Beauty & Health
Women’s Haircut
Lindsey Bieber at Jorgo Salon
Whether you’re seeking long bohemian locks or short soft waves, Lindsey Bieber is your best bet. Realizing that one cut isn’t for everyone, Bieber (no relation to Justin) works with a woman’s hair type and face shape to create a flattering coif. No fear of having a ’do you can’t do: Bieber ensures that clients can recreate their look at home. “Transforming people, honestly, is just so fun,” she says. “To turn someone around in the chair and have someone say, ‘This is the best haircut I’ve ever had.’”
Photo credit: Jessica Scranton
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Acupuncture
Debra Wood, Acupuncture Wellness
A former cook, Debra Wood discovered a passion for acupuncture while recovering from an injury. Now the owner of Acupuncture Wellness uses her skills to treat everything from pain and depression to allergies and addiction. Wood, who has studied in China, is an apprentice to internationally known acupuncturists Kiiko Matsumoto and David Euler, who teach acupuncture to Harvard Medical School physicians. For whatever ails you, Wood’s treatments hit the spot.
1798A Mass. Ave., Cambridge » 617-448-9440 » debrawood.com -
Blowout
Seth Selman at James Joseph Salon
Say goodbye to your frizzies and flyaways. When Seth Selman’s not working the floor at James Joseph, he can be found preparing models to walk the Carolina Herrera runway (as he did for her fall/winter 2011 show) or on the sets of network makeover shows. Salon owner William George vouches for Selman’s skill and focus, whether he’s working with the loveliest locks or the most troublesome tresses. If the path from geek to sleek looks impossible, re-mane calm. There’s a professional in our midst.
30 Newbury St., Boston » 617-266-7222 » jamesjosephsalon.com -
Brow Shaping
Monica Salipante at Beaucage
Death to the unibrow, declares Monica Salipante. Already known as a master of the Brazilian bikini wax, Salipante is equally impressive above the eyeline. A veritable brow scientist, she shapes and sculpts, transforming both men and women. Salipante prefers a thicker style, and her technique entails “returning to the natural brow” to make customers look younger, less tired and more vibrant. “It’s a small service with a big impact,” she says. “It’s a mini-makeover that makes your makeup look better.”
71 Newbury St., Boston » 617-437-7171 » beaucage.com -
Cosmetics
A Matter of Face
This tiny gem of a shop is packed with fragrant moisturizers and shaving products, a huge makeup selection, sweet-smelling essential oils and organic cosmetics. On a given day, the busy North End boutique might be hosting Makeup Madness parties, pre-wedding bridal primping or private consultations. You’ll find products from Bliss, Darphin Skincare, Sara Happ, Paula Dorf, the Art of Shaving and others. The beauty of being the boss with limited shelf space? “If I don’t like it, I can’t sell it,” owner Paula Tierney says. “I only have things in here that I like.”
425 Hanover St., Boston » 617-742-5874 » amatterofface.com -
Day Spa
Emerge Spa Salon
A day at Emerge combines the best of a European-style spa and a high-end salon. Head-to-toe treatments include massage, caviar facials and nourishing body wraps. For something different, try the Hydro-storm, which employs steam, shower, waterfall, aromatherapy and color therapy. In the salon you’ll find a battery of Trish McEvoy cosmetics, or you can opt for one of the sleekest blowouts in town. There’s even an “unabashedly masculine” men’s club with a flat-screen television. So sit yourself down on a chaise longue in their rooftop garden and feel as though you’ve risen above the fray.
275 Newbury St., Boston » 617-437-0006 » emergespasalon.com -
Exercise Class, Aerobic
Cardio Kickbox at Boston Sports Clubs
This endorphin-inducing rush is 55 minutes of high-intensity, choreographed martial arts movements. Get ready for the usual jabs, punches and roundhouse kicks, plus a mix of styles like karate and muay Thai. No matter which location you choose, BSC instructors make sure kickboxing kicks your butt—and have you coming back for more. (Fans of trainer Ashley Bogosian’s classes are especially loyal.)
