At the Refinery, we strive to make your waxing experience as pleasant as possible with appointment times that are quick, comfortable, and easy to fit into your busy schedule. Our highly trained staff will take good care of you!
Hair growth should be approximately 1/4 inch long or 10-14 days worth of growth to achieve optimum results for waxing.
We use a vegetable-based, semi-permanent tinting cream to darken lashes and brows, and SugarLash PRO as our Lash Lift brand.
(A $5 fee will be added if we need to remove mascara prior to a lash lift treatment)
There's nothing quite like a healthy, glowing, natural-looking tan to make you look and feel fantastic. Unfortunately, research has shown that too much unprotected sun exposure can damage our skin. The Refinery is proud to offer SJOLIE airbrush tanning, the leading tanning brand globally.
For best results: Skin should be free from perfume, deodorant, makeup, and oil based lotions; Exfoliate your entire body the evening or morning before your appointment, paying special attention to dry areas of your body such as hands, elbows, knees and feet; and wear dark, loose fitting clothing with dark colored underwear.
Permanent jewelry is a piece of jewelry without a clasp. The links are welded together to create a seamless statement piece.
We are proud to offer Dermalogica as our exclusive skin care line.
We carry high-quality waxing aftercare products: Finipil and PFB Vanish.
We use and sell SJOLIE sunless tanning products.
We are a proud member of the Dermalogica web partnership.
Purchase authentic Dermalogica products direct from the source.
Visit us to experience the full line of Dermalogica products in the salon.
Unsure of what you need?
Schedule a skin care service with one of our estheticians for your personal recommendations.
Already a Dermalogica user?
Click here to purchase Dermalogica products
The Refinery's mission is to provide the best service at an affordable price to our clients, in an environment that is professional, casual and comfortable.
We strive to uphold the highest level of integrity and to improve the client experience, through product knowledge and education while providing unmatched customer service to every client.
The Refinery is located at 323 14th Ave SE in Dinkytown, near downtown Minneapolis and the University of Minnesota campus.
If you have questions, comments, or would like to request an appointment, please email us or call us at (612) 331-9055.
We offer business hours that fit most any schedule. Call today to schedule your appointment, or book online!
HOURS| Monday through Friday | 10am | to | 7pm |
| Saturday | 9am | to | 4pm |
| Sunday | CLOSED | ||
Where are you located? How do I get in touch?
323 Southeast 14th Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55414
View Map
Phone: (612) 331-9055
Email: refinerysalonmpls@gmail.com
We're in the heart of Dinkytown, on the same block as The Loring Pasta Bar and Annie's Parlor, on 14th Ave. We are between 4th and University, across the river from downtown Minneapolis.
Where should I park?
U of M Public Ramp
4th St. SE and 17th. Go east on University Ave, 2 blocks past Dinkytown, turn left on 17th, 1 block. Then a short 2½ block walk from the ramp to the center of Dinkytown.
Public Pay Lot
4th St SE , entrance next to Dinkytown Tattoo. $4 for 1st hour; $3/hr additionally.
This is a pay by phone lot. Download the PassportParking App or call 612-242-7168
Venue at Dinkytown
13th Ave SE and 5th St SE. $4 for 1st hour; $3/hr additionally.
Meter Parking
The streets are metered all around Dinkytown with a 2 hour maximum. They are now enforced 7 days a week. They accept cash or credit. 25¢/12 minutes
Will I have to wear a mask while at The Refinery?
Yes, Minnesota has required that face coverings are to be worn while indoors. The safety of our staff and guests is our top priority. We require all staff and guests to wear face coverings while in the salon.
How far in advance should I book my appointment?
We do our very best to accommodate our clients schedules. Sometimes we can get you in the day of your appointment request. Other times, you may have to wait a few days or a week. We are busiest on or around holidays (including spring break). Our evening and weekend appointments tend to book in before weekday spots. If you're working with limited availability, please schedule as far in advance as possible.
What payment types do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Apple Pay, and cash.
What is the standard gratuity for your services?
Clients tip as much or as little as they please. We are able to add a tip onto a card, however service providers do appreciate cash.
How many facials can you do at one time? Massages? Waxes?
Please email the salon director for more information.
What products do you sell/use at your salon?
