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Academy for Salon Professionals
Rating Details »
Categories: Hair Salons, Specialty Schools, Nail Salons
2238 El Camino RealSanta Clara, CA 95050
(408) 261-9201
- Hours:
Tue. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Wed-Thu. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Fri-Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- No
96 reviews for Academy for Salon Professionals
The first time I came here, I had a fantastic experience! Yes, the cut and color took what seemed like FOREVER, but I came out with a haircut and color that people kept complimenting me on(even months later!).
I went again last night, and still had a good experience, but it, again, took FOR FREAKING EVER to get it to what I wanted (and it's a little short, but hair grows, so I'll be okay). I got a blond streak in the front, and an asymmetrical bob, so I understand that the requirements are a bit more difficult. But I was there an hour after they closed, and I just wanted to go home!!! Still a good experience, but definitely will make a daytime appointment next time.
3.5 stars
Overall I was pretty impressed with the Academy. After striking up basic conversation with my stylist, I learned this school's program and requirements are pretty intense. Because of that the good news is having a student population who are serious about learning the trade and honing their skills. I appreciated how the stylist took the time to ask what I wanted. She also explained what products they have available so I tried the hair conditioning treatment as well as the deep scalp treatment.
My suggestion is to come not looking for anything dramatically new or radical. Because they still are students and charge a steal-of-a-price $10, that's what you should expect. Don't come with high hopes because they can fall flat. Come when you already have a great cut but are looking more for trims and maintenance.
It's been a long time... since I've written another review on yelp. But this one had to be reviewed because this place is so worth trying. Yeah they are students learning to be professional hair stylists, and yeah they aren't masters in there profession with 10 years experience. But one thing I know about Meghan Burt (the one that colored & highlighted my hair) is that she has drive and heart into what she is doing. She is very professional and down to earth. The teachers were also great, acting as mentors to the students as they work on clients. All the hair products used are from the line of Redken. Again, a GREAT brand.
My hair is thick and course and medium length. 8 ounces of hair dye was used for my hair. LOL The total amount I spent on my hair was $62 including a conditioning hair treatment which was $6. What a DEAL! I saved $70 IF I were to go to the salon. Especially during these hard economic times... this place is worth trying. Don't forget to ask for Meghan Burt.....you better believe I'm there for my next hair trim. Haircuts are only $10!!! Use that extra cash for your next eyebrow wax! LOL
I learned some more hair cutting terms today! Apex (highest top of my head), occipital lobe (back of my head), guide, and even pizza slices! These people are really serious about hair (minus the pizza slices)! I was definitely nervous this time around because I was having my hair cut very short like Shannyn Sossamon's pixie cut. I've never had my hair this short, but it looks awesome! See my before and after pictures.
When I make an appointment, I don't request a certain student. I think that all the students are capable of giving a great cut. Their instructors are always there as well. I've had 3 different students cut my hair and it's been wonderful each time. This time I actually saved $3 by using a coupon I got through the mail! $7 haircut... unheard of! Oh, cash only btw.
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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8/8/2009
I've been here two times now. Price is the same, $10 for a haircut! It looks like the students have… Read more »
Can I just say that every single time I have ever called there the girls that answer the phone are more rude than any customer service person I have ever dealt with. I now assume that there is no qualification process in hiring these people who by the way are the first impression of the salon.
I don't care how cheap the hair cuts are I will never go here again, nor recommend this place to anyone ever.
I really hope the owner knows how terrible these people are at welcoming their customers.
Well I wish I could say that I have experianced worse but I can't.
Lets say I'm a special case for this school, because for the past 2 years I've been cutting my own hair. I don't have any experience, so I've been doing it wrong the whole time. The reason is because I can't afford $40 every 3 months to get my hair cut. After finding out about this school, and reading some yelps, I couldn't wait to make an appointment. My coworker and I, both set up appointments here.
The inside of the building is very pretty and clean. It feels so fancy, but you aren't paying that much. I wasn't scared when I got into the chair, my girl, Sarah, did an excellent job fixing up my mess. So I got the cut for $10 and conditioning for $6. You can tip here, so of course I did, that is the right thing to do if your student made you look good. In like 3-4 months I do plan on going back to get my hair trimmed, so exciting!
I had such great experiences with the hair styling that I thought I'd give the spa services a try also. The facial was fantastic and very relaxing.
