Yes, you can! Just make sure to wear a fresh tampon, and it's no big deal. However, if you're uncomfortable receiving a Brazilian service while on your period, please plan accordingly. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment because your period arrives, that's perfectly fine - just ensure you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Keep in mind that your body may feel more or less sensitive than usual during this time of the month.

No, it's not recommended. Sugaring paste is water-soluble, so any lotions, creams, serums, ointments, or oils will prevent it from properly adhering to your hair. Additionally, numbing creams only affect the surface layer of the skin and do not reach the deeper dermis where hair follicles are located - this is where any discomfort occurs. Using numbing creams or sprays is not effective and can be a waste of resources. While they may provide a placebo effect for some clients, they can also potentially cause more harm than good.

Yes, you can bring a friend, family member, partner, wife, or husband, if they are of age. This is a legitimate hair removal service, not an opportunity to create a sexualized situation. While I respect all lifestyles, including those of exotic dancers, adult entertainers, and other clients - it's important to keep the experience professional. I don't judge or discriminate, but I do expect my professional boundaries to be respected. After all, this is hair removal! Let's keep it light, respectful, and focused.

No, only IF they are being serviced.

Hydrated skin helps make hair follicles supple and relaxed, which makes waxing or sugaring more effective and comfortable. Proper hydration isn't just about drinking water - it's also about addressing factors that dehydrate your skin. Here are some common culprits and tips to keep your skin ready for your appointment:

1. Caffeine and Alcohol

These beverages are diuretics, which dehydrate your body. Avoid them for at least two days before your sugaring appointment. If you can't, increase your water intake - drink 32 oz of water for every 8 oz of coffee or alcohol. Dehydration can make sugaring more painful, especially if you've been indulging without rehydrating.

2. Hot Showers and Heaters

During colder months, long hot showers and indoor heating can dry out your skin. The drier your skin, the more uncomfortable your waxing or sugaring service will be. Combat this by adding essential fatty acids (EFAs) like fish oil or coconut oil to your diet, which can help restore healthy skin moisture.

3. Flu, Cold, Allergy, and Sinus Medications

Decongestants, antibiotics, and other medications used during illness can dry out your skin. If you're recovering from a cold or flu, wait until you've been off these medications for at least 10 days before scheduling your appointment. This ensures your skin has time to recover and avoids unnecessary discomfort.

4. UTIs and Yeast Infections

If you've recently recovered from a urinary tract or yeast infection, wait at least three weeks before your sugaring appointment. These conditions, along with the medications used to treat them, can leave your skin red, dry, and sensitive. Please do not book an appointment while actively dealing with a yeast infection, as I cannot sugar affected areas or work around medicated discharge.

5. Chlorine

Avoid hot tubs and swimming pools for at least one week before your appointment. Chlorine strips the skin of natural oils, leaving it dry and less pliable.

6. Soaps and Harsh Body Washes

Alkaline soaps and body washes can strip your skin of natural oils. Use pH-balanced cleansers instead to maintain your skin's moisture barrier.

Tips for Maintaining Hydrated Skin:
- Use a water- or aloe-based moisturizer daily.
- Exfoliate weekly to remove dead skin so your moisturizer can penetrate effectively.
- Invest in a humidifier during winter months or in dry climates to keep your home environment moisturized.
- Incorporate foods rich in essential fatty acids into your diet to help skin retain hydration.

Estheticians want you to have the best possible experience, and proper skin hydration is key. By being mindful of these factors, you'll ensure smoother, more comfortable treatments with optimal results!

Take a deep breath - inhale, exhale - you've got this!

It is understood that showing such an intimate area to someone other than a significant other or doctor can feel intimidating. Rest assured, I am completely comfortable with the human body and approach nudity in a professional setting differently than in personal relationships. My goal is to make you feel relaxed and at ease.

Once you see the results of your first sugaring session, I'm confident you'll love the outcome and feel much more at ease about future appointments. You've got nothing to worry about!

