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Academy for Salon Professionals
Categories: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Beauty and Spas Nail Salons Education Specialty Schools Cosmetology Schools Hair Salons, Nail Salons, Cosmetology Schools [Edit]
2238 El Camino RealSanta Clara, CA 95050
(408) 261-9201
- Hours:
Tue, Fri-Sat 9 am - 5 pm
Wed-Thu 9 am - 9 pm
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
216 reviews for Academy for Salon Professionals
216 reviews in English
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Review from Grisell R.
San Jose, CA
4/18/2012 1 Check-in Here
Hair Salons in the bay area can be quite expensive. Tired of paying hundreds of dollars for a haircut and color, i decided to give this school a try. Wait School? only by name, as far as service, stylist and quality this place is nothing like a school.
I have nothing but praise for Diana, she is courteous and professional. What skilled hands and eyes this girl has!
Diana gave me the best color treatment and was very kind. She helped me make the right decision for my hair so that I wouldn't have breakage and explained everything to me (I haven't colored in years). She was very considerate and wanted to keep my hair as healthy as possible, which I greatly appreciate.
Diana suggested a deep conditioning that left my hair feeling silky. Diana also style my hair blow dry and curls, it looked fabulous.
She recommended take home products that would help my hair to be healthier and I must say, she did not lie, I love the products!.
I highly recommend Diana, book your appointments with her and have an amazing experience like I did! -
Review from L L.
San Francisco, CA
3/27/2012
The CON - Getting your hair done here will take some time. I had my hair partially highlighted, toned and then cut. It took 3 days. Seriously. The students have to check in with an instructor every step of the way. My highlight took 4 hours. That's only the highlight and then we ran out of time. That was a Wednesday. So I had to come back the next day for the toner.
THE PRO - The color came out amazing. My student Brittnay was very detailed, listened to what I wanted, weaved the color like a master. Given time, she'll be a pro soon. But then she didn't have time to do the cut that day, she was all booked up. So I came back on Friday. It took about 2 hours for the cut because again she had to run through every step with her instructor.
I'm not going to lie, it took a long time. Luckily I was unemployed at the time so I had nothing but time. I also lucked out by getting a great student, who took her time to listen and execute according to my wishes. It also cost a 1/3 of what I was paying in SF. Worth it? Yes. Now that I am working again? I am not sure how I'd be able to schedule it all in but I am willing to figure it out if I can get Brittney again. -
Review from Esther S.
3/22/2012
Woohoo $12 haircut!
A bit hard to make reservations but try during different times of the day and you'll be able to get a hold of someone- don't leave a message; ours was never returned. They call a day before to confirm your reservation.
Parking is in the back of the building but you are not allowed to walk through the building to the front- go from the sides.
Once you check in, a student comes to meet you in the front are you are guided to one of their many salon tables inside. Place is really big, clean, and professional.
These are students that are required to go step by step through paperwork and write everything down and supervised. I was a bit nervous going in since they are "still learning" but they had 2 instructors there constantly supervising and teaching. They are required to get the instructors approval to move forward so there really is no worries there.
Hair wash comes with the cut. They use Redken products and are generous with it- they are also NOT pushy with sales which is really nice.
My haircut only took 1 hour but the 2 friends I came with took 2 hours and 1 of the girls only got an inch trimmed off! So it really is a hit and miss with who you get. Bring a nice book to read....or prepare to learn a lot about your hair dresser =) -
Review from Kimmy N.
San Jose, CA
5/23/2012
Shampoo, haircut, and styling for only $12? Yes, please!
I was expecting two hours for my haircut, reading off of most of the reviews, but my haircut only took a little less than one hour and I cut 6 inches off of my hair into a bob!
The products used are Redken, which work very well. The atmosphere was professional and clean. The instructors who came by to check on my hair were friendly and very informative to their students on what little things to fix and made sure I was happy with what was going on, too.
Kudos for the great service and haircut! Can't wait to come back here for my next appointment. -
Review from Denina T.
San Jose, CA
5/15/2012
Bahareh
did a fantastic job on my hair. She did a cut and color and I can't go anywhere without people asking me who cut my hair!! I have to give them directions to the school and her name. She is so great!!! It's better to make an appointment and request Bahareh because she's aaaamazing! -
Review from Samantha L.
San Jose, CA
3/17/2012
This place was not bad at all. I came here after reading other Yelp reviews and wanted to see what this $10 hair cut was like. First off, this place is very clean and stylish. They use Redeken products which work very well.
I told the lady that I basically wanted an all around trim. The student I got was not very confident in her work but pulled off the job. She kinda messed up when trimming my side swooped bangs but the instructor fixed them and saved the day. In the end I got an okay hair cut. Meaning it wasn't bad but wasn't amazing. Pretty good for only $10.
