close your pores, lighten dark circles around your eyes and make your skin immediately feel noticeably tighter and even-toned. It’s perfect for a quick pick-me-up before your Valentine’s Day date!”—Colton Chase, founder and owner of CryoMiami
My skin is breaking out and I’m freaking out. What can I do to help my acne situation quickly?
“A kissable face starts with a clear complexion. I suggest a blue light treatment: it’s both anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial. The blue wavelength specifically kills the propionobacterium acnes. These treatments can be done two to three times a week, and a couple of treatments before Valentine’s Day could calm down those troublesome acne flairs. The best part: there’s no downtime.”—Dr. Christopher O’Connell, cosmetic dermatologist
I’m obsessed with DIY beauty treatments. What’s a great homemade mask I can whip up and slather on before my date?
“The morning of, exfoliate with a mixture of equal parts baking soda and olive oil. Rub it on your face and scrub for 45 seconds. Rinse it off to reveal glowing, healthy skin.”—Rachel Loren, founder of Micro Me Miami
Hair dilemmas
I want to shock my husband with a different look but can’t handle the commitment of a new cut or style. What should I do?
“Hair Extensions are a quick and easy way to add va-va-voom volume to any hairstyle. Many think extensions are just for length but that’s not the case. Sure, you can get longer hair in less than 30 minutes, but you can also get an instantly fuller look. And you can also use them to add color and dimension. Want dye-free highlights? Extensions can help you achieve that too.”—Ellie Menocal, owner of TrueHair Miami
I always wear my hair straight and want to try something different for Valentine’s Day. Is the beach-wave trend over?
“This Valentine's Day, I recommend volume and texture—a current fave look that’s easily achieved with a spritz of sea salt spray. To keep the sexy, tousled style longer, use Detox Dry Shampoo on your roots and Detox Conditioner to dry ends. You can also run a curling iron throughout to refresh your waves!”—Alli Webb, founder of Drybar
Nail rescue
My guy thinks my usual french manicures are too conservative. Any tips for jazzing up my digits?
“My suggestion is to go chrome for Valentine's Day! Give your nails a sexy makeover with this edgy metallic trend then add a little extra oomph with shimmery rhinestones on a single nail. The frosted look is available with our NuGenesis dipping powder polish. It’s practically chip-proof!”—Racquel Watters, owner of Rik Rak Salon
*Names have been omitted to protect the clueless and misguided.
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