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Amber's Essential Touch
Categories: Beauty and Spas Skin Care Beauty and Spas Nail Salons Beauty and Spas Hair Removal Skin Care, Nail Salons, Hair Removal [Edit]
1955 Mountain BlvdSte 101
(between Colton Blvd & Medau Pl)
Oakland, CA 94611
Neighborhoods: Montclair Village, Oakland Hills
(510) 228-6657
- Hours:
Mon 1 pm - 8 pm
Wed 10 am - 5 pm
Thu-Fri 8:30 am - 5 pm
Thu-Fri 7 pm - 8:30 pm
Sat 9 am - 5 pm
Sun 11:30 am - 2 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Garage, Street, Validated
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
47 reviews for Amber's Essential Touch
47 reviews in English
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Review from Alison F.
5/16/2012
I found Amber on yelp and I am so glad I did.
I have lived in San Francisco for nearly a year and have tried so many waxing salons. At last I have found Amber and I can stop looking now. She uses the best wax (flown in from Europe!) and knows what she is doing to make it the least painful experience possible. I have had troubles with in-grown hairs in the past but this wax was perfect and my nether regions have never looked better.
She is super lovely and makes you feel totally at ease in her salon.
I can also recommend her brow services. Basically she rocks!
Ali -
Review from Wendy C.
Piedmont, CA
5/9/2012
Amber is such a nice person. She makes you feel very comfortable and her salon is not intimidating for first timers like me. She fit me in on a Saturday, when I had contacted her both on a Tuesday and Wednesday (she doesn't answer when with customers).
As you know, it was my first time. I got a Brazilian and underarm wax. For the first time, it did hurt, not too much... but I thought it was going to be worst. The underarm was nothing. I was shocked.
After the wax, I investigated at home. I was soOoooo smooth. There were some missed hairs. Let's see how the second one goes because those were probably some stubborn hairs. -
Review from Cheryl S.
San Francisco, CA
5/3/2012 1 Check-in Here
I recently moved to the East Bay and was in dire need of finding someone to take over my B-waxes. Of course, I turned to my trusty friend, Yelp and came across Amber's page. With all of her 5 star reviews, how could I not give her a call and find out what she was about. I called her and she was able to fit me in on my next day off which was great!
When I walked into her salon the day of my appointment, I found it to be super cute and adorable. She has a display of some of her favorite products in the front and a couple of chairs to sit on while you wait for her previous appointment to finish up.
As soon as I met Amber, she exuded this aura from her that made me feel so incredibly comfortable right from the beginning. As though she was my long lost friend. I was 36 weeks preggo at the time of my appt so I was kind of nervous about that, but Amber totally reassured me and the whole time of my wax gave me so many great stories and advice about her own pregnancy and labor and delivery. It was great! Before I knew it, the entire wax was done with little pain.
I will definitely be going back to Amber for my routine maintenance. -
Review from Patricia H.
CA
2/21/2012
I had a great time at Amber's Essential Touch this past weekend. The salon is just adorable and really welcoming. I love the way Amber's decorated. It is super girly and very cute, with red hearts scattered about and chocolates and flowers everywhere
I had come in for a massage through a TruBates deal. Amber's sister, Aubrey, is the masseuse, and boy does she know her stuff. I had been feeling really tense due to some personal issues going on in my life right now, and once Aubrey was done, I really felt so much better. She has great strong hands - just what is needed to get the kinks out.
Although the salon is tiny, they do the whole gamut - facials, waxing, massage, nails, etc. Highly recommended, and I am sure I will be back! -
Review from Zoe G.
Oakland, CA
1/19/2012
Amber is the best. I will not go to anyone else. I've had myriad waxes from all over the Bay Area. Here's why she takes the cake:
1. She's friendly, funny, and easy-going. Always a plus when you're getting your girly parts coiffed.
2. She's fast and really good at what she does. The most painless brazilian I've ever received.
3. Wax results last longer than other places.
4. Prices are competitive.
5. Her salon is clean, spacious, and relaxing. Best environment I've ever received a wax.
6. She has some evening appointments during the week - I hate to increase the competition for these timeslots, but seriously - this is a big plus for us 9-5ers!
I am so happy to have found Amber! She's a gem. -
Review from Nancy M.
