/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/45334122/shutterstock_80303605.0.jpg)
Racked is no longer publishing. Thank you to everyone who read our work over the years. The archives will remain available here; for new stories, head over to Vox.com, where our staff is covering consumer culture for The Goods by Vox. You can also see what we’re up to by signing up here.
That smile on our face? It's because the weekend forecast looks like beachside heaven. But if you can note a hint of anxiety, it might be the fact that our skin is pasty white, mascara is our middle name, and our legs—well, they need a wax. Try to squeeze in any of these beauty appointments before the beach to make sure you stroll confidently onto the sand. We've rounded up waxing, spray tans, lash extensions and more to keep you look fresh and make-up free.
SPRAY TANS
Okay, before we even discuss bronzing, let's start with your skin itself. A good loofah exfoliation is in order, but if your back is looking spotty and irritated, try the Equinox Bare-Your-Back Facial ($120) with intensive exfoliation and a mud cleanse. Heck, while you're thinking Equinox, head to its Franklin Street location for a 70 minute custom spray tan with the full body exfoliation included ($70).
Just want to get a good deal and excellent service? Try Perfect Tan in Brighton ($90 for three custom sessions) for a comfortable experience—they are such pros you won't even think twice about standing naked in front of a stranger—or Natural Glow in the North End, where you can select a full body tan for $45, or break it down into upper body, legs only, or face only.
LASHES
Some gals just don't want to leave the house without mascara, and with lash extensions, you won't dread the raccoon eyes resulting from fun in the water. The Back Bay's Lash L'Amour (above) is dedicated to the art of these temporary lash additions, customizing the look to your face and lifestyle with synthetic mink lashes starting at $195 (lasting up to a month). Rated as one of Boston's best, The Beauty Mark in Beacon Hill is widely known for its service as well, with full sets starting at $185. Finally, the buzzed-about Prettyology team can apply silk or mink lashes (including the option to do your bottom ones) from $200 onward. Say bye to that gunky makeup tube.
WAXING
"Ouch!" will no longer be at the forefront of your mind when visiting this waxing spot. Bliss is regarded an industry leader with a painless combo for every kind of hair removal you need: leg and brazilian, upper leg and bikini, or even the whole thing for $150. They also have a full men's wax menu for guys who want to remain tidy.
· The Most Even Self-Tanner We've Tried [Racked Boston]
· 10 Local Spots to Get Pampered With Your Bridal Party [Racked Boston]
· Six Necessary Scrubs to Bring Icky Winter Skin Back to Life [Racked Boston]