Let's be honest - hair removal comes with some level of discomfort. However, understanding the process and having an experienced professional can make a big difference. With sugaring, the sugar paste doesn't stick to live skin. It only adheres to hair and dead skin cells, meaning your skin stays intact and protected. To remove the hair, I manually mold the sugar paste into the hair follicles, which allows the hair to be extracted from the root. The discomfort you feel comes from this process, not from pulling on your skin.

Pain Levels by Area

- Chest, Neck, and Back Flanks: These areas tend to be more painful because the hair is coarse, deeply rooted, and has strong roots.
- Male Brazilian: Surprisingly, it's less painful than a chest wax. The base of the shaft is typically the most sensitive area, while the scrotum is not as uncomfortable as most expect.
- Buttocks (Both Ladies and Gents): This is the easiest and most comfortable area to sugar - you'll wish all areas felt like this!

When Sugaring Hurts More Than Expected

If you've experienced extreme pain during sugaring, something may have gone wrong. Common issues include:

- Using sugar paste with the wrong consistency (e.g., too warm and sticky).
- Improper technique, like pulling in the wrong direction or using molds that are too large.
- Comparing sugaring to waxing where the wax was breaking hairs instead of pulling them from the root.

Waxing can sometimes be more uncomfortable because wax often adheres to the skin as well as the hair, like pulling off duct tape. Additionally, wax is typically warm to hot, which can increase sensitivity. Sugaring paste, by contrast, is applied at room or body temperature, which is gentler on the skin.

The Empathy Approach

As a professional, I prioritize your comfort:

- Trimming Long Hair: This reduces unnecessary tugging.
- Smaller Sections: I remove smaller amounts of hair at a time, which minimizes discomfort without sacrificing efficiency.
- Minimal Re-Application: By working methodically, I avoid the need to go over the same area multiple times.
- Stress Relief Options: I offer stress balls, and even relaxing music to make the experience as enjoyable as possible.

Hair removal may never be completely painless, but in the hands of an experienced and empathetic esthetician, sugaring can be far more comfortable than you might expect. The discomfort is temporary, and the smooth, long-lasting results make it well worth it!

Excited about your vacation? Fantastic! Here's the best timeline for scheduling your sugaring or waxing appointment:

Timing Recommendations:

- 1 Week to 2 Days Before Vacation: This is the ideal window. Waiting until 2 weeks before your trip may result in some hair growth reappearing during your vacation since hair typically starts to grow back 10 - 14 days after removal. This regrowth comes from hairs in the final stage of the growth cycle during your first session.
- Avoid the Day Before or the Day Of Travel: You'll need to stay out of the sun, chlorine, and saltwater for at least 24 - 36 hours post-appointment to allow your skin to recover.

If you're new to sugaring, consider scheduling your first appointment 6 - 7 weeks before your trip and a follow-up appointment 1 week to a few days before departure. This will give you time to adjust to the process, ease any anxieties, and ensure long-lasting smoothness for your vacation.

For Men: Chest or Back Sugaring

If you're sugaring your chest or back, there's a slight chance of developing red bumps or folliculitis. To prevent this from interfering with your vacation, schedule a trial appointment well in advance to see how your skin reacts.

Additional Tips

- Smoothness duration varies, so plan based on how long you want to stay hair-free. - If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to call me for guidance.

By timing your appointment correctly, you'll be vacation-ready and enjoy flawless results without worry!

There are three main types of pubic hair removal services, each catering to different preferences:

- Bikini: This involves cleaning up the sides to remove hair outside the lines of your bathing suit or underwear. It also includes removing a strip off the top if desired.
- Full Bikini: This covers the sides and as much or as little as you want off the top. It's a great option for those who want something between a basic Bikini and a Brazilian.
- Brazilian: This is complete hair removal from front to back. It includes the sides, top, labia, and a butt strip.

