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Balance Skin Care
Categories: Beauty and Spas Skin Care Beauty and Spas Hair Removal Skin Care, Hair Removal [Edit]
2136 The AlamedaSte D
San Jose, CA 95126
(408) 332-2376
Announcement
To celebrate Moms in May - get a 1hour raspberry enzyme and glycolic treatment with hand, neck, and shoulder massage for $79 (a $115 value)!
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 10 am - 8 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
97 reviews for Balance Skin Care
97 reviews in English
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Review from Julia O.
San Jose, CA
12/12/2011
This review is long overdue. I have been going to Marina for years and she has done wonders on my skin. I usually get facials an they are amazing and correctly priced! I can highly recommend Marina!
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Review from Sheena D.
San Jose, CA
9/22/2011
I was really excited to try out Balance Skin Care and put in the consistent visits as they recommend in order to improve my skin. I was very surprised by how thorough my consultation was.
She asked what products I used. What vitamins I took. She also asked about my diet and exercise and how I washed my face. No esthetician had done that for me before.
I guess that's where it goes down hill. I expected this would be a wonderful facial full of magic and fairies. in the end, I got a facial that completely dried out my face.
No moisturizer could moisturize my face after the facial. I had to get a doctor's recommendation for what would hydrate my face. After using that cream, my face was back to normal and I could smile without cracking my skin.
Never again. Even if it would take 4 more sessions to make my skin perfect... I can't handle any of the down time. Its not exactly professional to go into work with teenage skin.Comment from Tanya M. of Balance Skin Care 4/27/2012
Sheena, thank you for the feedback and we're terribly sorry… More » -
Review from Alice C.
San Jose, CA
7/7/2011
I'm pretty torn about how exactly I should rate this place. On the one hand, everyone here - Tanya, Marina, Elena - is incredibly warm and caring and dedicated. You can easily tell that they put their heart into their work as well as their clients. Getting facials with any of them is a pleasant and relaxing experience. They're efficient yet thorough and strive to take good care of you.
On the other hand, while I appreciate their five-star service, I was very disappointed in the results -- in fact, I feel a little cheated. I was experiencing the worst acne breakout of my life, so I guess it was only natural for Tanya to recommend their Dadashie Acne system on my first visit. I was extremely hesitant to try it because, well, a series of $50 weekly facials plus a $40 cleanser and a $20 cream for who-knows-how-long could easily become a pretty darn costly investment. But I was desperate and stressed out, and Tanya was so confident in the success of the system, that I agreed to give it a shot. Tanya assured me that I would see visible results within two weeks. I gave it nearly two months, and it did absolutely nothing for my skin. If anything, it seemed to make my skin even worse.
It really is true that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to treating skin, and while I don't think that Balance is trying to scam anyone, I would have really appreciated it if they had been more realistic and honest about the fact that the Dadashie system simply wasn't working for me instead of being so insistent.
Long story short: If you're looking for a relaxing, feel-good experience from friendly people, come here. And their Dadashie system may work for some people, but ultimately it is not a miracle treatment.Comment from Tanya M. of Balance Skin Care 4/27/2012
Thank you for this fair review and feedback. We're really… More » -
Review from Ludmila R.
San Jose, CA
9/28/2011
Although I am a fairly new patient at Balance Skin Care, I can't see myself trusting my skin to anyone else.
I found myself going here after I followed Elena (the only one I have come to trust for my waxing needs) from a different spa due to her professionalism and great results!
I have gone to many others before I found Elena to get waxed and have always left with a bitter taste of their services. But Elena has a way of making it painless (well as painless as a bikini wax can get!) and is very meticulous about getting everything (where i had problems with others). The process is fast, smooth and leaves me feeling clean and brand new again :) I have recommended her to several of my girlfriends, whom all agreed she has magical hands.
Moving on, I had always wanted to explore the facial world, but having very sensitive skin, I am always hesitant to disturb it in any way. I decided to mention my interest during one of our sessions and she began telling me her thoughts and recommendations based on her knowledge of my skin. What I loved is that she wasn't trying to push any services on me, and was realistic about how the results might be since everyone's skin is different and reacts differently.
After an in depth consultation, I decided to go for it!
And I am SOOOOO glad that I did. Not only did I feel completely comfortable and relaxed during the procedure, I swear my skin actually glowed because of it. Getting compliments about how good my skin looked from people who had no idea about my facial was the icing on the cake of a great visit. I am definitely coming back for another facial!
Now, I have not experienced the services from the other ladies here, but they all seem very capable and i have heard good very things about them as well.
All in all.. i was very happy with this place and i'm sure that anyone who comes here will fall inlove with it like i did :) -
Review from Lorie N.
