Frequently Asked Questions
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THE 101.
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You’re in great hands. Your service begins with a consultation so we can understand your needs and answer any questions. We’ll walk you through the process, check in throughout your service, and make sure you feel comfortable every step of the way.
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Everyone’s experience is different, and waxing isn’t nothing. But we’re quick, precise, and know what we’re doing. Our techniques are designed to minimize discomfort as much as possible. We’ll always talk you through it, and once you see the results, you’ll understand why it’s worth it.
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Both waxing and sugaring removes hair from the root.
Sugaring uses a gentle, natural sugar paste, ideal for sensitive skin.
Waxing is often faster and great for coarse hair or large areas.
Ultimately, you’ll decide with your aesthetician which one is right for you based on a host of factors from growth patterns to hormonal fluctuations you may be experiencing.
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Cleanliness is non-negotiable. We follow strict sanitation protocols and maintain a calm, meticulously clean environment so you can relax knowing your care and safety are always our top priority.
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All services are performed by trained, licensed professionals following standards set by our founder. Ongoing education and consistency are central to how we work, ensuring every visit meets the same high level of care.
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Yes. We use high-quality, professional-grade products selected for performance, skin health, and comfort. If you have sensitivities or concerns, we’re happy to discuss options during your consultation.
HAISAI.
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We’re a founder-led studio built on more than 20 years of hands-on industry experience, with every service shaped by proven techniques and thoughtful care. Beyond expertise, we’re grounded in the Okinawan spirit of Haisai — a genuine, welcoming hello. That means you can expect consistent results, a warm atmosphere, and an experience designed around people, not just services.
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Pronounced Hi-Si, Haisai is an Okinawan greeting that reflects warmth, openness, and genuine hospitality. It’s the spirit that guides how we welcome every guest - with kindness, respect, and care from the moment you arrive. It also carries a tradition of strength and endurance, a nod to the matriarchs of our founder Kelly’s family.
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Absolutely. Our services are designed for all bodies, all genders, and all identities. We prioritize respect, comfort, and clear communication, and our team is trained to create a judgment-free environment where everyone feels safe, seen, and cared for.
BEST PRACTICES.
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Most guests return every 4–6 weeks, depending on hair growth and personal preference. Coming regularly helps reduce discomfort, minimizes ingrowns, and keeps your skin smooth over time.
We’ll help you find a cadence that works best for your body and lifestyle.
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Always make your aesthetician aware of any allergies, sensitivities, medical conditions, and/or medications.
Please ensure you abstain from using the following products for at least 48 hours ahead of your appointment. We are happy to reschedule you if you are unsure.
Retinol or Retin-A
Accutane (within the last 6 months)
AHA/BHA exfoliants
Prescription creams
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At least 1/4 inch — about the length of a grain of rice. If you’ve shaved recently, wait 2–3 weeks before your appointment for best results.
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If you have a known allergy to anything (like tree nuts, aloe, or specific essential oils), let us know ahead of time. We’re happy to modify products or services to keep you safe.
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We recommend gently exfoliating the area 24 hours before your appointment and avoiding lotions or oils on the day of your service.
It’s best to avoid caffeine and alcohol the day of.
Wear loose-fitting clothing and take a deep breath. We’ll take it from here.
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Aftercare is an important part of your results. We’ll share simple, personalized tips after your service to help soothe skin and maintain smoothness between visits.
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We recommend exfoliating 2–3x/week between waxes (avoid harsh scrubs) and moisturizing daily with unscented lotion or oil.
It’s always best to avoid tight clothing right after your appointment and never, ever pick or tweeze!
REDLIGHT.
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Red light therapy is a gentle add-on that may help calm the skin, reduce post-wax redness, and support your skin’s natural recovery process. It also feels great and gives you a moment to relax.
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Yes! You’ll see immediate skin-soothing results, especially post-wax.
Benefits include:
Visibly reduced redness
Calm, less irritated skin
Brighter tone due to improved circulation
Slightly plumped or dewy appearance
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Our red light therapy is top-of-the-line and medical-grade. Red light is never applied over fresh tattoos. If a tattoo has not fully healed, we will recommend treating an alternate area instead. If you’re unsure, we’re happy to guide you.
COMMUNITY.
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Yes! Community is at the heart of what we do. We plan to host pop-ups and collaborations with local Austin artists and makers creating a space that’s as vibrant and creative as the city itself. Reach out to HaisaiATX@gmail.com if you think we might be a good fit!
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We offer a curated selection of retail products, including aftercare essentials and goods from local makers. Everything is chosen with intention and aligned with our values of quality, care, and community.
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We love meeting new friends and we’re always happy to help. If you have questions, concerns, or specific needs, please reach out — our team is here to support you.
THE FUN STUFF.
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Appointments canceled less than 24hours before the scheduled start time are subject to a 50% cancellation fee. Appointments missed without notice are also subject to a 50% fee. Cancellations made 24+ hours in advance are never charged. We appreciate the heads-up. These policies protect our providers’ time and income.
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We will always do our best to accommodate you. Depending on your arrival time, services may need to be adjusted to respect the next guest’s appointment. We encourage arriving a few minutes early. We offer excellent wifi, beverages, and a thoughtfully designed space to settle into before your service begins.
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Appointments totaling over $200 require a valid credit card on file at the time of booking. Your card is only charged in accordance with our cancellation and no-show policy.
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Yes, of course you are welcome. Please wear a fresh tampon, disc, or menstrual cup and keep in mind you may be slightly more sensitive, but we’ll adjust care as needed.
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Absolutely. We specialize in working with pregnant clients — including first-timers. We’ll help you get comfortable, take breaks as needed, and create a calm, supported experience. Just let us know how far along you are when booking.
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Yes, with clear boundaries. A parent or legal guardian must be present in the room for all minor services. We reserve the right to decline services that are not age-appropriate.
13+ for non-intimate services.
16+ for bikini services.
18+ for Brazilian services.
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For safety, liability, and to maintain the studio environment:
Children are not permitted in treatment or waiting areas.
Pets are not permitted, with the exception of ADA-recognized service animals.
Under ADA guidelines, service animals are dogs individually trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability. Emotional support animals, therapy animals, and companion animals are not considered service animals under ADA regulations and are not permitted.
We kindly ask that childcare and pet care be arranged prior to your visit. This is your time. We want you to feel fully cared for. 💚
LET’S DO THIS.
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We’re so excited to welcome you to Haisai! All appointments are booked through our online system HERE, but feel free to call the studio if you have any outstanding questions.
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The Ritual Pass is a monthly membership. It was specifically designed to make it as easy as possible - You pay $65 per month for $75 in service credit, and if you can’t make it, feel free to gift it to a friend.
