What’s cutting edge these days south of the Belly Button Border?
It’s been called a “Mohawk,” a “Hollywood” and a “Sphinx,” but women in the know, who want a smart look, simply call it the “Brazilian.”
If you’re not with us yet, we’re talking waxing. San Diego offers hundreds of salons. All of them specialize in hair removal, to be sure. But the one that continues to win best salon awards, keeps the ladies coming back and has the most adorable name is: The Pretty Kitty.
With storefronts in Pacific Beach, Chula Vista and now Las Vegas, Pretty Kitty is not a day spa—there are no facials or massages. It’s simply a full service wax boutique.
Says one 61 year old client: “I don’t want to look like a grandma. The Brazilian makes me feel sexier.”
She’s not alone. Many women share in the notion that removing hair increases sexual enjoyment and self esteem.
The introduction of the Brazilian to the U.S. can be traced to the opening of New York’s J. Sister’s Salon in 1987. Seven sisters from Rio opened the salon in Manhattan, and small numbers of brave American women began to discover the wonders that Brazilian women have understood for centuries.
A visit to Pretty Kitty is not for the shy. While you lay on a table, naked from the waist down and legs splayed, the “esthetician” applies the heated wax with a wooden stick—Pretty Kitty uses a secret, high-quality, Italian-made wax. Next, a waxing cloth is applied. When the wax cools, RIIIIIIIIP!! Yeow!!!! The cloth is pulled away along with the hair. Needless to say, it requires trust and courage.
The pain level is said to depend upon the skill of the technician. The whole process takes from 10-15 minutes, and most women will require waxing every three to four weeks. The cost is $45 per session.
Like most fashion trends, each woman must decide what works for her. Whether it’s skinny jeans, shoulder pads, mini skirts, Ugg boots, leggings or platform heels, style decisions are individual. Time will tell if the look is here to stay, though the Brazilian craze seems to be sticking around.
And not to worry: This kind of de-forestation doesn’t contribute to global warming.
