Skincare by Diana Franklin

This review is long overdue. I no longer live in the area, but for those in need of expert body waxing in the North Bay, Diana is the only one to see. She’s a hidden gem in downtown Healdsburg, and she’s worth the drive. Her technique and attention to detail are unrivaled, and she’s a true professional. She’s also a lovely, kind person and makes my bikini/​Brazilian wax a wonderful experience. Her rates are also very affordable and well below industry average. I’ve gotten terrible waxing at other places for double the price. Most importantly, everything is clean — spotless, actually. Ladies, put your razors down, and go see Diana. You won’t regret it! :-)

I’ve been seeing Diana Franklin for regular facials and face/​body waxing now for over 5 years. First of all, Diana is the sweetest, most relaxing and kind person — all of which is clear in the caliber of care she gives. Her salon/​spa room is located upstairs above Center St, looking out across to the Flying Goat. Even though it is just a room and not a full service spa, she has designed it so well with painting and lighting that it feels just as relaxing and soothing as a regular day spa. She even has a small soft sounding fountain. The treatment bed is very comfortable and supportive, and she makes sure you are warm and content before she begins her treatments. The sheets are a thick soft flannel.
The two treatments that I receive fairly regularly are the mini-​facial and the microdermabrasion. The mini-​facial is about an hour long and includes a wonderful wonderful steam bath, during which Diana massages your arms, hands and shoulders, (I sometimes fall asleep); a mask, which she selects based on your skin type/​current needs, extractions (if needed) and serum and moisturizer at the end. No matter how much she has to dig into my face, I never have horrible pock face or skin issues afterward, like you can get with inexperienced technicians.
The microdermabrasion is fantastic. Diana takes her time, and focuses on the areas that are more rough, leathery, or need more scrubbing, so you feel like she is really caring for you individually. She puts a very soothing moisturizer on when she is finished. Depending on your skin situation, it takes somewhere between 45 min to over an hour. It does hurt a little bit, like someone is scrubbing your face very hard – so just be aware that it is not the most relaxing treatment. But, afterward, mmmm, your skin glows and glows, and it is all worth it. I aim for these at least every few months.
Sometimes, when Diana is working on my face and she realizes that my eyebrows need some preening, she goes right to it. I love that individualized attention.
Diana’s prices are extremely competitive. Her facials start at $ 45, and her microdermabrasian is only $ 95 per treatment.
Last thing: I have never once felt like Diana was rushing, which happens now, even in the most chic of spas, as all the therapists are on tight 50 min or 80 min schedules to fit in the most clients. With Diana you can be assured that she will take her time with you. Each time I see her, I am always amazed at how time flies when I look at my watch at the end. She is very thorough and attentive, THE BEST. If you are looking for a large full service spa/​salon, with sauna/​steam, etc, Diana is not it, but if you are looking for excellent skin care in a soothing atmosphere, she’s got it!