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Dermal Essentials
Categories: Beauty and Spas Cosmetics & Beauty Supply Shopping Cosmetics & Beauty Supply Beauty and Spas Hair Removal Cosmetics & Beauty Supply, Hair Removal [Edit]
1738 Union StSte 101
(between Gough St & Octavia St)
San Francisco, CA 94123
Neighborhood: Marina/Cow Hollow
(415) 931-7300
Announcement
http://sf.cityvoter.co...
We are in the running for best bikini wax on the Bay List!
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
59 reviews for Dermal Essentials
59 reviews in English
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Review from parichehr t.
Sausalito, CA
12/12/2011
I am new in town and in need of an eyebrow expert. Well, Erin really did a fantastic job. She took her time, explained everything that she was going to work towards, listened to my brow needs, and was very gentle during the process. My last eyebrow expert butchered my one brow so Erin was able to salvage what was left and give me hope that my high arch would be back soon.
Found my new eyebrow specialist.
*** so it has been a few days and I just really have to say that my eyebrows look so so so amazing. -
Review from Elaine W.
8/29/2011
I've been dissatisfied with my eyebrows in the last year ever since they were massacred during a horrible threading event. No more threading - just waxing & tweezing now - but everyone I've gone to for maintenance has never been able to get my brows to their healthy state.
I have faith in Erin @ Dermal Essentials. Today was my first visit to see her for eyebrow waxing, and right off the bat she diagnosed my brows to be too short and too sparse, and that I would have to put my tweezers down and leave them to grow out. But in the meantime, she would make them tidy, so I'd be a little happier with their current shape.
She has a very light hand, and I appreciated that she also applied powder and gel at the end so it looked like I had full healthy brows again. This was the first time I had my brows done where I sat upright on a stool vs. lying down on a cot or bed. It was a little claustrophobic feeling because Erin was pretty much leaning on my legs while she worked. Still, the end result was great. She only charged me $20 (I think the normal rate is $25), and she offered me water and cookies! I was also given a packet of hydrocortisone cream to apply to my skin to calm any irritation and prevent breakouts - since I do have sensitive skin, and I always am a little pink in the areas of my face that are waxed.
I noticed there were soaps and jewelry for sale too, but I didn't have time to stay and browse. I'll be sure to do so on my next visit.
NOTE: I've never been to their old location, but they are now at 1738 Union Street. It's a very charming space...like visiting someone's bright and airy studio. There are a TON of other waxing businesses within blocks of each other (ie. Bare by Tru, Stript, Flourish) - but I definitely recommend trying Erin for your waxing needs - she passed muster with my eyebrows! -
Review from Hector G.
8/29/2011 1 Check-in Here
When a guy decides it's time to get the wax on, he needs a group of people who will be understanding, who will comfort him when he's anxious and nervous, who will smile and tell him "it's all good, Erin rocks the mike and she's gonna take good care of you."
The girls at Dermal were definitely what the doctor ordered. They were bubbling with warm, positive vibes, they were very cute (which is always a plus) and they were having a great time. I've been to waxing salons that feel like a funeral was set to get down, but this place was not like that at all. They made me feel at home and that was a HUGE plus.
Erin is great from start to finish. We e-mailed back n forth a few times as I was apprehensive to take the plunge and she helped tame the anxiety centered around an operation like this one. She treated me like I was headed for my first day of kindergarten. Very gentle, she gave me her shoulder to cry on when the separation anxiety set in b/c my back sweater and I had never been apart in my 33 years. And wouldn't you know it?? All the fears of how painful this would be were all in my head. It wasn't painful at all, it was actually pretty cool, but maybe that had more to do with the adrenaline rush.
I had a 5 star experience at Dermal and I would definitely come back for me.
Four or five days after the waxing, I became a proactiv candidate. My entire back was one giant disgusting mess! I am willing to take the George Costanza "it's not you, it's me" routine here, but guys, I would ask a lot of questions about the wax, possible reactions and double dipping, b/c it's been a month and my back is still a complete disaster!! -
Review from Ryan B.
San Francisco, CA
1/10/2012
I had been looking for a great brow place since moving to San Fran and this is it! I have gone to both Erika and Erin and they both are PHENOMENAL at what they do, and very friendly. Their shop is adorable too!
