- Restaurants |
- Nightlife |
- Shopping |
- Movies |
- All
Body By Melisa
Category: Beauty and Spas Day Spas Day Spas [Edit]
4414 Piedmont AveSte 2
(between Pleasant Valley Ave & Ramona Ave)
Oakland, CA 94611
Neighborhoods: Piedmont Ave, North Oakland
(510) 655-2639
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 10 am - 7 pm
Sat 10 am - 5 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
$50 for $100 Certificate
Teri S. said: "My daughter and I used groupons for a combo of essential pedicure and express massage. As others have said, the waiting area and locker rooms are…" read more »
37 reviews for Body By Melisa
37 reviews in English
-
Review from Cristy J.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 10/12/2011
Don't you just love spa week? I went back to Melisa and booked two treatments, the skin bella facial which I absolutely love and this time a healing massage.
I am so bad at names but I believe the masseuse was named Beverly? Not sure, but she also was inquisitive and listened to areas I wanted her to focus on and she hit all of them. While a 60 minute massage always flies by, it was a good, firm massage that almost lulled me to sleep which is atypical- I usually go for the deep tissue, massage me until I'm bruised and screaming type of massage. But this, this was a good combination of loosening some knots in my back and outright bliss.
I melted into a pile of jello onto my sofa the moment I got home. Just what the doctor ordered for this busy executive. Thank you!1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
10/2/2010
I too found Body by Melissa through Spa Finder. She took my appointment right away and it happened… Read more »
-
-
Review from Nikki c.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 8/19/2010
When I checked my bank account it looks like they only charged me for one service. While I appreciate their efforts, I'm not sure why they don't take the extra step to email you a receipt, considering I provided it when I checked in for my services. IF you're looking for a cheap massage during spa week, this fits the bill.
In response to the owner's comments, I was never aggressive with her. I was assertive. She asked my opinion and I told her. I still don't understand her aversion to making paper receipts available to those who request it. Furthermore, email is a viable option if she is uncomfortable incurring the cost of printer paper. If she emails receipts, the customer can print one at their own discretion.Listed in: We don't go there!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
4/14/2010
I went here during spa week as well, which she extends to spa month. As Menaka M experienced, my… Read more »
Comment from Melisa K. of Body By Melisa 4/30/2010
I called the client and was apologetic (more than most would… More » -
-
Review from Nene R.
Berkeley, CA
Updated - 1/11/2011
Love my foray's into Melisa land. Every treatment has been wonderful and relaxing....her knowledge and expertise is appreciated. Was just there and always leave relaxed and sleep like a baby.
Treatments: had a facial this time and one needs to be savy to what service you buy not all facials are the same. I note that Melisa was very good about explaining the why's and what for's of her actions. Made me fill comfortable and relaxed ... I do not expect magical results, but always appreciate the care and attention I receive here.
Never once in all my years have I felt shorted...on the contrary, Melisa and her staff are genuine and as real as it gets. Try it, you won't regret it!
Nah sayers: really? If you want to recommend a friend do so on their site AND if something seems off--use the gift of one-on-one communication.....you will always be a better person for it....especially with a massage: know your desires and express them...how hard is it to say "I like it this way?"3 Previous Reviews: Show all »
-
9/13/2010
LOVE Body by Melisa. Melisa and Rosario are the nicest, most grounded people I know....not to… Read more »
-
-
Review from Carmina B.
Berkeley, CA
10/15/2010
One of the best value, honest and friendliest spas you will ever experience... The owner Melisa is very genuine and knowledgeable. A true believer in the products used and sold (Oxygen Botanicals), she customizes your facial treatment depending on your skin type. You can expect to receive a thorough service including extraction and dermabrasion. Your skin will feel cleansed and hydrated for days.
I initially visited the spa before my wedding last September and have been a regular client ever since. I have also referred Body by Melisa's services to my family and friends.
Whether you're seeking a relaxing, rejuvnating and non-pressurized treatment, Body by Melisa is an ideal choice!
Thank you Melisa for your wonderful facials and Rosario for your relaxing massages ! -
Review from Nix M.
El Cerrito, CA
9/6/2010
Body By Melisa far exceeded my expectations when my best friend and I visited last week!
Melisa was incredibly flexible and accommodating despite the fact that I booked our appointments in the middle of Spa Month with short notice. Even though we were the last appointments of the day, Melisa and her massage therapist Rosario had amazing energy and were wonderful to us.
