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18 8 Mens Hair & Grooming Centre
Categories: Beauty and Spas Barbers Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Beauty and Spas Skin Care Barbers, Hair Salons, Skin Care [Edit]
3995 Alton PkwySte C
Irvine, CA 92606
(949) 724-1888
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 10 am - 9 pm
Sat 9 am - 8 pm
Sun 10 am - 7 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Good for Kids:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
Specializing in skin improvement, Skin Care by Tina offers treatment for face and back acne, hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, or even just… read more »
47 reviews for 18 8 Mens Hair & Grooming Centre
47 reviews in English
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Review from Kyle C.
Irvine, CA
4/30/2012
i had an expired groupon that i never used. There was some confusion about the use of expired groupons, but they got it figured out.
The workers were really nice. Vince cut my hair. I was really satisfied with the job he did. I like to cut my friends' hair for fun, so I had a lot of questions about haircutting.
Everything was really clean, and the atmosphere was nice.
But it's a bit pricey. $36 for a haircut, or $29 for students. -
Review from neil n.
Irvine, CA
4/24/2012
Been going here for just a year now. I work as a project manager, but travel and interact with sales reps. By default, I have to look and dress the part of a sales rep. The folks here do a great job with my hair so I wanted to give a belated Yelp review:
-Alyse, she is a phenomenal stylist!!! Super professional and also very personable, she's been cutting my hair for a while now. She listens and also offers great input on my hairstyle. Whether it was my standard cut every 6 weeks or the week before my wedding day, I've trusted her with my hair and Alyse has made me look and feel like a prince! And the fact that she knows her NFL is a bonus!
-Haircut itself is very relaxing. Love the hot towel on the face, robe & hair wash to prevent any hair on my neck.
-The waiting area is very chill and mellow. The beverages are a nice touch and you can't go wrong with ESPN on TV.
-Definitely enjoy the private style stations, less noise and allows for better conversation or time to zone out. Truly an environment where a guy can get a haircut.
-Entire staff is very friendly and I like the convenience of online booking and text reminders.
-Location, very convenient off of Culver and in the same area as Sprout's & Starbucks.
Yes, the price for a cut here is more than a barber or typical chain. But I get what I pay for: a stress-free haircut and the confidence to tackle 8-5 corporate America, thank you Alyse & 18 8! -
Review from Francis R.
Los Angeles, CA
3/21/2012
Man-salon, FTW!
I came in one night in hopes of getting a hair cut as just a walk in, but they were completely booked for a tuesday night. I ended up scheduling an appointment for the following night and it was almost completely dead. Weird, but I didn't mind because I'd rather be in and have the stylist take their time and do a good job than be rushed. Sherry was the one who took care of me, and I must say she did an excellent job. As a first time customer, she walked me through the entire process, from offering me a robe so that my clothes didnt get soiled, to getting my hair washed and cut, followed by a neck & back massage, to a hot towel on the face, and finish off with another hair wash to get rid of all the cut hair. I must say that I always wondered why most salons washed your hair before cutting it and then sent you off on your way after finishing off with out washing it again. I hate having hair on my neck and clothes after a haircut, but you can be assured this place won't let you walk out soiled. Big plus in my books.
As most other reviews have posted, yes they do offer alcoholic beverages to consume during your visit. Another plus. Any as I mentioned before Sherry was excellent, and she took the time to listen to how I wanted my hair done with out being pushy and adding her opinions when appropriate. Another plus.
So why the 4 stars instead of 5? The price is kind of steep in my opinion, but the service is definitely top notch. Overall you get what you pay for, and you walking out feeling like a million bucks.
'Til next time, cheers! -
Review from Manny S.
Santa Ana, CA
3/17/2012 2 Check-ins Here
My first time at 18/8 and it was such a great experience that I came back and i would definitely recommend it to my friends and family. I was lucky enough to have worked with Yvette she was nice and funny and also helped me decide what kind of hair style I should get. She no longer works there but I tried a different girl. Pursey or purve cant remember her name. (That should tell you something about my 2nd visit)
The location is pretty cool, you have Starbucks next to you and a food place I can't remember what it is but very convenient. As soon as you walk in you get a sense of relaxation, which is cool.
When I got there I was greeted right away and was escorted to the waiting area, where I had to fill out a profile sheet and was offered something to drink, from a sprite to a corona. Who wouldn't want to get their haircut while enjoying a nice cold beer? Seconds later after I sat down my hairstylist was there and she took me to the back to change and put on a smock.