We are very proud to offer Dermalogica as our only skin care line. We carry high-quality waxing aftercare products; Finipil and PFB Vanish. We sell SJOLIE tanning products.
What's your cancellation policy?
We require a Visa or Mastercard to reserve appointments for new clients are more than 30 minutes in length or any reservation made for a guest. If a 24-hour notice of cancellation is not provided, it is our policy to charge the card for the entire amount of the service.
Please call if you need to cancel an appointment. E-mails will NOT be accepted.
Although a courtsey call will be given the day before your appointment, if we do not reach you our cancellation policy still stands and will be enforced.
When/why do I need to give you a credit card number?
We experience a higher rate of no shows for new clients and people who did not schedule their own appointment versus people who called in for themselves. In order to assure that we have space available on our schedule for all of our clients, we need to assure that people will come to their appointments.
Is there a way to check who I saw the last time I was in?
Yes. We can check your customer history and let you know which service provider you saw for your last appointment.
What should I wear for a massage?
If you are having Swedish or Hot Stone Massage, you can wear whatever you'd like. On the table you will either be completely nude, or leave on your underwear, whichever makes you feel most comfortable. Our massage therapists use professional draping techniques to cover your body as they work.
Can I go tanning before/after waxing?
We recommend that you do not tan for 24 hours before and/or after your wax, or if you have a sunburn. Waxing exfoliates the top layer of skin, and makes you more prone to burning. Getting waxed after a tan can be more painful than usual and can cause skin lifting.
How long does waxing last?
This really depends on the person. For most people there will be very little or no regrowth for the first 7-14 days. After 7-14 days, the hair starts growing back finer and softer. We recommend waiting 4-6 weeks for your next wax.
How long does my hair have to be for a wax?
We need 1/4 of an inch of hair (on the body) to do our best wax. For most people, this is 10-14 days without shaving, or 4-6 weeks without waxing.
This is my first time waxing, what should I do to prepare for my wax?
Some people like to take ibuprofen or advil about an hour before they come in for their wax. Make sure that the area being waxed is clean, dry and exfoliated. No tanning 48 hours before appointment (this includes spray tanning). Discontinue use of any prescription exfoliants for at least a week prior to your appointment. Besides that, just make sure your hair is long enough.
What's the difference between brow henna and brow tinting?
Brow henna is perfect for those who have slightly sparse eyebrows as it stains the skin to create a filled in look. The stain can last on the hairs for up to 4 weeks. While a tint can initially stain the skin, it will easily wash away with soap and water. Tint will stain the hairs for up to 2 weeks.
What is a Lash Lift?
A Lash Lift is a semi-permanent service that curls your lashes without the use of an eyelash curler. It is a perfect alternative for clients who want a glamorous lash look without the maintenance of extensions.
How do I prepare for my Lash Lift and what is the after care?
To prepare for your Lash Lift come in with clean lashes. Contact lenses should be removed before treatment. A $5 fee will be added if service provider needs to remove mascara. After your Lash Lift you cannot get your lashes wet for 24 hours. Try not to sleep directly on your lashes as this could kink them. Your lashes should stay curled until they naturally fall out, this is usually between 4-6 weeks. After the lashes have grown out, you can receive another Lift. After 24 hours you may resume wearing mascara, swimming, and washing your face normally.
What is Brow Lamination?
Brow lamination is a process of restructuring the brow hairs to keep them in a desired shape. Very similar to lash lifts, brow lamination perms eyebrow hair in place to create a fuller eyebrow look. It's the perfect treatment for anyone who has unruly brow hairs, have any gaps in between hairs, or who want that groomed, brushed-up look. Hairs are permed to be straighter and shaped according to preference.
What is the aftercare for a Brow Lamination?
For 24 hours after your service, do not:
How long does Brow Lamination last?
Brow lamination lasts approximately 6 weeks. You will still need to groom your brows up, but they will now stay in the direction you groom them.
What is microblading?
Microblading is a form of permanent makeup. We use hand tools or machines to implant pigment under the skin to give the illusion of fuller brows.
How long does it last?
Depending on skin type, lifestyle and sun exposure, it can last 1-3 years without any touchups. You will need to get them touched up every year or so depending on how well your skin holds the pigment. Please note that final results cannot be guaranteed as every person's skin is different. Though the pigment will fade over time, it may never totally disappear.
