Boston - January 05, 2007

Cheap Thrills

Catherine Hinds Institute of Esthetics

You’ve got looks that kill.

Sadly, the only thing they’re knocking over is your wallet. Thirty-dollar waxes and facials that run into the hundreds? Time for some new resolve: Put your looks on a budget (and really mean it).

Catherine Hinds Institute of Esthetics has long been the training ground for aestheticians all over town (thank her for producing your waxer and facialist). And the public clinic is where would-be groomers practice on living models (read: you). The kicker? Services are ridiculously reasonable. Try $6 brow waxes, shiatsu for $20, or a $24 basic facial. Add-ons like enzyme masks and glycolic treatments up the ante, or try an all-day “ultimate” package for only $185.

Of course, students are supervised, services may take a while, and the clinic can feel more like a blood bank than a spa. But the result? Beautiful skin at a fraction of the price.

Something your wallet would kill for.

Catherine Hinds Institute of Esthetics, 300 Wildwood Avenue, Woburn (781-935-3344 or catherinehinds.com).