I went in for an executive cut, which everyone who has been here goes with because you get the best of both worlds. A nice haircut with a massage. The executive cut consist of a 5 min head, neck, shoulder massage, the haircut then they wash your hair before and after the haircut and they finish you off with a hot towel on your face, tell me the ending doesn't sound pretty awesome. There is a reason females go and get pampered regularly and often. Everyone should at least try it once.
It would of been a 4 star if it wasn't for the 2nd visit.
Service: 5 star
Quality: 4 star -
Review from Marc C.
Irvine, CA
2/5/2012
Complimentary beer and wine! That's pretty much all I have to say.
Honestly, if you're a guy looking to get pampered and hate going to salons that only cater to women, this place is the 'man-cave' of all salons. They know how to lift the stress off your shoulders. Who wouldn't want a nice cold beer, a man robe, haircut, and a hot face wrap? I left this place relaxed, and most importantly, I left this place feeling like a MAN! -
Review from Dan G.
Aliso Viejo, CA
1/23/2012
I was looking up the phone number to give the Alton location a call for an appointment and saw the reviews here. I thought I would take the time to leave a review because I was surprised there were some negative reviews here.
I have been to 18-8 (Alton location) around a dozen times. I have tried the Supercuts as well as a couple other men's focused competitors and 18-8 is consistently the best haircut I have gotten.
I do not care much for beverages and sports programs, I am there for the haircut, and I have yet to wait more than a few minutes before being seen.
The one thing I did though was change to a Master stylist a couple years ago, and that seems to ensure I am not disappointed after the work is done. -
Review from Wendy B.
Corona, CA
2/11/2012
I made an appointment for an Executive Haircut Package through a Groupon deal. About an hour before the appointment (when I was getting ready to head over) I get a call saying they would not honor the Groupon. Why did no one tell me this when I made the appointment? The representative on the phone was rude and would not help to resolve the situation. I was excited to try their service, but I will not be going here and I advise others to do the same.
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Review from Paul N.
Orange, CA
1/18/2012 8 Check-ins Here
18 8 treats all their customers great, from the moment you're greeted at the front desk, until the moment you leave a happy customer. Lynn is a phenomenal stylist, who has been cutting my hair for over 3 years, moving from another, lesser salon. She's great!
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Review from Aziz M.
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
Updated - 4/29/2011
thanks for the additional comment Danni..but I wasnt 12 minutes late...
If you read my review, I stated I walked into the salon at 4:33pm, and i had a 4:30 appt. The fact is that your staff called me right at 4:30 to reschedule...so it wasnt about me being 12 minutes late...not sure where you got that from...I was 3 minutes late, not accommodated, and treated rudely.
I can deal with a mix up or a reschedule, but the big issue here is that I wasn't treated like a valued customer. The staff was not friendly, and was not customer focused.
Your response just confirms this, that this establishment is not a customer focused one.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/26/2011
This was my 3rd time at 18 8.
The first time was about 18 months, ago, and I was not very… Read more »
Comment from Dani A. of 18 8 Mens Hair & Grooming Centre 4/29/2011
Hello Aziz, Thank you for taking the time to leave us… More » -
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Review from Aisha M.
Irvine, CA
5/9/2011
WORST. HAIR CUT. EVER!!!
Got this after getting they had a groupon deal. Even with the 'discount', this place is not worth it.
I went in asking for a MINOR trim (at the Irvine location), and the lady ended up chopping almost all of my hair off!!!! The whole haircut was done with trimmers (no use of scissors) - and it was like she rushed the whole thing (though it was mid-day, and quite empty). To top off things: she left me with 3 bald spots where she shaved off ALL of my hair (& I am not balding).
Save your money, your time, and your hair. Go ANYWHERE else. Even SuperCuts would do a better job!!!!!Comment from Dani A. of 18 8 Mens Hair & Grooming Centre 3/8/2011
Dear Aisha M., We are so disappointed that your service… More » -
Review from Ryan M.
3/15/2011 8 Check-ins Here
I've been going to Teresa at 18/8 for a little over a year. I left a lengthy review on the experience for their Irvine Spectrum location, but that place suddenly closed down.
Short story: If you only want to spend $5 at a barber, then this isn't the place for you. If you want a well thought out hair cut, a message, a beer and some friendly females; then go here.
