Question 1

Is Waxing right for me?

Accepted Answer

Waxing is appropriate for almost everyone. At The Yoni Temple we use organic pre and post skin care treatments to reduce irritation and discomfort. It is normal to experience redness, swelling, spots and sensitivity for the first few hours up to a day or two if you have sensitive skin. We treat everyone as if they have sensitive skin, pampering the body with organic treatments.

Question 2

Do you offer Memberships?

Accepted Answer

Yes!

Here’s how it works:
You’ll be charged automatically every 4 weeks and receive a discounted credit to use toward your services. You have the full 4 weeks to use it, and while credits don’t roll over, this rhythm is perfect for staying on track with your wax cycle. If you need to cancel, you can — no strings. Just note that rejoining comes with a $50 initiation fee.

Membership perks include:

• $10 off your monthly Brazilian (just $80 instead of $90), Boyzillian ($145 instead of $155), or Extended Brazilian ($100 instead of $110)

• Bundle services (Full leg + Brazilian, Brows + Brazilian) - we can do anything! All bundled services get a discount. (Any services you get regularly can be on a membership!)

• 10% off retail products, including our best-selling organic ingrown serum

• Smoother rebooking with a 4-week cycle

• Cancel anytime and restart when you’re ready with a $50 initiation fee

Why Become a Member?
Memberships aren’t just about saving money — they’re about making self-care simple, consistent, and supported.
- Priority booking (ideal for those who like the same time & esthetician each month)
- Built-in accountability — stay on top of your waxing cycle
- Savings on every visit + product perks (you're always locked into the best possible rate!)
- One less thing to worry about — your appointment is already working for you

If you already come every 4–6 weeks… This is literally made for you. ✨

Please note: Membership credits are still deducted for missed or declined services without sufficient notice per our 24 hour cancelation policy.

Ready to Join?
Give us a call 510-239-3052 or sign up at the front desk!

Question 3

What is our cancelation policy?

Accepted Answer

Cancelation, Rescheduling, & No Show Policies

We know your time is valuable, and ours is too. Out of respect for our staff and our other clients, we ask that you give us at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel an appointment.

Cancelations made at least 24 hours before your scheduled appointment time will not incur a fee and we will gladly help to reschedule to a more convenient time. ​
 
Cancelations made with less than 24 hours notice will incur a late cancelation fee equivalent to the cost of the services that have been scheduled. 
​
No Show Policy: If you do not show up to your appointment your card on file will be charged equivalent to the cost of the services that have been scheduled. Your account will be temporarily blocked and you'll need to contact management to lift the block. 
​
Last Minute Rescheduling with less than 24 hours notice will incur a fee equivalent to the cost of the services that have been scheduled.

Question 4

How should I prepare for my appointment?

Accepted Answer

In preparation for your waxing appointment we suggest letting your hair grow for at least two weeks, at least 1/4 inch thick (1/2 inch preferably). If you have been shaving regularly, we recommend you let your hair grow at least 3 weeks to allow all the different layers of hair to come above the surface of the skin. Please take a warm shower or bath before your appointment.

Question 5

Can I get waxed if I’m using acne medications like Accutane, Retin-A, or Benzoyl Peroxide?

Accepted Answer

Waxing should be avoided while you're using these medications—and for a period of time after discontinuing them—because they can make your skin much more fragile and prone to damage. Here's why:
Accutane (Isotretinoin): This powerful oral medication causes significant skin thinning and dryness. You should wait at least 6–12 months after stopping Accutane before waxing. Always consult your dermatologist before resuming waxing services.
Topical Retinoids (like Retin-A, Differin, or Tretinoin): These increase cell turnover and exfoliate the skin, which can make waxing too abrasive. We recommend discontinuing use of these products at least 5–7 days before waxing and avoiding them for 1–2 days after waxing to allow the skin to heal.
Benzoyl Peroxide & other acne treatments: These can dry and irritate the skin, increasing the likelihood of adverse reactions during waxing. You should stop using them on the area to be waxed at least 5–7 days in advance and resume only after the skin has fully recovered post-wax.
⚠️ If you're unsure, we always recommend a patch test or checking with your dermatologist before proceeding with waxing after using any active skincare or prescription treatments.