I've been to many day spas, and Body By Melisa is one of the prettiest, most welcoming I've ever patronized. It's clear that Melisa puts her heart and soul into her business. Everything was clean and well kept, and the rooms themselves had a homey, comforting atmosphere.
The massages and facials we booked were fantastic and an incredible deal! I went in prepared to pay a great deal more then I actually did. Melisa spent a lot of time explaining what she was doing and how the products and equipment worked. The massage was also lovely - the therapist was very gentle and attentive. We walked out of the spa in a state of pure bliss.
I enthusiastically recommend Body by Melisa to anyone looking for a wonderful spa experience! -
Review from Menaka M.
Miami Beach, FL
4/23/2009
I called and had some questions about one of the treatments during Spa Week and was happy with the customer service I received over the phone. I hoped that I could expect the same standard of customer service for the actual spa visit, but I was disappointed.
What I liked about the experience:
Melisa was polite, offered water, willing to answer questions.
What didn't impress me:
**The actual duration of my appointment was 40 minutes instead of 55.** We started late and ended early. I showed up 10 min. early early so this would not happen, but had to wait on the stairs because the door was locked. I was let in at the time my appointment was supposed to start and the previous client was still paying, etc. By the time I was taken to the room and Melisa was ready to begin, 10 minutes of my appointment were gone. Even after that, she left one or two times to take care of something else. She said she would make it up at the end, but instead we finished early.
I like the idea of Spa Week, because I rarely "pamper" myself, but I guess I have to go to a different spa to get true TLC. It seemed like this spa was just way too booked and was just trying to get maximum exposure for Spa Week, even if they had to operate at a lower standard of service. -
Review from Brian M.
Emeryville, CA
6/22/2011 1 Check-in Here
I really really enjoyed my body wrap by Melisa. I was pleasantly surprised to see a walk-in sauna as I was expecting to be put in a capsule as other venues do. She was very friendly, very attentive and had great energy. The Spa was clean, comfortable and had great energy as well. I did not read the reviews before I went and I am very glad I didn't. Personally, the complaints in some of these reviews are pretty silly. Even though I paid in cash, I love that she uses PayPal and sends e-receipts. Also, she communicated with me very well. Never at any point did I feel as if I couldn't tell her if my treatment was uncomfortable. Great service, great business and great people.
-
Review from June F.
Oakland, CA
5/20/2011
Amazing! I am the kind of person that really appreciates good customer service and no nonsense. Straight to the point and this is how it works. This is the place! It was my first visit and there were no surprises. Melisa is extremely professional! I booked monthly appointments. If I was Oprah I would say if you don't like your visit here I will reimburse you!
-
Review from Derek A.
San Leandro, CA
4/19/2011
Melisa is awesome! She is very nice and accommodates her guest very well. Jade is an awesome masseuse and had me feeling very relaxed after the massage. I never got the feeling of being rushed during any of my treatments.
-
Review from agedashi d.
San Francisco, CA
1/4/2011
i don't come back here for many reasons:
1. i was short 10 minutes of treatment. i had a 45 minute treatment instead of the 55 minutes i paid for.
2. the owner stressed that i needed to tip based on the original treatment price, not the spa week price -- i shouldn't be told how much to tip; i tip based on the service given to me.
3. facials were o-k-a-y -- did not see any difference (there's the one star!)
4. massage was painful -- need i say more?
5. expensive for a little house called a "spa" with no amenities.
i go to marilyn jeager skincare on college ave. ask for erica. she'll treat you right.
ps. the comments left by "melisa k. of body of melisa" is one more reason why i will never come back. she doesn't seem like she can handle feedback very well.Comment from Melisa K. of Body By Melisa 1/5/2011
Thanks for your comments. I respond so much more positively… More » -
Review from Reese R.
San Francisco, CA
10/1/2007
5 stars all the way!!
For spa week, I tried out a massage here. To my surprise, my masseuse was better than expected! Alex was very graceful and attentive to my soar muscles. Although I live in San Francisco, and this place is in Oakland, it was well worth the drive.
I ended up coming back for second time! This time for a facial with Melisa herself. And I'll demand you.... GO TO MELISA FOR FACIALS!!!
My skin looked clearer, smoother, and more radiant! I was happy to go on the rest of my day with a healthier-looking face. I am so looking forward to going back to Body by Melisa to try other treatments.