Cons:
- A Simple hair cut takes over 2 hours.
- The place feels like a high school instead of a salon. All the students are gabbing the whole time and do not act very professional. -
Review from Janee S.
San Jose, CA
5/16/2012
Love this place, for hair or facials, it's the place to go!!! Rochelle is my girl for hair, great haircut's and quick on the color touch ups. Mimi is the person to see if you want a relaxing and quality facial. Oh and the price is right too.
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Review from Shehryar S.
San Jose, CA
3/14/2012
This place is legit. I used to pay $25 for a men's haircut at my old salon, today I paid $12 for an even better haircut.
Even though the haircut took 1.5 hours, I actually didn't mind. My stylist, Nicole, was very friendly and really great about asking if I wanted her to tweak anything in my hair. I also find that because these stylists are learning, they are more likely to do a better job because they want to get good marks from their instructors who critique them right in front of you.
Many of us have probably left a stylist or two because they got too comfortable and their worked started slipping. This place is the perfect solution because it's actually normal for you to get a different stylist each time. This way you always have someone with fresh energy doing your hair! -
Review from Jessica K.
San Jose, CA
3/18/2012
I got my hair cut here two days ago at it was great! Cut, shampoo, some extra conditioning, and highlights for only $43!!!! The cut alone was only $12 ^_^
Madison was the student working on me. She was very honest with me about her expertise in what I was requesting for my hair. She asked her instructor a few times to double check her work :) and I personally REALLY appreciated that.
Her friend Makenzie(sp) brought me magazines and helped Madison blow dry my hair. Very sweet :)
I didn't have an appointment either and I walked in and was seen 10 minutes later.
Everyone here was super nice and I'll be coming back again :) -
Review from Loren H.
Colma, CA
4/17/2012
Nicole is the best! So cute and such the perfectionist. Even though the haircuts went from 10 to $12, no biggie. All really nice folks...I recommend it.
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Review from Anjali S.
Milpitas, CA
4/10/2012
This place is AMAZING. Their standard shampoo, condition, cut and style is only 10 bucks! I have only been here once.
The only downside, and it is a pretty big one, is the fact that they barely ever have appointments available. It is really annoying because I can't get a haircut when I need to. Even if I call in a week ahead of time I can't get anything. It is really frustrating. They definitely need to do something about this because it sucks. -
Review from Margaret C.
San Jose, CA
2/7/2012
I found this place through Yelp and thought I'd give it a try.
I think I expected a little more with my haircut.
But oh well, it could have been worse right? I could have been BALD!
Anyways, experience here was certainly different from your usual salon.
You can tell some students are more diligent than others.
I don't think I'll be back. But if I do come back, I think I'd request for a senior stylist.
A hit-or-miss kind of place. -
Review from Linda N.
1/15/2012 1 Check-in Here
First off, a wash, cut, and blow dry for $10 is a STEAL!
The place is very clean, professional looking, and spacious. There are lot of people working at once. It probably depends which student you get, but if you're specific enough, you should be ok. They also check in with the instructors pretty regularly, and the instructors will fix any small mistakes.
My experience:
I came here with a friend to get a haircut. We both have short, somewhat a-line style hair.
I feel horrible I can't remember the student's name that cut my hair now. I'm so bad with names. She was great, though. I'm almost positive her name was Britney. She was friendly and she asked questions or for help from the instructors whenever necessary.
I learned a lot of terms that I've never heard before: combination layers, graduated cut,, etc. It was pretty interesting actually. Also, I learned that it's actually a Redken school-- I love Redken products! You can check in on Yelp, Facebook to get some free samples.
I'm used to going to older Asian barbers who hardly care about what you're asking for, and hardly care if you like what they give you. And the worst: they like to use those combs with blades, ouch! This place takes a longer time, 1.5 to 2 hrs, but I think it's definitely worth it. I'll come back. -
Review from Melissa L.
San Jose, CA
2/24/2012
This salon is very neat. It is clean and spacious and the person who cut my hair did an good job. She took her time (about one hour) and stopped to ask me periodically whether I liked the cut so far and what more or less I wanted. (I'm quite embarrassed I dont remember her name tho =( ).
At first I was skeptical about the cut but as she styled my hair, I started liking my haircut more and more.
I think the key is to know what you want and tell them exactly what kind of cut you want. I didnt know what I wanted but after talking to her, I was able to make a decision.
I would probably like to come back again, with it being $10 and all. ^.^ -
Review from Irina s.