Choose the option that best fits your comfort level and grooming goals!

Sugaring is a natural and effective hair removal method using paste made of just three simple, organic ingredients: sugar, lemon, and water. Here's how it works:

- The sugar paste is applied with a gloved hand against the direction of hair growth.
- It's then flicked off in the direction of hair growth, which minimizes breakage and leaves your skin smooth and hair-free.

Unlike waxing, sugaring doesn't require sticks or strips, and the paste is applied at body temperature, eliminating any risk of burns.

- Regular treatments can reduce hair growth over time, leading to thinner, lighter, and sparser hair.
- It's eco-friendly, gentle on the skin, and totally on-trend!

Give sugaring a try - you'll love the results!

Sugaring paste is a completely natural, 100% organic product made with just three simple ingredients: sugar, lemon juice, and water - nothing else. It's so pure and non-toxic that you could even eat it like candy (seriously, you can!).

The paste is water-soluble, which means it's easily removed with warm water, leaving no sticky residue behind. It contains no artificial colors, fragrances, toxins, or resins - just the pure goodness of nature in every application.

Yes, it's safe and gentle for your skin!

Follow these tips to ensure a smooth and comfortable sugaring experience:

1. Exfoliate: Gently exfoliate the treatment area 24 hours before your appointment using circular motions. If you don't have an exfoliator, stop by and grab an organic scrub.
2. Hydrate: Drink plenty of water on the day of your appointment to keep your skin hydrated.
3. Avoid Products: Refrain from using lotions, serums, deodorants, or perfumes on the treatment area 24 hours before and 12 hours after your session.
4. Sun Safety: Do not sunbathe or use tanning beds for at least 48 hours before and after your appointment to protect your skin.
5. Plan Around Your Cycle: If you're premenstrual, your skin might be more sensitive.
6. For Sensitive Skin: After your treatment, apply cold compresses 2 - 3 times for about 20 minutes each to soothe the area and reduce redness.
7. Skip Irritants: Avoid perfumed soaps or products with harsh chemicals within 24 hours of your sugaring session.

Proper preparation helps you achieve the best results and minimizes discomfort!

When starting your sugaring journey, we recommend scheduling appointments every three weeks. This timing allows your esthetician to remove hair during the early stages of its growth cycle, which can enhance the chances of thinning or even permanent hair reduction over time.

As your skin and hair adjust, you may extend the interval to 4 - 6 weeks, depending on your individual hair growth pattern and skin type.

General Rule: The more consistently you sugar, the thinner, finer, and less visible your hair becomes.

For personalized advice, ask your aesthetician to assess your skin and hair type to determine the best sugaring schedule for you.

We recommend your hair be at least 1/4 inch long (about the length of a grain of rice) for the best results.

Our skilled professionals can work with various hair lengths and will guide you through your treatment during your appointment.

General Rule: The more consistently you sugar, the thinner, finer, and less visible your hair becomes.

If you've been shaving before sugaring, try waiting about 10 days before your appointment to allow your hair to grow to an ideal length for the smoothest outcome.

Congratulations! Yes, sugaring services are safe during pregnancy. However, please be aware that hormonal changes may make your skin more sensitive than usual. We'll do everything we can to ensure you're as comfortable as possible during your appointment.

After your sugaring treatment, your pores will remain open for about 24 hours, making your skin more vulnerable to bacteria. To protect your skin, please avoid the following activities during this time:

- Tanning
- Hot showers, saunas, or baths
- Sex
- Friction, tight clothing, or exercise that causes sweating
- Open water (pools, lakes, etc.)

Aftercare for Best Results:

- Exfoliate 48 hours after treatment using a Sugaring NYC organic scrub. Use gentle circular motions to remove dead skin cells, bacteria, and buildup every 2 - 3 days. This helps prevent ingrown hairs by encouraging hair to grow properly.
- Hydrate with Sugaring NYC Healing Chamomile Oil as needed.
- Clean your makeup tools thoroughly before reapplying makeup to avoid introducing bacteria to freshly sugared skin.