CONCLUSION:
For Massages, go to Alex.
For Facials, go to Melisa. -
Review from Joanne L.
San Francisco, CA
11/12/2009
I love Body by Melisa! I started going here for Spa Week during the beginning of this year and I been a frequent customer ever since!
My favorite treatments are the facials and the dermasonic treatments! Unlike other facials I received, I always leave with my face feeling super soft and silky! It also comes with a nice shoulder massage.
After one dermasonic treatment, I was so pleased that I decided to buy a package! As soon as I knew it, my jeans were fitting a lot more comfortably and I felt more confident in my bathing suit!
Melisa and her staff are extremely friendly and personable! I love the wonderful home environment her spa creates! It also always smells wonderful in there! -
Review from Mina L.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 6/15/2009
I have had so many more treatments here since my last review so I decided to yelp them. The dermosonic treatment for cellulite reduction is fabulous. I tried one during spa week and decided to purchase the package of 12. After maybe the 4th treatment I saw great results. I love it because it did not hurt and kinda feels like a massage. Now the back of my legs are so smooth and lump free!!
I have had the hot stone massage with Michelle and of course that was amazing too! She was able to adjust the stones to a temperature that I was comfortable with since I don't like the stones too hot. And she didn't spend most of her time "playing" with the stones as others have done during past experiences in other places. For $85 you cannot beat that.
The body wrap was also an amazing experience. I have had wraps in the past and there had no results other than feeling wet and cold. The wrap here was different. First I was measured and then you get covered in lotion infused with cinnamon....mmm yummy! I smelled like a snickerdoodle. Then I was wrapped in soaked bandages and then put in the sauna to "bake." 45 mins later I came out relaxed and 4 inches skinnier. Now that may not sound like too too much but trust me that was more than I could have ever imagined coming off me!
Every treatment here is a completely personal experience. So whenever I feel the need to indulge myself, you will find me here at my go-to place of relaxation in the quieter part of Piedmont Ave :)1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
5/27/2008
I booked an appointment for my mom and I during spa week and have been meaning to write a review for… Read more »
-
-
Review from alex o.
Castro Valley, CA
5/2/2009
I've been to this spa three times now. Twice during spa month, once during a "regular" month. The spa is located in a small unit above a flower shop. You can tell that it use to be someone's home. If you're looking for a spa with a lot of amenities - this is not the place for you. But if you want something local and cozy, you'll find it here. The rooms are very bright, this is fine if you're they type that likes sunshine in the room during your facials/massages. You can also hear the noise from the street below and in other rooms (if there are other patrons around). They try to compensate for this by playing music, which actually was a little too loud for my taste. They also burn a lot of candles in the rooms. Although it adds to the ambiance, I could have gone without the strong scent.
Melisa is very nice and provides great customer service. On one of my visits, they had double booked my time slot and didn't have someone available for my massage. To make up for this, Melisa offered me a complimentary service on a later date. Though it was inconvenient at the time, I appreciated the gesture. My massage there was okay, for $50 I'm not complaining! The facials are fantastic. As mentioned in another review though, they are not 60 minutes long. It's more like 45-50 minutes.
Overall, I liked the place and would definitely go back during spa month. However, I would try to book early morning or late afternoon appointments. This way, its a little bit more quiet and you're less likely to get caught up in the rush of people. -
Review from Tanya S.
Berkeley, CA
4/14/2008
Wow! I don't often rave about facials, but Melisa's Skin Bella Deluxe has to be the best facial I ever have gotten! I tried her out for Spa Week and was NOT disappointed. (Tip: they're doing Spa Month for April and special prices in May, too--so there's still time!)
I seem to have perma-bags under my eyes. After my facial, my skin immediately looked hydrated and plumped--away with my bags! (i have tried all sorts of eye de-poufers and live with "Ooh La Lift" from Benefit.)
Melisa treats the skin from the "basal" level, polishing away a few layers of dead skin cells (so the serums absorb better) and applying intense moisture masks and ultrasound. I can't remember it all properly, but it obviously works.
Melisa's spa is definitely a place where your skin gets treated, rather than fluffed to temporarily look good. I immediately made an appointment to return. Try her, your skin will thank you! -
Review from Ash M.
Alameda, CA
10/20/2009
I'm a big fan of Body by Melisa!