My only complaint with this location (and the Spectrum) is their inability to schedule appointments properly. My schedule is extremely predictable. I get my hair cut at exactly 2pm, every 3 weeks, on the same day of the week. It works with my schedule and it's easy to remember. Somehow they screw it up; wrong date, wrong time, etc. Which is odd because they know me by name and I've never gone there on any other day or time.
Also, one annoyance I've always had with this chain is the name. Is it 18-8, 18|8, Eighteen-eight? Trying to look it up on Yelp mobile, Google maps or calling 411 is a pain. -
Review from William M.
Irvine, CA
12/3/2010
This was my first time back to 18/8 in a while. My stylist from when I used to go to Metro by the Irvine Spectrum was there for a while. I was quite impressed back at that time.
I decided to go for a manicure or as they call it a MANicure. I thought this would be much more personal and attentive rather than the usual toxic-polish fumes of the neighborhood nail salon.
I have to say I was disappointed.
I was warmly greeted, but not offered a beverage nor shown to a comfortable chair in the waiting area. I had to get my own water from the refigerator. Had I not been driving I may have opted for an adult beverage but the Bud, Bud Light and Corona selection was not inspiring! OK, I'm a beer snob...not even a Sam Adams at least!
The manicurist was actually a sylist (more about that later) who had me put on one of those plastic jackets (with only one button!) and escorted me to the stylist's station.: "How are we cutting your hair today?" After I explained that I was there for a manicure, she apologized. Rather than being transferred to the "the comfort of our semi-private area of the grooming centre" I had to wait in the chair wearing my plastic jacket (with no magazine, beverage or TV!) while the stylist retrieved the manicure set-up. After about 6 or 7 lonely minutes she returned.
I soon learned that because she was a stylist (NOT a manicurist) she was not allowed to cut my cuticles after she applied the cuticle remover and pushed them around. She quickly applied a file to my uncut nails and then proceeded with a well-meaning lotion massage of my hands and arms. That was about it.
As I sit here I type this review with my uncut fingernails and my rough, dry cuticles.
After parting with $27 plus a $5 tip I was on my way.
Toxic-fume nail salon, save me a seat! -
Review from Daniel T.
9/19/2011 7 Check-ins Here
I first got hooked on this "man salon" when Mary Ellen was working there. Now that she's gone I tried a different stylist. I read good things about Joel on other people's reviews so I booked an appointment with him. Joel is the man! I left really happy about my cut, probably because he actually tried to understand exactly what I wanted before snipping a single hair. I felt comfortable the entire time, even during the straight shave on my neck. This place is a little pricy so I only cut my hair once a month. There are student discounts if you ask. Tip well and you'll be in, fo sure.
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Review from Cole C.
Anaheim, CA
9/26/2010
Always wanted to try after seeing ad in newspaper a few years back.
It was okay. I expected more considering the reviews on Yelp. Never got my drink everyone talks about. The stylist was nice. The cut, still deciding if it's better than Supercuts. I'll know more after I go to work and hear feedback.
Staff: Very friendly and welcoming
Price: High
Pros: Like that each station has a sink so you don't have to walk around.
Cons: Not sure the styling is worth the extra money. -
Review from Joseph J.
Anaheim, CA
7/12/2011
The search is over! Before trying 18 8, I used to go to Toni and Guy, which I thought was alright, but across the board, 18 8 is better. The establishment is really swanky, to say the least. As soon as me and my friend walked in, a really cute receptionist gave us a very harm welcome and offered us drinks while we waited. We both had Coronas, yeah, that's right! At a saloon! The coffee table was filled with cool men's magazines. About a minute later, Kristen, the woman who was going to cut my hair, greeted me and took me to the back to get a robe, which was great because I didn't get any hair on my shirt. Every station at 18 8 has the sink already, so I never had to transfer seats between the initial wash, the cut, and the ending rinse (no other place I've ever been to does an ending rinse). I like my hair short enough for work, with a little edge to it when I'm out with my friends, and Kristen nailed it. The only time she took the trimmers out was when she shaved my neck and behind the ears. The cut included a little massage and a warm towel on the face that felt amazing. My buddy's hair cut looked amazing too, especially considering the fact that his hair is super thin in the front. I teased him a lot about it before going to 18 8, but he came out looking good and looking like he had a full head of hair.