San Jose, CA
3/1/2011
I went to Marina for the first time after reading all the positive reviews about her here. After arriving to the "house," at night, I wasn't quite sure where to park and didn't feel like driving around in the neighborhood only to find a spot blocks away. So, I ended up parking right in front of the doorway.
The place feels like an old Victorian home with the old carpeting, and even some of the musty smell. The first door on the bottom of the staircase turned out to be a therapists' office, and a marriage counseling session was going on as I walked by. (It wasn't like I was being nosey or anything.)
I quietly padded up the staircase and Marina was there to greet me. The first thing I noticed about her was the distinct Russian accent. She had me fill out a consultation form and I immediately felt at ease with her. I've been to several facialists in the past, and I genuinely felt like she cared about me and wanted to cater to my skin concerns.
I also told her up front that I wanted to keep it under $100 since I was on a budget, and she was totally fine with that. Fast forward an hour later... I was so blissfully relaxed that I didn't want the facial to end. There was never a moment where she left me alone while she left a mask on, or had the steam just blowing on my face. Her hands were massaging my face, my shoulders, my hands and the back of my neck during the entirety of the hour and I LOVED every minute of it.
Yup, I found "the one." She's the only facialist that I will always go back to. And seriously? That's a lot coming from a picky girl like me. -
Review from Christy M.
San Jose, CA
3/30/2011
I went to Marina after all the great reviews here, she gives a consultation about 30 min and then the facial for an hour.
Marina was very nice and the only thing is I told her I have sensitive skin and during the extractions and treatment she said my face was getting pink and mentioned that I really did have sensitive skin...which I told her I did in the beginning! LOL anyway she seemed thorough with extractions and even did hot stones which i liked.
The reason I'm giving 3 stars is 1. because its really hard to make an appointment, and I asked her about this which she said girls that book it are somewhere else...not out of their business. I tried to book an appointment online and luckily I called the day before about it because apparently it was for a product consultation and not a facial consultation. Anyway she exclaimed to me "who booked THAT appointment for you!" I told her i did it online...but she wasn't that helpful when I was trying to schedule I felt. Then I kept calling every day for about a week straight in the morning and at night during their business hours and NO one would pick up the phone! WTH?
2. My face is dry and peeling in places, and I also have some zits. However I read online that its normal after you get a facial to have this occur, but I've had facials before and usually my skin feels clean and great, and I don't break out...also I've told the esthetician during previous facials about my skin being sensitive so they are aware of that...but I don't think I would come back because of the results I'm seeing now.
I really did want to like this place, but I think there might be other options to go to as far as facials!Comment from Tanya M. of Balance Skin Care 3/31/2011
CK - thank you for coming to see us and letting us know… More » -
Review from Christina J.
San Jose, CA
5/24/2011
I went here purely based off their reviews on Yelp!
I had my first facial here, Im now totally hooked :) I made an appointment with Elena, I didnt have any problems calling and talking to someone, I did try to use their online system....but I don't trust outsourced systems so I thought it'd be better to call.
I arrived early and was seen early which was awesome. Filled out a bit of paper work, and had a small talk about what I was expecting from my visit. I really don't know anything about these things, I just said I was stressed and wanted to try something new :)
Elena suggested a "Hydration" facial and looked over my skin with a bright light. The extraction part didn't hurt at all. We chatted a few times and overall the experience was very relaxing, I walked away feeling refreshed, and light. 100% happy -
Review from Lisa R.
1/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
Can't believe I haven't written a review yet for this place. I was referred here three years ago by a friend and I met the wonderful owner and esthetician, Tanya. I bought a six pack of micro dermabrasion facials (I still have one left that I keep forgetting to call in and use) and they really helped improve my skin.
Then, Tanya and her husband moved to Germany for a year and I lost touch. She has since trained Marina and I have heard wonderful things about her ( and the YELP reviews are outstanding).
The spa is really just a lovely room located in a historic home on the Alameda that has been converted to multi use business space.
Comfy, quiet, warm and inviting, its a good space to relax and get done what needs to be done.
I will be getting back in regular rotation for my skin care regime here. -
Review from Robin B.
San Jose, CA
2/4/2012
I got a gift certificate for a facial from my husband for my birthday (thanks sweetie!). I had my facial with Tanya, the owner of Balance. Their business card says "Clinical results, relaxing experience" and that's just what I got. You can tell Tanya really knows her stuff. Some facialists I've been to at other places seemed like they didn't really even know much about skin care except for a few stock things they've learned to say ("hydration is important"), but Tanya really studies the science of skin care. We actually had a five minute conversation about parabens and how solid, or not, the evidence is against them. She told me about some of Balance's pricier options available to really deep clean your skin, but she didn't try to pressure me into buying them. Tanya is also a warm person who's just nice to talk to as she's caring for your skin. Highly recommend the facials here!