The first time I went (two years ago), I was taking my BFF for a massage as a gift and booked a Skin Bella Deluxe facial for myself (it was spa month, so I couldn't resist). Melisa was very nice when we arrived and took the time to discuss my skin concerns prior to beginning the facial. The facial itself was fabulous - the technology used for this facial is fantastic and really makes your skin soft. Additionally, the products used during the facial are "pushed" into your skin after the microderm abrasion, which makes them continue to release days after the facial (TOTAL plus). I'm a total skin-care junkie, so asked a TON of questions during the facial -- Melisa was extremely nice and answered every question (and I learned a lot that day!).
I came back early this month for two sessions prior to my wedding - a deep tissue massage and another Skin Bella Deluxe facial.
It was the first time I received a deep tissue massage, so I was a little apprehensive about the impending pain. The masseuse was wonderful about explaining how she was going to work, asking me for any specific areas she should concentrate on and warned me each time there would be a big release. I walked away feeling SO relaxed and will definitely be coming back for another soon! The facial was just as I remembered it - very beneficial and left my skin glowing for my wedding! Melisa also helped me learn more about my combination skin and recommended products that she sells in the spa (which are fantastic!!)
I am a big fan of the "homey" feeling of the space and find it to be much more inviting than other spas I've been to. I will be a regular customer for years to come. :-) -
Review from Anna H.
Oakland, CA
6/19/2008
Absolutely amazing, on all accounts. Body by Melisa is the most pleasant, private, welcoming atmosphere for a salon. I feel like I'm walking into her home. I started going to Melisa in April to see if her Skin Bella facial could help me in my on-going battle with acne. While battling acne, even at my age, is a long uphill battle that requires more than a fabulous facial, Melisa's work sure helps.
Unlike most salon treatments, Melisa's facials are medical-grade. Throughout the whole treatment, she tells you exactly what she's doing, why she's doing it, and what it's doing for your complexion. I'll admit that the extractions are painful, but what extractions AREN'T painful? She performs them as gentle as she can while still being exceptionally thorough. She is a great listener and attends to your individual needs without trying to push & sell you products, and always answers my questions, even the super random, sometimes not-related-to-skincare ones. :)
Every time I leave her space, my face feels as clean as ever, and bacteria-free. She often sends me home with samples, so I can try the Oxygen Botanicals she uses during treatments (which are, indeed, as fabulous as she says) at home before making the investment of buying the whole acne-fighting line. She often has monthly specials, but every penny is worth spending on her treatments--Melisa is simply fantastic. -
Review from dr l.
Oakland, CA
4/30/2011
I have to say at first i was going to give MElisa a review of 3 stars and then update after another treatment as I did not have the over the top great experience I would have liked to have had. But the customer service experienced by Ms. MElisa herself has made my experience go from a its just alright to a i think i like this place and I can recommend this establishment to other yelpers, my friends and family.
I believe that you need to give an establishment an opportunity to rectify an issue if the customer has one. I also believe that it is only fair you inform your establishment when you do have an issue. (hopefully no one anywhere has an issue with anything....but that is just a hope and a dream) Melisa stepped up was not disrespectful, was not dismissive and never once made me feel like i just misunderstood. I appreciate her professionalism and her staff (i only met Melissa and Jade) well Jade is definitely a sweet person!
they are located on the less busy side of piedmont and pleasant valley above the flower shop on the corner. Relaxing atmosphere and it smells good. LOL. what the hay give'em a call and try'em they are convenient open on the weekend and the dermosonic works and is the bomb :) The prices are reasonable and i feel that MElisa takes her business seriously so at the end of the day all customers want to come back and spend their money with her establishment.
thank you Melisa for helping me kick off my mothers day celebration early.Comment from Melisa K. of Body By Melisa 5/2/2011
Thank you Lynn for your comments after your not -so 5 star… More » -
Review from Terry D.
San Francisco, CA
9/8/2008
Booked a spa day with my sister during Body by Melisa's spa month. They were very accomodating to be opened on Sundays (but only for spa month).
What I didn't like:
- place was difficult to find (you have to walk up narrow steps and the spa is above the flower shop. I had to walk around 3 times before I could figure out where I was suppose to go)
- If you show up early they won't let you in. The doors are locked at all times. Since my sister and I were 30 minutes early (thinking we can change and relax we were not allowed in until our appointments) we had to go back to our car and sit and wait.
