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- Hours:
Tue-Fri 9 am - 9 pm
Sat 9 am - 5 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Hair Types Specialized In:
- Straight Perms, Coloring, Extensions, African-American Hair, Curly Hair, Kids' Hair, Perms, Asian Hair
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
123 reviews for Alchemy Hair Studios & Spa
123 reviews in English
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Review from Carrie S.
After having some amazing facials in Portland, I was worried I was going to have to go through some painful facials to find the best. Well, thankfully, the first facial I had in San Jose was with Nicole, and I am hooked.
Nicole is so sweet, professional, and knows skincare. She has been doing this for a long time, and her priority in my facial was making sure I was comfortable, relaxed, and in my zone. She explained what she was doing the entire time, which I really like. She will do whatever you ask (strong pressure on the massage, no extractions, etc).
I did the aromatherapy facial, which was perfect for me. I wanted a little exfoliation, extractions, and moisturizing. She does great extractions, and actually heals the area with a high frequency facial wand (it works, it speeds up the healing of major extractions, like milia).
I scheduled my next visit already.
The salon is really nice and upscale. They have great options for hair products, and also have other retails items like clothes. They have a rewards program (genius for salon junkies like myself). All of the staff is very friendly, and I'm looking forward to being a regular customer of Nicole. -
Review from Melanie A.
San Jose, CA
This is a very nice salon with a good product line and excellent staff.
Tiffany Galace is my go to gal. I went from an A-line haircut to a full on pixie and her cuts are always on point and precise. Not to mention her coloring is amazing. You would never think an Asian would look good with blonde hair, but with her formulations (she's like a chemist with color btw) she found just the right shade of blonde to compliment my skin tone :D
Great place, but Tiffany G. is no longer with this salon : ( She has now moved over to Salon OZ. Although I do love going to Alchemy, I don't want to give up such a talented stylist, so i'll probably head over to Salon OZ sometime soon!!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/24/2010
I LOVE Tiffany G!
I can say that she is VERY talented at what she does. You know you have a great… Read more »
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7/24/2010
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Review from Randi Y.
San Jose, CA
This salon is totally hit and miss. I had a great experience there with a former stylist (even though she randomly cancelled on me quite often) but then she suddenly terminated her employment there. I'm not sure if it was her decision or Alchemy's decision but I was due to see her and was called out of the blue and told she was gone and that they could reschedule me with another stylist. So I bite, figuring that this stylist had put my information down on a card and that the new stylist can reference it.
Fail. Epic fail. I guess that with my former stylist, they also ditched all of her records. When they scheduled my appointment, they only scheduled the touch-up color portion and didn't even know what color to use. I was due for a cut also and had scheduled the proper appointment for both services. She seemed completely rushed and I was lucky to get my color done. I actually had to sit in the sink for about 15 - 20 minutes waiting for the color to process after I had sat in the chair for 30 minutes. She decided that she needed to add shampoo to the color for some reason or another so I was stuck at the sink waiting for that.
She took a bunch of short cuts, used a different brand of color on me (which she claimed was better) and blew my hair out as fast as she possibly could. She clearly just wanted to get me out of there. I get home and my roots are an entirely different color than the rest of my hair. They don't match at all. I probably should have called them back but after that experience, I just paid someone else to fix their mistakes. I think that they are more focused on remodeling their salon (I went there about 5 times in a 3 month period and it was at least 3 different layouts) and selling product than actually cutting and styling hair. Proceed with caution, if you must go here. Willow Glen is not that special, folks. -
Review from Cindy Y.
San Jose, CA
I've been coming here for about a year and a half to see Ashley Hoyt, she's the best! Every time I go to her, I don't leave disappointed. She's extremely easy to talk to, and she always remembers the things we talk about from one visit to the next! The one thing I love most about her is that she really listens to what you want, AND she follows through. I leave with a happy head of hair, and for the next few months my layers grow out wonderfully! 5 stars for her! Definitely go here for her.
However, haircuts here can be pricey. I wish they had a better deal - maybe a student discount or frequent haircutter card. If I had the money I would come here way more often! But since I don't, it was limited to every few months.
Edit:
0 stars for Sherry McGuire. Any bit of negative criticism that customers/reviewers give her, she backlashes against them. I never had her as a stylist, so she may be a great stylist - but as a manager, there is definitely room for improvement. Based off of my conversations with her, I will no longer be returning to her salon. And she has publicly announced that I am no longer welcome, which is fine by me. I will be taking my business elsewhere. -
Review from elaine l.