Anaheim, CA
2/1/2012 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Oh I so don't need the whole world to know I got a Brazilian wax, but Amber was so awesome I will out myself just to sing her praises. I've had waxing done before by "painless" techniques and I have to say Amber's was amazing. She's so personable and nice, she made me laugh, and before I knew it we were through. I loved this and next visit to Oakland I'm stopping by to see her again!
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Review from Rupa T.
Oakland, CA
10/25/2011
Amber is the best. I found her on Yelp while looking for a new place to get a brazilian wax and based on the awesome reviews, I didn't hesitate to book an appointment. Here's why she's awesome:
- You can book an appointment via text
- I kid you not, the waxing did not hurt
- She's really fast and efficient!
- She is so nice, so friendly, so down to earth and easy to talk to, you forget you're getting waxed
- I love that she tells you when to breath - it really helps to minimize (and in my case, eliminate) the pain
- She has great tips for skin care
Amber gave me my third brazilian wax ever and it was the first pleasant experience I had. There was a point in my last waxing (with someone else at a different salon) that I was ready to jump off the table and out the door - it hurt so bad! I had to get another wax before my honeymoon (very important!) and so I came to yelp and found Amber and I'm so glad that I did!! I am not longer anxious about getting waxed because I know I'm in good hands! -
Review from Margaret F.
Oakland, CA
8/14/2011
My first bikini wax. I swear, I should have documented this like it was going in my baby book because it was unbelievably . . . pleasant!
I am a big baby--in fact I only solicited waxing recommendations from un-painted ladies because I saw an abundance of tattoos as a sign of a tolerance for pain way beyond my own--and Amber, by using the best equipment and buttloads of skill, made the whole ordeal very un-ordeally.
Thoughtful touches I enjoyed included:
*Flowery mosquito-canopy thing to look at while undergoing procedures.
*Excellent magazines.
*Abundant hard candy.
*Clean facilities.
*Warm, personable, professional practitioner.
Honestly, if I knew more about waxing I might even venture to say Amber is an artist. But I know nothing, butcept it didn't hurt (much) and her results are outstanding. -
Review from Bonnie M.
Oakland, CA
1/25/2012
I found Amber via yelp and went to her because of her reviews. She really deserves five stars! She's the best, and I have been to tons of different waxing places in the bay area and boston. I would not go to anyone else! She's fast and thorough, I'm so stoked to finally have found a local esthetician I trust and recommend you do too!
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Review from Jo M.
Oakland, CA
8/19/2011
Amber rocks! She's skillful, fast, thorough and does the job with minimal pain. She uses great products so there's rarely any redness after a wax. I've been a client for about 5 months having checked out a few places in Montclair and I'm totally hooked. I can book an appointment by text which is really helpful and then Amber sends me a reminder a day before my appointment, how cool is that! The prices are reasonable.
Amber is totally down to earth and funny and I highly recommend her. -
Review from Corn O.
Oakland, CA
12/8/2011
I received a wonderful therapeutic deep tissue swedish massage from Aubre, Amber's sister and colleague. What I appreciated the most was Aubre's intuitive attention to detail. She didn't glaze over my knots. She committed to working them out and educating me about them along the way. She did a great job of creating a peaceful and relaxing space and then answering my questions with specific, detailed knowledge that showed me she knew what she was doing and I could relax even further into the massage. I appreciated this dynamic and felt like I received a highly therapeutic massage that gave me relaxation, peace, knowledge and finally a lot of relief from those deep places of tension that most people never bother to find. Thanks Aubre!
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Review from Amber P.
Hercules, CA
2/28/2011
I have recommended all my friends who are waxing "virgins" to see Amber. You HAVE to see Amber! She's very professional but she makes it seem like you've known each other for years.
As she's doing your wax, she calmly explains how she does it and why she does it. Talking to her will make you forget that you're having what many people describe as a stinging procedure (not here).
Overall, my appointments with Amber have been quick, painless and the end result has been SPECTACULAR.
I have not had the pleasure of getting any other services, but the waxes have my stamp of approval! She's the greatest! -
Review from Audrey T.
Oakland, CA
12/11/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
As other reviewers have mentioned, Amber gets it done. She's efficient, does it right, and in the meantime is fun and easy to talk to. I'm glad I bought a Yelp deal to come here- it was a great investment, and now I'm a loyal monthly customer.
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Review from Thea L.
Oakland, CA
5/7/2011
She gives you Chocolate - and, oh yeah, the BEST wax.