- the owner Melisa looked bewildered when my sister and I showed up at our appointments (as if she forgot she booked us)
- there are zero amenities. The spa literally looks like someone's house..which is fine if you like that type of homey spas.
- not too sure if they changed the sheets after each customer. I only say this because my sister and I had to switch rooms after our treatments (she had a scrub & facial and I had the facial & massage) and when I went into the room for my massage I felt sugar granules on the sheets.
- the sheets are not too comfy. They are thin, flowery, and felt a bit sticky. No dirty sticky but maybe it's the way the fabric is. Either way i'm use to white, cushy bedding.
What I did like:
- Michelle did a fabulous facial on me. She was very sweet and explained everything she did. She also did not comment on how badly i needed a facial....I knew it, she knew it...and she didn't have to say it. Extra brownie points for her
- contrary to other reviews Michelle performed a lot of extractions on me. It was THE MOST PAINFUL extractions ever (my sister experienced the same thing) and I cried. It was worth it though because I knew I needed a lot of work.
- Michelle also gave me a lot of recommendations on products I should check out that would suit my skin
What I found to be mediocre:
- my massage was just eh
What I found interesting:
- The spa definitely tries to maximize their square footage. Where I had my facial was literally right behind the waiting area separate by curtains. Basicially if you're waiting there you can't talk or else you'll disturb the customer getting her facial.
All in all my experience was just ok. If it wasn't for spa month i'm not sure if I would go back. The facials are $135 normally. -
Review from M. O.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 10/5/2009
Now Melissa is just misrepresenting. The phone was on the counter and turned on. I know what I saw. Melissa told me it was the masseuses first day, which was why she offered me a discount on top of spa week prices. Finally, no - extractions shouldn't hurt three days after, and if you didn't have time to do it properly, you shouldn't have done it at all. Bad service is one thing, revisionist history is another.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
-
9/14/2009
I also tried this spa during spa week. Melisa was very nice and professional, but I had a few… Read more »
Comment from Melisa K. of Body By Melisa 10/5/2009
Extractions are always optional, and yes, they do hurt, no… More » -
-
Review from Y L.
San Jose, CA
10/5/2009
I went during Spa week for the cellulite treatment. It's definitely not worth the money, because you won't see any effect (if there is any) on first treatment. It was just a waste of $50. Also paying through "Paypal' is just not cool. Because that means if anything, I can't get the credit card protection I normally do.
Also the place is really a small shop on top of a flower shop. It's got steep stairs and the area is so small and suffocating. If it's charging budget price for their service, I can understand, but that's not the case!
So I wouldn't recommend this for anyone who cares and loves their skin and body.Comment from Melisa K. of Body By Melisa 10/5/2009
We do share with all clients who booked for Spa Month that… More » -
Review from Andy P.
San Francisco, CA
7/9/2007
I tried this place out because it was right by my house and they had a special going on for spa week and I am so glad I did! It's a cute little place at the end of Piedmont Avenue that feels very cozy and comfortable. They offer great specialty treatments and at this point I have tried half of them. I got a package of 6 cellulite treatments and lost over 5 inches total, and the relaxing infra-red sauna leaves my skin feeling super smooth and soft. Even if you don't live in the 'hood, I highly recommend you check this place out, these girls know their stuff.
-
Review from Lizbeth E.
Hayward, CA
7/30/2008
I met Melisa thorugh a Nurseweek faire we had at my workplace. I booked a spa party with her and was very excited.I haven't been to a spa since my son was born. Actually, I haven't been anywhere without my son! So, I was very psyched to spend half a day to my self with the company of close friends and family. So, we did a lot of calling back and forth to coordinate schedules.
On the day of the spa, our party all arrived excited and ready to have fun and relax! We were going to be on our robe and slippers, with sparkling cider, spa salad, fruits, chocolates, cheese and crackers. I was ready to have my massage and have my eyelashes curled. Our visit later turned sour when she told us that one of her massage therapist called in sick and that one of us will either have to choose to have another treatment or cancel the massage and reschedule. One of us was scheduled for a facial but the rest of were looking forward to our massages. She got really offended when we didn't want to switch and walked away.
Later, she did bring out our water, fruit and cheese and crackers. But she never got us into our robes and slippers. It didn't seem like a spa party at all.
When it was time for check out, she only accepts cash or checks which she failed to mention to me prior to this visit. So the majority of us had to walk to the bank and get cash to pay her.