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Review from Carla C.
San Jose, CA
11/9/2010
I am absolutely amazed at how great me skin looks after seeing Marina yesterday. She worked magic on my skin. I've purchased so many exfoliants and moisturizers in the last few months which didn't work and ended up clogging my pores, which caused acne. I was reluctant to make an appt because I went to Esthetician school years ago, so I should know, right?
I love that you don't really choose the treatment. They'll talk to you, find out your conerns and then recommend a treatment plan. The best thing? It's all relatively one price. I received lots of extractions and microdermabrasion, then a mask. I had paid $150 for just micro a few years ago! The appt was also 90 minutes so they can take their time and not rush. She also didn't scrape my skin with the extractor. It was gentle squeezing, just like I was taught in school.
Marina did not push product and in fact said some of what I was using was good! I'm in love! -
Review from Janette W.
San Jose, CA
8/11/2010
Sometimes it's late night and you realize you're in desperate need of a facial. That's where Balance Skin Care scores first by having an online appointment booking. It's easy to use and you can pick from the three esteticians, times and services. Plus they sent you helpful email reminders for forgetful people like me!
Marina greeted me very sweetly, especially considering I was late from looking for parking. We started off with consultation and then to the real action! She ended up doing a bit of microdermabrasion, and a peel. But she was very gentle during the process and was always checking on me to make sure I was comfortable. End result my skin is looking fab and I can't wait to go back soon!
And please allow time for parking! -
Review from Carolyn M.
San Jose, CA
8/15/2011
a great place to have a facial. I highly recommend Elena. you will be in very good hands with her. She is so easy to talk to and really cares and knows a lot about skin care. This is a great way to relax and pamper yourself. The rooms are comfortable and all the staff is friendly.
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Review from lois g.
San Jose, CA
12/7/2008
I am a definite cynic on beauty treatments, and even bonafide health treatments. After too many disappointments and money down the drain, I am tough to convince and avoid buying promises. Balance and Tonya are the only skin specialists I trust, and I mean only.
The magic of Balance is a combination of the treatments, the products and Tanya herself. I call Tanya the Skin Warrior. She is a good skin evangelist who would pull people off the street to help them to have better skin if she could. Most of us start out with perfect skin, so what happened? Tanya wants us all to go back to that point in time where our skin was happy and shows it. She understands that everyone is different and respects what an individual has to say about their own skin (what a concept). At the same time, do not expect Tanya to pull any punches. She knows skin. She likes skin. She wants YOUR skin to look its best. :)
The treatments are professionally done and show results - YAY! I have only ever gone under Tanya's hands, but I imagine anyone she vouches for will also do an excellent job. I am 43 and the ol' skin is showing its displeasure at some of my habits, past and present. After a session with Tanya, I would swear I get some second glances of "appreciation"... pretty nice when you are at the point of considering Botox, etc... and at Balance, I am actually doing something good for my skin.
Go to Balance and make your skin happy again. -
Review from L.L. M.
Palo Alto, CA
7/6/2008
I went to Balance Skin Care based on the good reviews at Yelp. The skin care treatment room is in a house shared with other offices.
Marina greeted me on time and asked me a series of questions regarding my skin care regime. She recommended Microdermabrasion during the interview, and I mentioned that I have sensitive skin.
The microdermabrasion facial that Marina performed was different from my other experiences. She performed both scrub exfoliation and 3 passes with the microdermabrasion device. The mask that was applied after these processes was quite strong.
My face felt 'raw' after the facial and the feeling lasted for 2 days. My skin started peeling afterwards. My face is still peeling after 2 weeks. My skin has always been fine after my other microdermabrasion. I suspect that Marina didn't have enough experience with the microdermabrasion tool and went overboard (even though I told her that I have sensitive skin).
I really wanted to like this place, and support a local business. But, I won't be going back after this experience. If you go to Balance, you may want to consider other types of facial besides microdermabrasion. -
Review from caneisha h.
San Jose, CA
8/1/2011
I had the best experience at balance and I want to make sure everyone knows it. I usually get my Brazilian waxes from another salon and on recommendation from Tanya I made an appointment with Elena. I will never go anywhere else!! Elena is so thorough, we discussed the wax the previous salon used and what technique she would use to wax me. she was not satisfied with a certain spot on my bikini line so she said to come back in a week so she can rewax the area. For free! I loved the Victorian feel of the house and the rooms are very cozy and welcoming. Very peaceful. I liked that Elena offered me a liquid to prepare my skin to be waxed and afterwards a hot towel and oil to clean off with. We even discussed facials and makeup. I love this place and will make this spot my go to for facial and waxing services!!!!!