San Jose, CA
1/11/2012
I have been coming to this place for years; a friend told me about it a while ago. Mostly, my experiences have been good ones. The prices are very cheap but there is a trade off...everything takes FOREVER. So if you have the time. this place is awesome! Be prepared to spend the whole day there for anything more complicated than a haircut and even those take at least a few hours. The students must consult/check in with the instructors very often and are also learning (duh) so they are not very fast in doing things. Also, since they are students and (hopefully not) may mess up, you are asked to sign a waiver on your first visit.
Some general tips: call ahead to make an appt as far in advance as you can (weekends are busy; they are open till 9pm a few nights so you can drop in after work for something simple like a haircut) because the prime time slots fill up fast; be prepared to be there the whole day and take something to amuse yourself (they have mags and the students are pretty chatty so you always have options); when calling ask to be put with students that are nearing the end of the program (they are *usually* more skilled and faster).
Since there is huge turnover as the students graduate and new ones come in, keep your eyes peeled during your appt to see who is doing a great job; that way, you can request to have them for your next appt. -
Review from Jenny L.
1/19/2012 1 Check-in Here
I've been looking for a cheap place in the bay area for just a trim and I think I found it! $10 for a haircut and it includes a wash and blow dry. Students cut your hair, so a little bit of patience is needed.
The salon looks really professional and is sponsored by Redken. They are very generous with their products as well.
I think I'll be back for a facial or something else soon! :)
Parking is located in the back of the building.
-1 star only because my trim took 2 hrs. -
Review from Caroline Z.
Santa Clara, CA
5/10/2012
Marianne Bump did a really good job with my color, everyone loved it. Happy with her product recomendations the 2 I bought have worked wonderfully. She knew what she was doing with my haircut had some recomendations went with a couple of them and loved them.
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Review from Richard A.
Cupertino, CA
12/23/2011
Dylan, you rock. (My stylist, not Bob.)
No, seriously. Best Friday before a Christmas weekend. Ever.
My appointment was for 3:00. I arrived at 2:50. The receptionist asked me to sign a form indicating I was aware this was a training facility. At first I thought it was humorous. Then I was a bit scared. Anyway, I put pen to paper and sat down for the long wait.
About 60 seconds later, Dylan walked up and took me to her station.
My previous barber of about 25 years is getting quite old, and he's losing his touch. About four weeks ago, he gave me the worst haircut of my life. I waited for four weeks so my hair could grow out long enough to be fixed.
At first, Dylan didn't understand the gravity of the situation. After a few minutes of cutting, she realized how badly my barber had butchered my do. The awe continued for the next thirty minutes.
At the end of it, after a wonderful cut, shampoo, blow dry, and styling, I have once again attained the rock stair hairdo that I haven't had since I lived in Seattle in 1998. (I happened upon a stylist in the MALL, no less, who was amazing. But that's another story for another time.)
I went to pay the tab, a whopping... $10! Oh, yeah... lot's of cash left for a nice fat TIP.
As Eddie Money once sang, "I think I'm in love."
(I don't want to go to sleep tonight for fear of messing up my hair.) -
Review from Melissa Y.
Berkeley, CA
3/12/2012
I think this place is really hit-or-miss. Unfortunately, my first time here was more of a miss. The salon itself looks really shiny and professional, and $10 for a shampoo and cut is almost unheard of. My student/stylist was friendly and listened well, but her execution was questionable. In particular, my bangs ended up really wonky, and she could tell I wasn't completely happy but didn't know how to fix it. She ended up getting an instructor to take a look, but the instructor simply told me "you have a cowlick, you just need to use some product" then tried to slick down my bangs with some gel. Funny, I never had a cowlick before. I might give this place another shot, but probably not anytime soon.
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Review from Aerin L.
Palo Alto, CA
11/18/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Shame, shame, shame on me. The first time I happened upon this school, I felt like I cheated on my hair-stylist of many, many....many years. It was a solid relationship aside from only 2 flirtatious flings in Japan. (I was always caught). However, I came back to him every time to get my hair cut just the way he knew I liked it- it was like we spoke telepathically. Kindred hair spirits, were we. But, O, wretched temptation! Academy, whom I was match-made to by a dear friend of mine, sashayed into my life like a naughty temptress, a guilty pleasure I returned to for the past five appointments.
For $10 a cut, shampoo, condition, blow dry and style, I cannot help but gravitate towards that deal over the Ulysses S. Grants + Thomas Jeffersons I had paid over the years to my previous stylist. You do the math! Here, I have asked for 4 separate haircuts, a deep conditioning for an extra $6 and a special effects job for $26. Each time, I left tousling my mane with satisfaction for the price I shelled out. Best of all, the student stylists paid utmost attention to my requests and concerns. It is a commonplace fear for having more inches than desired cut. Here, you rest in good hands where a job well done puts them in good standing for graduation.