I do want to point out that Michelle, our massage therapist, was awesome! I give her 5 stars. She did a great job with all of our massage. I actually felt sorry for her b/c she never had a break and she did all of our massages. -
Review from Karen L.
Fremont, CA
9/7/2008
I came for Spa Month for a facial. The place is pretty clean and the people were friendly. I like how they locked the front door after all the customers of the hour showed up. The facial itself was mediocre. I say that because I was looking for the full intense painful extraction. When it was time for the extraction, she didn't do that good of a job. I went home and did my facial test. I squeezed my nose to see if any blackheads were left in and boy, didn't even seem like she extracted any blackheads from my face! She did scrap out the pimples on my face though which i was happy about. Otherwise, the mask and level of comfort was awesome. It also came with a tiny shoulder massage which felt nice not like some BS work some places offer.
The facial was $50. Worth the experience! -
Review from audie b.
Oakland, CA
9/17/2008
It is a beautiful place and the lovely Melissa gives a blissful facial with fragrant natural ingredients.There are lots of services offered, and this is a perfect neighborhood day spa.
-
Review from Wing N.
San Francisco, CA
8/15/2008
I found Melisa during spa week / month this year and boy was I ecstatic and grateful. I have had massages before but nothing like what I had experienced at Body By Melisa!
I had Alex whose knowledge of different types of massages from Swedish to Hawaiian to Thai was astounding. He used various types of massage to make me feel completely relaxed.
If you want to feel relaxed and rejuvenated then the hot stone massage is what you are looking for. I tried it last month and it was completely a different sensation. This is the first time a massage energized me immediately afterward.
Melisa and her team of massage therapists are fantastic, friendly, knowledgeable, and very accommodating. I highly recommend Body By Melisa for any of your spa needs. -
Review from Tiffany H.
Berkeley, CA
4/7/2008
Granted, this is my second, "real," facial, but it was a very good experience. The atmosphere was very relaxing, and Melisa is very friendly and nice. Definitely leaps and bounds better than the first one, which was probably more of a massage and spa place rather than a treatment place. The dermabrasion was slightly painful, but hopefully is doing something good to my skin. My skin looked more radiant--or so that's what I've been told! I will see over time how it is!
-
Review from Sarah B.
Santa Cruz, CA
4/3/2011
i was several weeks away from my beach vacation and i had lipo done several weeks before that. getting slightly concerned i might not be bikini ready in time i went looking into services that would help speed up the recovery. i found body by melisa with dermosonic treatments to be just the thing. helped immensely with the swelling and hardness of the healing tissue. i could feel and see the difference upon leaving. really fantastic. my vacation rolled around and i was bikini ready and feeling good. i would highly recommend for anyone on the mend, or if your just looking for some fine tuning. comfortable and helpful. great service
-
Review from Tracy H.
Oakland, CA
8/21/2009
I have had numerous facials and Melisa's facials are fabulous. I went twice in two weeks!
-
Review from Juliette B.
Frederick, MD
11/25/2009
Body by Melisa is a wonderfully staffed! It has a positive atmosphere and Melisa is generous and lovely. The facility is well taken care of and the treatments are great. I thoroughly enjoyed my experiences there and had meaningful in depth conversations with all of the positively magical women that work there. Thank you!
-
Review from Celine H.
Oakland, CA
5/26/2008
I booked an appointment for my mom and I as a special treat for mothers day. We were both able to get in at the same time because of a last minute cancellation. I chose the massage and mom went for the facial. Both of us were thoroughly elated with our treatment. My massage with Cecilia was the best ever. She excelled at finding my neck and shoulder knots and releasing all of my tension. I literally melted away on the table. My mom hasn't stopped ranting and raving about her facial with Melisa! Five stars for the entire experience. They have specials coming up too and I'm looking forward to another visit.
-
Review from Annie s.
Berkeley, CA
12/13/2009
I've been going to Body By Melisa consistently now for three years and my loyalty and love for this spa continues to grow! I began going for the Dermasonic cellulite treatments, which give fabulous long lasting results (I can wear shorts again), but now go for facials and eyebrow waxing-Angela is a pro!
But what I like most about this spa, and places it ahead of others I have visited throughout my years on the planet, is Melisa's seemingly infinite knowledge about the body, skin, fat, etc., and the services she provides. She knows her stuff, which makes me feel safe and enthusiastic about having a service performed on me. Sometimes I just have her explain something again because I like to hear her knowledge! -
Review from Patricia F.