See website for locations » mysportsclubs.com -
Exercise Class, Mind and Body
Core Fusion at Exhale
A die-hard Core Fusion following exists for one simple reason: The class works. Students build better butts, stronger abs and leaner thighs through a combination of core conditioning, Pilates, the Lotte Berk Method, interval cardio training and yoga. “Within a month you are going to feel a difference in how your clothes fit,” says instructor Denise Crowe. With roughly 70 Core Fusion classes offered each week, plus a new Core Fusion boot camp, the workout is as flexible as your body soon will be.
28 Arlington St., Boston » 617-532-7000 » exhalespa.com -
Exercise Class, Spinning
Rebuild Ride at Recycle Studio
The Rebuild Ride is an hour of power that combines stationary peddling with off-bike, upper-body exercises. Music by Madonna, Springsteen, and Florence and the Machine keeps energy high and feet spinning. As envisioned by owner Cate Dwyer, the 16-bike Recycle Studio offers indoor cycling free of blaring techno, with a “burn off your happy-hour drinks” vibe. “When you’re in the studio, you’re focused on this release of energy,” she says. You’ll leave the South End with a clear head and a new spin on what an exercise class can be.
Photo credit: Alyssa Greenberg
643A Tremont St., Boston » 617-775-0282 » recycle-studio.com -
Exercise Class, Strength
Body Pump at Healthworks
This workout might leave you struggling to climb the stairs the following day, but you’ll find a way to make it to the next round. Intense sessions strengthen the entire body, from glutes to lats. A typical music-fueled, high-energy class uses a step platform, a bar and various weights to build bone strength and density. Body Pump burns up to 600 calories per class—so you’ll have your beach body before bikini season disappears.
See website for locations » healthworksfitness.com -
Facial
Brad Duncan at Brad Duncan Skin Care
Duncan’s treatments are “no fluff,” results-oriented, age-defying marvels. A California native, Duncan is a certified specialist in Epicuren, a line of enzyme-based corrective and anti-aging skin care products originally used by doctors to treat burn scars. He also offers skin-friendly cosmetics, with new lines coming by the end of the year. Tools in hand, Duncan gently coaxes skin to its healthy best. With a business expansion in the works, we predict many more miracles in this blemish healer’s future.
530 Tremont St., Boston » 617-482-1700 » bradduncanskincare.com -
Hair Colorist
Jeffrey Lyle at Jeffrey Lyle Salon
At this small Back Bay salon, blondes do have more fun. A whiz with flaxen tresses when he worked at G Spa and Emerge Spa and Salon, Lyle says 95 percent of his clients, including funny-girl actress Anna Faris, are fair-haired. They trust him because, as he says, he’s “a little OCD and meticulous with hair color.” Lyle sticks to L’Oréal products, does little advertising and says his rewards come from making women look and feel good. We love his blonde ambition.
135 Newbury St., Boston » 617-391-0551 » jeffreylylesalon.com -
Hair Extensions
Indiqué Boutique Boston
Selective celebs like Lady Gaga and Ciara use Indiqué’s locks to crown their famous heads, so you know this boutique earns its kudos. Extensions produced in India are made with 100 percent unprocessed “virgin” hair, so your tresses will look natural and can be styled normally. And while other extensions last only two to three weeks before they begin to tangle or degrade, Indiqué hair pieces last more than 12 months.
380 Dorchester Ave., South Boston » 617-379-1280 » indiquehair.com -
Hair Treatment
Keratin Complex Treatment at Salon Mario Russo
A keratin complex treatment will tame the most unruly mane, leaving hair silky, soft and smooth every time. In two visits, stylists apply Coppola keratin, then shampoo, condition and blow dry to ensure a chic and sleek finish. It’s the most intense conditioning treatment you can do for your hair, artistic director Sal Malafronte says, and the results should last about six months. Don’t have time for a full treatment? The salon also offers a Brazilian blowout or the Keratin Express, both of which guarantee at least a month of high glossiness.