To reduce the risk of ingrown hairs, we recommend regular exfoliation and moisturizing. If daily exfoliation isn't feasible, exfoliate every 2 - 3 days. Moisturizing keeps your skin and hair follicles hydrated and healthy.

Additional Tips:

- Avoid activities that lead to excessive sweating for at least 8 hours, as your pores are still open and more susceptible to bacteria.
- It's best to avoid sex for at least 24 hours after your treatment.
- Avoid hot tubs and swimming pools for 2 days, as your skin is still sensitive, and there's a higher risk of bacterial infection with open pores.

Following these aftercare instructions helps maintain your smooth results and promotes healthy skin!

There are just a few areas we cannot sugar: the scalp, beard, ears, and nostrils. Everywhere else, we've got you covered!

Radiofrequency Vaginal Tightening (coming soon) - a non-invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy to stimulate the collagen and elastin fibers in the vaginal tissue, promoting tightening and improving vaginal tone. The energy heats the deeper layers of tissue without damaging the surface, encouraging collagen production and enhancing tissue elasticity.

This treatment is typically used to address vaginal laxity, which can occur due to factors like aging, childbirth, or hormonal changes. It is often sought to improve sexual satisfaction, reduce urinary incontinence, and restore confidence in vaginal appearance and function.

The procedure is generally painless, with minimal downtime, and patients may experience improved results over a series of treatments. However, as with any treatment, it's important to consult a professional to determine if it's right for you.

V-Facial - a facial for your bikini area to reduce ingrown hairs and calm the skin. Performed immediately after sugaring hair removal. Short on time? Try these add-ons individually, extractions, chemical peel, jelly mask, and high frequency

While sugaring is generally safe, there are a few circumstances or conditions where it is best to avoid the treatment. Do not sugar if you:

- Have been on Accutane in the past nine months
- Have a current sunburn, open wounds, sores, rashes, or cuts
- Have had cosmetic injectables or permanent makeup in the last six weeks
- Have given birth in the past six weeks
- Are taking antibiotics or other medications that cause skin thinning or photo-sensitivity (please consult with your doctor before your appointment)
- Have new tattoos or piercings within the last six weeks
- Have certain skin conditions, like hidradenitis suppurativa, or are allergic to sucrose or citric acid

Always consult with your practitioner to ensure sugaring is the right choice for your specific needs.

Sugaring should never be performed on clients using medications like Retin-A, Accutane, Renova, Differin, or other acne treatments that thin the skin. Always read the label carefully and consult with your dermatologist if you're using any topical creams or medications containing these ingredients.

Facial sugaring or waxing should be avoided for those using the following medications:

- Accutane (Must be off this medication for at least one year before waxing)
- Adapalene
- Alustra
- Avage
- Avita
- Differin
- Isotretinoin
- Renova
- Retin A
- Tazarac
- Tazarotene
- Tretinoin

If you have any pre-existing skin conditions, it's important to consult your primary healthcare provider before undergoing sugaring or waxing services.

If you've recently had a chemical peel, it's recommended to wait 6 to 9 weeks before scheduling a sugaring appointment. This allows your skin to fully heal and ensures the best results.

Pink, Swollen, Itchy Bumps:

A histamine reaction may appear as red, swollen bumps that look like bug bites and can feel itchy. Those with sensitive or dry skin, or even red hair, are more prone to this reaction. It can occur immediately during the service, at the end of the treatment after a warm towel, or even hours after leaving the studio.

Remedy:
Apply an oatmeal paste to the irritated area. Blend oatmeal with warm water, and apply it as a mask to the affected skin. It's helpful to blend the oatmeal or use a mortar and pestle to make it finer. Let the paste cool and dry, then rinse gently and pat dry. The skin will usually calm within a few hours but may take up to three days. If it hasn't improved by then, please call us at (813) 413-1442.