Question 6

What if I am late to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

We understand that life happens and unexpected delays can occur. However, arriving on time for your appointment allows your esthetician to provide the best possible service in a relaxed and un-rushed manner.
 
For appointments that are 25 minutes or less: 
You have a 5-minute grace period. If you arrive more than halfway into your scheduled appointment time, we will not be able to accommodate your service.
 
For appointments longer than 25 minutes: 
You have a 10-minute grace period. If you arrive more than halfway into your scheduled appointment, your service will be forfeited. However, if you arrive after the grace period but before reaching halfway into your scheduled time, your service may need to be modified. In such cases, your provider will prioritize the most essential areas within the remaining time.

Question 7

What happens if I want to adjust or remove services within 24 hours of my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Any changes to your appointment—such as removing a service—within 24 hours of your scheduled time are considered last-minute cancellations and are subject to our full-service charge policy. This is because we reserve time specifically for the services you book, and adjusting them at the last minute prevents our estheticians from booking other clients during that time. To avoid being charged for services you no longer want, please make any changes at least 24 hours in advance.

Question 8

Why do you charge for last-minute cancellations, no-shows, and last-minute reschedules?

Accepted Answer

We understand that life happens and things can come up unexpectedly. However, when a client cancels, doesn’t show up, or reschedules at the last minute, it directly impacts our team. Each appointment is reserved specifically for you, and that time is set aside just for your service provider.

Because our estheticians work on a commission-based structure, missing a booked appointment often means they lose income they would have otherwise earned. It also prevents us from being able to offer that time to another client who may have been waiting to book.

These fees help protect our employees’ time, energy, and livelihood. They ensure our team can continue doing the work they love while being fairly compensated for their time and expertise.

Thank you for understanding and supporting a business that truly values and cares for its people.

Question 9

Can I get waxed when I am menstruating (on my period)?

Accepted Answer

Yes! A woman's cycle is natural and sacred. We don't shy away from or consider menstruation taboo - on the contrary we would be honored to hold space for you. At The Yoni Temple we wear gloves and sanitize after every client and honor the natural cycles of a woman's body with a positive attitude.  Please wear a fresh tampon, a recently emptied diva cup or a clean sea sponge for your session.

Question 10

What do I do after my waxing session?

Accepted Answer

The most important thing is to wear loose clothing! Consider flowy dresses or sweat pants. Avoid tight jeans and leggings for the first 24-48 hours after waxing as well as avoid sun exposure, tanning booths, sauna, hot tubs, vigorous sweating activities (hot yoga, bike rides and sexy time with a lover). After 48 hours it's helpful to exfoliate the area in the shower to prevent ingrown hairs. We recommend using an anti-bacterial scrub, such as Tea Tree and salicylic acid, in the shower every day to soften the skin and exfoliate if you have a tendency towards ingrown hairs.  We are happy to make personalized suggestions for your self care.

Question 11

I am pregnant, can I still get waxed?

Accepted Answer

Yes absolutely! Whether you are in early stages or right at your due date, it is safe to wax during your pregnancy. It's good to be aware that you may be more sensitive during this time. We offer additional pillows for your comfort upon request.

Question 12

How often should I get waxed?

Accepted Answer

Hair grows at different times.  By waxing regularly you train the hair growth and get smoother results. The hairs comes out easier and with less sensation the more you wax. It is best to wax every 4-5 weeks. In this time frame you will only have half as much hair growth and this is GREAT! This is the best time to come in and continue training your hair growth to sync up for smooth results. A common mistake is waiting until all the hair grows back to come in for a wax. Check out our blog post on why waxing regularly matters HERE.

Question 13

Why am I charged for the full service I booked, even if I get less done?

Accepted Answer

When you book a service at The Yoni Temple, we reserve that specific time block just for you. This ensures your esthetician is prepared and compensated for their time, even if you choose upon arrival to receive a shorter or less involved service. For example, a Brazilian wax is booked for 30 minutes, while a basic bikini wax takes 15 minutes. If you decide at your appointment to only receive a basic bikini wax, you will still be charged for the Brazilian you originally booked. This protects our estheticians’ time and income, as we may have turned away other clients to honor your reservation.

Similarly, if you'd like to add services at the time of your appointment, we're happy to accommodate when possible—but we can only complete what fits within your originally scheduled time slot.

Question 14

Why does my waxer have pronouns listed next to their name?