9 Newbury St., Boston » 617-424-6676 » Fan Pier, 60 Northern Ave., Boston » 857-350-3139 » mariorusso.com -
Health Club
Equinox
The Equinox motto is: “It’s not fitness; it’s life.” And this club takes life seriously. Whether your passion is boxing, yoga, Pilates or personal training, Equinox offers it all at the highest standard of service and professionalism. Both of their ultramodern facilities provide group classes, a full-service spa, top trainers, WiFi hot spots, Kiehl’s bath products and a juice bar/cafe. Among the addictive workshops are the ballet-inspired Barre Burn and the Whipped workout with strength ropes and body bars. Sweating has never been this swanky.
225 Franklin St., Boston » 617-426-2140 » 131 Dartmouth St., Boston » 617-578-8918 » equinox.com -
Lashes
MAC
Peruse 18 to 20 different lash styles at the MAC counter, from the dramatically long-yet-light to the ones with the sexy fringe at the corners. Looking skimpy? A set of half-lashes creates density. For a big night on the town, a wedding or just a fuller look for everyday, these options are easier on the wallet than a semi-permanent set, and there’s no lengthy sit-down required. Helpful staff will ensure you can apply them with ease and prep you to flutter.
112 Newbury St., Boston » 617-267-0013; Macy’s » 450 Washington St., Boston » 617-357-3000 » maccosmetics.com -
Local Product
Sarra Cosmetics
Lauren Genatossio, makeup artist to stars including Laura Linney and Drew Barrymore, knows quality cosmetics. Frustrated with existing lines, she created her own named for her grandmother, Sarra (pronounced Sa-ray). Women swear by Genatossio’s sheer tints and concealers, which provide a natural glow and handily hide the shadows of a late night. Genatossio’s products forgo harsh ingredients, instead containing minerals and antioxidants that feel as good as they look. Get application tips at her ultraglam studio, where you can look and feel like a star.
Photo credit: Dan Watkins
840 Summer St., Boston » 617-269-8999 » 104A North St., Hingham » 781-749-5599 » sarraboston.com -
Mani/Pedi
MiniLuxe
With locations in Boston, Newton and Lexington, indulging at MiniLuxe is always convenient (and fast). Their mani/pedi options are endless: Shellac French manicure, warm oil massage, special Preggi Pedis for moms-to-be, callus treatments to get your tootsies beach-ready and an indulgent pedicure with cooling masks made with algae extract and spearmint oil. With options like a 10-minute neck and shoulder massage while your nails dry, there’s nothing mini about the level of luxury.
296 Newbury St., Boston » 857-362-7444 » 792 Beacon St., Newton » 617-332-9200 » 1718 Mass. Ave., Lexington » 339-970-2322 » miniluxe.com -
Massage
Boston Bodyworker
Whether you’re a triathlete with tight quads or a desk jockey with a burning shoulder, Boston Bodyworker cures aches and pains with clinical work. No essential oils or terrycloth robes here—this establishment is all about results. Nationally certified staffers work to relieve your pain and prevent future injuries, offering a menu of styles: orthopedic, deep tissue, sports massage, myofascial release, neuromuscular therapy, acupuncture, and pre- and post-pregnancy massage. It’s a therapeutic indulgence both kneaded and deserved.
575 Boylston St., Boston » 617-778-7344 » bostonbodyworker.com -
Men’s Haircut/Grooming
Brandon Keith Hair
From Clark Kent stylings to fauxhawks à la David Beckham, Brandon Keith gives customers what they want: a great cut. After a stint clipping hair in Miami (including Mickey Rourke’s famous locks), Keith moved his shears back to Boston in 2007. Though he has a weakness for punk and avant-garde looks, Keith can deliver conservative cuts with finesse. “People come here knowing they’re going to get a great haircut and great service,” he says. “They also feel comfortable here. We’re not uptight.”
161 Newbury St., Boston » 617-536-9843 » brandonkeithhair.com -
One-stop Beauty Shop
Sephora
With endless shelves of top-flight products, stellar service and fantastic online and in-store freebies, Sephora makes it simple to stay pretty. Choose from brands like Smashbox, Laura Mercier, Fresh, Bliss, Makeup For Ever, and Bumble and Bumble. With so many makeup lines, hair accessories, tanning products, delicious perfumes (Fresh Sugar, anyone?) and a steady influx of new items coming in, Sephora is France’s most glamorous offering since Carla Bruni.