I also tried the makeup services and it could just be the person that I ended up with, but I wasn't very happy with that. I explicitly told her not to make my eyes look darker and she rimmed my bottom lids with heavy black liner. It was pretty irritating but I was in a hurry and didn't have time for her to wipe it all off and start again. So I'll stay away from the makeup application personally.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/21/2009
The prices are unbelievable and the work is pretty good. However, they really really take their… Read more »
There's really not a lot to say about this place. It was cheap, but decent. You get what you pay for, basically.
I've never been to a beauty school for a cut, but due to the economy lately, I figured what's the harm. To be honest, the stylist I saw was a bit haughty and constantly checked the clock.
My cut took about an hour or so, and it was literally just a trim. The cut I got was no layers, straight across. This would be fine, but now my hair is a bit poofy at the sides and looks a little triangle-esque.
No serious complaints about this place, but definitely not thrilling. It's possible I might give it another go with a different stylist.
I had a great time here. My student was Kyra (keira) not sure on the spelling, sorry :P Any how, she was great, personable, easy to talk to, we actually talked about a million different things. She gave me the cut that I wanted and love, my color came out good except a little bright on the scalp area in certain lights, but I have had extremely worse for more money, and besides it will die down by the weekend, no complaints here!
She is extemely driven and will definately make it her profession. Also try out Nicole, she was next to us and I seen her give a great cut as well!
Thanks Kyra! Great job for the money I spent!
Regardless of whether or not the haircut cost 100 dollars or 10 dollars, it is generally pretty hard for me to admit that I like the new do from day 1. But I love it....a thankfully AFSP only cost $10...
I have been to cosmetology schools for a cut several times before (I need to stop being such a cheap a$$) and generally I find them to be a huge clusterf#*k. AFSP keeps a very professional vibe while also striving for quality in their work. The certified professionals will be making laps around the floor checking on students, helping perfect their technique, and answering technical questions to ensure the vision you described to your salon apprentice becomes a reality.
Whats the catch? It takes FO' EVS. I showed up at 6:20 for my 6:30 appointment and left a little before 9. I just got a normal wash/cut, but this timely process is for a good reason: students have to get checked off before, during, and after your cut...this is to ensure IF there are any mistakes they will be caught and fixed immediately. There were no mistakes on my head and I seriously think its worth the wait.
The last school I got a cut at the woman froze like a deer in headlights after she cut bangs on the back of my head when attempting to butcher me some layers with her machete sheers. FML. AFSP would NEVER allow this, and the entire floor just seems much more competent and supportive. Definitely BOOK AN APPOINTMENT EARLY, as the appointments are backed up for weeks. Best value haircut in the bay...
ps look up their makeup, waxing, dye job deals too...its all amazingly cheap.
WOW! What a great first experience! The school name says it all--Salon Professionals. I was greeted with a smile and a hello and before I could finish signing the waiver my stylists was waiting (with a smile, too!) Alejandra was my stylists and she was very thorough as to what the process is and it is very much appreciated! My $10 wash, cut, blow dry and style was well worth it and I love my hair! I will be going to this place more frequently since they do more than haircuts!
By the way...make an appointment so that you don't have to wait and bring a bottle of water if you decide to get more than a haircut--you'll be glad you did. Oh, and bring a picture of how you want to hair--it can only help.
Lastly, bring cash for the tip because you can't add it to the bill.
After reading all the Yelp reviews of AFSP, I felt that I was well prepared for my hair appointment today. I was ready for how long it would possibly take for them to cut and condition my hair and for the possibility of either having a really great or really horrible experience. I had debated for a long time if it was a good idea for me to get my hair trimmed right before my friend's wedding this weekend. But seeing how dry my hair was, I knew I could use some trimming and conditioning. So, I finally decided to risk it...since there seems to be many positive Yelp reviews AND I was super excited that I was only going to pay $16 total for my haircut and conditioning treatment ($10 for haircut + $6 condition treatment).
PROS:
-very clean and modern salon
-friendly and helpful staff
-very affordable prices! ($10 - haircut, $6 - condition treatment)
-professional (great results! exactly what I asked for!)
-loved my stylist, Anna (non-pretentious, easy to talk to, listened to my requests, and produced great results! I definitely recommend her!)
-didn't take as long as I had expected (trim +condition treatment only took about 1 hr...though, weekday mornings may be their least busy times)
CONS:
-don't really have anything to complain about since my experience was great!