Because each student is under the instruction of a teacher, you can expect up to 2 hours for just a haircut if you grow long, thick hair as mine. For a special effects, highlighting or dye job alone, you should pencil in the entire morning for such an affair. If you sport very short hair, such as a fade with gelled hair on top for males, you may want to consider weighing the value of time versus the cheap bill. I have taken two males with me, both crushed by the fact that their buttocks had sat long enough to have made imprints on their respective chairs.
So for the many pros, the cons are painstakingly long appointments, difficulty in booking one at a favourable time and the small chance of requesting a particular student. However, the instructors are seldom rotated. The stars much be smiling on you perchance your student be under the guidance of Miguel. You can't miss him. He's bald and carries an aura of great style knowledge. I was immensely impressed and enthralled by his wisdom in the weight and movement of hair. I teach part-time and I understand the power of teaching. His words were inspiring, very easily understood and creatively expressed. My side-swept bangs have always been of concern and his sorcery with shears made it so that I could toss/flip my hair and allow the ends of the bangs to "lock" onto the rest. How genius!
Looking for a change? Be it subtle or wildly a world of difference? I can vouch for a visit worth considering. Just book in advance and arrive punctually. And rest assured, plenty of parking in rear. -
Review from Jennifer K.
San Jose, CA
11/22/2011
I got a haircut and dye here a few weeks ago. And I'm not sure how I feel about it.
Well actually, the hair color turned out great. I used to have blonde highlights (sigh), which I tried to cover myself with box dye (double sigh), and you know that never ends well. I told my hair stylist that I wanted a brownish red, and she chose a beautiful color that I absolutely adored. So yay for that!
The haircut itself was very meh. My hair was suuuper long because I hadn't gotten it trimmed in 6 months or so. Yeah, I'm lazy. I wanted some layers, but my hair stylist ended up giving me layers that started from the top of my neck. Which is exactly what I didn't want. Considering that I had asked the receptionist to pair me up with a senior stylist, I would have expected her to listen to what I had wanted... Then one of the instructors came over and cut even MORE layers. At this point I was pretty sad, seeing all my lovely locks that I had grown so attached to, lying on the floor looking so lifeless. And not a part of my head anymore.
Anyway, the pricing is great as always, $10 for the haircut and $35 for the dye (since my hair was so long, they had to use 2 boxes). I would go back for another dye job, but I'm probably not going to get a haircut for the next 3 years. -
Review from Ella W.
San Jose, CA
11/7/2011
I've been coming here since 2007! It's my spot for a cut and color every 6 weeks.
Special shout out to my current go-to girl, Lynsey! She's good at what she does, super relaxed and fun. The instructors hardly come check on her since she's a more advanced student.
Also, much thanks to Ursella, my stylist before she graduated (loved her!) and I miss the former fabulous instructors, Lonny & Richie!
PRICE: 5
Can't beat it! $10 for cut, shampoo, condition, blow dry and style. $25 for the Redken Shades demi-permanent color, which is like a deep conditioner with color good for up to 6 weeks.
CUT/COLOR: 5
I get a very basic hair cut - bang and overall trim, re-shaping the layers & texturizing - and I'm happy with it. Love the shot of deep conditioner and Color Stay she puts in my hair during shampooing. The color is nice too. My hair is super soft after!
AMBIANCE: 5
Nice! Chic & trendy.
SERVICE: 3
Professional! It is an academy, so students are learning. It WILL take longer than a usual salon. But for the price, I'm not complaining! Expect about 3-4 hours for a cut and color. If you get a newer student, the instructor will come by more often to check each step of the process, which will take longer. Students are there for about a year before they graduate.
If you find someone you like, stick with them and schedule ahead. Sometimes when you call to schedule an appointment, you'll get the answering machine. Don't even bother leaving a message - no one will call you back. You do get a courtesy reminder call the day before your appointment, which is nice.
LOCATION/PARKING: 5
No complaints. Parking lot available.
COMPLAINTS:
Takes longer and hard to get through on phone.
REC AFTER PAMPERING SPOTS:
Meet up with some friends at Luscious for froyo or cupcakes! Awesome little shop with yummy froyo and great service. The owners are two young guys who are super friendly and fun. They just opened this summer and could really use some traffic. And while you're there, check out the cool chalkboard wall filled with customer taggings! Maybe add your own. :) -
Review from Rj G.
Los Angeles, CA
11/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
Lindsay D (D for damn awesome) was amazing at giving me kick ass haircut and keeping me laughing while doing it!
I've been to many salons before and written about many of them here. What I liked most is that they actually give you the cut you ask for and for $10 you can't beat it. Just make sure you plan for a little extra time in the chair as they are students and need to get their work approved.