Red Bumps:
Red bumps can occur due to sweat or friction from clothing after the treatment. These bumps are common and may develop a day or two after sugaring.

Remedy:
Apply an oatmeal paste as described above. Let it cool and dry, rinse off, and pat dry. Typically, the bumps will calm within a few hours to a few days. If they persist for longer than three days, contact us for further advice.

White Bumps:
These can form when a swollen hair follicle traps oil or sweat, leading to a pustule. This will usually resolve on its own, but it's important not to pick at the bumps, as this could lead to scarring.

Remedy:
Try applying a baking soda paste (mix baking soda with warm water). Apply to the affected area, let it dry, and rinse off. Again, this should resolve in a few days. If not, please contact us at (813) 413-1442 for guidance.

Ingrown Hairs:
Ingrown hairs can appear within 1-5 days after sugaring, often when hair breaks at the surface. This can be caused by friction from tight clothing, repetitive movement, or improper hair removal technique. If ingrowns appear a couple of weeks after treatment, it's likely because the hair has become weaker with each removal.

Remedy:
For ingrowns, call us at (813) 413-1442 to discuss the timing and possible causes. We may recommend an exfoliation product based on your skin's needs. Regular exfoliation can help prevent ingrown hairs and promote smoother results.

The duration of sugaring results can vary from person to person, and here's why: Hair grows in three separate cycles. During your first sugaring session, we remove hair from the first, second, and part of the third growth cycle. After your second or third visit, we start targeting all three cycles simultaneously. With regular sugaring sessions, the hair growth will become thinner, lighter, and slower, allowing you to go longer between treatments.

No, with sugaring, your hair will grow back finer. Many clients notice a significant reduction in hair growth over time.

Your first three sugaring sessions are crucial for achieving the best results. It's important to schedule these sessions fairly close together to ensure your hair growth cycles are properly targeted. Regular sugaring treatments will help slow hair growth and result in thinner hair, making the process more effective over time. Many people find sugaring to be less painful and, in some cases, it can even lead to permanent hair reduction.

Avoid using razors or depilatory creams between appointments, as they can interfere with the goal of reducing hair growth. Be sure to exfoliate and hydrate your skin regularly between treatments to maintain healthy skin. Proper aftercare is essential for the best results.

Magnetic Tattoo Removal is a non-invasive technique that targets the dermal layer of the skin without penetrating deeper layers. The procedure involves a needle gliding along the skin's surface, making contact only with the uppermost layers, providing a gentler approach compared to traditional tattoo removal methods.

Unlike laser or acidic techniques like Saline or TCA, the Magnetic Tattoo Removal technique causes minimal discomfort. While no numbing is used, we employ a finger numbing technique to help reduce pain. Most clients report little to no discomfort, though sensitivity and pain tolerance vary from person to person.

The number of sessions required depends on various factors, including skin type, immune system, tattoo age, pigment type, depth, and location. Some tattoos may be removed in a few sessions, while others may take up to 8 sessions or more. Other factors that influence the number of sessions include:

- Quality and quantity of the tattoo pigment
- Depth of the pigment
- Age of the tattoo
- Surface area of the tattoo
- Tattoo location
- Skin thickness
- Previous cosmetic touch-ups

Side effects are minimal but may include:

- Tingling sensation from the alcohol solution
- A brief healing period
- Temporary redness, swelling, or discomfort
- No makeup for one week following treatment

After the procedure, your skin may appear slightly red, but the redness typically fades within a day. Minor swelling or discomfort may occur, but most clients can return to their normal activities with no interruptions as long as they follow aftercare instructions. For at least 7 days post-procedure, avoid makeup on the treated area, sun exposure, and swimming.

Yes, Magnetic Tattoo Removal effectively removes microblading and other forms of permanent makeup. It is considered a gold-standard method for cosmetic tattoo removal.

