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Beauty Behavior
A quick exam to pinpoint your spa personality
by Amy Tennery
From the luxurious salons and spas that adorn Newbury Street to the homey, simple mom-and-pop shops that permeate every section of the city, it’s safe to say that Boston has a plethora of options when it comes to beautifying oneself.
Still, every girl needs to find their very own joint to get their hair did and their nails done, and still remain in their comfort zone. So which type are you? If you’re still searching for that completely ideal oasis when you’re in the mood for some pampering, don’t fret. Take this short quiz and you’ll be able to narrow down the perfect place for you.
1. At the end of your facial, your spa technician hands you a list of in-house products you might like to purchase, even though you already told him that you are happy with your current products. You are:
A) Relieved. Now you won't have to wander through the drug store, trying to find what products have "salicylic acid" in them.
B) Indifferent. You're not going to buy anything, but you can't blame him for trying to make an extra buck on commission.
C) Annoyed. You told him that you know what you're doing--why does he assume he knows better? This gesture might affect his tip.
D) Excited! You're always game to try the latest products.
2. Your friend recommends a nail salon to you. A quick Google search reveals that the salon charges only $8 for a manicure. You:
A) Wonder if that’s a cheap price for a manicure. You mostly paint your own nails, anyway.
B) Are psyched to find a reasonably priced nail place in the area. The salon might not be top quality, but a manicure is a manicure.
C) Feel awkward. You don’t want to insult your friend, but inexpensive manicures make you suspicious. Didn’t she hear what happened to Paula Abdul?
D) Have probably already been there before.
3. News circulates that, when in town with Tom Brady, Gisele Bündchen frequents a certain high-end Boston salon. You decide:
A) To find out who Gisele Bündchen is.
B) To forgo Gisele’s spot. Why bother trying to get an appointment? That salon will be slammed now that the word is out.
C) To hide your smugness as best you can. You already tried that place a year ago and found a much better salon.
D) That you must go now! Or, even better, wait for football season to startthen go.
4. At the end of your haircut your stylist hands a mirror to you and reveals her work. It looks nothing like what you wanted. You asked for subtle layers and she gave you an uneven icky mess. You:
A) Slink out of the salon quietly and resolve to wear hats for a month. You must have done a bad job explaining what you wanted.
B) Ask her if there’s anything she can do to correct it. You’re not happy, but you’d rather not get your stylist in trouble with her boss.
C) Ask for a discount and dock her tip. You don’t want to be harsh, but you’re offended that she didn’t listen to you. You’ll go somewhere else to have it corrected.
D) Think your hair looks kind of edgy and cool. Who says boring old layers are so great anyway? You’ll be the only one in town with a unique cut like yours.
5. Everyone has one or two things she can’t live without. To you, the perfect salon has:
A) A location near your apartment.
B) Friendly staff, reasonable prices, and comfy chairs.
C) A steamroom and delicious complementary beverages.
D) A fantastic magazine selection and a “Best of Boston” recommendation.
6. Your boss announces that she is throwing a swanky, company-wide cocktail party in two weeks. Your first move is to:
A) Ask your sister if you can borrow that perfect little black dress that goes with every occasion. You’d rather not go shopping orworse yetrummaging through your closet.
B) Set up an appointment for a manicure, pedicure, and a touch-up on your highlights the day of the party. You’d like to look polished, but there’s no need to go above and beyond for an office party.
C) Make appointments for a haircut, highlight, updo, manicure, pedicure, massage, and eyebrow wax. Office parties can be stressful, and you’ll feel better knowing that you look your best.
D) Stop by the MAC counter in the mall for a makeover. You’ve been angling for a reason to update your makeup routine and this provides the perfect opportunity. You’ll debut your trendy new look at the party.
Results:
Mostly As:
So you don’t know Kérastase from Herbal Essences. No sweat. Just make sure that when you do feel like splurging on a salon treatment, you go somewhere that makes you feel comfortable and informed. At Aveda-el Coco Lifestyle Day Spa & Salon (24 N St., Boston, 617-720-4222, www.elcoco.com), award-winning colorists offer free consultations to put you at ease before you change your look.
Mostly Bs:
Designer digs and snobby receptionists? Please. With your laid-back attitude, you’d rather spend your money on a quality salon treatment, not a bunch of pricey amenities. Of course, stepping outside the basic spa experience is worth trying as well. At Athena Salon/Spa (669 Boylston St., Boston, 617-267-3080, www.athenasalonspa.com), technicians treat you to a relaxing environment and aromatherapy touches, to add that extra something to your experience.
Mostly Cs:
You’ve been around the block and you know what you like. To you, a day at the spa is a necessity, not a luxury, and Newbury Street is your home base. Check out MELT salon and spa (172 Newbury St., Boston, 617-262-1116, www.meltboston.com), where guests are treated to champagne and gourmet coffee while they relax.
Mostly Ds:
You often wonder why some people return to the same spa or salon repeatedly. To you, it’s way more fun to try new things! Your trendy and fun attitude always keeps people guessing. At Amaci Salon (230 Stuart St., Boston, 617-292-0202, www.amacisalon.com), stylists stay up-to-date with the latest methods of wet and dry haircutting, while maintaining a fun vibe.
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