MY DETAILED EXPERIENCE (if you're interested):
I had a 10am appointment this morning (which I had to book a week in advance...advice: book early since their appointments get booked quickly). I arrived a little bit early, around 9:45am, but I was brought in immediately. Upon meeting Anna, my stylist, she asked me what I wanted done to my hair. Since I have a wedding to attend in a few days, I emphasized that I wanted to keep the length of my hair and asked for a basic hair and bangs trim. Anna was very detail-oriented and confirmed with me about every little thing I wanted done (ie. half an inch off my layers, the shape of my layers, etc.). Then, she had to get signed off with an instructor on what she was about to do to my hair. I like that they check with an instructor before doing anything to you hair because the instructor is there to supervise and advise. This way, there's less room for mistakes.
After getting signed off, we headed to the shampooing station to get my hair shampooed and also to get my condition treatment. Anna was very professional during this part. She not only explained every product she was putting in my hair and what it was used for, but she also made sure I was comfortable (ie. asking if the water temperature was fine or making sure the towel and wrap around my neck wasn't too tight). Then, we headed back to her station for the haircutting part. After cutting my hair, she had to check with an instructor again. The instructor came by and cut a little off here and there but didn't make any major corrections since Anna had done a good job already. But again, this part of the process is reassuring since if there were to be any mistakes, the instructor would be there to fix it. Anna finished by blowdrying and straightening my hair.
There's been many times in the past where I've had to hold back tears and lie at the end of a haircut when the stylists tell you to look in the mirror and ask if you like it. That definitely wasn't the case today! I loved my hair and it turned out to be exactly what I had asked for. I don't remember the last time when my hair was this soft and shiny. I'm so grateful that a stylist actually listened to my requests for once. Anna even gave me tips on how to keep my hair healthy and also on how to curl my hair the right way when I told her I sucked at curling my hair.
I will definitely be coming back here for my future hair needs and to try other services (nails, facials, etc.). If their other services are just as great as their hair services, then I'm sure I won't be disappointed!
$10! For this you get a wash, trim, and blow dry...and they use Redken products.
I got a trim by Nora and it looks just like the original cut. I didn't even get stuck there for that long, just about an hour and a half. I would definitely come back. But use cash, they don't let you add a tip to your debit card =(
As long as I live in the South Bay, I will be getting my haircuts here. I went this morning for the first time and I left with super shiny and soft hair, I even told Dane (my stylist) "Wow, I've never seen it look so shiny...."
She credits Redken products for the shiny gloss but I credit her for a nice job overall. I appreciate the time they take to do your hair, just got to make sure you aren't in a hurry. I trusted Dane completely and there were times when a supervisor would step in and give her some tips, using my head as an example.
The place is very professional and clean. Great service, nice people (my stylist even gave me a big hug after my haircut!) and I really love my hair!!
I recommend making an appointment because this place seems really busy.
i have gone in again and was even more satisfied!
the skin care line they now carry is DERMALOGICA, and it seems to work pretty well as i have used a few of their products on my own.
The lady who did my facial along with one of the instructors informed that the school was working on adding new things to their facial, more like an actual day spa and such.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/27/2009
WOW!!
amazing facial, Christina took her time and explained everything she was doing and yet i was… Read more »
Everything looks good except for this tiny part on the right side of my haircut around my ears.. somehow it looks kinda weird but i believe i can fix that right up at home.. couple of days letting the hair grow and settle into my new haircut.. then it will look better! I actually don't know why i feel haircuts look better after a day or two.. i think it is all in my imagination.. haha
Called the previous day to make an appointment for Wed 12:00pm.. got out of there at 1:30pm.. not bad at all for a $10 haircut.. not bad.. not the FAVORITEST cut i've had but not bad at all Shelby!! Thanks for the cut!!
It did make me nervous at times though seeing them cut your hair uneasily compared to the past stylists i've been to.. especially when they have to check it off with their teachers at every stage of the haircut and the teachers teach them the proper techniques...where she wasn't doing the right technique so the teacher fixed my hair.. ohh boy that made me feel pretty nervous!! Staff was very friendly and professional. I can see why going to this academy would be a great investment if you are really interested in that career. They have requirements and whoever was not working on a client, they had to practice on doll heads.. That just showed how much the students here were interested in learning and how disciplined they were with their classes and practice times.
The place was really nice! black/silver/white themed atmosphere with students and workers dressing all black of course. Every station had their own rectangular mirrors, which made the place very chic and trendy. i loved it! I wouldn't mind coming back here.. but maybe after a few times somewhere else first :) haha at least i gave it a try! what a trooper i am.
all i can say is WOW money well spent. Today I went for just a trim and i spent $16 for a wash, trim, blow dry, and style (it was really 10 but i spent $6 on a condition treatment haha.
overall like everyone has stated it does take awhile but that is just because they are getting checked off by the instructor but hey you can't beat the price.