Oakland, CA
10/21/2009
I booked Spa Week for a $50 facial. I got a bad feeling when I was made to pay in advance by Visa/MC, but I did it and lived to regret it. First you barely find the place, but you're stuck--you've already paid. I was paired with Angela for a big-time disappointing facial. She didn't know much about the products and the special derma, Bella Deluxe, -- I swear she stroked in the wrong direction, squeezing my cheeks downward. the newbie added little value: "How's my skin?" She: "uh, a little dry." OK, it's spa week, this place's BIG season--they stretch a week or two a year into months-- running 1-time clients they don't care about losing. My 55 minute facial wasn't -- although i was on time to the minute -- the appt was slashed to 40 minutes and packed with noise and confusion. I advise you to walk out halfway through -- I sure wish I had. What I got was a 20 minutes sub-standard facial followed by 20 minutes of hard shoulder massage(!!) WORST treatment I've ever had -- and that night my neck and shoulders were killing me! Soreness and stiffness lasted for 2 days! That has NO business happening at a facial, for gawd's sake; so, I phoned the owner that I got an inexperienced person who hurt me. To my surprise, Melisa bristled, argued and tap-danced but agreed to refund 50 bucks -- don't spend your $$$ here. The location is dumpy-- you won't feel pampered. Entry's inside a gag store part of a run-down flower shop, and Melisa's decor is dime-store bordello, with no amenities and an abundance of perfumey candles masking -- something. I wasn't going to bother to post, but then, Melisa flipped -- (yew!) she reneged on $50 refund. Most customers don't bother to tip, Melisa blabbed to me -- what a dive. hey, a smart business owner would offer to personally make-good on a failed treatment, not mistreat and abuse a client, even a 1st-timer has potential-- I'm scratching my head on this one.
Comment from Melisa K. of Body By Melisa 11/4/2009
Yelp's policy is the "client is always right" so refuting a… More » -
Review from Lisa B.
Oakland, CA
12/13/2010
Awesome, Awesome, Awesome! I just left Melisa and Rosario, got the Exhausted Shopper package. The facial with Melisa was great, including the extraction (not my favorite part but necessary), microdermabrasion, and then re-hydration. After that, I got an hour massage from Rosario with aromatherapy. Amazing! I am so relaxed, and I smell wonderful. I will be back, and I will absolutely recommend to my friends.
-
Review from Carole N.
San Pablo, CA
10/30/2010
For my niece's wedding, I treated her (and of course me) to Bella Facials and body scrubs. The facility is a remodeled upper floor of an apartment. Really funky and cute. Melisa and her staff were so very nice and made our visit enjoyable. I regularly go to an esthetician in my area so I have had many facials over the years. The treatment was so yummy. Afterward while having dinner, both my niece and I commented on how soft and nice our faces felt to the touch. When I went back to my esthetician, she commented on how nice my skin was looking. I THINK THIS IS A TREMENDOUS COMPLIMENT TO MELISA'S Bella Facial. I just scheduled two more appointments.
-
Review from meeksy y.
Orinda, CA
4/20/2008
I really enjoyed my facial with Melisa. The atmosphere was very cozy and nice. I was so relaxed there I almost fell asleep. The heated bed was a plus.
-
Review from Alma K.
San Ramon, CA
4/13/2009
I booked a massage for the spa month and when I asked ahead of time what an hour meant, Melissa said the duration is about 55 min. I got there on time and Melissa apologized that the therapist was running late. I figured it's just going to end later and since I didn't have to be anywhere, I was ok with that. 15 min or so later the massage started. The massage itself was great and I almost fell asleep, though I could tell it was pretty short. When she announced it was over and left, I looked at the clock and realized I had only gotten 40 min massage! They didn't take into account that they started way late and $50 for a 40 min massage to me isn't a deal at all!! Had I known, I would not have wasted my time and I feel ripped off. On top of it all, when Melissa asked me what she should charge my credit card and I left 15% tip instead of 20%, she almost looked offended. Ha, I thought I was being overly generous and shouldn't have left anything!! Another thing, like someone else on here mentioned, I don't think they changed the sheets after my massage. I say that because while I waited to pay I was facing the room and didn't see anyone go in there and when the next customer came a couple of minutes later, the therapist directed him straight to the same room! Needless to say, I'm not coming back.