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Review from Laura S.
San Francisco, CA
1/12/2012
I had my third visit here today and I have to say this place is so wonderful. It is charming, cute and cozy. I love a great atmosphere! And the service is fantastic. Erika is so gracious and sweet. I brought her a picture of the exact eyebrows I wanted and she made me look great on the first visit. She and Erin have such a positive energy, it's a joy to go here!
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Review from Kim D.
San Francisco, CA
12/28/2011
I found Erin on Yelp after looking for an Elta MD distributor. I also was interested in finding a new person for my brows. Erin is as good as it gets! She is very professional, took her time, and gentle through the process. I just love her!! She also has referred me to a facialist and an alternative Elta MD distributor when I couldn't get the product I needed. Awesome.
The Dermal Essentials location on Union is very convenient and the space itself is great. They sell great skin products and jewelry as well.Listed in: Doctors
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Review from Fallon P.
8/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
I was nearby and needed to get a Brazilian wax and since my regular waxing lady is closed on Mondays, I decided to search for a place that was open and still had room for an appointment and lo' and behold I found Dermal Essentials!
Erin was very pleasant over the phone and I had asked her if they accept walk-ins and unfortunately they don't. She said they are seen with appointments only because they're always busy. So, I asked if there was still an appointment available and luckily there was.
I arrived 15 minutes early to my appointment and I had to fill out a form since it was my first time there, which just basically asks for your name, address, phone number, email, and if you've taken or are currently using Retin-A or are using antibiotics and such. Simply for safety purposes since being on such medication can make your skin sensitive.
My waxing session wasn't painful or uncomfortable at all. Erin was open to any questions or concerns that I had and was always asking if I was ok or not. She did a really clean job and didn't double-dip whatsoever.
They are moving to Union St. towards the end of the month to a bigger space and I'm pretty sure it will be as cute as this one. So, if you're in need of waxing of any kind, make sure you pay Dermal Essentials a visit. Erin also spoke very highly of Erika as well! Either way, you'll be in good hands!
FYI: cash or check only! -
Review from Sandra M.
San Francisco, CA
8/14/2011
I LOOOOVE ERIN!!! And I love this place! Erin has been doing my eyebrows now for about a year or so, and she is the best there is out there! I have had my brows done at a couple of other places in the city, and all were disappointments. Then, one glorious day, I found Erin, and I knew I would never go to anyone else the rest of my life!
First of all, she is SUCH a sweetheart, so gentle and kind, personality-wise and when she is doing my brows. She is very detail oriented, and will always spend time perfecting my brows. She keeps that full, gorgeous look which I love and never over plucks. I admire her talent very much because my crazy Latina brows are not easy to groom! She transforms them and makes them look beautiful! If you have never had your brows waxed, give it a try with Erin, you could be amazed with how much it changes how you look because brows really frame your entire face. Very reasonably priced, painless experience always, and the soothing lotion she puts on afterward smells great too.
As if that is not enough, the salon itself is the CUTEST and the decor is so charming. I am always tempted by the lotions, candles, makeup, and locally made jewelry (wish the jewelry was cheaper tho because it is amazing!) You can tell these ladies love their salon, take extremely good care of it, and decorate it beautifully!
Don't ever leave me Erin! :) -
Review from Leslie T.
San Francisco, CA
9/29/2010
Erin at Dermal Essentials is a brow shaping genius! After using a Groupon for a brow wax at another salon earlier this year I was left with sparse brows and a not so even shape.
Four months and a few visits to Erin later, my brows are looking fuller and fabulous! I will never trust anyone other than Erin with my brows :)
And did I mention the great location?! Just around the corner from The Dailey Method Cow Hollow it couldn't be more convenient to get my booty toned and my brows beautiful all in one morning! -
Review from Sabrina G.
San Francisco, CA
8/15/2011
Erin's not only an excellent esthetician, she is also the only person I know who can make getting a brazilian bikini wax a fun experience. She's also done excellent work on my brows - even living up to my mother's exceedingly high standards. I've never worked with Erica but she's been doing my friend's brows for years and they're amazing. I would never dream of going anywhere else.
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Review from Wendy N.