This is a very nice, upscale salon and probably a great place for most people to get a cut. Everyone was friendly and accomodating.
After a consultation I ended up not getting my hair cut here after all as I waited nearly half an hour for the stylist (with an appointment - a pet peeve of mine) and while I felt he had a tremendous amount of information about hair and how it grows and what makes it do the stuff you want it to do, I ultimately couldn't envision what he recommended doing with my hair. With no reference photos, the conversation left me with a big (orange?) question mark in my head. We just weren't a good match communcationwise.
However, I think this is still a pretty good salon - I saw other stylists turning out some good looking hair, and a friend of mine whose hair always looks great has been coming here for 14 years. -
Review from Rox R.
The first time I went to Alchemy was for a haircut. Great haircut and I donated my hair to a good cause. I also needed an eyebrow wax and Nicole was new and available. She did a great job! She was very detailed and I really enjoyed meeting her.
The second time I visited, I didn't call ahead to check if Nicole was there. Unfortunatly, she was no longer there and the waxing I had done was very uneven. I didn't notice till I left and really looked close. Eeek! I was done but I just got an email that Nicole is back! Hooray! I'm going again and will see how it goes.
Luke is a great hairstylist. I'm waiting for my hair to grow out a bit to get a really cool new do for my anniversary. -
Review from Lorilee L.
San Jose, CA
For my ultra fine, rail straight locks...I will only trust the skill and precision of one person...and that is Luc. Here's why:
1. He knows DESIGN... and takes your face shape, your height/frame, coloring (EVERYTHING) into consideration when helping you create your look. And boy is he good at it.
2. He LISTENS. (And he's pretty damn funny, engaging and personable when he talks too)
3. He is a HAIR GURU....with so many helpful tips, tricks and techniques for anything from hair regrowth to enhancing your styling skills once you get home.
4. He is HONEST. Tactful and honest.
5. He is PASSIONATE about his work. When I'm in his chair, he has this way of making me feel like I'm his next great masterpiece. So attentive, interested, excited and present.
Alchemy salon is beautiful too. Great decor, ambiance and always new and interesting accessories to peruse if I get there early.
It doesn't get any better than this. -
Review from Giemar F.
Sunnyvale, CA
I have been going to the same amazing woman for 8 years to cut my hair. In the past I have had horrible experiences which traumatized me, as any girl would who loves her hair. Therefore once i found her I stuck with her, unfortunately I had to move away and she is too far to go to, even though I was seriously considering it. That being said I was very weary about going anywhere else. I was afraid that one, none would ever compare or far worst, that I would find myself in another traumatizing hair catastrophe. I was at wits ends with my hair and was looking for a drastic change and when I want something done it needs to happen immediately.
and then....HALLELUJAH Alchemy (Luc in particular) was a wish sent from above ;)! Luc understood exactly what I wanted and needed and he knew his stuff, I trusted him immediately. I came out looking fabulous, I could not have been more pleased. I was happy to have found a new place and stylist who could match my old stylist.
The atmosphere is really inviting and clean. Not to mention great and friendly customer service. Prices are very reasonable in comparison to other establishments.
Thanks Alchemy and Luc! -
Review from Vincent C.
West Hollywood, CA
Sherry has been cutting my hair since she first opened Alchemy Hair Studio. This is not so easy since I live in Los Angeles and she is in Willow Glen. I am fortunate to be able to visit Willow Glen often and always have Sherry cut my hair. Every time she cuts it she reinvents it and its always better than the time before. When I walk out of the salon, I feel like a new person and people comment on it non stop.
I would have never believed that a hair cut could make such a difference, but I was wrong. I always feel like I have been reinvented and start to look at things in a different light. It's hair therapy that brings me back to a good place, so why would I go anywhere else. Thank you again Sherry for always making the time for me and keeping me looking good and feeling good. Vincent Campisi1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/4/2010
I have been having my hair cut and colored at Alchemy Hair Studios ever since they opened. Sherry… Read more »
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10/4/2010
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Review from Kendall B.