Prudential Center, Boston » 617-262-4200 » The Mall at Chestnut Hill » 199 Boylston St., Chestnut Hill » 617-964-0800 » CambridgeSide Galleria » 100 CambridgeSide Place, Cambridge » 617-577-1005 » sephora.com -
Salon
Salon Marc Harris
Marc Harris continues to expand his style empire in Boston with branches in the Back Bay, the Ritz-Carlton’s Sports Club/LA and the Financial District. The anchor salon on Newbury Street recently moved to a swanky, 3,500-square-foot space up the street. Harris, a well-known master with the shears, says his business’ success is based on a commitment to educating stylists—who are then well-armed with top-notch products by Goldwell, Kerastase, Moroccan-oil and others. Here passion, precision and panache make for a winning combination.
115 Newbury St., Boston » 617-262-2222 » 125 Broad St., Boston » 617-443-8633 » 4 Avery St., Boston » 617-375-8510 » salonmarcharris.com -
Suburban Salon
James Joseph, Medford
Brace yourself for a suburban secret: James Joseph, the posh Newbury Street salon, also produces perfectly manicured manes in Medford. At about $45–$75 a cut, the suburban salon has all the great perks without the frizz- and frazzle-inducing fight for parking. A few stylists work both locations, says owner William George, and many junior stylists spend time in the Back Bay salon before moving up I-93. Life isn’t so bad in the ’burbs.
16 Earhart Landing, Medford » 781-393-6800 » jamesjosephstudio.com -
Training Staff
Sports Club/LA
Get whipped into shape at Sports Club/LA, which offers two free training sessions when you take out a membership. Whether you're gearing up for a triathlon or a bathing suit, top trainers like Jeanette Albee, Alissa Napoleone, Bonnie Smith, Aaron Swan, Kenya Palmer and Boola Sourial work with you to develop a personalized plan that combines cardio, weight training and flexibility. Under their expert guidance, you’ll soon be augmenting the gym's already spectacular views.
Photo credit: Dan Watkins
4 Avery St., Boston » 617-375-8200 » thesportsclubla.com -
Waxing
Bliss
Bliss salon prides itself on making waxing as painless as possible, whether you’re getting the basic, the betweeny or a full-on bikini. At Bliss Brazilian Bikini Bootcamp, technicians are trained in the salon's signature stripless wax, which is specially formulated to prevent pinching. Men can try a he-wax hair-removal treatment (a little off the top and sides) or the ultimate (take it all off!). And with new strips packaged for retail, face or body touch-ups are a snap.
Photo credit: Katie Noble
100 Stuart St., Boston » 877-862-5477 » blissworld.com -
Welcome Addition
Trephin
Trephin’s custom-made Italian furniture sets the art deco/neo-Victorian aesthetic of this Downtown Crossing salon. Brian Rand, a native of mid-coast Maine, and Moe Smith, a color specialist who’s bounced between Boston and New York, co-own the business. Their goal is to relieve your stress by giving you a great haircut in a welcoming environment. The salon’s five stylists are trained in innovative techniques, like balayage hair-painting for color. The result is high-fashion hair that’s totally wearable. Bravo!
25 Temple Place, Boston » 857-233-2363 » trephin.com -
Workout Clothing
Lululemon Athletica
Whether you’re hoofing down the Esplanade, stretching on a yoga mat or pumping iron, these athletic clothes perform as beautifully as they look. Fitness fashionistas know the yoga pants (available in several lengths) are guaranteed to make their bottom half look like their better half. The go-to label for cute wraparounds, chic hoodies, high-performance tanks and bras that don’t quit, Lululemon’s togs transition from yoga studio chic to streetwear in a snap. While the stores provide fantastic service, it’s no stretch to say their free shipping is a strong perk.
776 Boylston St., Boston » 617-262-2030 » 712 Legacy Place, Dedham » 781-326-0376 » lululemon.com