If you're a guy who cares about the way you look and who enjoys getting somewhat pampered, I recommend this place. 18 8 made it cool for guys to get hair cuts while still feeling masculine. -
Review from Chris L.
Irvine, CA
10/24/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Awesome service, you are welcomed with a complimentary beverage. I get Alyse and she knows exactly how I like my haircut. I sit back and relax and she takes care of it.
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Review from Victor C.
7/6/2008
MAN 'DO REVIEW
Used to come here when I lived in Irvine for a year...
I needed a emergency neck trim this past weekend when I was in town for a wedding.
I walked in and was really sad to hear that they had nobody available. However, the manager (totally forgot her name -- Sorry!) overheard my conversation with the front desk and tried to help. When I finally mentioned that I really only needed a neck trim (b/c I had cut off most of hair last month), she's like, "Oh no problem, I'll do it for you real quick!"
*Awesome Blossom!*
She was super nice and got my ears, neckline all cleaned up, and made sure it was nicely blended into the the rest of the mess that is my hair right now.
Got two hot towels at the end: one to freshen up my face, and the other the lady used to get all the excess hair off my neck/ear.
A+ for service! And the neck trim was cheaper ($12) than a regular cut, which is good to know for those that don't need a "full haircut" every three weeks. (As an FYI, I know many stylists will do it for free for their regular clients... but I'm only sharing it on this review because I care).Listed in: Who's doing my 'do?
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Review from Ken P.
Mission Viejo, CA
1/15/2009
OK, on a recommendation from a coworker I took a chance at this place.
Mind you, I've never paid more than $15 for a haircut (and $15 sounds like a LOT to me for cutting hair - come on, buzzing the sides and trimming the top? how hard can it be), so this was going to be a different experience from the get-go.
So not fully believing the stories about what is involved at this place, I went in expecting a slightly more-thorough haircut and probably some probably some annoying bubble-gum pop music or a thick techno bass thump going on in the background. I walk in, pleasantly surprised to hear Bush's Glycerine echoing through the tall ceilings instead. As I am asked to sit down, I was offered a drink. I'm thinking water, stale coffee? No - she offers ice cold longneck coronas or a merlot or chardonnay... are you serious? Beer me.
I sit in a pretty comfortable leather seat finishing up my beer while reading up on the latest http://WoWInsider.com on my phone and after a few minutes am approached by my barbe- o sorry, stylist.
She hands me a pair of coat hangers and a smock and asks me to please take off my shirt. ... OK
So I change into this smock and meet her at her private station area where she (after offering me another beer, which i politely decline) trims the sides with the buzzer and then lays the chair down for the first wash.
Here comes my only complaint: I guess a long day of styling hair tends to do a number on even Secret. Strong enough for a man but pH balanced for a woman? Not quite. So as she's leaning over me washing my hair I just breathe through my mouf and things are a-ok.
She was clearly Iranian and perhaps not so confident with her English so she had a difficult time with conversation which was all I could hear coming from the other booths besides the pretty decent music playing in the place - but I didn't mind. I was pretty tired from the day at work and wasn't really in there to talk about Obama's' debut in the Spiderman comic that day.
After the haircut, which was very thorough and for all intents and purposes not bad at all, she washed my hair again (a nice touch I always wondered why other places avoided doing). So as I'm laying there, head still reclined in the sink, she walks off to the side, opens a drawer and pulls out a steaming towel - sprays something from a bottle on it, waves it around to cool it off, and then gently layers it over my face leaving only my giant nose exposed. It was warm, smelled like some kind of spiced oatmeal, and was pretty gaddamn relaxing.
After a few minutes she removed the towel, had me lean forward and unbuttoned the smock (there was only one button, at the neck...a little strange, but ok) and told me that since it was my first time there I would get a complimentary neck and shoulder massage. are you kidding?? So yeah, got a freakin nice massage for about 10 minutes or so and afterwards she gives me her card and thanks me for the business.
I change in the bathroom, peruse the complimentary colognes and mouthwashes (think LA club bathroom minus the dude handing you paper towels), and walk over to the payment counter expecting my wallet to be gouged due to this pampering.
"Did you enjoy your haircut? That will be $32"
$32?!?! That's AWESOME! So yeah, I really enjoyed the place, and apparently they have locations in Costa Mesa, the Irvine Spectrum, and Pasadena as well. I'll check out the spectrum one next. Until then, I'm going to be rubbing hair growth accelerator into my head.Listed in: Born to Shop
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Review from Tom B.