How long is the healing process?
The initial healing process takes 10-14 days, but final healed results will be at 6 weeks. Your brows will go through different stages during this time. At first they may appear quite dark and bold, they may scab, they may look uneven, and they might even look as though they have disappeared completely. Please trust the process. Your touchup appointment is there to perfect your brows. No work can be done on the brows until 6 weeks.
Does it hurt?
Typically people describe the process as annoying rather than painful. We do try to ensure comfort by using numbing creams throughout the service.
What's the difference between microblading, powder brows, and combo brows?
Microblading uses a small hand tool to make hair-like strokes into the skin. This technique is suited for people with normal-dry skin who want a more natural look.
Powder brows is achieved by using a machine to add a shadow of color behind the brow. This gives more of a powdered in makeup look. It is suited for all skin types and works well for people with oily skin. Combo brows combines the two techniques. Hair strokes are placed throughout the brow and then filled in with a shadow of color. This gives the brow more dimension and is perfect for people with little to no brow hair. It is suited for all skin types.
What is the aftercare?
You will be sent home with full aftercare instructions and cream. For the first 7-10 days you will want to avoid sun exposure, excessive sweating, and no picking!
I've had my brows done in the past, can you fix them?
The short answer is maybe. Every case is different and it is important to set expectations when working over an old tattoo. Please send us a message with a picture of your old work to see if we can help.
Who performs these services?
Megan is the only one doing permanent makeup. She holds a Minnesota body art license.
I'm only minutes late, why can't I get in for my appointment time?!
We always will get you in if there's time, space and staff to get you in. Because most of our waxing appointments are 15 minutes long, sometimes being 5 or 10 minutes late means you've missed your appointment. If you are told that you are too late to get in for your appointment, it is never personal. Being turned away for lateness simply means we cannot do the service without making other clients late.
My skin was treated with something after my wax, what was it?
We use Finipil as our post wax treatment. Finipil is an antiseptic lotion that will keep your open follicles clean while your skin is healing. If you would like to continue using this product at home, we do retail it at the front desk.
What are the benefits of dermaplaning?
Your facial products and cleansers will be able to penetrate your skin giving better results, and your makeup and cosmetics will go on effortlessly. This service is especially effective on those with dry or rough skin texture as it helps to minimize superficial acne scarring or uneven skin tone. It is also beneficial for mature skin, which tends to have a buildup of dead cells as cellular turnover slows down with age.
Will the vellous hair grow back thicker? No, the soft, fine, vellous hair will grow back slowly with no change to the physiology — in approximately 4 weeks.
How often can dermaplaning be performed?
Every 3 to 4 weeks, a normal skin cycle is approximately 21-30 days. This removes about 2 to 3 weeks worth of dead skin cells.
What is permanent jewelry?
Permanent jewelry is a piece of jewelry without a clasp. The links are welded together to create a seamless statement piece. You can choose from a custom fitted bracelet, anklet, necklace, or ring.
Can permanent jewelry be removed?
Yes. The piece can easily be removed by snipping the jump ring or link where it was welded. The piece can even be reattached for a small fee. Remember, just because it is permanent, doesn’t mean it is indestructible. The piece may break or get dirty from daily wear.
What are the differences between the metals?
Sterling silver is a high quality metal that will not rust. It is made from 92.5% silver and 7.5% brass. 14k gold filled is a high quality and affordable alternative to solid gold. It is a thick layer of gold bonded to a brass core. Solid Gold has a brighter hue than filled and will not tarnish. Enamel refers to the coating applied to the metal. This creates a colorful addition to your piece. Enamel pieces are not meant for long term wear. Eventually the color will diminish and the metal will be exposed. This is a great option for children.
Will my jewelry discolor?
Everyday life may discolor jewelry. Any darkening can be removed with the provided jewelry cloth or jewelry cleaner. Try not to have prolonged exposure to chemicals.
How many aestheticians do you have?
We have seven female aestheticians: Amy, Alea, Megan, Afton, Stephanie, Holly, and Emilie.
Who are your massage therapists?
We have two massage therapists: Leo and Nancy.
Who designed your website?
Our website was designed by Noisome Misdeeds Creative Agency