Meghan trimmed my hair today and she did an awesome job i asked her questions about my hair and without hesitating she answered all my questions full in detail.
she took her time which meant she was being very detailed and didn't just try and rush and mess my hair up haha. and the whole time she kept a conversation going didn't have any awkward silences.
but yeah i highly recommend meghan she does a wonderful job.
I will definitely be back. in fact i'm going back to get my hair highlighted lol.
Been there three times for a hair cut, and it only gets better.
I've been growing out my hair for some time wanting to go back to the old hair style I had which is much longer and fuller. Other than bang trims I have not had a formal cut in months. I knew that I could get away with it since I'm gentle with my hair, don't color it, and either French braid it or wear a hair clippy thing. I am so happy to be able to write a review about this wonderful place now that my hair is freshly cut and styled. One day, by chance, I saw a brand new Yelp review on the main page and clicked on it to see what it was about. I'm so glad I did! The Academy of Salon Professionals is a school located in Santa Clara and run by a man who owns a posh salon in Saratoga. I wasn't sure what to expect other than it being low cost and my appointment lasting 1.5 - 2 hours. I was warned.
In these tough economic times ("ITTET" - thanks X for sharing that acronym!) I am paring down all of my usual beauty expenses and have been looking for a bargain on everything else. There is no way that I'm going to one of the drive-through cut shops so this place seemed an ideal fit. I booked a haircut and have just returned from one of the better salon experiences of my life. My first job at age 15 (almost 16), was at a hopping beauty salon near Ann Arbor, MI, and boy did I learn *a lot* about hair (and the facts of life from the bawdy stylists - blush!). Whenever I enter a salon I look at it through the eyes of that young girl booking appointments and dealing with shampoo divas. I know what to look for and this place impressed me immediately.
The moment I walked in to ASP I loved it! It's Project Runway meets Velcro Rollers and it certainly appeals to my appreciation of aesthetics. There were many many customers and many many stylists all buzzing about. Each and every one of these young gals was as darling as can be and all smiles. I had the amazing fortune to book with Tania, a student of four months, who also worked the Reception desk at a salon before jumping in to this career path. I deal with people in my line of work and I know in my heart that this young lady will go far! She was awesome in personality and cutting skill. My hair looks fantastic. Typically I'm not overly chatting during my appointments but not today; Tania is very cool.
ASP offers all beauty services for a fraction of the cost, and all work is done under the careful supervision of an instructor. Jeannette came over four times to check on things and she was very cool, too. I chatted wtih two customers; one was a first-timer like me and the other had been going there for a while. I can't wait to go back for a facial (they use Dermalogica!!), pedicure, and even a wax. Waxing is $28, a mere pittance of what I'd pay elsewhere. I'll just hit the Motrin extra heavy before the appointment in case my student waxer is a newbie.
Once you've experienced Academy (ASP), there's no turning back!
I LOVE MY $10 HAIRCUT! How come no one told me about this place?? This hair salon is definitely better than my experience last January at Tangerine (waste of $40). ASP has been open since January 2008? So fairly recent. ASP not only does hair, but also facials, waxing, makeup, and mani/pedi!! I had a 9:30am appointment and I was out of there by 11:30am! I got there a little before 9:30am and had to sign my life away, just kidding, because I was a newbie. I probably didn't get seated until 9:45am-ish?
My hair dresser was Lauren G. She started ASP in September and will be graduating from the program in June!! She was really thorough and would always ask her instructors for advice when needed. Before doing anything with my hair, she asked me what I wanted done. I told her my hair was thick and I wanted thin hair! bwahaha XD Then, we went over to the washing area and shampooed with Redken products. The hair cutting process was relatively quick. I didn't feel like I needed to read the magazines that I'd brought. I've been to the Vidal Sassoon School in Santa Monica and it felt like it took forever there! This place is worth every penny! Shampoo, cut, style and blow dry all for $10!!! If you are worried about them screwing up your hair, don't be! They have instructors constantly supervising them and the director of the school walks around too!
Make sure you make an appointment well in advance! I think more people are starting to know about this place and time slots fill up quick, especially for Fridays and Saturdays!
I know you're probably reading these reviews and thinking it sounds too good to be true! haha I thought the same and decided to give it a try! $10 for a haircut! I repeat, $10 for a nice haircut!! :D Experience it for yourself! This review is dedicated to people who still haven't found the best hair salon yet and for the students at ASP!! And congrats to Caroline S. for getting ROTD today for her review!! Yay!! It's as good as it gets!! :D I wanna try their mani/pedi or facials next time!!