Irvine, CA
Updated - 8/7/2011 14 Check-ins Here
Five stars not for the salon, but for a woman. Janette. Yeah, I know... I've rambled on about her before. I said she was "beautiful", "highly skilled" and that her massages were sublime. I've even written about her on my blog. So... why write an update? Well... you're probably out on the 18.8 page and you're thinking about getting a haircut. You should. You look terrible. Seriously. The Joe Dirt mullet ain't workin' for you. Let Janette take care of you. In the words of Yelp, "Woohoo! As good as it gets!"
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/10/2009
Gentlemen... listen up. This is the place to get your haircut You can forget going to a… Read more »
Comment from Dani A. of 18 8 Mens Hair & Grooming Centre 8/16/2011
Thank you so much for your repeated feedback! We will pass… More » -
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Review from MJ V.
Los Angeles, CA
1/31/2010
The rundown:
Atmosphere: 5
Service: 5
I found it funny how some people were trying to emphasize how this place is for men and is a departure from the typical female-oriented salon. To a degree, yes it is a departure from the typical "salon" where women get their highlights done while reading Cosmopolitan or InStyle. But thats about the major difference. Instead of women's magazines there are men's magazines. If you were to go by Adam Corolla's or Tom Leykis' definition of manhood - then don't fool yourself with this place. Go to that barber shop to get your military buzz done by that old war vet with the missing finger. Its cheaper, straightforward and you get great stories about the battle of the whatever. That's where I used to go and I was very happy with the experience and the results.
However if you wanna change-up your man-do, then this place is excellent. The atmosphere is very relaxing with the staff making sure your needs are accommodated. Wine, beer, soda or water is there for your enjoyment in a fridge next to the waiting area. Prior to your haircut, you can change into a robe provided for you - so that way you don't have to worry about dressing down to whatever rags you don't mind getting hair on. Each stylist has a sort of cubicle so you get a bit of privacy during your haircut. The stylists are also talented and care about what you want.
This is a great place for men who care a lot about their hairstyle and enjoy being pampered. If you couldn't give a damn - then don't spend more than $15 on a haircut.
Oh yeah and the receptionists are cute. -
Review from Art H.
Laguna Woods, CA
10/18/2011
My stylist for about a year is Brian and he does a terrific job with my tricky, multiple "cowlicks" (funny term and had to confirm how to spell it). He is the first stylist that can cut my course hair and I don't have weird, bed head the next day. The salon has a nice set up with beer and wine, but if you're not into that, there is a Starbucks next door for your caffeine fix. Prices are a little higher than other salons, though I always use the prepay plan which offers discounts.
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Review from Connivan C.
Corona, CA
3/23/2009
With all the talk of girls, beer, and this place for "man-do's" (which in retrospect is not a straight man's terminology) I decided to try it out.
Sorry to say, the positive reviews here are hyped.
The beer is a perk. Girls... well, ok. Except that as a walk in I was told a guy was going to cut my hair. I decided to wait, with the beer.
Guess what? Not exactly worth the wait for a girl. The haircut was ok. She did wash my hair before and after the cut. Got the hot wet towl on the face at the end. No massage for being a "first timer".
Was it worth $38 (without tip)? No. Not sure how some guys on here previously paid $8-$15 for haircuts and somehow now think that almost $40 is worth it at this place, and in some cases even paying additional money for an "executive membership"?
To be clear, touch ups are not free as others have stated. I was given coupons at the end of my haircut that offered touchups at a "discount" of $12 in the future.
All in, this wasn't very impressive. I say pass. -
Review from Boskie L.
Buena Park, CA
6/22/2011
I'm open minded on trying new salons when the person cutting my hair Leaves. I've been from a scary militant old man who's asked me if I want my hair "Short, Medium, or Long" for $5 to Carlton's $60 for a guys haircut...
A friend of mine recommended I try out where he gets his hair done at a men's hair salon, I didn't even know those existed. So I scheduled a haircut with a female named Brandy, and the day before my appt. I received a reminder text to my phone that I had an appointment with brandy at 18/8. Which was really actually a helpful reminder. At first impression upon entering were, "I hope its not all looks" because the setup was really nice, and the staff were very friendly and attractive to boot but you never know...