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Review from Aimee C.
Los Gatos, CA
12/13/2010
WOW! I had the most wonderful pampering today! I am extremely discriminating when it comes to who I let touch my face. I have troublesome skin and my pregnancy has compounded the problem... I'm not able to use any salicylic or glycolic acid products while pregnant. My skin was so sad and in need of extra TLC, which it got today... thanks to Marina! Awesome massage: check, extractions thorough but not too painful: check, heavenly products: check! This 90 minutes of 'me time' was beyond worth it!
I have been to Balance a few times prior and was seen by Tanya. I was reluctant to see someone new, as Tanya was unavailable. I have no complaints; in fact I would return to see either Tanya or Marina; both are phenomenal at what they do! -
Review from Linh L.
San Jose, CA
8/8/2008
I went to Balance based on wonderful reviews from fellow Yelp-ers. Believe me, the good reviews are definitely accurate and rightfully earned by Balance!
I had an appointment with Marina, and being that it was my first time at Balance, the first 15 minutes was a thorough consultation about my regimen and overall health. I have very VERY sensitive skin, and I'm always wary about trying out new places because sometimes the specialists ignore your comments or think you're exaggerating your sensitivities. In any case, I felt very comfortable with Marina. I told her the type of facials that I had had in the past, and she was surprised that places would do certain "peels" on me because she found them to be quite harsh. In any case, she suggested the hydrating facial with a very light scrub and mask to help with exfoliation.
I felt really relaxed during the whole facial. Balance has moved to the upstairs room, and I did not find it noisy at all. Marina was really good about telling me everything she was doing every step of the way, and she did a great job massaging my shoulders and neck as well. EXTRACTIONS were a little painful, but she was VERY THOROUGH. I waited a few days before writing this review only because I wanted to see how my skin reacted to the facial and extractions, and so far, so good! The session concluded with some warm stones, which I always find very relaxing and enjoyable.
So what's the best part of Balance? It's not that I got a great facial in a wonderful environment from a woman with BEAUTIFUL skin who understands what SENSITIVE skin means. It's that I got a way better facial than I usual get at higher end, balls-out spas for about 2/3 of the price! You can't beat that!
If you're in the South Bay and are into getting facials, try Balance out. You won't get the full on spa experience, but you will get an amazing facial that your beautiful skin will thank you for later! -
Review from robin r.
San Jose, CA
8/18/2007
Updated 2/11/2008:
I have just had the SECOND best facial to date.
Last nights facial was given by the newest edition to the Balance family; Marina, and it was truly wonderful.
Marina has the touch of a seasoned professional. Her massage pressure was perfect. Her attention to detail was wonderful. And the attention she gave to making sure I was comfortable was very...well..comforting.
Marina picked an awesome treatment for me and I left Balance with a glow you could see across the street. This morning, I still looked radiant. Marina answered my questions of what she was using and explained why. We talked about the absolute importance of home care and I left feeling like I had just spent time with a close friend.
As always, I cant wait until my next appointment!
Thanks Balance!!!
The best facial I have had to date.
I had my first appointment with Tanya today and I can honestly say I just had the best facial I have ever had. And being an ex Esthetician, I have had my share.
We begin in treatment room. The treatment room is small but so cozy I didn't want to leave. The small size added to the intimacy and warmth. The facial bed was comfy and the sheets were crisp and smelled great. Loved it.
Tanya. Tanya is overflowing with knowledge, advice, recommendations and expertise. She has truly found her calling. She talked with me like we had been friends for a while and was honest with what she saw going on with my skin. She asked me the standard questions about what I currently use, but she also asked more specific questions which was cool. We talked and laughed and I was very comfortable telling her the problems I was having and what i wanted.
The facial. The facial was flawless. She cleansed, scrubbed, analyzed, massaged and did extractions. It all felt great. She told me what she wanted to do and why and what the result would be. She frequently checked in with me making sure i was doing OK and told me what was coming next. Very thorough! She wrote down what she used on me and pointed me to the web so i can learn even more if i wanted. Rad!
I left feeling and looking great and I honestly cant wait to see her again and i am excited to watch my skin transform for the better.
Thanks Tanya!!! -
Review from Ash P.
10/23/2010
I came here to get a relaxing facial before my wedding, unfortunately the week before my appointment I got a chemical burn from my acne medicine. I called Balance Skin Care in panic and they said they could try to soothe my skin with a moisturizing facial, so I decided to keep my appointment.