I found Amber through Yelp and have to add my 2 cents. I've seen her 3 times and will never go anywhere else. She makes waxing NOT hurt. She is very sweet, down-to-earth and never makes it feel clinical or embarrassing. The wax she uses is gentle and does not leave my sensitive skin red and irritated like previous waxing experiences (of which I've had many; some twice the price). She never up-sells/suggests additional services and did I mention she always leaves a piece of chocolate for clients? -
Review from island g.
Oakland, CA
5/1/2011
I have been seeing Amber for 2-3yrs on a regular basis for the brazilian and facial. I feel refreshed after every visit. She uses the best products and wax (blue wax the good stuff). I look forward to my visits because she is fast and does a great job every time (waxing)! I recommend her to anyone who is looking for a great esthetician! She is Awesome.
Update: I have tried new services (mani, pedi and face waxing) with Amber and now I no longer go to my usual spa for those services because she does paraffin wax instead of a water bath. My hands and feet feel baby soft after Amber gets her hands on them. I get compliments on my pedicures all the time. I love love love my feet now. The best part is I no longer have to sit in a room full of ppl I do not know and listen to them chat or the workers gossip while I receive services. At Amber's we have our own little private room!! I went from seeing her once a month to twice a month because she keeps be Gorgeous! Her prices are 100% fair for what you are receiving. Just listen to everyone else and go see her. You will not regret it!
GO AND SEE AMBER!! -
Review from John D.
Seattle, WA
3/5/2012
Had a great experience with Amber! Will absolutely come back.
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Review from Cindy W.
Pinole, CA
3/10/2011
I have started being waxed by Amber now for the past 6 -8 months. Brazilan wax is something I never thought I would do. Now I won't do with out it! Amber is very professional, light hearted, loves what she does and it shows in her work. She is open in the evenings or the weekends which is very handy for hard working men and women. She is very accomodating to your schedual. Give her a call today and treat yourself to something you won't regret!
Cindy -
Review from Mindy H.
Oakland, CA
11/20/2010
Amber is fabulous! Tucked away in between Peet's coffee and Grille One (i think) is a heavenly staircase that will lead you into the Amber's cozy studio. It has a very home-y feel especially with the beautiful pictures of her baby daughter :)
She greeted me once I got there and was very friendly. She immediately led me into the "waxing room" and gave me an over view of how things were going to work.
Amber is very knowledgable and skillful. She talked to me about exfoliating my skin and how to take care of my skin afterwards. DEFINITELY the least painful wax I have ever had. Its quite magical.
She is extremely personable, I HIGHly recommend her! (If you go, be sure to mention Mindy H :D)
Anyway, she mentioned shes moving locations soon, but not too far! Just down the street by Lucky's! Exciting !!
Mindy Says: slightly on the pricier end, but definitely worth it! Parking can be tough (like always in Montclair) -
Review from Xoxi M.
Oakland, CA
3/15/2011
Not to get into the details, but it'd been a long time since I waxed and the person I had been going to for years was M.I.A......so, I came to Yelp, and saw all these great reviews about Amber and she was close to my house..
Hurray for Amber!!!!!!! She's a lovely lady, who made me feel at ease right away, gentle in voice and method (she uses the blue wax method - way better than the other that makes you feel as if they've taken a layer of two off skin too) and just an all around great gal!! No need to search anymore, I've found the best Brazilian Wax around. -
Review from Nicole A.
Oakland, CA
2/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
I remember the first time I tried to get a Brazilian wax... It was down in San Diego and the first two rips were so painful that I had to stop the lady right then and there. I left that salon with the strangest "design" you could imagine.
I'm so glad I found Amber's Essential Touch! Essentially painless. Not only that, Amber is so friendly and sweet, that modest folks are quickly put at ease. She is extremely detailed and efficient, she will get you out in half the time of other salons. She is wonderful about reminding you of all of your appointments which is such a great thing when you've got a million things on your plate. Her prices are extremely reasonable and she can easily host waxing/massage/pedicure/manicure events for your girlfriends and family members. To be honest, I'm a little nervous about writing this review in that she will get so booked up, it will be that much harder for me to get her. BUT she deserves the Kudos for her great service! Good waxing services in Oakland can be far and few between. -
Review from Alex B.
Oakland, CA
10/30/2011 6 Check-ins Here
after a horrible waxing experience in the past, I was hesitant to try again, but it had to be done. lol. I found Amber on yelp and all the reviews made me confident enough to give her a try. I called on a Saturday afternoon and she gave me an appt. for the very next morning. Upon arrival i was pleased with the atmosphere. Amber has a warm personality and made feel very comfortable. She is knowledgable about her trade and uses great products. The brazilan wax was complete in about 30 minutes and i experienced little pain. I love Amber! I plan on being a regualr client.