The technique is safe and effective on all skin tones, including medium, fair, and dark skin.

"Detox Lips" is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment designed to cleanse and rejuvenate the lips by removing accumulated toxins, heavy metals, and other impurities. This procedure helps lighten dark lips, reduce puffiness, and improve overall texture. It uses specialized magnetic needles combined with a unique E-Dermis solution to support detoxification and enhance lip tissue health. Detox Lips also prepares the lips for further cosmetic treatments.

Snow Lips is a lip detox procedure that includes a treatment scrub and a temporary stain applied to the lips to restore a natural pinkish color. This treatment helps rejuvenate and refresh the appearance of the lips.

Icy Lips is a cosmetic procedure that provides a soft, subtle lip color with an "icy" or frosted appearance. It's a type of "lip blush" treatment designed to create a natural, light color that gives the lips a delicate, sheer finish, offering a more natural look compared to bolder lip colors.

Red LED light therapy involves the application of specific wavelengths of light to the body, promoting enhanced cellular function and offering a wide range of therapeutic benefits. These include treatment for acne, anti-aging, pain management, wound healing, and even hair restoration. It is a cost-effective, non-invasive treatment option that has shown promising results for various conditions.

Red Light Therapy may help relieve the following issues:

- Delayed wound healing
- Hair growth for certain types of alopecia
- Pain from carpal tunnel syndrome and arthritis
- Faster healing of diabetic foot ulcers
- Inflammation associated with psoriasis
- Fine lines, wrinkles, and sunspots
- Recurrent cold sores from the herpes virus
- Scar tissue appearance and formation
- Muscle and joint recovery post-activity
- Itching from eczema
- Reducing chemotherapy side effects
- Muscle stiffness and spasms
- The appearance of stretch marks

Yes, red light therapy is safe and clinically proven to address various skin and pain management conditions. It is non-toxic, non-invasive, and offers a cost-effective alternative to prescription medications, invasive surgeries, and harsh topical treatments. Unlike other light therapies, red light therapy LED devices do not emit UV rays, which are associated with skin damage and cancer risk. Furthermore, LED therapy generates minimal heat and presents no significant risk to the general population. Whether treating acne, fine lines, inflammation, or chronic pain, red light therapy offers therapeutic benefits beyond just skin care.

No, red light therapy does not cause hair loss. In fact, it can help promote hair growth by boosting blood circulation in the scalp and stimulating the production of new hair follicles. It's an excellent option for combating hair thinning or loss, especially for individuals dealing with certain types of alopecia.

When used properly, red light therapy is safe for your eyes. It is important, however, to avoid staring directly into the light source, as this could lead to eye strain or discomfort. While the therapy itself does not pose harm to your eyes, it's always wise to take precautions and protect them during treatment.

Yes, red light therapy can help tighten and firm the skin by stimulating collagen production. Collagen is a protein essential for skin elasticity and a youthful appearance. As collagen levels increase, your skin becomes firmer, smoother, and more radiant. If you're seeking to reduce wrinkles or tighten sagging skin, red light therapy may be the ideal solution for you.

Red light therapy is commonly used as a non-invasive, effective pain relief treatment. It works by reducing inflammation, improving blood circulation, and stimulating cellular repair processes within the body. This makes it an excellent option for alleviating various types of pain, including muscle soreness, joint pain, and chronic conditions like arthritis. Many people find red light therapy to be a soothing and effective alternative to medication for pain management.

Pelvic steaming, also known as vaginal steaming, yoni steaming, womb steaming, or "v-steaming" for short, is an ancient self-care practice passed down through generations of women across cultures worldwide, likely spanning thousands of years. This time-honored tradition is now regaining popularity in modern times. It serves as a calming, rejuvenating, and meditative ritual that deepens a woman's connection with her body's most intimate and life-giving parts.