Marina worked her magic on my face and the brown spots of skin shed a few days before my wedding. I was so happy that my skin was no longer dry and discolored! Since then I have been a loyal client and my acne has started to fade and clear. I'm very happy with this place and I highly recommend Marina. -
Review from Katherine L.
Santa Clara, CA
8/24/2008
This place was a bit hard to find. I did a ton of U turns trying to locate this place. I stripped and enveloped myself into the comfty bed/chair that had a hump in the lower part, which fits perfectly to my legs. I already wanted to take a nap in it. I was happy to get into it since my jeans were half wet after going to a dog pool party. Marina asked me a bunch of questions regarding my lifestyle and what I used on my skin. After the questionare, she recommended a certain facial. I was tired enough as it was, chasing after my dog and trying to coax him into the pool. As a result, I forgot what she recommended. She was friendly and easy going.
The facial, I had no idea what she was using, but the steam that she had throughout felt really good. There was some sort of scrub, mask and massage. Followed my pore picking, more mask, and some other substance. The massage felt good. Yum. Pore picking bleh. Of course, don't we all endure some kind of pain for beauty? Overall the facial made me felt not only good, but also relaxed walking out the door. I wouldn't have minded taking a nap for a couple of hours in that chair. Hmmmm...I have a new goal in life...let's see, how can I get ahold of one of those chairs? -
Review from Stacey L.
4/15/2010
I came here for my first ever bikini waxing experience! Naturally I was a bit nervous since I've heard how much it hurts. Marina, whom was the owner, did the waxing for me. She was very sweet and made conversation with me without being too chatty. She talked me through the process as she was waxing and constantly asked if the wax was too hot. Before I knew it, the process was done and it didn't hurt nearly as badly as I thought it would!
Oh, I forgot to mention, the prices are incredibly reasonable. $28 for a bikini, $40 for an extended bikini! Other places will charge $50+ for a bikini so this is an amazing deal.
I have read great reviews about this place with their facials. It's only about a mile away from Santa Clara University's campus so I will definitely come back and try their other services. I'm also going to recommend this place to all my friends on campus! -
Review from Tif W.
Santa Clara, CA
2/25/2008
I stood in front of the door wondering if I should: a. open it; b. ring the door bell; c. walk around the building to see if there's another entrance into the building. After 5 minutes of alternating glances at the door, door bell and #D Balance Skin mail box, I finally opened the door to a Victorian interior. The door straight ahead had a sign, "Facial in Progress". The yelp reviews hadn't mentioned any initial confusions. I pondered whether it was a problem unique to only me, while waiting on a bench. Tanya (indeed with glowing, luminous skin) checked on me a couple times, sweetly apologizing for the short wait.
The session went smoothly. Tanya determined the ABBA shampoo and conditioner I had been recently using were the culprits of the hairline and forehead breakouts. She was also honest about my skin and what the treatments could do. It was my first facial, so I have nothing to compare it to but my skin looked so refreshed I became an instant facial addict. Very personable and considerate, Tanya made the experience all the more pleasant. At the end of the session, she packaged some recommended product samples along with detailed instructions.
As Tanya walked me out, I was somewhat relieved to find another confused-looking girl standing at the front door. -
Review from Q D.
San Jose, CA
10/9/2009
I've been to other facial places before but I was never satisfied with the result. So far Balance skin care is the best place I've been so far. The place was kinda hard to find at first and it look kinda antique on the outside but the interior is great!. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by Tanya. She is very nice and professional and went through the consultation with me about my facial problems and acne issues. Tanya never pushes me into buying anything but suggested me to try the Dadashie Acne System. At first I was kinda skeptical about this because I had tried almost everything out there from over the counter product at Target, to prescription creams.. and even Proactive! I was so depressed with my face because it was full of new and old pimples.. adding with scars and dark spot from extracting it by myself.
But anyways I listened to Tanya and bought the Dadashie Acne Sensitive which is the cream and Dadashie Exfoliating cleanser.
Amazingly, just in two week all my acne is starting to clear up. My family and coworker actually noticed and gave me great compliments! I really recommend the Dadashie Acne System to anyone who suffers from acne problems.
Overall, Tanya was great and I couldn't wait to have another facial at Balance Skin Care! -
Review from Victoria L.
San Jose, CA
5/26/2009
Ooolala. talk about Skin Care Heaven. I've had my share of disaster facials. My face usually ends up looking like freddy krueger. Okay. over exaggeration, but its pretty botched up. i've gotten scars from extactractions, another place left a peel on too long...and the list goes on. I was skeptical about getting another facial, but decided to give Balance Skin Care a try based on all the good yelp reviews. Was I amazed? Absolutely.
