December 13, 2005

No Pain, All Gain

Lamaze Waxing at J’Adore Day Spa

What if we told you there was a place in Manhattan where remarkable Brazilians could be had in fifteen minutes, with half the pain, in an unsketchy place, for only 27 bucks?

You’d probably call us dirty, hairy liars.

But the truth is that the clever aestheticians at J’Adore Day Spa have developed a waxing technique that’s cheap, relatively painless, and incredibly effective. It’s based on Lamaze breathing. (Hey, if it can help you endure childbirth …)

As pros apply the wax, you inhale through your mouth. As strips are removed, they coach you to exhale in short, quick gasps while you clench your stomach muscles. All the gripping, breathing, and gentle slapping (to divert the pain) almost make you forget what’s going on down there.

As for the spa itself, it’s immaculate. (The owner insists that it’s kept sparse and squeaky clean.) Giant blue velvet, hand-shaped seats and free-flowing wine make you feel right at home. Personal touches — they know everyone by name and, um, hair type — will keep you coming back.

Quick. Cheap. Handsy.

Please stop calling us names.

J’Adore Day Spa, 179 Madison Avenue, between 33rd and 34th Streets (212-684-1166 or jadoredayspa.com).