The process involves sitting or squatting over a pot of steaming water infused with herbs. The moist heat promotes relaxation, while the steam carries the healing properties of the herbs.

As more women rediscover and share the benefits of vaginal steaming, we are witnessing a v-steam renaissance, with many embracing it as a powerful tool for improving overall well-being.

Pelvic steaming is a practice rooted in the concept of nurturing and connecting with the vagina and womb. It offers a chance to open ourselves both physically and emotionally, allowing soothing comfort into what is often a guarded, intimate space. The experience of warm, aromatic steam on the vagina can feel calming, exciting, cathartic, rejuvenating, or cleansing. It's a simple yet beautiful way to honor and care for one of the most sensitive parts of our bodies.

Beyond its role as a fundamental self-care ritual, there are several key reasons why more women are embracing vaginal steaming regularly. These include:

Physical warmth: The thermotherapeutic effect of applying warmth to the vagina can be incredibly comforting and relaxing.

Postpartum care: Pelvicl steaming, which has been the subject of recent research, is one of the most historically documented uses for aiding postpartum recovery.

General cleansing: Many women report that vaginal steaming helps clear excess matter from the uterus and vaginal canal, promoting overall vaginal health.

Preparing for pregnancy: Increasingly, women, herbal practitioners, and doctors are incorporating vaginal steaming as part of a holistic approach to cleanse and prepare the uterus for conception.

Transitioning into menopause and beyond: Experts and women alike are noticing the positive effects of pelvic steaming during this significant phase of life, offering relief and support as the body shifts.

Pelvic steaming is a practice for all women, as long as you don't fall into one of the categories mentioned in the "Who should NOT vaginal steam?" section below. It can be especially beneficial if you identify with any of the following:

- You're seeking better self-care options for your vagina.
- You want to cultivate and maintain a positive, conscious relationship with your womb and vagina.
- You're trying to conceive.
- You feel disconnected from your femininity, sexuality, or creativity.
- You're approaching or going through menopause (peri-menopausal).
- You're post-menopausal.
- You enjoy yoga and meditation.
- You want to experience pleasurable sensations in your body.
- You're postpartum (having recently given birth).
- You feel like your uterus could benefit from cleansing excess menstrual lining.
- You have challenging period symptoms.
- You're looking to relax and soften.

You should NOT pelvic steam if:

- You are pregnant or suspect you might be pregnant (unless you're in the final weeks of pregnancy and preparing for labor)
- You have an I.U.D. (intrauterine device) in place, as steaming may cause it to shift
- You are menstruating (on your period)
- You are trying to conceive, have ovulated, but haven't yet had your period this month
- You have an open wound in your pelvic area
- You have genital piercings (always remove any genital accessories before steaming)

The benefits of vaginal steaming have been reported from a variety of sources, including: 1) the Maya in Central America; 2) Eastern herbal practitioners and studies in Southeast Asia; 3) generational knowledge passed down by women in cultures worldwide; 4) real-life case studies from vaginal steam practitioners who have guided women through the process; and 5) a rapidly growing number of individual accounts from women sharing their personal experiences (see our Steam Stories page or search for "vaginal steaming" or "yoni steaming" on YouTube for even more results). Some of the reported benefits include:

- General cleansing of the uterus after menstruation
- Pregnancy preparation (cleansing the uterus before conception)
- Enhancing the enjoyment of monthly cycles
- Spiritual practice and ritual
- Postpartum care and revitalizing the womb after childbirth
- Strengthening bonds with other women
- Increased confidence and relaxation
- Support during the transition into menopause and beyond
- Meditation and improved mind-body connection
- Emotional comfort and healing
- Reconnecting with sexuality
- Providing warmth and comfort to the pelvic floor region
- Enhancing sexual enjoyment
- Refreshing and cleansing feeling, with a pleasant scent
- Applying warmth to the perineum and lower digestive tract area

Here's what some medical professionals are saying about vaginal steaming:

Dr. Rebecca Cohen, M.D., a family medicine and obstetrics specialist based in Louisville, recommends vaginal steams regularly in her practice for a variety of reasons, including during menopause, nursing, and postpartum support. She believes that when used correctly, vaginal steaming is safe.

