The Wax Studio - San Rafael 817 4th Street, San Rafael, CA 94901

"I had been to The Wax Studio a few times before for bikini waxes and had pleasant experiences. However, I have had very negative experiences the last two times - full of body shaming and even a denial of treatment. The time before my most recent visit, she outright commented on how hairy I was - asking if I was taking supplements/hormones or doing something different. After getting over the shock at her verbal diarrhea, I replied I was taking vitamins, but nope, did absolutely nothing else differently - and in fact am confident my hair looked the same as it had the last few times I came to her (which as far as I’m aware is normal for someone with brown hair who occasionally shaves). I found this exchange to be incredibly unprofessional - she should have kept this thought to herself and just done extra wax/charged more if necessary. I left feeling a bit body shamed, and I should have taken as a sign to not come back. However, I recently requested another appointment given I do find that her work compared to others is better. She texted me a few times, asking if I was still on “hormones” to which I replied “you mean supplements? Yeah” and her response was “yes”. That was the end of the exchange, and I didn’t think much of it - so showed up during the time I requested as I didn’t hear back from her. So then I showed up to her office and she told me she didn’t have me scheduled for an appointment, but referenced our texts and literally exclaimed (I quote) “Your hair is out of control!!!” and she said that she couldn’t wax me when I was on hormones - to which I corrected her again that I am simply taking VITAMINS. She then literally refused to give me services. I am truly apalled at her lack of awareness and lack of empathy, in addition to the fact that someone who is in the waxing industry should be able to handle waxing all kinds of hair types. And truly, my hair is nothing crazy. To put the cherry on top, she always talks about how other establishments shame women for shaving in between waxes - but she doesn’t do that. Don’t worry, she’ll find other ways to shame you! Similarly, her lack of communication is problematic - not texting me to say she would not take me meant I wasted my time driving to and from her office, and also means I now have to go on a trip without a wax. I absolutely will not go back and I encourage you to consider a different establishment - or you risk being body shamed as well."

"I trust my "Martini" Brazilian to the Queen of Hot-Wax Karen! Everything I've learned about how to have the smoothest, softest skin at my bikini-zone, I've learned Karen! In addition to an exquisite service experience, she preps a signature high grade oat-oil mask to cure the skin and provides the best fur oil after-treatment protocol for home. You too, will be expertly coached into having one of the finest V-zones! Book your appointment with Karen at The Wax Studio in downtown San Rafael and tell her you want the Martini, she will know Jenn sent you! Have fun!"

"Karen is so kind and caring. She does a wonderful job and pays close attention to detail using only the purest of ingredients. Her Studio is clean and bright and I always feel fresh and good when I leave. Highly recommend!"

"Karen at The Wax Studio far exceeds any prior wax professional I have ever been to. She has the experience and professionalism that one would want when getting waxing services. Her products are top off the line and she genuinely cares about improving the quality of skin over time. I started seeing her a year ago when I moved up to the Bay Area, and over the last 12 months she has helped to improve the appearance of my skin where I receive wax treatments. She is THE BEST! I recently moved a few hours away, and will without a doubt make the trip up just for appointments with her. If you care what goes on your skin and want to work with a professional who is passionate about the work she does, Karen at the Wax Studio will deliver!"

"Best wax you will ever have in your life. Karen has completely eliminated the anxiety and pain that comes with waxing and has turned it into an art form. I will never go anywhere else. Her products are all natural and she has such a wealth of knowledge about skincare. She uses breathing techniques to help you get through the more sensitive areas. She is also the sweetest and lovliest woman on the planet. Go see her!"