Walnut, CA
Paige is a relatively new hair stylist at Alchemy and if it's your first time to this salon, or you haven't been in a while, make an appointment with her! She's not only educated about hair, but she has a natural eye for what looks good! I got a cut and a partial highlight right before my older sister's wedding and it looked exactly how I wanted! I have dark hair and although I asked for a partial, she used much more dye then any other hair stylist I've been to, so the highlights really blended nicely.
If you want to come in, sit down, have a nice down to earth conversation with a local girl and come out feeling revived, Paige is your girl! -
Review from Jovan M.
Blairsville, GA
Once again, I'm out of town for work and need a haircut.
3 pitfalls on getting a haircut on the road - finding someone who actually knows how to cut hair, who pays attention to what you looked like when you came in, and someone who listens and cares.
Luckily, my fellow Yelpsters here in San Jose were on the money. Heather did a great job for me a few weeks ago. So since, my time here got extended, it was time to see her again. I thought she did a great job for me, the first time every cutting my hair, but this time she knocked it out of the park. She asked what I liked, and what I needed done different. AND she did it.
And guys, its not too girly, like some places, for us to go to. -
Review from Nancy C.
San Jose, CA
THIS REVIEW IS FOR THEIR WAXING TECH, JOANNA CORKERY. I've followed Joanna to a couple different spas and she is awesome! You can read my other reviews of her at previous spas. I highly recommend her for any type of waxing, face or body. If you are a first time or are revisiting brazilian wax, she will make you feel comfortable and take the time to make as gentle as possible.
Go see Joanna! -
Review from Claire U.
San Jose, CA
I just got a hair cut from Mary Steiman that I love so much - I felt compelled to write about it! This cut fits my lifestyle perfectly! My criteria for a perfect hair cut: low maintenance, versatile and looks awesome in all situations!
As usual, I'm trying to grow my hair out. Right now, It's about 9 inches past my shoulders. Usually when it gets to this point, I end up cutting it off because I don't have enough hair to make it work.
Mary used this new hair cutting technique that allows me to KEEP the length WITH my hair looking healthy and full of body. The cut frames my face but I can still throw it up in a pony tail when I work out without little hairs coming down and itching my face.
I still have the wash and run routine. Here's what I do. I wash and towel dry my hair. Then I twist my hair up in a loose bun, drive to work and then take it out when I get there. My hair has these natural waves and looks great and full of body all day.
When I have time, I style it with a blow dryer and it looks so awesome! I've received so many compliments already! I love my hair!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/24/2010
My hair = Black, straight and medium-long. Not straight enough for that sleek dramatic look, and not… Read more »
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5/24/2010
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Review from Gina A.
San Jose, CA
I was recommended to Lauren and Alchemy by a friend. I'm super happy with results and the experience. It's a high end salon, very clean, modern. Lauren is wonderful! She is very sweet, down to earth and knowledgeable. She listens, gives you what you want and doesn't try to push products. A great hair cut and experience! I will definitely be back and will be referring friends and family.
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Review from Liz L.
Mountain View, CA
Given the sheer density of salons on Lincoln Ave, the fact that Alchemy has managed to stay in business for almost 15 years and open a second location (Alchemy II) is a pretty good sign to begin with, and so far they've definitely delivered.
I moved to the area recently and have gotten a few cuts (and my husband has had a cut) and brow waxing at Alchemy so far. So I can only speak specifically to the skills of Tiffany G. and Tiffany W. for hair, and Nichole for waxing. I may update my review when I've received more services.
The salon itself is nicely appointed, clean, and doesn't have an overwhelming smell of product/chemicals. There's an upstairs and downstairs section which makes it feel a little cozier and less noisy. There's a lot of funky stuff for sale (jewelry, shoes, etc) but no one has ever tried to push anything (including hair product) on me, which is a welcome relief in comparison to the hard sell I've encountered at a few salons.
The front desk is manned by a dedicated person, which I appreciate since frequently salon desks at smaller places are just covered by whomever isn't busy and you end up waiting around a long time. The girl who is usually on the front desk (apologies, I've forgotten her name) is sweet, friendly, and professional. Definitely a good face for the organization.
My haircuts, my husband's cuts and my brow waxing have all been good, especially the waxing by the relatively new Nichole. She's absolutely meticulous and I would enthusiastically recommend her to anyone. In general the staff seems knowledgeable and friendly. Prices are right about what I'd consider mid-range, not a screaming deal but it also never feels overpriced. -
Review from Jennfier C.