Dr. Lissa Rankin, M.D., a NY Times best-selling author and TED talk alum, is "all for it," emphasizing the importance of each woman listening to and trusting her own body. She writes: "I'm a big fan of checking in with your gut (and your lady bits!) What does your body tell you? Is this for you? Do you believe this will benefit you? If not, skip it. But if the wisdom of your body speaks to you and says, 'YES! This is the answer for me,' pay attention. That little voice can be much wiser than any randomized controlled trial. As long as you're not putting yourself in harm's way (and I personally doubt you are), what's the harm? Worst case, you've spent $50 and have a cleaner, tighter vulvar skin. If it works for you, then great - your body knows best, so trust it."

Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, M.D., has stated that vaginal steaming is "not insane" and believes that bringing heat to the vagina through steaming can have plausible benefits.

Dr. Siri Chand Kaur Khalsa, M.D., believes that embracing this ancient ritual can bring a renewed sense of empowerment to a woman's reproductive energy.

Dr. Alyssa Dweck, M.D., a practicing gynecologist and author of V is for Vagina, notes that the steam adds warmth to the genital area, promoting relaxation.

Dr. Camilo Gonima, M.D., an OBGYN, has acknowledged that herbal steams may have relaxing effects and provide superficial benefits to the skin, much like a sauna or facial steam. While he advises caution to avoid burns and notes that the vagina maintains a balance of beneficial bacteria, Dr. Gonima believes that women can steam as often as they wish.

Dr. Charles J. Ascher-Walsh, M.D., director of gynecology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, believes the steam can have a softening effect, and the herbs may even provide an aromatherapy-like benefit.

Yes, any activity involving boiling water and hot steam carries a risk of burns, so it's important to be cautious! We also recommend waving your hand over the steaming pot to test the heat before sitting. We use the recommended temperature for a facial steam which is 110 Fahrenheit. We use a electrical unit to control heat and a thermometer is photographed to document the temperature before steaming. We monitor clients throughout the entire steam to ensure comfort.

Women engage in daily activities that can disrupt the bacterial balance of their vagina. Many of these activities are 1) encouraged by societal and medical norms despite their risks, and 2) often more invasive than a gentle vaginal steam. Some examples include:

- "Normal intrusions" like tampons, semen, and menstruation. Semen can raise the pH of the vagina, while both semen and menstruation may reduce beneficial bacteria, creating space for harmful bacteria to thrive.
- Sitting in hot tubs or swimming pools.
- Using scented soaps or deodorants in the vaginal area.
- Sexual activity (especially with new partners or multiple partners). Any form of insertion can disrupt the vaginal microbiome.
- Antibiotics, which kill both harmful and beneficial bacteria, potentially affecting the vaginal pH.
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs), which studies have shown can increase the risk of bacterial vaginosis and pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Hormonal birth control, which may alter the vaginal microbiome.
- Invasive vaginal rejuvenation procedures like lasers, surgeries, radiofrequency, and high-focused ultrasounds.
- Stress, medications, and hormonal changes, all of which can influence the vaginal bacterial balance.

In short, many things can affect the vaginal biome, but most vaginas remain healthy most of the time. All the treatments we subject our vaginas to today - waxing, laser hair removal, chemical douches, synthetic tampons and pads, antibiotics, hormonal birth control, vaginal rejuvenation surgeries, bleaching, spermicides, and the list goes on - vaginal steaming should be the less concerning.

The sensation of warm, aromatic steam gently enveloping your vaginal tissue can evoke a range of physical and emotional responses - warming, soothing, opening, exciting, rejuvenating, cleansing, and meditative.