I called to make an appointment in the morning, and they squeezed me in for an appointment at noon the same day. My appointment was with Marina. She was very knowledgeable and sweet, never pushed me to buy any products. As a matter of fact, when I had asked her what I would need, she insisted I try them out before I purchase and she gave me a bunch of samples.
I want to go back, but I'm trying to save money right now.. damn recession...so I guess it'll have to wait.Listed in: Pamper Me Pretty
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Review from Annie W.
4/22/2008
All the reviews are so so so true. I went here based on yelp reviews and I was not disappointed. I wanted to try microdermabrasion so I made an appointment with Tanya. She has such a wonderful bedside manner and makes you feel so comfortable despite the poking, prodding, and scraping going on. She also is extremely passionate and knowledgeable about her craft. She answered all my questions and educated me on how my skin works.
Unfortunately, Tanya left to Germany this weekend, for 6 months! However, I will continue my series of treatments with Marina. I am sure Marina will be great since Tanya has trained her and has enough faith to pass on her clients to her. Tanya has offered to answer any questions I have over email while she is away. What I loved most is that she does not try to sell you her products. She recommended products to me only after I inquired. I sense that she really just cares about improving the appearance and health of her customer's skin.
She just signed a lease for a bigger space in the upstairs area of the building. I am sure it will be even nicer than the already cute and relaxing space she has now. I definitely recommend her to anyone, it is on the pricier end but sooo worth it!
***UPDATED MAY 6th***
I went back for the 2nd appointment in my series and since Tanya is away I saw Marina. She did just as wonderful a job as Tanya. I had a few things done...Microderm, some peels, and spot treatments. This time Marina had me hold these hot stones in my hands and put some under my shoulders and I immediately relaxed completely. I relaxed so much so that I dozed off for a couple minutes. Just so you know both Marina and Tanya are equally great!!
There was a mix up in scheduling and I had to wait 45 minutes for my appointment. I think the scheduling was off when Tanya's schedule was erased or something. Marina was very apologetic and even though my appointment was erased off the schedule she squeezed me in anyway since I was already there and waited. -
Review from Kristi D.
San Jose, CA
6/22/2010
Today was my 3rd facial at balance (averaging about one a year apart hehe). I had been to Tanya twice before and saw Marina today. They are both amazing and would go back to either one of them. Since it has been over a year since I last saw Tanya I will focus this review for Marina.
PROS
+ Very communicative, listened about my skincare concerns, asked for feedback on temperature and sensitivity throughout
+ A nice, professional, and pleasant demeanor
+ Gentle, I hardly felt the extractions and she was careful with my sensitive nose which was fractured earlier this year.
+ Explained what each product was she was putting on.
+ Complimented positives in my skin
+ Incorporates microdermabrasion into the facial which is usually a lot more money at other places.
+ Great neck and shoulder massage, I am so relaxed right now!!!
+ Very relaxing music, comfy bed/table. Hot stones at the end. Love it!
+ Didn't push unnecessary products on me to buy
+ Easy free parking!
CONS
- The building is old so the walls are a little thin. One of the neighbors in the building slammed a couple of doors. Other than that it was super quiet and mellow.
- No towel/hair band given to put my bangs back. She was good about not getting any gunk in my hair but the towel band it always a nice touch. :)
- No cucumber or soothing pads for eyes. Maybe next time I will ask!
- No advice given on follow up skin care. I prefer this to pushing me to buy products, but I always appreciate some advice on further things I can be doing.
I was very happy with my experience and I will definitely be going back in the future to either Marina or Tanya. I also love that it is a small business. Thanks for a great skin experience! -
Review from Teresa B.
Sunnyvale, CA
6/20/2008
This was a fantastic experience! I was able to find the place without any trouble, but it did help to read the reviews first. The house is just like the reviews mentioned...very nice old Victorian home with beautiful windows and wooden floors. There are other offices in the home, but after reading the reviews I knew to go up the stairs after entering the front door.
Marina was there to greet me and after asking me a few important questions to determine what was best for my face she prepared me for a wonderful facial.
The experience was really great and my face felt so soft and clean. I had the microdermabrasion with a light peel and the entire pampering took 90 minutes - $129. I loved the added bonus of receiving a neck and shoulder massage, which included warm stones. I plan to go back again! -
Review from Char P.