Go green: take VTA #22 or #522
For only $20 (way cheap compare to some of my friends who go their hair done at some other places i.e, $80), I was so happy with how my hair turned out for prom. A lot of my friends and I went there for before prom to get our hair done, and every single one of us was satisfied with the result. At first I was a little scared since the student that did my hair seemed a little unsure, but she proved herself otherwise. She was so friendly and kept the conversation going throughout the whole session. My hair turned out absolutely great, just the way I wanted. And everyone, even the instructors complimented me on it and that made me feel great. My friends also got their make-up done there too, and it looked great as well! I would definitely go back there again if I needed my hair done.
Granted it took a little long (which was what I had expected) I really enjoyed my experience here. As a student, I loved the student environment. I had Megan and she really communicated with me to make sure I got what I wanted. My hair cut turned out super cute and it turned out to be free since I donated my hair to locks of love. I will most certainly be back.
In these troubled times of cash shortages I turned my attention to beauty schools as a solution to overpriced salons. The fact that I have not had my own stylist for years may also be a reason for my sudden interest in a lower price point.
The Academy is a Redken school, and this Bay Area branch is brand spankin' new. Redken is a NY based company, though now they have an LA school as well. The whole atmosphere of the school is of the young, trendy professional, focused entirely on the job.
The price list is phenomenal... 10 bucks for a wash, cut, and style! I also got partial highlights, a wash, cut, and style for 55 dollah! Woohoo...
Charmaine colored my hair the first time and like all student stylists consulted with a teacher beforehand. I liked the fact that Charmaine involved me in the consultation process and didn't make any decisions for me, like some stylists do. Now I have natural looking, glowing, caramel colored highlights!
Elisa styled my hair today as Charmaine was booked. She did a fabulous job listening to what I wanted in my cut, as well as applying her professionalism to the job.
I would recommend the Academy to anyone! If you go before June (when the above stylists graduate) I would say go to Charmaine for color and Elisa for cut. Both girls were pleasant and efficient. While I certainly do not like jobs that take forever I would want anyone working on my hair to take their time! I don't know who the other Yelpers had as a stylist but neither of my jobs took unreasonable amounts of time to complete...
I go on yelp a lot, but don't review much.. But I HAD to review this place because the results from my haircut and partial highlights was AWESOME at AFSP! I paid $51 + tip. $10 for my haircut, $35 for partial highlights, $6 for conditioning treatment and $10 because they had to use an extra bottle for my thick Asian hair.
I was pretty scared at first, going to a beauty college but reading all the reviews and going onto the website to look at prices, I just had to make an appointment. The earliest app. they had was after a week & a half, which is a good sign. When I walked in there, I was shocked. It was superrrrr clean and nice. The theme was black & white. Me and my fiance were surprised... We've been to beauty colleges before and they usually look pretty darn ghetto, but this was clean and HUGE! The student that was working on me was Sara. And Amanda assisted her..
Long story short, the whole process took four hours.. Which is a little longer than at the salon, but the end result was totally awesome. The instructor came by a lot and fixed a couple things because Sara didn't know how to do my bangs like the picture I brought in, so many of them watched as the instructor snipped away. It looked like the picture, but it didn't suit my face (I always hate my bang results). For highlights I wanted to go for a caramel color, but the instructor told me to go lighter and that it would still be subtle and I'm glad I did.. I got a light caramel (level 7) and it looks fantastic. The cut was also exactly like that picture, and it looks amazing.. I've brought in photos at other pricey salons and it doesn't look nearly as good.
Friendly students, friendly instructors.. Overall my experience at AFSP was awesome... I will def. come back =)
Since I've been forewarned by yelpers, I didn't mind getting a 1.5-hr haircut. Getting an appointment was easy, but I went on a weekday. Soon after arriving, I was greeted by Justin, the clinic coordinator. Very nice and professional. Soon after came the student assigned to me. After she told me that she just started the course 2 months ago, I was a little nervous, but it turned out I had nothing to worry about. I liked that she wasn't the super chatty type, she would just answer all of my questions and that's it (no "who got cut last week from Idol?", "who's engaged to whom?" talks). But she did her job very well, getting compliments from the instructors. She took her time (1.5 hr to be exact) but I was happy with the results. And for $10, no complaints at all.
