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Buddies Spa
Buddies Spa

Buddies Spa

Spa in Washington, DC

Rated 4.7 out of 5 (173 on Google Maps) (opens in a new tab) Closed now

Buddies Spa was founded in 2022 by Kris Otto, an esthetician and cosmetologist who has worked in the DMV area for many years. The business describes itself as a destination for inclusive wellness and self-care, a safe and affirming space for the LGBTQAI+ community, and a queer-owned salon.

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About

Buddies Spa was founded in 2022 by Kris Otto, an esthetician and cosmetologist who has worked in the DMV area for many years. The business describes itself as a destination for inclusive wellness and self-care, a safe and affirming space for the LGBTQAI+ community, and a queer-owned salon.

Waxing is the service the business names as its most popular, and it says its waxing technicians are highly trained. Offerings include men's waxing, women's waxing including Brazilian, and Trans Manzillian (Girlzillian) waxing, a specialized service for the transgender community. Trans waxing is also offered. Haircuts are tailored to all hair types, styles and gender expressions, and facials are offered for men and women as skin treatments aimed at nourishing the complexion.

Walk-ins are welcome alongside appointments, and hours run 10:00 am to 8:00 pm on weekdays and 10:00 am to 7:00 pm on weekends. The business describes itself as fast-paced and high-volume. For waxing, clients are asked to come freshly showered without lotion, to let hair grow to at least 0.25 inches, and to avoid shaving for at least three weeks. For facials, clients are asked to avoid products such as retinol beforehand.

Private events are hosted at the spa, including spa nights, party nights and full private takeovers. The intimate event package starts at $300 and the party night package starts at $800. Full private experiences are priced custom. Event services include bar service, decorations, catering, drag performers, DJ and sound, and staging.

The spa has been a member of the Equality Chamber since 2025 and runs a cross-promotion arrangement with Big Gay Smiles Dental, a dental practice owned by LGBTQ2IA+ people. The business is also recorded as a Trusted Queer Business in DC. Gift cards come in values of $20, $30, $40 and $50, and custom amounts are available. Open positions cover nails, waxing, hair and barbering, massage, skin care and guest services.

Built around inclusive wellness and self-care, with a fast-paced, high-volume pace by the business's own description.

Services

Final prices may vary.

Skin treatments for men and women aimed at nourishing the complexion.

  • Men & Women Facial Price at booking

Haircuts tailored to all hair types, styles and gender expressions, plus men's and women's coloring.

  • Men & Women Haircut Price at booking

Eyelash and eyebrow services.

  • Eyelashes & Brows Price at booking

Massage sessions with therapists trained in Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point and Thai methods.

  • Massage Price at booking

Waxing services designed for men, including trans waxing.

  • Trans Waxing Price at booking
  • Men Waxing Price at booking
  • Trans Manzillian - Girlzillian Price at booking
  • Women Waxing Price at booking

Manicures and pedicures for men and women, in designs from classic to fashion.

  • Nails (manicure and pedicure) Price at booking

Photos

  • Manicured nails with black and pink design and rhinestones
  • Group photo at the spa's 1st anniversary party in front of Buddies backdrop

Meet the team

Team members listed on their website. Individual roles, credentials, and current employment have not been independently verified.buddiesspa.com (opens in a new tab)

Highlights
  • Trans Manzillian (Girlzillian) waxing, a specialized service for the transgender community
  • Haircuts tailored to all hair types, styles and gender expressions
  • Waxing, which the business describes as its most popular service
  • Private event packages starting at $300 and $800
  • Walk-ins welcome alongside appointments
  • Cross-promotion partnership with Big Gay Smiles Dental
Good for
  • walk-ins
  • waxing clients
  • transgender clients
  • men and women seeking haircuts
  • private group events
  • gift shoppers
Treats
  • unwanted hair
  • skin care
  • relaxation and tension relief
  • nail care
  • haircuts and color
  • eyelashes and brows
Techniques
  • Brazilian waxing
  • Trans Manzillian waxing
  • Thai massage
  • Swedish massage
  • Deep Tissue massage
  • Trigger Point Therapy
  • therapeutic massage
  • curly hair care
  • nail design

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