Accepted Answer

At the Yoni Temple, we wax people of all genders, and strive to reflect the diversity of our community in our waxers as well. We want you to know how to best refer to your waxers and so we help by providing their pronouns with their names. Your waxer's pronouns are reflective of their gender identity, not of their assigned sex or sexual orientation. If your waxer uses he or she that does not mean that they identify as a man or a woman. This is because sometimes folks are nonbinary but still use he or she pronouns. We want you to know that gender identity and pronouns are not rigid structures, and to avoid making assumptions about someones gender or transition goals, just because you know their pronouns. We support our employees using whatever pronouns work for them. It is important to us to create an inclusive space that welcomes all identities and presentations into our community. We know this can be new territory for some, so if you are confused or have any questions, just ask!

Question 15

How do I tip my waxer?

Accepted Answer

For gratuity, we kindly ask that tips be given via Venmo or cash—we so appreciate your generosity. If you're leaving a cash tip, our front desk has envelopes available so you don’t have to leave it on the post-treatment table.

Question 16

Why do we have a late arrival policy?

Accepted Answer

Arriving on time for your appointment is essential—not only for your experience, but also for the flow of the entire day.

When you arrive on time, your esthetician is able to provide your service in a relaxed, unrushed, and thorough manner. Our goal is always to offer the highest quality care, and that requires having the full time allotted for your appointment.

Because our services are booked back-to-back, late arrivals can create a ripple effect, leading to rushed treatments, delayed services for other clients, and unnecessary stress for our staff. This policy ensures we can honor everyone’s time, maintain the integrity of each service, and keep our team supported and on schedule.

We appreciate your understanding and your efforts to arrive promptly—it helps us show up for you with presence, care, and excellence. If you have questions or concerns about the lenght of your appointment please give us a call or text 510-239-3052 or send an email to info.yonitemple@gmail.com

Question 17

Where should I park?

Accepted Answer

Great news—there’s plenty of parking nearby!

You’ll find metered spots all along College Ave, plus free 2-hour parking on Chabot Road, Birch Court, Oak Grove Ave, and Miles Ave. If you're planning to stay a bit longer, Forest Street offers free all-day parking.

Question 18

I gave a credit card when I booked my appointment - does that mean I have paid?

Accepted Answer

We ask for a credit card to hold your appointment, but that doesn’t mean you’ve been charged yet. You’ll still need to pay at checkout after your service—either with the card on file or a different one if you prefer!

Question 19

How long does my hair need to be to get waxed?

Accepted Answer

Your hair should be at least ¼ inch long—about the length of a grain of rice or the thickness of a pencil tip—for the wax to grip effectively.

If the hair is too short, the wax won’t be able to remove it properly, which can lead to breakage at the surface instead of pulling the hair from the root. This can cause quicker regrowth and increase the chances of ingrown hairs.

Letting your hair grow out to the ideal length gives you smoother, longer-lasting results and helps minimize irritation.

Question 20

Can I bring my child to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

While we adore little ones, we kindly ask that you arrange childcare and do not bring children to your appointment at The Yoni Temple. Our space is intentionally designed to be a serene, sacred environment where both clients and practitioners can fully relax and focus on self-care.
For safety reasons—especially with hot wax, sharp tools, and intimate treatments—and out of respect for the quiet, healing experience our guests expect, we cannot accommodate children in the treatment rooms or waiting areas.

Thank you for understanding and honoring the sanctuary we’ve created for all who enter.

Question 21

Can I bring my animal to my appointment?

Accepted Answer

As much as we adore furry companions, we kindly ask that you leave pets at home when visiting The Yoni Temple. To maintain a clean, calm, and hygienic environment for all guests—especially during intimate services—only certified service animals are permitted in the space.

A certified service animal is a dog (or in rare cases, a miniature horse) that is individually trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability. These animals are not pets—they are working partners protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Their tasks may include guiding, alerting, retrieving, or providing medical or psychiatric support.

Please note that emotional support animals, therapy animals, and pets do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not allowed in the salon.

We appreciate your understanding as we prioritize the safety, cleanliness, and sacred vibe of our space for all.

Question 22

Why do I need to know about the products, procedures, or medications I use before waxing?