I didn't mind the extra time as I truly had a spiritually enlightening experience complete with discussions about unicorns, the possibilities of my rocking a mullet, and the benefits of velvet hair products that luxuriated my hair. And I'm now actually considering a mullet!
Extra credit for Lindsay D (D for damn awesome) who was all that and a bag of chips. -
Review from P J.
Santa Clara, CA
4/3/2012
I got my haircut and hair color here last week and I love it! You just cannot beat the prices. The place is very neat and clean. Staff is friendly. The student working on my hair was Diana and she did a great job. She was very professional and very well knew what she was doing. Honestly, I did not feel like a student was cutting/coloring my hair. She was very good. This will be my to go place for hair color and hair cut!
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Review from Anoosha M.
Santa Clara, CA
3/6/2012
I am just back from the salon and I FEEL AWESOME !!
My hair stylist Kyli , *the beautiful girl with the purple hair *, gave me the best hair style of my lifetime. Tonnes of love to her.
I had long straight hair and desperately wanted short..very short hair. None of the other salons took the risk what this girl did. I love her. And the best thing is ..I wanted my hair to be cut by a gorl with short pixie hair ..so here she was.
PERFECT!! -
Review from Lydia H.
Santa Clara, CA
10/11/2011
I was surprised when I found out that this place is HUUUGEE! You won't fell like in a salon school, because they set it up nicely just like upscale salon.
This was my first time here, so I just went there to get a trim (to minimize the damage if it's not working out). Turned out, my skepticism is proved wrong! My hair cut is great! My stylist-student shampooed, conditioned, cut, and blew dry my hair.. all for $10!
Just like others mentioned, before the stylists started, they had to write down and draw what they actually will do to your hair (and get signed approval). After hair cut, the supervisor checked my hair (and fixed for any little error).
My stylist was a little quite that day (she mostly talked with other students walking near); no chit-chat whatsoever with me, which I found unusual. Others might find it rude, not for me. I don't really fancy chit-chat while getting hair cut either. This was just new for me, since other stylists usually very *ehem* talkative. Nonetheless, she DID ask how i want to get my hair cut, whether I like the style/not, and make sure everything is OK.
Another thing, she didn't mention the name of all products she applied to my hair. I knew they were all heat tamer, hairspray, and anti-frizz; but mentioning them first before putting all things to my hair would be nice.
I also noticed most clients (if not all) on that day got their hair colored. So, these students must done terrific job on coloring hair. This one goes on my to go list. -
Review from Jessica O.
San Diego, CA
8/30/2011
I graduated from the Academy as an esthetician. Karen was my instructor & let's just say she was like a mother to us all. She is an amazing woman, she is full of knowledge, fun, inspiring, caring, & overall the best instructor I've had. I actually looked forward to coming to school because of her. She taught us how to go through our state board exam & it was on point. Thank you Karen, the owners are very nice & it's a great place to meet new friends. This is the only cosmo/ esthe school in the south bay that I would ever go to! It is clean, modern & has the best equipment/ products. It's like learning in a salon you are already working in. Love & miss the Academy!
Oh & people...tip your cosmos & esthes! -
Review from Melody D.
Mountain View, CA
3/1/2012
I got a haircut and a color in September and everything was excellent! All of the staff are very attentive and considerate. My hairstylist was Jacqui and she was very knowledgeable and did a great job on my hair. I will certainly be going back for my next haircut/color.
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Review from Emily G.
6/30/2011 1 photo
I had an absolutely great experience.
If this is your first time here, please remind yourself that you are at a school and students are doing their practice hours with you. This is why the prices are so cheap, why they make you sign a waiver, and why the students document everything before they even touch your haitr. I must admit, that made me very skeptical, because they are in their learning phase and they still have a lot of room for error. Nevertheless, its surprising how professional these kids really are.
The place is huge and completely spotless. The front desk ladies are just OK, but the hairstylist inside (students) were super nice, greated me, shook my hand and explained the whole procedure to me. They know the drill: they talk to you and ask you about your wants and needs before they touch your hair.. and before you freak out, know that their teachers/coaches are on the floor staring at their every move, and they have to approve on their technique before they even get started on you. Great looking-out for the client.
I got a deep conditioning and a trim. I have very long hair and have it in layers, so I wanted her to take an inch off of everything. She was very careful not to pull my hair and was only stopped once by the teacher to make sure her lines were being straight. At the end, the same teacher came back and inspected my haitcut to make sure it was flawless. Although I knew she did a good job, having the teacher there gave me a lot more comfort and trust in the system.