They had me wait at their lounge area where you can have complimentary Beer, wine, soda, or coffee which is definitely a plus! Brandy walked up and greeted me with a friendly hello within 7min. and sat me down and wanted to begin with a one on one consultation first on how I usually style my hair to what I usually do throughout the day and also how I wanted my haircut... the nice thing I would say about 18/8 is their personable staff and private areas where they have their own sink stations to wash hair right in the same area.
After my haircut, she gave me a neck and shoulder massage and than a hot towel to relax my face... i was amazing!
And the price for everything was only $30!
I have been going for almost 2 years now and I am definitely happy to go back! -
Review from Hershey R.
Irvine, CA
7/15/2011
Ok 18|8 has been my haircut place for quite a while now. Initially, because it's much closer to my home, I went to this Irvine location for a few months (with Nikki as my stylist, but I had to cut her lose...she was nice, not to mention incredibly hot :) and gave good massages/hot towels but she didn't cut hair well - and as far as I'm concerned that's the first thing she should know(!) - and she also always seemed to be in a rush); not ONCE, out of approximately 7-10 trips, was I fully satisfied with my experience. Paying $35 - plus tip - warrants at least that much. C'mon.
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Review from Da S.
Irvine, CA
3/15/2011
Well ... the center is closed at the Spectrum Location. I still followed Sommer (the Manager there) to the South Coast (Costa Mesa) location ... but really didn't like it. I had 5 stars before ... and my 1 star isn't because of Sommer, it was everything else. I have been a client of all 3 OC locations now. But it seems as if they're downsizing / or going out of business / or ???
Good news is I found out today that Sommer is moving on to another location and will still do my hair. She told me to let me friends who went to her know how to contact her ... so, since all of you are my friends, she can be reached at (xxx) xxx-xxxx.
I will continue to go to her, bummed about all of the moves ... but good to know she's still local and cutting hair.
Sorry 18 - 8, but 1 star for poor customer care.
Edit: (3/16/11 @ 10:37pm)
This is what I received from 18-8 today after my above poor review. Guess I'm not allowed to post what I wanted too on a public site built for reviews (good or bad).
When I posted a 5 star review for 18-8, I never heard from them.
When they closed their location at the Irvine Spectrum, I never heard from them.
I had to call around myself and find out where my stylist went. They never called me.
But now that I posted 1 bad review, they are all over me. I'm just trying to help all of the other guys who still want to get their hair cut by Sommer to be able to find her.
They are saying I am not allowed to post Sommer's phone number due to some sort of agreement (per Yelp?), therefore, I removed it.
Since I can't say her number anymore, I've reviewed Yelp's other salon reviews &it appears that it's legal to say where she is going. Her new salon is Grain Salon in Costa Mesa. Other salon reviews all over Yelp list where stylists have gone, therefore, it's ok.
Just so everyone is up to date to the communication between 18-8 and myself ... I will post it here.
Here is what I received from 18-8 -
From Dani A:
"Please be advised we have contacted Yelp to have your review taken down. You may share any feedback you desire but posting a personal cell phone number is illegal per Yelp as well as Stylist/Owner Contracts. Please remove to avoid further action via Yelp. Again we welcome ALL feedback from good to bad and look forward to always striving to give the BEST experience to all of our clients.
Thank you."
Also:
From Dani A:
"This Post has been flagged and is illegal per Stylist/Owner ethical agreement. -18|8 Fine Men's Salons "
So ... I ask:
If I am not allowed to say what I want on a public review site ... why have a review site at all?Comment from Dani A. of 18 8 Mens Hair & Grooming Centre 3/16/2011
This Post has been flagged and is illegal per Stylist/Owner… More » -
Review from Sally K.
Anaheim, CA
9/17/2011
Linzy. Linzy. Linzy... Is the only name you need to ask for. She is amazing, gorgeous, friendly and a fantastic hair dresser. My husband and I had to follow her to her new salon 18/8. The salon is pretty beautiful and unique. They have great service. You need to trust me, ask for Linzy, and u will be hooked for life. You will love her.
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Review from Champ M.
4/2/2009
Luxury hair styling for the conservative Orange County republican. No I'm totally playin, but I have seen young pro-lifer type-of-guys in there most every time I've been in. But I was very shocked when asked if I wanted beer, wine, or my choice of beverage while sitting in the waiting area. SWEET.
First time you get a free massage. It's crazy if you're down to get shirtless. It's not as bad as you think. If you got a nice bod, it's even more fun.
