BEAUTYXCONNECTION

Beauty X Connection is run by Judith, a licensed esthetician who founded the studio and owns it. The business describes its focus as a private, clean space where clients feel comfortable and are not judged. Appointments are one-on-one, so each client has the esthetician's full attention for the visit.

Waxing is the core of the studio. Brazilian waxing comes in several styles, and the listed price starts at $38 for a first-time Brazilian and $60 for existing clients, with pricing varying by style such as a full Brazilian or landing strip. A typical Brazilian takes about 30 minutes, a little longer for first-timers. Bikini, leg, arm and back waxing are also offered, along with underarm and jelly mask add-ons. A Manzilian, the full Brazilian version for men, uses the same process and is listed from $85. All services use a gentle wax; the studio says hard wax is used for most services and soft wax for intimate waxing.

Brows are a second focus. Brow waxing alone is listed at $30 for 30 minutes, and with stain at $60 for 60 minutes. Brow lamination with wax runs 60 minutes at $110, and with wax and stain 90 minutes at $125. Brow lamination and brow stain are not offered during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Booking is online through the studio's booking page, and clients receive a confirmation and a reminder. Walk-ins are not accepted. Deposits of $5 to $40 are required to hold many appointments, and cancellations or rescheduling need at least 24 hours notice. Body and men's services require hair at least half an inch long, with no waxing, trimming or shaving in the prior four weeks, while the studio also notes that hair should be at least a quarter inch and that longer hair is accepted and can be trimmed. Clients must be 18 or older for body and men's waxing. Most clients return every three to five weeks.

It also gives guidance on preparing for a wax, such as gentle exfoliation the day before, and on the days after, such as avoiding hot baths, saunas and intense exercise for 24 to 48 hours.

The Pasadena building at Suite 203 also has a barbershop and a body sculpting listing under Body Sculpt by Frechka, which includes lymphatic drainage massage, wood sculpting and post-surgery lymphatic drainage. A separate booking page under the name Yonaildaddy lists nail services. The Pasadena suite building offers private salon suites for independent beauty professionals, with 24/7 access, WiFi and utilities included, parking and secure entry. Both studios are on the second floor, with free parking nearby. Riverside hours vary and are shown on its booking page.

Estheticians explain each step, check in during the service and work quickly to limit discomfort. The studio is built around private, one-on-one appointments.

A private, clean studio on the second floor at both locations.