Los Altos, CA
Alchemy is a lovely place. Great talent, amazing services and all of it in relaxing luxury. You never walk outta here without a ton of value for the money. Attentive staff, clean, comfortable environment and fun atmosphere. I always feel well taken care of... special, when I walk out of Alchemy and I feel sassy and special with updated hair and "mind".
All my friends need to try it out too! Ask for Sherry - business owner and expert of all things that make us beautiful and feel great! She's extremely talented and experienced. -
Review from Jane T.
Mountain View, CA
Ahem, ladies? Looking for your Sex and the City moment? You know that scene when Sarah Jessica Parker in classic post-Big-breakup style heads to the salon and walks out with amazing brunette locks to mark a beautiful, new chapter in her life?
Well I've been keeping a secret, and this salon makes these moments happen!
After a 10 year search, I discovered my rockstar stylist Tiffany Galace, senior stylist. It's a funny story how I discovered her. I stumbled into her best friend at Valley Fair and pulled her aside to find out who her stylist was, as her asymmetrical haircut and auburn color highlights were phenomenal. I mean, no one has hair like that! I had to find out who DID that. Tiffany has been my stylist for 2 years now and she makes killer assessments (she comprehensively quizzed me on my preferences before looking at my hair to provide a detailed assessment of what WORKS, and what doesn't WORK for me). She then very thoroughly trims my hair, styles it, then trims again and repeats and repeats until she gets the exact cut that she's looking for. Down to the millimeter. The best part is how passionate Tiffany is about hair. We both squeal like little girls when we explore different hair colors.
In fact, I haven't had this much FUN getting my hair done. EVER. Be prepared to be treated well and to have your hair styled in a great vintage, modern salon.
There is a very positive energy about the place! They have a great website where you can book your appointments, and they constantly have great deals!
This week, their latest deal is to get Feather Extensions (get 3 and 1 for FREE). -
Review from Kristen H.
Campbell, CA
I went in for a hair cut from Tiffany. Up until an hour before I thought I was going to get a simple trim, and I ended up getting an slightly a-line cut with lots of layers. Tiffany asked all the right questions and made sure she knew exactly what I wanted. She was great! I will definitely be going back to her for my hair cuts. Also, I have never gotten so many compliments on my hair! As an added bonus, the salon is super cute and located in the always adorable Willow Glen.
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Review from Sasha R.
San Jose, CA
adam, the receptionist, is a rock star!
if you need to get your acrylics done, lori is the only nail technician now doing them, and she books up quickly. be sure to book early, especially with the holiday season here.2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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5/15/2009
While Lori was out, I saw Autumn, and she is amazing! Don't let her youth fool you. Autumn knows her… Read more »
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5/15/2009
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Review from Sarah S.
Carmel, CA
Still LOVING going to see Lauren at Alchemy. I still live about an hour away and I still continue to go out to SJ to see her. It's worth the drive. I still always leave excited about my hair and love how people always compliment it. I couldn't be happier with the work she does :) and I love recommending her to my friends, family and even my customers at work! It's also nice when they come back to me and say "Sarah, you were completely right! Lauren is amazing at what she does!". I really wouldn't recommend something if I wasn't 110% satisfied and I'm more than satisfied with Laurens work.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/25/2009
I've had a few hair stylist but nothing compares to my current one. Her name is Lauren Caballero and… Read more »
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6/25/2009
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Review from Cindy P.
San Jose, CA
Luc is my go-to artist for my hair. He brings out my inner punk goddess, & works wonders with my ultra fine locks.
I have had random strangers compliment my most recent style, despite it having grown out a bit!
I love how Luc listens to my requests, but is not afraid to steer me in a different direction (nobody wants to look dumb, and face shape/hair texture plays a big role, kids!)
He rocks the precision cuts, and if you give him carte blanche, he'll run with scissors ;) Inspired creativity... Why, yes plz!
For color, Tiffany always hits it outta the park. She is realistic, genuine, and easy to work with, despite my crazy ideas sometimes ;)
Alchemy is my new hair haven, and I no longer have 'plan B's' floating around in the back of my mind haha! I even have my hubby seeing these guys on a semi- regular basis, which is a feat in and of itself lemme tell ya! -
Review from Joyce C.