You might take your chances here though. There was this other student next to me that is apparently about to graduate and was cutting this guy's hair that was about 1/2" long at most, and the instructor went over to help several times. She even said "I don't know how to do that" once when the instructor suggested something. Yikes, I think I'm going to stick to the one that cut mine this time since she's relatively new to the school so she'll be there for a while.
Cut, colored, styled = $50!!
Thank you Lisa for the great cut and highlights. I'm so sorry it took literally all day but it was well worth the wait. I'll will defiantly be back soon!
This place is clean, professional, and friendly. The students are willing to listen and do what you want, and its cheap! Give it a try, its not for everyone but if your on a budget and you have a whole day devoted to your hair give it a try!
If you are like me and have more time than money, this is the place to go. Cut and full color with highlights = $55. Score! The catch? It literally took every bit of 5 hours! I was so hungry when I got out of there, I wanted to rip the blow dryer from my stylist's hands and scream "NO! NO MORE, it's time to eat!!"
The cut was excellent, but I can't say I recommend getting color done there, because it takes forever, and since they are students, they tend to be really slow and you'll be way blonder than you wanted to be. But really, it's so cheap, so awesome, and the atmosphere is really clean and nice, very trendy!
I've been here twice. Both times my hair stylist was really nice and did a great job doing exactly what I asked.
The front desk staff could use a major overhaul though. They tend not to answer the phone, return voice mails and can be a bit on the rude & snooty side. To be clear, it is the front desk STAFF, not the students who help out at the front desk. Sometimes the teachers can be a lil short with you too, but I chalked it up to them being so busy with their students.
All in all, I plan to go here again because the pricing is so affordable, but I'd prefer to deal with the staff as little as possible.
Had to make an appointment about a week in advance for full head color, partial highlights, and a bang trim. Went in at 9:30am on a friday left at 4pm! Only come here for color if you have a whole day to dedicate to your hair, luckily I did.
Overall I'm very with my color and highlights! Yes it did take almost 7 hours but it was only $51! So that's why I gave it 4 stars minus one for the excruciating time sitting in that salon chair. .
The student/stylist I got was Lauren. She was very friendly and told me everything she was doing and made sure it was in the direction I wanted. She spent a lot of time on my highlights and they turned out great.
I would definately come here if you're looking for a salon quality color/highlights at about a quarter of the price.
I don't know what to make of my experience. I am a male and I went in for a trim. My appointment was at 1.30pm and I was on the seat on time. The girl was very friendly, but I wasn't sure if she wanted to gain experience cutting men's hair. The shampoo/wash before cutting was really bad, in the sense that she didn't care. I asked for a half an inch trim and she was very careful about that, which was great. She did a fantastic job on the top. I don't think she knew how to navigate the sides and back though. And the cleanup after the cut was horrible. She could have given me a brush and a blow dryer and I might have felt better. :-)
I also sensed a lot of attitude, I guess they are practicing that also. :-)
I don't know if I will go back. I would'nt mind paying $20 if they just made it better end-to-end. This girl was so much better than some of the "experienced" people.
Um... I guess I've gotten worse haircuts for more.
I'm not exactly satisfied with my haircut, but I will probably go back again because the price is too cheap to pass up. Also, since it's a training school I understand that it'll probably be hit-or-miss, depending on the talent and the experience of the stylist you get.
At this point, my haircut can look ok if I style it a certain way, but it is a little choppy and uneven in parts. It took a whopping 2 and a half hours for a shampoo and cut. I think my hair texture (wavy, stiff, and coarse) and desired style (very texturized asian bob) caught my stylist off-guard and she seemed often at a loss at how to handle my hair. Mid-way through the cut she tried to blow-dry it dry/straight, leaving my hair sticking out Jane Jetson-style (I usually wear it ironed straight) which she then tried to cut as is.
By the time I left, my hair was uneven (from the blow-dry) and uncomfortably oily (due to being blasted by vinyl-gloss in attempt to control my stiff hair). It's a little better now after I shampooed it and styled it myself.
Anyway, it looks ok, not great. Oh well, at least I don't have a hole in my pocket.
loved the way my hair turned out!!! Katie S. did an amazing job with my highlights. The highlights were subtle and the color was a little dark at first but lightened up over the weeks. The only reason they didnt get 5 stars? It took almost 5 hrs to do my highlights! They dont use heat so it takes a long time for the bleach to lift the color! I was charged for half a head of highlights but it seemed more like a full head of highlights. $35 for highlights- No complaints here!
Thanks Amy for the wonderful facial! I wished it never ended.
