NWÄR STUDIOS, INC. Dunning Studio

NWÄR Studios operates two studios in Chicago, one at 5204 N. Damen Ave in Ravenswood (phone 312-929-8379) and one at 6055 W. Addison St. in Dunning. The business is led by its founder, Chandra Davis, who also works as an esthetician there. The studio describes its aim as helping clients feel good about themselves and encouraging regular self-care, in a space it describes as judgment-free for people of all kinds. It says its services are open to men, women and everyone in between.

Waxing is the largest part of the menu, covering the face, arms, legs, chest, stomach, back and intimate areas, with single strips and full-area options at a range of prices. Estheticians use soft wax by default and switch to hard wax only when hair type and length call for it, and the studio does not take requests for a specific wax type. Its wax protocols are designed to prevent contamination, and wax sticks are never dipped twice or reused. Brazilian waxing covers the bikini line, front pelvic region, outer labia and inner buttocks. Men's nether regions are not waxed.

Facials start with a gentle cleanse and exfoliation, done chemically or manually, followed by the booked treatment. Options include a detox treatment suitable for all skin types, a diamond-tip microdermabrasion with serum (a Dermafile wand may be used instead depending on skin condition), and an ultrasound treatment that uses sound waves. Extractions and a hydrating mask can be added to any facial. Clients with active breakouts are welcome, and are asked not to pick or pop skin for at least 48 hours before a visit.

Lash services are individual extensions in four looks: Doe Eye, Same Ole, Sultry and Faux. Full sets run 90 to 120 minutes depending on the look, and refills take 60 to 75 minutes. The studio says its lash extensions are no more than 2mm longer than the natural lash and cover about 75 to 85 percent of lashable lashes, or 75 to 95 percent for the Faux look. Refills are usually booked every two weeks.

Each studio serves one client at a time in a private room, so there is no waiting for other appointments. Bookings are made online at any hour through a reservation system and mobile app, which the studio says guarantees reservation times, and it has partnered with Gloss Genius for booking. Appointments are held by a debit or credit card with no charge at booking. Guests and children are not allowed to wait in the studio, and couples or groups cannot be seen together.

Built around helping clients feel good about themselves and encouraging ongoing self-care, in a setting the studio describes as open to everyone.

Private, one-client studio rooms.