San Francisco, CA
I came in not having a particular hairstyle in mind and just wanted to have the stylist surprise me with something she thinks will look good with my face. Ashley patiently discussed with me what my concerns are for my current hairstyle and gave me suggestions on what she thinks would look good on me. I really appreciate her checking in with me the whole time before she trimmed my hair. And she make sure that I'm happy with my hairstyle by asking lots of questions and encouraged me to let her know anything else i would want done to my hair. Overall, this is a really pleasant experience and I would definitely want to come back in the future for new hair styles.
PS. Ashley offers complimentary bang trims, which is a plus! -
Review from Catie C.
San Jose, CA
After getting my hair done (HORRIBLY WRONG) at a few other places, I will not cheat on Alchemy and KATIE again! Katie completely fixed my hair the last time I went, and the color and cut look amazing. She also noticed the horribly cutting job that the salon I tested out last did in shaping my hair, and told me it would take awhile for it to grow out. :( Anyhow, in conclusion I absolutely love this salon, everyone is nice, friendly and they do an AMAZING job!!
Be sure to check out Katie though, she never fails to hook me up with an awesome color and sexy cut!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/26/2010
Ive been jumping around from salon to salon for awhile... and have not been completely satisfied so… Read more »
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1/26/2010
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Review from Angela S.
Campbell, CA
Luc is what I call the "Mad Stylist/Scientist", in a good way that is! He really pays attention to all the details. He even explains exactly what he is thinking as he carefully looks at his challenge, like my badly damaged hair. He took a lot of time to really talk with me about my drastic change to make sure I didn't regret anything and it was what I wanted and with something that was actually realistic with my hair type. Some of the hairstyles I picked out would not work with my hair type, so he would gently tell me how it would not be as flattering on me because of the different hair types. I really appreciated his honesty. He is so patient, kind, honest, funny and so very knowledgeable.
I highly recommend him to anyone who wants style with their hair. He is a perfectionist, by far! He also had me see Tiffany for my hair coloring and she was really great too. She had a great understanding of color and on top of that she is super friendly and very down to earth like Luc. The whole experience for me that night was just so amazing! Tiffany even stayed to do my hair until the wee hours of the night. Literally! So super sweet! I felt very relaxed and confident the whole night about my hair cut/style and my color too. I'll be back and I'm sending my friends here to see Luc and Tiffany.
You guys rock! -
Review from kira d.
San Jose, CA
I've gotten my hair cut here twice and was looking for a place to get a mani/pedi. Here was my experience:
Good- decor, selection of magazines, the tea I was offered, the manicurist Autumn was really nice and did a thorough job.
Not so good- the smell inside the small room where I got my nails done was almost overwhelming. There was a window in there but it was shut. The paraffin was in this communal warmer. I don't know how sanitary that is. The vessel sinks they use for pedicures are pretty but not that comfortable to put your feet in since it's rounded.
Overall a good experience. I had a pleasant an relaxing time. Thanks Autumn! -
Review from Valerie C.
San Jose, CA
Ok, I just had another haircut by Katie. I get haircuts every 2 months or so from her and my hair has definitely grown since I started with her almost 2 years ago. Today I brought in a pic of a Kim Kardashian hairstyle. Voila! Katie cuts my hair and it looks like the pic! Amazing! She rocks.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/26/2010
I just got back from Alchemy and meeting my new stylist, Katie. I was a little hesitant at first… Read more »
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1/26/2010
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Review from Yekah C.
San Jose, CA
I brought my friend her for a birthday present. We came in wanting a full color and the stylist suggested highlights instead.
The end result was beautiful. It did take 3+ hours. It was $190.00 for highlights and a hair cut. I did not know it would come out to be so much more but I suppose it's my fault for not asking. :( I wouldn't come here unless you got money to spend! But they do good work and it's a very cute and bright salon. -
Review from Kat K.
San Jose, CA
Came here after work since they are open till 9, which is awesome!
I had called around and got turned down by a bunch of other salons so I just walked into this one and luckily they had room for me.
I've had long hair my whole life but I decided to go for a change and cut it short, especially since I had it bleached before and the ends were completely fried. Luc did a great job getting rid of all the damaged parts and I really like my haircut. He is a great stylist. He explained everything he did thoroughly and is extremely knowledgeable. I like the fact that he takes his time on cuts to make sure they are perfect, which is super since I'm a perfectionist.
I had a great experience, although I'm sad to say I didn't get the $10 discount off hair cuts that was advertised on Yelp. -
Review from Joy V.