I was treated with amazing courtesy and professionalist, and got tons of tips about hair care. I even ended up buying a home-deep conditioning-kit, which was only $16.50- a really good price for a redken salon product. My deep conditioning + haircut was only $16, and they took debit and credit cards. Note that any tips you leave goes directly to the student (your hairstylist) and that part is CASH ONLY.
I'm happy with my haircut and the way they made me feel. At those prices I will happily come back to get more stuff done in the feature, and I know that many people there are looking out for me. Great experience. -
Review from Christine V.
San Jose, CA
8/8/2011
After my third visit here, I think it is time to write a review for my beloved Academy for Salon Professionals.
First of all, I want to point out that I've gotten haircuts from all sorts of places. From cheap Vietnamese salons to high end pricey salons like Umbrella - I've tried it all.
I've grown tired of going to Vietnamese salons that don't always get it just right, but at the same time I can't afford to pay $60+ for a haircut on my tight college student budget.
This is where Academy for Salon Professionals comes in. I've gotten haircuts and my partial highlights done here and they have turned out amazing. The secret is to always ask for a senior hairstylist when making your appointment. YEP. That's the secret. For $10, you get a haircut and wash using all Redken products and a student who is extra extra careful with how they handle your hair. For $35 I got compliment-worthy partial highlights that looked like I spent a fortune on and I couldn't be happier.
I'm not sure if I'm just lucky, but every single time I've visited the Salon I've had the pleasure of meeting some really sweet, ambitious individuals who've had some crazy career change and are now pursuing a career in hair. The only downside to this is that if you absolutely love your stylist, there's a possibility that they will already have graduated the next time you decide to get a cut.
There's also another plus! If you don't like your hair, you have 48 hours after your cut to call in and have them fix it for you. You just can't go wrong! -
Review from Annie S.
1/10/2012 1 Check-in Here
I came here after my friend recommended the place. She told me that this place does a great job and is also affordable/relatively cheap.
I came in for my 9:30am appointment, and I wanted to dye my hair brown and also get a trim. However, because my natural hair is black and because I didn't want to bleach my hair, I ended up not dying my hair. My stylist, Courtney, washed my hair and was almost done trimming my hair when I suddenly asked her what kind of haircut she recommended for me... after discussing various hair cuts with not only my stylist but also my stylist's teacher, I ended up getting my hair cut even more and layered... I felt really bad for being so indecisive and getting my stylist to get a new form for my new haircut, but thank you for being so patient with me D:. I feel even worse because I forgot to tip. I didn't realize that almost three hours passed by, and I had errands to run so my mind was all over the place. When I come back again to dye my hair, I'm going to tip a lot for sure--even if my hair dye doesn't come out well. My stylist did a really great job cutting my hair, and I am definitely coming back for all my haircuts in the future. I can't believe my haircut was only $10. I can't believe I paid $50 for a similar haircut at a salon in Oakland -_-.
I got free stuff for checking in on Yelp :). -
Review from Sarah S.
7/5/2011
As one would expect when working with students, this place is probably hit or miss depending on who you get. The prices are great and the place is super clean but if you want to be on the safe side, either be ok with getting a look you didn't quite expect or get a trim and test someone out before you go for a totally new look.
When I called to make an appointment the person who answered the phone claimed that they were fully booked for the month without even checking. I decided to wait and call back at the end of the day, and surprise surprise there were at least 3 spots open in 2 weeks. kind of lame.
My experience when I got there was alright but even though I tried to assess how experienced my stylist was, she was clearly faking it because my A-line cut didn't look at all like the model she showed me and didn't fit with my hair (it was permed, and she didn't cut off all the curls like she said she would) After she made her first cut into my hair, she stared at it for a while and then asked the person next to her if it was correct. She then butchered my bangs and it was clearly so bad she couldn't hide it, but thankfully the teacher stepped in and tried to salvage what he could. But the person next to me had a fabulous A line cut so it really depends on who you get.
I also tried the deep conditioning treatment, which is like super conditioner in your hair that lasts for 20 washes. Leaves your hair feeling fabulously soft! I think I'd come back, but only for a trim.
note: bring cash for tip because you can't put it on your card. -
Review from Sandra M.
Sunnyvale, CA
Updated - 5/9/2011
**Update** May 9th 2011
I recently graduated and I have to say that you get what you put in to this school. If you put in 110% you are going to get 110% back. (as with any good school) I loved my time here. I don't think that there is a better school in the Bay Area. I happily paid my tuition knowing that I would get the best education and support money could buy. I take my State Board test in 2 weeks and even though I have graduated, the facility is open to me to go back and study/practice. I feel that I am fully prepared after my 20 month part time program, but- it is nice to know that my school stands behind me to ensure that I feel as prepared as possible when going in for my test. Not to mention.. I only had to wait 3 weeks between completing the program and taking my test. Talk about perfect timing! I have heard of some students from other schools having to wait months to take their tests.
