Field Guide: 5 Best Places to Get a Bikini Wax in Philly

(Plus, where to get top-notch manscaping.)

How to deal with hairy situations. | Shutterstock.

How to deal with hairy situations. | Shutterstock.

In the grand list of things we do in the name of beauty and self-maintenance, bikini waxes are down at the very bottom of the list. They’re painful and, even worse, inexplicably awkward. But if you’ve gotta get it done, you’re best getting it done at one of these spots. I can’t promise that it won’t be painful, but it’ll be thorough, quick, and as comfortable as possible (read: less small talk, more expert efficiency). 

Heads and Tails
This place has a spot in the little black books of our most beauty-savvy editors. You’re in and out in ten minutes, with just enough small talk (the whole bikini waxing process is uncomfortable enough without having to schmooze) and a pretty, super-professional atmosphere. Tip: If you go for Brazilians, sign up for the package of five treatments ($275); it’ll save you $50. (A basic bikini wax is $35.)
265 South 19th Street, Rittenhouse, 215-875-8343.

Rescue Spa
The estheticians here make an awkward bikini wax feel more like a spa appointment. The services are quick, precise and well-priced ($30 for a bikini wax; $50 for Brazilian). And thanks to their renowned skin experts, it’s also one of the few places we’d trust to do a lip wax, too.
1601 Walnut Street, 3rd floor, Rittenhouse, 215-772-2766.

Anthony Guerra’s Skincare Lounge
For guys who want to trim up without having to venture into a female-centric spa (we get it), this is the top spot for manscaping. Anthony is extremely thorough, and gives smart, spot-on upkeep tips. And for women who don’t mind having a guy wield the wax, schedule an appointment with Anthony on a  Wednesday or Thursday and get a Brazilian for only $30 (regularly $42).
1732 Chestnut Street, 2nd floor, Rittenhouse (within Jason Matthew Salon & Spa), 267-265-2998. 

European Wax Center
You’ll get one of the most painless waxes you’ve ever had at the three local outposts of this national chain. (In Philly, technician Cat is a fan favorite.) First-timers get half-off, and  — secret tip! — if you book your reservation online, your first service is totally complimentary. Look out for a Bala Cynwyd location soon.
Multiple locations. Go here to find one closest to you.

Body Restoration
Not sure exactly what sort of wax you want? The website of this Rittenhouse spa provides a handy illustrated guide to every type of wax you can imagine. They often use blue wax (it depends on what you’re getting waxed), which is typically less painful than traditional wax. And the oils they slather on post-wax help eliminate redness.
1611 Walnut Street, 3rd floor, Rittenhouse, 215-569-9599.

Want more of Shoppist’s summer guides? Click here for our roundup of the best spray tans in Philly.