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Like the rest of the country, I’ve been left to my own devices in regards to grooming for the past two-ish months. No harm done, but I admittedly fist-pumped when it was announced that NSW will see beauty salons open again from June 1. In anticipation of the fast-approaching date, I’ve detailed all the treatments on my hit list, from the urgent (goodbye, eyebrow) to the decadent (Venustus aka the promised beauty land). So if you’re in need of maintenance or me time, consider booking in with one of these local (and editor-vetted) favourites.
Venustus
If heaven on Earth existed, it would surely be on Oxford Street, Paddington, inside Venustus‘ hallowed walls. Founder Jeannie is a special kind of person, one who’s deep, intuitive care towards her clients is second to none. My treatment of choice is the Om Massage, an incredibly relaxing, ritualistic experience that’s as good for the soul as it is for furled shoulders. Expect a delicious blend of oils, Palo Santo, crystals, and for the therapists to find your niggles before you have a chance to point them out.
Melanie Grant
Melanie Grant started as Sydney’s own, but now the skin therapist and aesthetician splits her time between Australia, Los Angeles and Paris, tending to the complexions of everyone from Georgia Fowler to Victoria Beckham. 45 minutes with her is all you need to turn tired/sad/isolation skin into skin that’s bouncy, glowy and seemingly poreless. Grant is a fan of brands like Chanel, Biologique Recherche and Cosmedix, and proven technology like LED light. One visit, and you’ll get the hype.
ONDA Beauty
The first time I experienced the Onda Signature Facial my life was changed forever. The Sydney outpost is helmed by Nicole Manning, known among beauty circles as the giver of the best facial massage in town. Onda is a special place that marries holistic beauty (think Gua Sha, rigorous massage and luxurious non-toxic products) with proven technology. A great place to recharge post isolation.
Jocelyn Petroni
Getting a manicure is one thing, but getting a manicure at Jocelyn Petroni is another entirely. As the official manicurist for Chanel, her nail treatments are always bespoke and incredibly luxurious. But take my advice and double down on your skin and nails in one fell swoop. Petroni’s Heart Chakra Facial is the stuff of legend – so divine you might just melt into a puddle on the floor of her Woollahra salon.
Rationale Epinova Photosonic Treatment
Rationale is where I go when I need serious skin love. It’s a place I ask questions and always leave with invaluable complexion insight. As a devout user of the brand’s Essential Six, the Epinova treatment is like the skincare on overdrive, combining customised product infusions with LED and incredible facial massage. It’s the perfect middle ground between glow and targeted results.
Benefit Brows
Like the rest of Australia, I can’t wait to have my brows (or should I say brow) tended to once restrictions lift. I love Benefit for convenience, consistency and their natural-but-better aesthetic. Don’t leave without a tube of the 24-Hour Clear Brow Setter, either.
Anthony Nader Haircut
Eight weeks at home have seen my once shoulder-grazing bob transform into a tangled, lop-sided mess. Enter Anthony Nader, my hair whisperer and one of Sydney’s best. His Surry Hills salon Raw is where miracles happen, whether you’re there for a trim or complete colour overhaul. While he’s been operating the past few weeks, now feels like a good time to cut away two months of wild growth.
Ageless Clinics
For those of us who prefer a more rigorous approach to beauty, Ageless Clinics is gold standard. Dr. Jeremy Cumpston is lauded for his less is more approach to invasive treatments like injectables and Botox, thus his stellar reputation (and high profile client list). His light, bright clinics feel more like a day spa than a doctor’s office, and his work is always perfectly balanced.