I came here last night for a facial. My skin needed it, I been breaking out and my skin needed a clean up. Plus I been stressing out from work and I just really needed to relax and pamper myself. I made and appointment and they assigned me to Amy. She is very warm and friendly. Amy greeted me and ask me about my skin and what my concerns are. She was very nice and attentive to my wants for my skin. She lead me to the facial room which was cozy. Even though you had to share the room, it didn't feel crowded at all. Had me change into a facial gown and pretty much wrap me up like a cocoon while she worked on my face. I wish the room was individual rooms, it would be more relaxing instead of having to share with others.
She did a wonderful job on my face and took her time with all the extractions. I always hated the extraction part, but I know she was supervised and I felt I was in good hands. Then she gave me a full face and neck massage. The massage was wonderful, I wish it didn't end. Overall I had a wonderful experience and got to take a little nap too. Amy made recommendations of what I need to do for my skin (I need to exfoliate more), but overall she said my skin is not bad. Great news to a person who use to have huge pimples and zits on her face and was on Accuntane.
I will be back for sure next month to get a facial and for $20 bucks how can you beat that. A girl needs to stay looking young and beautiful, its all about maintenance.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/13/2008 ROTD 11/27/2008
Thank you so much Trudi! I love my hair! I am so happy with the results and you did a wonderful job.… Read more »
After being inspired by Donna and since the bf was coming home that day, I decided to get a haircut and at least attempt to look decent for his return. Came here on a Saturday and was very impressed with the facility and the professionalism of the students!
I just got a haircut there (wash, cut, blow dry and style all included) and it was only $10!!! After paying $100+ for a haircut before it was great to find a place that doesn't break the bank and still does a good job.
I got Tina and she was great. Made conversation while she was cutting my hair and also took time and made sure everything was the way I wanted it. I loved how she prepped by grabbing me some magazines before I came.
Overall I had a great experience and I'd definitely return. I'm curious to try their other services such as facials and nails!
Parking is a breeze...big lot in the back!
Finding a good hair salon is tough, so many choices! And just cuz it's expensive does not mean it's good!
My friend referred me to this place and I got excited reading all the positive reviews, hence, I made an appointment.
I was impressed to find the inside was spacious and clean with high ceilings. The staff welcomed me and I was promptly greeted by my hairdresser student, Katie, who took me to her station. She was a pleasure to work with, not too talkative, but really focused on my hair and did a great job! She definitely has a passion for her work and even took the extra step to display her portfolio for the clients.
The cut took almost 3 hours, which included wash, cut, blow-dry, and style. Since this was a school, we had to wait for the one or two instructors walking around to advice and approve before students can proceed with cutting methods. I was satisfied with the results and happy that so many people focused on making sure I looked good!
All that for $10 can't be beat! I'll definitely be back.
I was thoroughly impressed by the level of professionalism here.
And my eyes bugged out when I went to go pay for my cut and color...$30!
Are u kidding me? I was ecstatic!
Just a reminder that these are students, so they will do what you ask and have their instructor give their advice as well. I am usually the type who has something in mind, but really likes it when my stylist gives her input etc..etc...so for the lack of input, I subtracted a star.
I also subtracted a star, because when I was getting the dye washed out of my hair, there was a rush of warm water oozing down the front of my shirt! The student did not put the towel and cape secure enough around my neck!
So all in all, I will definitely be back for a color treatment and their facials for $20 (which are an hour long), but for my cuts, I'm going back to my go to girls in San Jose and Milpitas!
I have come here for facials, haircuts, colors, styling and have never left disappointed! This place is beautiful..You would never think you're in a beauty school..The ambiance is very spa-like, everyone looks so trendy and glamorous and with the prices..you really can't beat this! I have waist length hair and I spent almost 3 hours here this past weekend getting a cut, color and conditioning wash for.. $ 36.00!!! I will definitely be going back soon!
Recommended by a friend, and certainly glad it was! Used to pay $60 for the SAME haircut that is $10 here. Jill did an awesome job and was very personable. I will be back for more!
Never would I have imagined that I would leave this salon, after 5 hours, looking like a bedraggled tiger (only much uglier) at the hands of a woman who had styled Paris Hilton's hair.
Or at least that's what I was told by her student, my hairdresser of the day. VERY LONG STORY "short," I scheduled an appointment with the intent of of streaking my hair purple, and ended up with orange (the freaking opposite of purple!!) hair, which does nothing for my complexion.