San Jose, CA
LOVE Alchemy Hair Studio!!!
Ashley Hoyt is amazing. She listens to what you want and more importantly don't want in all things hair. She explains as she goes and has a great eye for what works. She's fantastic. I've been to see her 3 or so times and couldn't be happier.
The staff is all very friendly and welcoming. The hours offered are really convienant (Saturday AND late nights during week). I am looking forward to taking advantage of some pedicure action soon.
I highly recommend Alchemy. -
Review from lynieb b.
San Jose, CA
I found Alchemy and Sherry through Yelp and am soooo happy that I did! I needed to make the difficult and very emotional break from my previous stylist - never an easy thing to do. Sherry is an ahhh-mazing colorist, (stylist too), and I have not had so many compliments on my hair since I don't know when! The salon itself is great - tons of great things to look at and buy and the staff is terrific. A big shout-out to Heather! Everyone is so welcoming I feel like I've been going for years. When I had my first appointment with Sherry, she asked for my input and I gave her very few do's and don't's, (not sure about the punctuation there : / ), but really just let her do what she needed to do. I love my color and apparently everyone else does too. I have been thrilled with all of the hair products that have been recommended to me and I am super picky about what I use on my hair. Sherry only works a couple of days a week but don't be discouraged. She is very accommodating and I've always been able to schedule my appointments when I need to, every 5 to 6 weeks, but I've been able to schedule the quickie appointments too. If you're thinking about making the big switch and need someone new I've found her for you! Just do it - seriously, you will thrilled with the results!
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Review from Anna V.
Fremont, CA
I love this place!! I love the atmosphere and the people - Luc rocks!
It didn't feel like just a hair appointment for me, but getting back in touch with an old friend. Luc has an amazing personality and is easy to talk to. He is very knowledgeable and creative in what he does. I have very fine flat hair that doesn't seem to want to cooperate and he was able to do that, something that many other hair stylists that I've been to weren't quite able to do.
I brought in a picture of what I was hoping my future do to be like and Luc was a very good listener but he also adapted the style based on my head shape and my hair type... it came out fabulous! He gave me the cutest bob ever, and went through step by step in how to style it with me. I explained to him that I am not the kind of person that will spend a lot of time styling my hair in the morning and he definitely delivered by giving me a super cute but fairly low maintenance do.
I have never received so many compliments on my hair ever!
One thing that I liked was that I was able to donate my cut hair to a good cause - I didn't think that it was good for anything since it was really badly damaged from a previous perm (never again!!) but Luc suggested that I could donate it to making mats to clean up oil spills. Yay for a feel good moment =)
I can't wait to come in and see Luc again, and I TOTALLY recommend him =) -
Review from Laura W.
Los Altos, CA
I've seen MANY hairstylists trying to find the perfect one and I found him! Luc is THE BEST!
Read Angela S.'s review. It's dead-on. -
Review from Mikki K.
San Jose, CA
Paige is sooo awesome!!! She takes her time to make sure you love your haircut and she is NOT pushy at all! Great JOB!!!
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Review from Marisol V.
San Jose, CA
I went to see Amburlee based on Yelp reviews for curly hair. I was not let down. She knew exactly what to do. She understood all my reservations about a new stylist on my curly hair. Best of all, she got what I was trying to describe for the hair cut I wanted. To top it off, she was fun! We chatted and she really seemed to enjoy her job.
Thanks Amburlee! I could not have been happier. I'll definitely be going back :-) -
Review from Erin W.
San Jose, CA
Luc knows his hair. Well actually he knows my hair. Despite having had good relationships with hair stylists in the past, and being pleased with haircuts, I've yet to feel a cut nailed the new look I've been going for.
Simply by looking at my hair he was able to make a detailed assessment of how the last cuts were made, what the effect of those cuts were, what I was looking for, and how he could make cuts to achieve the look and feel; where every point he made was followable visually, easy to understand and all logical.
He took my direction and added his own expertise driven creativity to give me the best cut (my wife would say) I've ever had. If you are a male looking for a masculine but stylish cut, head to Luc. -
Review from Melissa L.
Berkeley, CA
Volume.