If you come to school with determination and sturdy foundation of professionalism, you will go far in your career here. Make sure you show up on time, in proper dress code, and a good attitude because they are training you not just to take your test but to be a Salon Professional. Treat your schooling just like you would your career. You don't pick this school because you want a job at a salon, you choose The Academy because you want a CAREER in the profession you love. There are many talented artists coming out of this school and I am proud to stand by them as an Alumni.
I want to also give a big shout out to all the loyal clients that come in to this school. We are all so very thankful to have met you and to have had the opportunity to learn from your styling requests. Without you we wouldn't have the ability to get real life training. I couldn't have done it without you. THANKS!!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/19/2010
I am a current student at The Academy and this is an awesome school. As students, we have access to… Read more »
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Review from Kristy S.
San Jose, CA
9/26/2011
I definitely had a great experience at the Academy. My stylist-student was friendly, very thorough and she made sure to explain all the details to me before jumping into it. There are some salons that I've been to where I felt intimidated by the stylist because they think that "they know best." Not the case here. The stylist listened to what I wanted and we worked through the style with suggestions from the instructor as well. I could tell she was still trying to get a handle on casual conversation while cutting, but she did a great job regardless.
Make sure to allow plenty of time in your day for your hair appointment since the stylists are evaluated and their instructors give consultations during the appointment. My consultation, wash, cut and style came out to be just over two hours. But seriously, $10 for a great hair cut and style can't be beat. The facility is very clean and upbeat. Make sure to leave a tip if the stylist was satisfactory, and if you're using a credit/debit card be sure to have a little cash because there is not a tip line on the receipt. -
Review from Monica L.
Newark, CA
4/19/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I can never find a place that listens and does exactly what I want for a decent price. Call me cheap, but I don't want to spend over $30 for a haircut that turns out below par! My friend recommended this place, and boy do I love it! Time after time, I am satisfied with my haircut and the service. I've been here three times for a haircut ($8) + deep conditioning ($6/7), and once for prom updos and makeup. I also like how they recommend different products to you that are specifically designed for your hair type.
On my first visit, I wasn't sure what to expect because I've never been to a beauty school before. I was amazed at how professional and upscale the school was! It actually didn't look like a school at all. I was a little nervous on how my first haircut would go, but the student stylist was wonderful. She talked me through the process and really listened to what I wanted. She even made great suggestions on how to keep my hair healthy. She also informed me on the Prom Package they offer, which includes hair, makeup, and nails for $30 (I think), and recommended me to Priscilla who is amazing at updos (and boy was she right!)
Out of the four student stylists I've had, I can only recall two of their names, one being Priscilla. She is seriously amazing at what she does. I brought in pictures of updos of what I wanted. In less than 20 minutes, she had curled my hair and pinned everything up. I was amazed at how quick it was, especially since I have super thick hair (and a lot of it too!). Even after a night of dancing, I was surprised to find that my hair was still neatly pinned up and very secure. How amazing is that?
On my most recent visit, I wasn't exactly sure of what I wanted. Sadie was very helpful and recommended different cuts that would flatter my face shape. She also used different techniques to make my hair seem not as thick. She was super friendly and talkative and I love how she would tell me about her past haircutting stories and whatnot. The cut she recommended turned out great, and she even styled my hair once hearing that I was going to see my boyfriend after. I'm sad to say I won't have her again because she's graduating at the end of April. I tried making an appointment with her a couple of days ago but she's totally booked!
I also totally love their deep conditioning treatment! It always leaves my hair silky smooth :)
BTW. They cancel your appointment if you're over 15 minutes late. -
Review from lilly n.
San Jose, CA
5/6/2011
I la-la-loveeeeeee this salon. And let me tell you I don't trust salons! The last time I went to one was five years ago? And that was because salons tend to eff up my bangs. And ladies, you know how that goes... anything but your bangs! Anyway, back to the review!
This place is absolutely gorgeous and professional looking. Clean and very neat. If you're here for a cut, you will get shampooed with this citrus-y shampoo which is hella awesome. YOU WILL LOVE THE SMELL/TOUCH AFTER! BELIEVE ME ! It'll make you wanna whip your hair back and forth like Willow Smith, if not like those hair commercials. I've been sniffing my hair all day longggg. And no I'm not some weirdo haha. Your dresser will massage your scalp making it even more awesome. And then they'll cut your hair. Which varies depends on your style and want. Mine was about 1 1/2 long. So spare time!
What to look forward to if you go here:
- Awesome smelling Hair afterwards when you whip your hair back and forth!