My hairdresser was all excited about the project, because she usually gets boring stuff. We decided to do purple, blue, and red-violet peekaboo highlights. Unfortunately, she was painfully slow and made a few missteps. She didn't ask an instructor for help before proceeding with the lightening because she didn't want them to mess up her "artistic vision." I asked her a few times about how long it would take, and she said that I'd be out for sure before 5. (The teachers should help their students be on pace.)
She applied heat on my lightening hair, which really hurt my scalp, but she said that the pain was worth it. Later, an instructor came by and at some point said that salon never uses heat. Oops? Hair damage wheeee!!
Also, when she applied the lightener on me, she didn't use thin enough blocks of hair. When it was almost all put on (1.5 hours later), an instructor came by and told her that.
Another instructor now informed us that the purple looks really bad! Wish I knew that before I lightened my hair! I say let's just do blue and red-violet instead then. She, however, still wants to do the purple and my hair still needs further lightening for that. She re-lightens all my hair, which takes freaking forever. It would have been smarter, if you ask me, to just re-lighten the hair we're putting purple on. But maybe she had to re-lighten because she hadn't done them in thin enough partitions earlier.
I ask about the time, and she assures me that it's okay, this is the part that takes a long time, and the color will go super quickly. She is still doing things super slowly.
Of course...at 4 something (I came in at noon), the instructor pulls her out. Then she comes tell me that they won't be able to color my hair. The dye needs to be in for 40 minutes. I am aghast...I'm sorry, but I don't do preppy blond highlights. She says she could schedule me in for tomorrow (I have something important, but maybe I can reschedule), then comes back and tells me that they aren't booking tomorrow, but the day after is okay. But I start school in Berkeley that day! They explain to me that blablabla it is a school blablabla the receptionists don't know blablabla...and I'm thinking...F***!!
So after a while, they come up with this solution of demi-permanent dye...they aren't sure how it'll turn out, but it only has to be in there for 10 minutes. I say that it can't be worse than what I would do by myself...and boy was I in for a surprise. I ask for the instructor's opinion between blue, violet, and red (can mix those) and she suggests violet and red so I try violet-red. And my hair ends up bright orange. Woot.
No time to blow-dry completely...hence, the drowned look.
I could go on and on about my experience here, but this box has a character limit. Let's map it out for you:
Pros:
-Very very affordable--you can't beat the prices here. $10 for a cut, $25 for highlights, $10 per bottle of color.
-My hairdresser was very sweet and really listened to what I wanted...unfortunately that doesn't cut it.
-The salon looks cool.
-Some other people left with really cute hair.
-They charged me less for messing up on me. ($25 total)
-I feel elated when I watch the dye wash out of my hair during my showers, because in due time, I can dye it purple with my Hot Topic Dye.
-My haircut was cute.
Cons
-I left looking really ugly. Thank goodness I look less ugly with my hair blow-dried and lots of eye make-up to distract from the orange.
-I did see one student glaring at an unhappy customer and complaining about him after.
-It took FREAKING FOREVER. Do not come here for anything but a haircut (an estimated 1.5-2 hours) unless you have hours of time, and a few days free afterwards just in case they mess up.
-The instructor blamed the situation on the receptionist "not knowing" how long things take. I say they inform their receptionists. The student attributed it to my hair not lightening as quickly as most "virgin" (never colored) hair does. Screw that.
So before coming here, ask yourself the following questions:
1. How much is your time worth, compared to your money?
TIP: Leave 2 hours for a haircut, and 4-5 for color.
2. Do you have room for error in your hairstyle?
I wanted to love it, but I'm sorry...it's a risk. I would recommend going to the Academy for haircuts, but nothing fancy unless you want to spend a work day there. And as for me...I now have Halloween Hair and I'm too embarrassed to put up a picture of it. I can't live up to my profile =(
It's true .... I'm a fan!
I normally see Diana at Julian Chase, but since I am currently "employment challenged" and needed to wash that grey right outta my hair, I knew I had to get creative.
Enter Academy for Salon Professionals! I went there this morning. The space is very large, bright and super clean. I was the first appointment of the day as saw a steady stream of customers come in during my two hour color job. Taylor was my colorist and she did a really good job. I don't normally put product in my hair and thought she was a bit heavy handed at the end when she did my blowdry, but that's ok ... I had planned on re-washing my hair when I got home anyway.
They are easily located right on El Camino and have their own lot in the back. The best part? I walked out only paying $20. Awesome.
I will still only trust Diana with the scissors, but assuming my color still looks great in a couple of weeks, I will definitely come back here!