It's something my hair has known not of my whole life. I am now Amburlee's newest convert/worshiper because she made my hair look basically the way I had wanted it to, and then some. I'd gotten one of those haircuts that made you feel so fantastic you didn't want to go home because you wanted everyone to bask in your happiness, including the cashier at Subway. After this visit to Alchemy, that makes the running total...one. But I will be back to up that number. Why, you ask?
1. Really adorable salon and friendly staff.
2. You will achieve exactly what you want with tips on how to maintain said goal at home.
3. The hair products smell good enough to eat.
I'd booked my appointment on Friday morning and was able to get in that day at 10:30, which was nice because I don't cut my hair often and when I do, I get it cut impulsively and must have it done within 24 hours. I am looking forward to that deep conditioning and hand paraffin treatment at my next appt (which I got free for pre-booking). I LOVE THIS PLACE.
My pocketbook on the other hand, will start to hate this place. -
Review from angelique l.
San Jose, CA
This place is very reliable, clean and pretty.
It can be expensive. I came to get a cut and all over hair dye and left $300 later. But is was worth it because the stylist worked on me for 2 1/2 hrs and my hair looked amazing and stayed looking amazing for 3 months.
I see Mary and she always does exactly what I want. She's great with short cuts and she's also great with coloring, my hair always comes out looking chic and she really listens to what you want.
They can usually fit me into the schedule pretty easily and the receptionist is very friendly and accommodating. -
Review from Daniele D.
San Jose, CA
I have had a similar long hairstyle for MANY years. My mother forbade me to cut my hair short growing up so when I was in my early 20's I rebelled and got the Rachel haircut. That is when I discovered WHY I shouldn't have short hair...EEK! =\ After many years of growing it out I tend to have the same long, layered hairdo that is safe and easy. My last haircut 3 months ago was really good at Loft A2 Beauty Service with James but it was a little pricey and located on the opposite side of town from where I reside.
Cut to a few weeks ago. My coworker came into work with an AMAZING haircut. She told me she went to see Lauren at Alchemy. Her hair was drastically different and she was just glowing! She kept telling me to go see her the next time I needed a haircut. She said that Lauren has curly hair like me and would be able to do great things. Since my hair has been slowly growing into a twisty mullet I decided to give her a call. She was able to fit me in a few days later = last night.
I was shocked when I arrived. I went here once many years ago and it was a small little shop. This time around I discovered it is in the same location...but has expanded next door and upwards. They are 3 times the size they were. It's very cute, modern and welcoming. The kind lady at the front desk led me up a flight of stairs into a comfortable waiting area.
Lauren is adorable...a beautiful person inside and out. She made me feel at ease and I really felt ready for a change. From seeing the work she's done on my coworker I gave her full range to do whatever she wanted. We talked it over...all of the issues I have, my fears, the shape of my face, etc. We chatted and laughed while she did her magic. After she was done I was in shock. It's not "short" but it is much shorter than I would normally let someone cut it. For a second it was an uneasy feeling that turned into complete adoration.
I spruced it up this morning and I have NEVER received as many compliments on a haircut as I did today. Everyone was gaga over it...even the macho men who don't have much to say about anything other than themselves and sports or technology. LOL I loved the experience and outcome so much that I'm actually going back to see her within the next week...but I'm not telling you why. It's a SURPRISE!Listed in: This is how I ROTD
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Review from Lolly F.
Mountain View, CA
I've been coming here lately to have my nails done by Miss Autumn! I haven't been happier with my mani/pedi and always look forward to my next appointment. She specializes in Rockstar Toes... if you like glitter, these are for you and Autumn is your girl!
The decor is great. I always feel comfortable when I am there. Sometimes comfortable enough to fall asleep... but that is a plus in my book ;-) It's never too crowded which I also like. Nothing like having your appointment ruined by a bunch of loud mouths, lol! -
Review from Flor D.
Credit is due where credit is due. I have been going to Lauren for the past year and absolutely love her. She can manage my crazy curls and sleek me into a sexy straight hair within an hour. I was going to use BLOW...but you know...let's keep it PG for the kids.
She has listened to every concern I had and even given me some color. I fully trust her with my hair and recommend her to anyone who is looking to try someone new. She is fantastic and FLOR approved. I mean...if 3 of the hottest curlies (now 4 BEA) you know go there...wouldn't you want to check her out....?Listed in: Pretty Priss and avoiding…
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4/15/2009
In the words of Billy Idol: With a rebel yell she cried "more, more, more"
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4/15/2009