Accepted Answer

Certain medications and chemicals—both topical and internal—can thin the skin or make it more sensitive. This increases the risk of irritation, lifting, or even scarring during waxing. We ask about these to ensure your skin is protected and you have the safest experience possible.

Question 23

I’m on antibiotics or steroids—can I still get waxed?

Accepted Answer

We recommend waiting at least 3 months after stopping antibiotics or steroids before waxing. These medications can alter your skin's barrier and healing ability, making it more vulnerable to injury and slower to recover if irritated.

Question 24

What if I’ve had a chemical peel, facial, or microdermabrasion recently?

Accepted Answer

You should wait at least 2 weeks before receiving facial waxing. These treatments deeply exfoliate or resurface the skin, and waxing too soon afterward can cause excessive irritation or even skin lifting. It’s always best to check with your dermatologist if you’re unsure.

Question 25

Can I tint my lashes or brows while pregnant?

Accepted Answer

While generally considered safe, research on tinting during pregnancy is still inconclusive and limited. If you choose to tint, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider and do a patch test first to avoid unexpected sensitivities.

Question 26

Can I use the ingrown peel treatment if I’m pregnant or nursing?

Accepted Answer

No. This treatment contains salicylic acid, which experts recommend avoiding during pregnancy and nursing due to potential risks of absorption. Your safety and your baby’s well-being come first, so we suggest opting for gentler alternatives during this time.

Question 27

Do I need a parent or guardian if I'm under 18?

Accepted Answer

Yes - if you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present at the time of your appointment to provide consent for the service. They are not required to accompany you into the treatment room, but we must receive their in-person approval before proceeding with any waxing services. Your appointment will not be canceled if your guardian doesn't accompany you the first time but we will need them to sign a consent form before we can service you again.

Question 28

Waxing Results & Touch Up Policy

Accepted Answer

What if I notice missed hairs after my wax?
We want you to feel completely happy with your results. We encourage all clients to take a moment before leaving your appointment to check your results using a mirror. If you notice any areas that need a touch-up, please let your esthetician know right away- this is never a burden, and we’re always happy to refine the service while you’re here.
What if I notice missed hairs after I leave the salon?
If you notice significant missed areas of hair within 48 hours of your appointment, please reach out to us. We’ll schedule a complimentary same-day clean-up with the same esthetician, based on availability.
What if I notice hair growth a week or two later?
Hair growth that appears one to two weeks after your wax is typically not missed hair, but rather new growth. This happens for several reasons and falls outside our complimentary clean-up window.
Common factors include:
Infrequent or irregular waxing
Being new to waxing
Hair growth cycles that are still syncing
Shaving in between wax appointments
Hormonal Changes
When hair is waxed consistently (every 4 weeks), growth cycles begin to align, resulting in smoother, longer-lasting results over time.
Why is regular waxing recommended?
Waxing on a consistent schedule helps “train” the hair growth cycle. Clients who maintain regular appointments tend to experience:
Less regrowth between visits
Finer, softer hair over time
More even results
If you wax sporadically, it’s normal to see regrowth sooner as different hairs are in different stages of growth.
What do you recommend at the end of my appointment?
While you are still on the table with the esthetician in the room, we recommend using a mirror to take a quick look at all areas to ensure you’re happy with your results. If you notice anything that needs attention, just let us know and we will take care of it on the spot.

Question 29

How often should I get a Brazilian wax?

Accepted Answer

We recommend every 4 weeks for the best results. Consistent Brazilian waxing keeps hair growing in evenly, making each appointment smoother, quicker, and more comfortable over time.

Question 30

Do you offer Brazilian waxing in Oakland?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The Yoni Temple is located in Rockridge, Oakland, and specializes in Brazilian waxing and full-body waxing for all bodies.

Question 31

Does Brazilian waxing hurt?

Accepted Answer

Most clients are surprised by how manageable it feels. Our technique focuses on body mechanics and a nervous-system aware approach, which helps make the experience more comfortable and efficient.

Question 32

How do I prevent ingrown hairs after waxing?

Accepted Answer

Consistent waxing, gentle exfoliation, and proper aftercare are key. We also offer targeted ingrown treatments to help keep your skin smooth and clear between appointments.

Question 33

Should I shave between waxes?

Accepted Answer

We don’t recommend shaving between appointments. Staying on a consistent waxing schedule leads to better long-term results and a smoother overall experience.

FAQ