- scalp massage (:
- Very nice and friendly staff members.
- Not effed up bangs
- $10 for all of this. Now wth is that?! It's pretty awesome if you ask me. So go, go, go!
What you MAY not want to look forward to:
- the long wait for a haircut
- A possible reschedule for a haircut... (hella stupid) Explanation is below.
This place wouldve gotten a five star if they didn't mess around with my appointment time. I was suppose to get my haircut on April 28. But somehow they messed up and a week before that they called to let me know that I need to reschedule (Which is pretty stupid if you ask me considering that they have a schedule) So i had to wait an extra two weeks... but other than that, it was a lovely experience. I might come back for a pedicure now! -
Review from Manuel M.
San Jose, CA
5/7/2011
i absolutely love this school! the school is in a very nice area, the stuff is a GREAT bunch of people, couldn't be any better. Karen, Terri, Jennifer, Craig, Samuel, Noelle, April and the other staff couldn't be any more friendly. the has students maintain have a GPA 80% and thats the percentage you need to pass state bored and that goes to show how well the school prepares there students and not to mention there dress code is VERY professional! the students are very friendly and give the best advice
for hair needs or skin needs. compared to other schools in the area, its neat, clean, open and students dont need to share a station for cutting hair. if your looking for a high end, professional, friendly, excellent services then PLEASE, come to The Academy For Salon Professionals
if your looking for a small area, rude people, dirty stations, hair every where, students not knowing what to do, this school is NOT the place for you. -
Review from Sweetcaroline R.
Santa Clara, CA
9/30/2011
Where do I begin? I have been wanting to go darker for quite some time. My hair is naturally dark blonde with red tones and blonde sun streaks. I am very fair, so I wanted to intensify my look without getting washed out.
I have had bad $60 haircuts so I decided to save some money on my high school budget and head over to the academy, which is right down the street from my house. It was pretty packed for 6pm.
Julie did a great job, hands down! My hair doesn't even look like its been colored, it is very natural. It still has the dimension it did before, but is 2 shades darker and no more red :D i was happy to hear she will be around until July.
Since the salon is sponsored by Redken, they can be overly generous with products. Salons are not like this. Julie did a deep conditioning treatment that was great! Left my hair so soft. She also styled it and gave me some tips on how to do it myself at home. I asked for no products since it was so late, but I know they are normally generous with whatever spray or mousse works best.
The lady working at the front desk could have been a little nicer, but you have to remember that it is a beauty school and not a regular salon. Thats why you can walk out with a great look at an even better price. Overall the people were friendly and there was a good vibe. I
I also got a 10% discount for skin services which I believe everyone gets after a hair service. They're currently offering a special for $18 for a blow out, deep conditioning treatment, and mani. Wow!
This place is great! I can't wait to go back! -
Review from Camila R.
Sunnyvale, CA
6/16/2011
If you are looking for GOOD price and so so job, you can go there.
Don't expect amazing treatment as a costumer. Don't expect being really satisfied with your haircut or highlights.
They are students and I've been there three times. Each time they didn't satisfied me. They are really beginners with that, in my opinion. Last time I had a sh*tty job on my highlights, and their hair cute is never what you ask for. You can buy a good pair of scissors and do that by yourself...
And the very last appt I made with them, they made it wrong, they put partial highlights when I asked for full. And I got there few minutes late and the lady refused to take my appt, even though they take 5 hours to get my hair done... BS!...
I won't recommend if you really love your hair. Yelp another place and spend a lil bit more money but get happy and satisfied instead! -
Review from Jenice P.
San Jose, CA
4/8/2011
I was a little bit nervous coming here... I've been spoiled by very talented colorists/stylists for the past few years (three of them) who provided their services to me for free because we were friends. I just moved back to the bay area from Michigan and had to find someone new. My haircut I wasn't too concerned about, it's not terribly complicated. But finding someone who does color well is something I'm extremely picky about.
When I realized how much it cost to keep receiving what I'd been getting for free I initially considered going back to my natural hair color until I saw the mostly positive reviews for the Academy.
I decided to give it a shot - $70 for cut, partial highlights and color? Very worst case scenario I'd have to buy a bottle of brown hair dye on the way home and maybe stop at a Mastercuts. None of that wound up being necessary.
Jennifer (Jen) A. did my hair and did a fantastic job. She did precisely what I asked her to do and when she asked me if I wanted my bangs thickened or shortened (which I wouldn't have asked her to do - I was happy enough with it - it was the exact cut I'd gotten for free the past two times) which I did, just slightly, and she did it perfectly. I love my hair!!! I'm so happy I can get it done for just $70! She also gave me good advice after I questioned her about what I could do to keep the red from fading.