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Review from Karen W.
Oakland, CA
9/30/2011
I was so looking forward to my one hour Swedish massage through Trubates that I got for half price! I was met by Aubrey Johnson and had a wonderful relaxing massage by her. She asked if the pressure was right and whether was too hard or not. I think the massage was well worth the price. Gave her a tip based on the actual price for a massage.
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Review from Laurie K.
Oakland, CA
9/14/2010
If you are thinking about waxing but have not had the guts to go for it, you need to call Amber! She is confident in her skills, works quickly, and overall is just a pleasure to be around. I have also had an excellent facial with her. If you want an esthetician who is professional without being stiff or snobby (or too sales-y), Amber will put you at ease so you can relax and enjoy the fact that you are doing something good for yourself.
I almost look forward to my waxing appointments! You are in and out in about a half an hour, and every time it gets easier and hurts less. Plus, she validates an hour of parking for the Montclair garage so I never have to worry about finding street parking. A nice little bonus! -
Review from Anjeza A.
El Cerrito, CA
11/21/2011
Let me start by saying how beautiful and calming it was walking in to Ambers spa today! I loved it! Then I was greeted with a smile which made me feel
Calm considering I hadn't gotten waxed in a while, she made me feel relaxed and we laughed that all of the sudden she said ok we are done and it was virtually painless considering my nervousness. I am going back! Amber is amazing!! -
Review from Joe T.
Oakland, CA
1/26/2012
Finally.. a PAINLESS WAX.. Amber Rocks
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Review from Jasmine L.
Emeryville, CA
1/27/2011
"Toe Delicious" Is all I need to say!!! This is As Good As it Gets!!!!
Amber has been giving me the best pedicures since the very first day I met her at the day spa 3 years ago. I am very hard person to please and she has got my number!
If you are in a relationship, Amber is who you need to go see. I get my Awesome Pedicure, eyebrows, and My Brazilian Wax done there. She is very kind and my nerves are at ease when she is at work on me.
My boyfriend is the one that should be writing this review =) he is the happiest... "Popsicle Toes" or 'Toe Delicious" as he so often reference my feet after I leave Amber Essential Touch.
I highly recommend that you give her a call, she is very professional, and she pays attention to details. Tell her 'Lady Boss" sent you! -
Review from Leah M.
Oakland, CA
6/24/2011
I had almost given up on brazilians because of being burned twice at 2 different spas! About a week ago I found myself browsing yelp to see if I could come across someone who had fair prices for brazilians but most of all positive reviews. I came across Amber's page and for some reason didn't hesitate to schedule an appointment based on her positive reviews for everything from brazilians to facials...and I have to say that my experience with Amber for my Brazilian was amazing! I never thought I would be able to describe waking my lady part as amazing but that it was. She was extremely nice and made me feel so comfortable and I'm not sure how she does it was is was pretty much pain free. Go see Amber! You won't regret it!
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Review from Sarah G.
Emeryville, CA
1/31/2012
She's funny, intelligent, professional and puts you at ease! She's great at what she does and I've already recommended her to a few family members!
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Review from Honeydiips S.
Pinole, CA
4/13/2011
Amber is the BEST!!! I've had the pleasure of getting my first brazilian wax and facial from Amber. She talks you through every process explaining the importance and quality of the products she uses. You know how sometimes you go in a place of business and the people there are just doing their job? Rushing you out so they can get to their next customer? You will never have that experience with Amber. She LOVES what she does and loves educating her clients on things they can do at home to improve their skin!
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Review from Taffi v.
Fremont, CA
9/12/2011
What can I say I have been waxing for about 10 years and amber's essential touch is the fist place where I felt no pain and felt like i was at home. Her prices are more then reasonable and she is very accommodating to my hectic life. I gave essential touch 5 stars. One for all my requirements for a great place to beautify one self.
Clean
friendly
painless
not expensive
accommodating -
Review from Kristen S.
Oakland, CA
9/12/2011
I've been seeing Amber for almost 3 years. She's great. She makes waxings as comfortable as possible. She's excellent at her job and does an awesome job everytime! She's super nice and enjoyable to talk to.