San Francisco, CA
12/21/2010 1 Check-in Here
This place is absolutely the cutest place ever. Right when you step in, you can't help but feel like a little girl in a candy shop. But instead of getting your candy fix, you're getting your beauty fix... Even better right ladies! They do everything from bikini waxing, to brow and lash tints. Oh and they also sell make up too!!
And what can I say, Erin is hands down the BEST!! I've been a client of hers for about three years now and i completely trust her wIth EVERYTHING!! She is a total perfectionist, and will double check, and triple check your brows until its perfect. She has such a warm heart, and always welcome you in with the biggest smile. The experience is always ever-so sweet and painless, I don't think I can ever go to anyone else but Erin! :) -
Review from Amy S.
San Francisco, CA
10/26/2011
Erika is amazing! She is super cute and definitely someone I trust to be working on my brows or Brazilian. A friend recommended me to her and I have been going to her for over a year. She is fun to chat with and gets the Brazilian over with before you know it! She pays attention to my brows (they are tiny so I don't need them waxed every time) and I'm happy with them every time I leave. The new space on Union Street is adorable (as was the old location) and if you're lucky Erika will throw in a few free samples. If you are in need of a Brazilian or a brow wax - call Erika TODAY!
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Review from Jetlagged S.
San Francisco, CA
6/17/2011
Erin is amazing - she has been doing my eyebrow waxing and tinting for about 3 years now. I've followed her from her last salon and continue to see her when I am in town from NY. She's spoiled me! I even brought DH in for waxing maintenance and he loves her too. She is so beautiful inside and outside and such a professional!
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Review from Claudia L.
San Francisco, CA
8/9/2010
Can this place be any cuter? Seriously, I am in love with the decor, for starters. More importantly, I love Erin. I've been going to see her for about half a year or so. Maybe even longer. I use to go to Lonni's Punani (never ever go there) because of the million reviews about how quick she was. I was scared that it would hurt so I thought quick = less pain and done and over with. No thanks! She'd always leave a crap load of stubble.
A friend of mine recommended her waxer, Erin who was at another location. Erin's professionalism, sweet, soft approach was so welcoming from the beginning. I loved her.
Recently she moved here. I called the other spot and they had said she was booked. Took my pregnant butt to some random spot and although they tried to be gentle, ripped me in half! UGH! The most painful experience ever. And, as if Erin heard my prayers, I received an email from her stating she was at a new location. Without hesitation, I booked an appt to see her and told her that I hadn't come to see her in a while because the last time I was waxed (by her) it was so painful I was scared. Pregnancy and waxing = super painful. Anyway, she booked me for a 45 minute session, took her time, made sure she used small strips, and BOY O BOY was it less painful then I had ever imagined. I will never ever go anywhere else again.
This place being so cute is an added bonus. I really love the feel of the place and how clean it is. Did I mention they use gloves and don't double dip? Thank goodness!
Clean, professional, attentive and welcoming! Love Erin and I'm glad she's at this place -
Review from Carla d.
San Francisco, CA
6/9/2010
Erika & Carrie are both amazing!! I am going to miss this brazilian wax so so much!! Their place is so shabby chic and cute!!!
Thanks to my friend VERO who showed it to me!!! -
Review from Kimberly J.
San Francisco, CA
7/22/2010
Erika is a true waxing genius...an artist...an eyebrow shaping master! Which is to say, the girl is damn good. I've been a client for about 2 years now and I can easily say I would never let anyone else touch my brows. Never ever? Never ever.
She's also fab at the bikini wax - quick, clean and about as painless as you can get. Plus I always have a laugh or three with her, and very often leave with a sweet treat - a little piece of candy, chocolate or maybe even a homemade cookie.
Perfect brows, nearly painless waxing downstairs AND chocolate? How can you go wrong?! Call her. Now. You'll be so happy you did! -
Review from Mary H.
San Francisco, CA
10/4/2011
These ladies rock. They are competent, professional, and focused. They also have a terrific sense of style. I have been seeing Erika for many years and even though I live across town I would never dream of having anyone else do my wax. You will be in great hands with either Erin or Erika. My only piece of advice is to make you appointment ahead of time. They will make every effort to get you in but they are in demand and get BOOKED!
