April showers bring… May weekend beauty guides! I’m thrilled to announce a new series on Politics of Pretty, dedicated to celebrating my favorite neighborhoods in DC, Maryland and Virginia. Every other Friday, I’ll round up my favorite beauty spots for the best services and shops (and the extras) for that specific neighborhood. First up, my hometown, Bethesda, Md. If you haven’t visited this town, hopefully these beauty and shopping destinations will inspire a trip here soon!
When you’re in the mood for a manicure, pedicure and heck, even an eyebrow waxing, go to Sandy Nails. This is a long-time go-to of mine, mainly because the service is quick (and it doesn’t show on your nails). For a neighborhood type of nail salon, it’s pricey (but then again this is Bethesda). If you go for an eyebrow waxing, ask for Trang. 7815 Old Georgetown Rd., 301-652-1362
If you’re in need of a replenishing facial, book an appointment at a favorite hidden gem, Red Bloom. This wellness and holistic spa boasts a bevy of facial treatments for all skin types, as well as deep tissue massages and waxings. 7215 Arlington Rd., Suite 201, 301-907-9001
If you don’t feel like doing your hair before date night, or you need a good scalp massage, head to Drybar. I can’t count the number of times I’ve gone now for my favorite style, the Mai Tai. (Pssst book a blowout with Anna, she’s the best!) 4840 Bethesda Ave., 240-483-4277
Before you jet off to the beach or an island (don’t forget to pack me in your suitcase!), get an airbrush tan at Ninotch, an urban retreat. Being a very fair skinned girl, it’s hard to achieve a flawless fake tan but when I tried out their organic airbrush before a pre-WHCD party, I was thoroughly impressed with the faux natural glow (and the amazing customer service). They told me my tan would last five days, but I swear it seemed like it lasted six or seven. 8301 Wisconsin Ave., 301-913-0345
Whether you’re on the hunt for a luxe perfume or you want to stock up on beauty travel necessities, visit Bluemercury. It’s my weekend beauty haven and I could spend hours in there discovering new products. 7105 Bethesda Lane, 301-986-0070
If you’ve had a rough week at work, kick back and devote some quality time to unwinding at The Spa at Equinox. I highly recommend booking their newest concoction, the Diamond Essence Facial ($225), a 50-minute platinum infused facial designed to help illuminate and revive skin. 4905 Elm St., 301-652-1078
The extras: One of the reasons I love Bethesda is the quaint experience strolling through the streets and popping in to countless cute boutiques and shops. I live for brunch dates with my best gal pals at Mon Ami Gabi. Ginger houses some of my favorite brands like Joie and White + Warren. I have Carrie Bradshaw tendencies at Sassanova and Francesca’s is my go-to when I’m shopping for gifts. I love sitting outside for dinner at Redwood, and my day isn’t complete without a trip to Sweetgreen to nosh on a cup of tangy frozen yogurt (topped with my favorite: strawberries, granola and chocolate chips).
Have a great weekend!
Red Bloom is my favorite!!! I love Germaine and I see her every 5 weeks. Whatever she tells me I need I get!!! My skin has never looked better!