San Jose, CA
6/13/2011
Just returned from one of the best facials I have ever had. One of my clients recommended Marina at Balance. I thought I would try it since it was such a short walk from my house and my client told me she really loved it. Well, she didn't steer me wrong. Marina was very friendly and knowledgable. She has such a gentle touch that I actually fell asleep during the facial. Everything felt good and smelled good and my skin looked awesome after the treatment. Not a bad thing to say about Balnce and Marina...the best part...the price. I'm used to paying huge amounts of cash for facials and this was one of the most thorough, 90 minutes long, relaxing and affordable facial i've had. I booked my eight week return facial before i left!
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Review from Melissa T.
San Francisco, CA
1/19/2010
I went here yesterday for my first facial after reading all the Yelp reviews. I was really impressed. It wasn't even that hard to find the place like everyone was saying.
It was really relaxing going in. They have two chairs at the top of the stairs. Marina came out and greeted me and got my bottled water.
I went in the room after signing some forms and it was really peaceful. We started with a consultation and she asked me questions about my skin. I have recently started getting acne at age 22! So I needed some help.
The whole thing was so relaxing. Marina was very gentle and really helpful. We did the pumpkin mask and she was right, it stings like crazy but she was so nice that she fanned me for the whole 5 minutes. The extraction wasn't too bad. I mean it hurts but it was bearable. Marina told me about the Dadashie system but didn't try to sell it to me. She said if I wanted more information that I could always come in for a free consultation. She even gave me a sample of the spot treatment to use at home.
I will definitely come back for a facial again. -
Review from melissa r.
San Jose, CA
6/2/2008
Hadn't had a facial in way too long and picked Balance over Blue Cocoon based on availability and yelp reviews. I spent 90 minutes with Marina who analyzed my skin and did the microdermabrasion with an additional peel - $129.
Note: If you are expecting a nice spa environment (large room, lounge / waiting area with flavored water, robes / lockers, etc), then Balance is not the place for you. Go to Burke Williams for the typical spa amenities.
Pros:
- Marina is amazing - she's knowledgable, pleasant, extremely detailed and skilled. And she doesn't try to sell you products at the end of your session! Very nice.
- Quality of facial - excellent gentle products and equipment (bed, light, steamer, microdermabrasion). I left the facial without any redness or blotchiness and was able to go out that evening. Today is three days after the treatment and my skin is still great. A few irritations but otherwise a definite improvement.
Cons:
- Noise - It was really noisy in the house that day (Balance is in an old house off of the Alameda and shares space with other businesses). Lost of people talking and running up and down the stairs above us. At times it was difficult to relax. Marina apologized for this and said it wasn't usually this busy.
- Size of room - extremely small. If you are claustrophobic then you should wait a few weeks until Balance moves into a larger space.
Net/Net: I'll definitely be returning to Marina and Balance for another facial soon and look forward to their move upstairs with less noise distractions and more space. -
Review from RW G.
San Jose, CA
11/21/2008
Tanya is the best! I had the most amazing experience at Balance. The room was cozy, private, quiet, and charming. Tanya greeted me warmly, introduced herself, took the time to listen to my problems, and thoroughly explained what she thought would work best for me. She wanted to make sure I fully understood and was happy with what she suggested.
Her treatment was heavenly!! I wanted it to last forever. After about 90 minutes (during which she NEVER left the room), I was sorry to have to get out of the bed as every part of my body was totally relaxed......
She never pushed products on me; in fact, she actually REFUSED to sell me anything until I have tried it. She gave me samples to use at home so that I can see first how and if I like the products she is recommending.
As if this was not amazing enough, she even called later to remind me to apply some Abreva around my mouth because I'm prone to cold sores. She actually was thinking about me even after I'd left, and took the time to look up my phone number and make a call! I was so impressed. She is a genuinely caring professional.
This whole experience was a total opposite of my dreadful experience at this other MedSpa, in EVERY WAY. Read my review here on Apsara MedSpa: http://www.yelp.com/bi...
I can't wait to go see Tanya again. -
Review from Mai L.
San Jose, CA
5/24/2010
This review is only for a consultation that I had with Marina. Haven't gotten anything done yet because i'm temporarily broke =) .
Lately I've been breaking out nonstop. One would go away and then another zit will pop up. I finally gave in and searched around for a good spot to get a facial, but I kind of wanted to talk to the esthetician first before I actually get anything done. I called Balance Skin Care to check how much their consultation would be and it was free so I'm sold.
On the consultation day I wrote down the wrong address *so dumb* and got lost for 15 minutes. I almost gave up and went home instead. Then I thought how much I hated these ugly pimples that won't go away so I called and asked for directions and to apologize that i'll be running a little late. They were extremely nice over the phone and gave me directions. *Phew* so finally I get there and walk up the stairs (Balance Skin Care is on the 2nd level when you enter the doorway) and Marina meets me and hands me a bottle of water. Thank Gawd!