You can basically expect a 30.00-40.00 session. For the way you'll feel walking out through the doors back to take on the world, those prices are totally worth the pamper treatment here. Try it at least once, you will NOT regret it. Most of the stylists are women, but I've seen a guy stylist too if that's your boat. You'll most likely become hooked like all my buddies, and I get perks for everyone I recommend. (like huge discounts)
So guys, stop getting cheap "cookie-cutter-mold" hairstyles like you have since you were 5, grow up and get a real cut from a hip stylist who knows how to take what you already have and make it look bad ass-er. Reap the rewards when you get laid faster. Thank me later.
There once was this hottie receptionist too. Don't really know who they got there now. I cut my own hair but once in a blue moon I'll drop in to reward myself for how bad ass I just am. Maybe I will have to go back to see which receptionist is there now. -
Review from Trevor T.
11/26/2008
This is my local man-do stop. It's more than just a place to get your hairs trimmed - the do facials, massages, teeth whitening, hair coloring, manicures, pedicures, etc. The whole kit-n-kaboodle.
Get the Excecutive and you get a haircut, neck/shoulder/head massage and a hot towel face wrap. Very nice.
My stylist is Annie and she's great. Quick with the scissors and trimmer and very conversational. -
Review from Alexander G.
Irvine, CA
3/15/2010
The atmosphere is comfortable, relaxing, and aesthetically pleasing, without being overly feminine. Decent looking female receptionists seat you with a complimentary beer or wine, the music is a solid mix of alternative rock, and the magazine collection is worth browsing.
My (female) stylist was exceptional, fluent with both the straight razor and shears. I was given a robe to change into, my hair was washed before AND after the cut, and after the cut a hot towel was placed over my face.
The best part, it was only $25 after the STUDENT DISCOUNT! I have gone to other competitor salons, such as Metro For Men, where the price has been about double...
For any male college student in the area, there is no better place to go. You will get a superb cut and not go broke in the process. -
Review from Mark T.
Santa Ana, CA
Updated - 8/6/2008
I come in here regularly for my haircut and I have a beer while I wait. The waiting area is nice with a TV and a good selection of men's magazines. The environment is super clean with a very modern look. The bathroom comes with a great selection of products to try and a spritz of cologne so you can smell your best. I always change into a smock before my cut so I don't get hair all over my shirt which I hate.
I always have Annie as my stylist and she does a great job with my stiff asian hair. I'm always pampered with two washes: one before my cut and one after to get all the loose hair. I paid around $40 but it was all worth it. You get what you pay for. If you have thick wirey asian hair, make sure to get your hair blended and pick up some wax to get that look you want.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/28/2008 First to Review
I went here because I was tired of going to cheap places that don't cut my hair correctly. They… Read more »
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Review from Phil H.
Newport Beach, CA
3/24/2009
Went here based on the yelp reviews. Very friendly staff, immaculate environment. An excellent deviation from being cornered into a choice of the old barber shop style locale or the estrogenated beauty salon-type place reeking of whatever-that-smell-is. I hate getting haircuts in general, to the point of toying with the idea of letting it grow out for a few years and donating to Locks for Love, but I enjoyed the experience here thoroughly.
Plus they offer you beer. That in itself is awesome. -
Review from W V.
Evanston, IL
6/11/2011
Went there today because I was new in town. Used yelp to find an upscale mens haircut place and this place showed up close to me.
Upon arriving told them about the yelp special which was a free upgrade to a haircut + neck massage.
Haircut was fine - Joel did an ok job. Had to ask him to texturize my hair - i thought this was standard with $30+ haircuts. Then after 25-30 minutes the another employee came and told joel the next appt was ready and Joel rushed through the rest of the haircut.
When taking off the cape, a lot of hair dropped on my sandals - which he could have apologized for or blow dried off. I didnt get the 5 minute massage. I didnt get any hot towel treatment. I didnt get any hot foam shave for my sideburns, neck.
This place is a big ripoff. Its not that nice inside - only a little bit nicer than a regular old strip mall salon. The furnishings are cheap. The waiting area has an old nasty CRT tv. The beer that they serve you is coors light and the wine is cheap 10 bottle wine. -
Review from Ron F.
Orange, CA
2/26/2011
I've been a client of 18 8 for almost 5 years. I absolutely recommend this salon, but more importantly I recommend Yelena. She has to be the nicest, most qualified stylist I've met here in Southern California. it's worth the money, clean and quality is first and foremost. I would not have stayed a client of Yelena if I didn't believe she is truly the best!