She does everything for waxings to manicures & pedicures to spa treatments. She sends you a reminder text a day or so before which is great.
I reccomend Amber to everyone! -
Review from Olivia F.
Oakland, CA
2/16/2011
Amber is the wax expert for your brazilian wax needs. She really makes you feel so comfortable, that you feel like your talking to a old girlfriend while she is waxing you down there. I give it four stars since its out the way, and it can be a bit expensive but well worth the cost. Amber uses a european wax that is hardwax, which doesn't hurt as bad as strip wax. Overall amber is good at what she does,try her out for yourself, you will not be disappointed.
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Review from Kyra M.
San Leandro, CA
3/22/2011
I concur with all the reviews regarding Amber's professionalism, sweetness and energy to make you feel comfortable in a situation that can tend to be not so comfortable . I have been going to Amber for facials and Brazilian waxes for about 8 months now. Each time I look forward to seeing Amber not only to touch up the kitty or relax for a facial, but also to have that relaxing moment to catch up on girl talk . Kudos to Amber and Congrats on the new place~
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Review from Erika T.
Oakland, CA
11/22/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
5 STARS for Amber!!!! As good as it gets. I went to Amber based on the reviews on Yelp and I must say she lives up to her reputation. I was looking for reviews that said no pain, less pain, virtually painless, minimal pain and I found all of that in her reviews. I went for a Brazilian and underarms and the service was impeccable. Her technique and products made my waxing experience bearable and I will certainly be back in 5 weeks. This was my first time meeting her and our chemistry was instant, felt like I'd known her for years. A must when you're going for a personal service such as a Brazilian. We laughed and talked during my service, she was very knowledgable about her craft, shared a lot of information on the do's and dont's of waxing and how to care for my skin afterwards. The atmosphere was comfortable and sanitary, she was ready for me when I got there and she took her time with me to ensure comfort and quality. She also coached me all the way through my wax with breathing techniques. Her prices are reasonable, location (Montclair) pleasant and I feel like I could hang out with her. That's just how great my experience was with Amber. A must try!
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Review from Alexis S.
Oakland, CA
11/22/2011
Amber is a God send! I followed her from her previous employer and have never looked back. She is extremely professional and meticulous, not to mention friendly and thoughtful. I used to DREAD getting waxed and I absolutely refused to even consider a brazilian. But Amber changed all of that. She totally talked me through the process and even told me how to breathe so that it wouldn't be as painful. Her coaching really helped and it turned out to be much better than i expected. Amber's commitment to stellar service is evident everywhere from her choice in products, to her salon decor, to the way she greets you when you come in. I can not say enough lovely things about her and 5 stars are hardly adequate. Ambers touch is absolutely essential; I will never go anywhere else.
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Review from Gabriela F.
Oakland, CA
12/9/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I went for my first brazilian wax with Amber and she was so good that I'm going back. She walked me through the process and made me feel comfortable right away. She has a soothing presence and makes it go quickly and with minimal pain. I highly recommend her!
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Review from Mel H.
Oakland, CA
10/16/2010
I LOVE Amber! She makes waxing *almost* pleasant--not only is she a great esthetician, she knows how to put clients at ease. (Breathe in and out, just like she says.) I recommend her to everyone--especially first-time Brazilianers. ;-)
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Review from Trina S.
Long Beach, CA
9/9/2010
Amber is awesome! She was my go to lady for waxings for maybe close to two years! I recently moved to SoCal, so I'm bummed to leave her! Brazilian waxing is not a really pleasant experience for most people and especially when you're seeing an esthetician for the first time, but Amber makes you feel comfortable and at home! The room is calm and relaxing and most importantly clean. She's a sweetheart and I would recommend her to anyone in the East Bay.
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Review from Silvana D.
Oakland, CA
6/14/2011
She is absolutely the BEST. I meet her through Yelp. I came from Argentina where Brazilian is very important and before her, I didn't find a place with good results. If somebody wants to try brazilian for the first time, MUST to go with Amber!!!!!
Silvana -
Review from christine r.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 3/20/2011
Amber is the best! I've been to her 3 times now. Once for brows and twice for a brazilian. I thought getting a brazilian would be the worst pain ever, but it's not with Amber. I had a full on conversation with her the entire time, and felt completely at ease. She's very personable and sweet. She always comes through for me. Thanks Amber!!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/23/2011
Amber is the best. Personable and friendly and made my first brazilian experience pleasant. I… Read more »
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