Marina is an extremely sweet and nice person. She answered all of my questions with care. She observed my skin and asked questions. I felt extremely comfortable talking to her. She didn't try to rush me out the door because I was late or anything. She encouraged me to drink lots and lots of water. Even at the end of our consultation she reminded me to take my bottle of water and drink it. I will go back for a microdermabrasion soon and complete my review. But after this consultation with Marina I feel she's someone that I can trust and will care about my skin. -
Review from Ellin C.
3/7/2011 1 Check-in Here
It was my first real facial experience and after having a rough week so far, went to my appointment with Marina. Boy, did it not disappoint. From the getgo, I came upstairs to a calming and soothing atmosphere. Marina directed me into the room and started with a consultation about my skin, how I take care of it, and what sort of past skin needs or damage I had. Then, she proceeded to recommend the enzyme facial which was a soothing one, along with so many moisturizers that I couldn't even keep track of. She ended up microderm abrading parts of my skin that had hyperpigmentation. Later on, my skin looked soft and glowing and it hasn't looked like that in a long time (if ever!). Marina gave me a lot of skin advice that I will use daily. Thanks for a wonderful facial experience. Btw, the curved mattress they have you sit/lie on was so comfortable that I fell asleep during the actual facial.
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Review from Kiwi L.
Santa Clara, CA
5/16/2009
Oh boy! I haven't had a facial in over 5 years. I was dying for one recently. By some odd & crazy coincidence, last week my coworker had given me a gift certificate to Balance as a belated gift. I opened up the card and screamed "O-M-G"!
I called Tanya McKibben, who is a fabulous gal, to schedule a hydrating facial. Unfortunately, our schedules didn't work out so I went with Marina.
When I walked up to the building, I remember Tanya saying that it's an old historic home. I opened the door and immediately thought of a haunted house or a mini Winchester Mystery house, lol. I love old homes.
The house was so quite. I slowly walked upstairs and you can hear the stairs squeaking (creepy!). When I walked in Balance, Marina greeted me & handed me a water bottle. The decor of the room was great. The atmosphere was calming. And the facial overall was heaven! I expressed to Marina my main concerns and she informed me of what I should do. Before I left, Marina gave me many samples to treat my facial issues (which was really nice of her).
I will definitely come back! I feel refreshed, calm and I left with positive words to say about my facial. And my face is glowing (even days after the facial). -
Review from ms. O.
San Jose, CA
8/18/2008
I had a full Face wax . Marina was great she took her time and was super gental.
update:
I went back today and Marina was awesome she remembered everything I needed and all the precautions she needed to take with my skin. I didn't have to remind her about anything. -
Review from Kary M.
Updated - 1/31/2011
Tanya is an amazing esthetician -- she's super friendly, and caring; which made me look forward to going to each of my appointments. After every treatment, I did notice my skin start to get better, but on my student budget $50/ 1.5 weeks, it is just not feasible. I totally recommend this process to anyone who has the money, because I did see a difference (and can't imagine what the final results would have been, had I stuck with it).
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/20/2010
After rolling around on my bed screaming how hideous I was to my boyfriend as he tried to drag me… Read more »
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Review from Heather H.
San Jose, CA
3/11/2009
I have to say that the best facials I have ever recieved are from Tanya at Balance. She knows so much about skin and caters her facials to fit you. I love the feel of the office, its warm and relaxing.
Tanya is professional and kind- someone you feel comfortable with with your skin! -
Review from Brooke R.
Bay Area, CA
10/26/2010
Marina is the only person in the south bay I trust with my eyebrows.
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Review from Alison B.
Mountain View, CA
3/30/2011
I found out about Balance because I am a consistent client of Elena. She recently relocated to Balance and I must say it was a great change. The "house" was a little difficult to find as I didn't expect it to be in a Victorian home but once I found the place, it will be no problem finding it again for repeat visits. Once I came up the stairs, Elena greeted me and showed me my room. Very comforting room. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone that wants a high quality facial or wax. Just a good feeling overall.
As for Elena, she is just fabulous. She is always very kind and consistently does a great job. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking to get a facial or any kind of wax. -
Review from Christina L.
San Jose, CA
5/5/2010
I LOVE THIS PLACE!
I'm nearing my mid-twenties and notice that my skin is starting to change (more oily, breakouts here and there when I usually never get breakouts), so I read on Yelp and make an appointment with Marina for the full facial, and the rest is history.
I've been going to her monthly and my skin has never looked better. The skin care products that they carry there is very good also, I love the oxygen moisturizer.
BTW Marina gives the BEST MASSAGES (shoulder/neck). I always end up falling asleep when I'm there.