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Review from Albert L.
San Francisco, CA
1/12/2011
If you just need a simple haircut this is not the place to go...this place is about service. Some bubbly? while you wait? a large amount of Men's magazine to keep you entertained. Great atmosphere catering to a Men only clientele. The haircut was decent, overall experience was exceptional. Remember, Good service usually doesn't come cheap. They do have student discounts. Too bad I no longer go to school!
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Review from Steve W.
Costa Mesa, CA
5/24/2011
I don't live in Irvine but was down there for an appointment recently and had some time to kill and needed a haircut and I happened along this spot. I was impressed with the service and the refreshments were a nice touch. I had Pam cut my hair and it's one of the best I ever had. If I get down there again and need a haircut you can bet I'll be back.
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Review from Robert S.
7/14/2010
If T-Pain got his haircut here, he would be singing "I'm in LOVE with a stylist"
Ever since I recently set foot a salon, I think I've gone metro. Never again will I let a barber from one of those SuperClips or GreatCuts places touch this sacred AsianFro. That's where the peasants go. I've come out of the closet, only salons from now on. I went to 18|8 because of a Groupon coupon I saw a while back. The deal was $25 bucks prepaid for TWO executive cuts, which would normally run $32 dollars apiece. Getting an appointment was painless. I called them up and scheduled a haircut the next day. When I got there, the receptionist offered me complimentary beer or wine while they setup. I was delighted to finally meet this receptionist, since a lot of the Yelpers have been raving how hot she is. She looks like Megan Fox. The salon was cool looking. Very trendy and earthy at the same time. I was greeted by Sherry, who walked me back to put on a robe. She was a babe too. She washed my hair at the station, cut my hair, gave me a should/neck/scalp massage, and then rinsed out my hair. I definitely see why women like going to salons/spas now. Maybe next time I'll get a MANicure, just kidding. maybe not.
About my credentials:
I'm a straight, non metrosexual man who knows little to nothing about fashion. I have a rap sheet with the fashion police and I tend to repel women with my outer appearance. This is my second visit to a salon, but I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at 18|8 Salon. -
Review from Arnold W.
6/25/2008
They do a nice job. My hair stylist was Mago? or I forgot some foreign name. It was a bit hard to have a conversation because of the language barrier. She's from Iran. I guess that's part of the price you pay...to have someone to talk to. She was right on, in picking the style. We both had the faux hawk "David Beckhem" look. Anyways, she did a good job, hand cutting my hair, too the time to wash my hair twice, and gave me a massage. Cost was $40. It's too much for what I'd personally like to pay (but that's just me). You do get what you pay for, so I guess you can say it's worth it. The thing is, she never really showed me how to style my hair, plus I only had gel at home instead of wax (my fault), so I never once had my hair look the way it did on David (besides on the day she styled it). 3 stars on my personal preference. 4.5 stars if it were a unbiased, overall review.
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Review from Austin M.
Irvine, CA
1/13/2009
Ask for Cherise Wilson, shes amazing, totally nice, blonde, tall, thin, hot and overall a lovely girl! She will do wonders to your hair! I went to cosmetology school with this girl, and she is talented! Shes cut my hair many times, and I've always been satisfied. She did my extensions once, and they came out great. She gives great massages, if you like those, lol. I highly recommend her, shes awesome!
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Review from Jace H.
Tustin, CA
2/16/2009
Update on Cherise - she just left 18|8 and is now at a new salon! She's an independent stylist now, but still rocks a men's cut like no other!
This location of 18|8 is very nice, and it's in a great location. Starbucks right next door, lots of parking, and an attentive and friendly front desk staff. Like other reviews, definitely a men's "grooming centre" -- you won't feel uncomfortable here, and will have full confidence in a great cut -- something you won't get at a SuperCuts or Fantastic Sams!! -
Review from York L.
Irvine, CA
9/28/2010
Today was the 3rd time I've visited 18|8 at this location. My stylist today was Yvette. She was very friendly and engaging in conversation and made sure I got the haircut that I was happy with. The whole experience takes about 45 minutes or so, with a shampoo at the beginning and at the end. After the cut, I also got a warm towel over my face for a few minutes. Will add more later when I have time, but I wanted to get this review in. :-)