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Review from Chrissy L.
San Francisco, CA
5/20/2009
I tend to write many 5 star reviews, but this review would truly be 6 stars if such a rating existed...
I started going to Erika last year and I am always *completely satisfied* with the service I receive. This is the only place I've ever been where post eyebrow wax I don't look like I've been torched! In fact, many o' girlfriend of mine have asked OH WHERE do I get my fab brows done..
If she moves, I move.
End.of.story.Listed in: Make me Beautiful
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Review from Wakako U.
San Francisco, CA
2/17/2006
Erika Lee is the best eye brow shaper and waxer. My left eyebrow grows up, my right eyebrow grows down, but after she's done, both look the same and both look perfect!! She brushes and trims your brows for added shaping. Anyone who skips that step has no business shaping brows.
She used to work at Benefit on Chestnut but opened her own shop. A small space but still lovely. If you all been wondering where she went, there word is out...she is at Dermal Essentials!!
Price: $17, even one dollar less than at Benefit. -
Review from Sally M.
6/4/2008
There are two things that really stress me out when I move to a new city. One is finding a hair stylist - and to be specific, I do mean a colorist. The second is finding an aesthetician. It's quite clear why the first may be complicated, but why the second? How hard is it , really, to wax? Well, let me explain.
You can't just go to anyone for your bikini wax - especially if you go the Brasilian route. This is up close and personal, ladies. It's imperative to not only find someone thorough and who makes it painless when waxing, but in the case of the biking region - and particularly with Brasilians - you have to find someone with whom you're comfortable. You don't want to dis-robe to just anyone, after all. And not only that, you want to find someone who you can talk to, and have friendly chit chat with.
After finding the best aesthetician yet in my home of 3 years in Washington D.C., I searched yelp to find my new aesthetician in SF. And that's when I found Erika at Dermal Essentials. I've never gone anywhere else. I go to Erika for all my waxing needs - legs, bikini, eyebrows, the whole shabang.
I highly recommend Erika. -
Review from Veronica P.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 2/18/2011
I am in love with Erika. Really. When I come see her for brazilian and eye brow waxing, I want to stay for hours chatting it up and hanging out! She is super quick (at waxing brazilian), professional, fun and makes the experience really pleasant! She even has this spray to help numb, and not to mention has the most ADORABLE boutique i've ever seen! You can tell she loves what she does and it shows. She takes great care of her clients with TLC, immediate call backs, flexible if you have to change your appointment and all with the most beautiful personality I have ever met! Erika's eye brow shaping and tinting is the best thing ive done to my face and they have never looked better. I told her the other day that she will be waxing me until im 90 years old ;) Thank you for being so great, Erika!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/11/2010
Erika is a genius! I told her how much I hated my brows because they had thinned out and werent… Read more »
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Review from Catherine and Sherwin C.
San Mateo, CA
4/12/2007
I got my eyebrows shaped by Erika Lee. Holy cow, I have arches. It's a really cute space, too!
UPDATE: so, I'm slowly having Erika wax other parts of my body... recently it was under the arms! She's good. Virtually no pain.
I've become her regular for brows. She's always on time, professional, fast, friendly... can't ask for more! -
Review from kelly h.
San Francisco, CA
9/8/2011
I am 5 months Pregnant and somehow Erin has given me two amazing bikini waxes that have not hurt in the slightest!! She is quick and a perfectionist on top of being a very sweet person! If it's painless at 5 months pregnant it must be downright blissful when you aren't pregnant!! I I've been getting bikini waxes for 10 years and she is hands down the best!!
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Review from Amy Z.
San Francisco, CA
9/8/2011
I had been getting my eyebrows done at an expensive day spa for years and wasn't thrilled with how they turned out. My friend referred me to Erika about 4 years ago and I love her! She does such an amazing job, the conversation is fabulous, and the prices are what they should be. I honestly wouldn't trust anyone else with my eyebrows and they are important because everyone can see them! She is also great with waxing down there and makes you feel very comfortable. I have been waxed by Erin a few times and she is fabulous and so sweet as well! Love Dermal Essentials SF!
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Review from michaela w.
San Francisco, CA
5/11/2006
Erika is awesome. She creates a soothing and calm environment in her cute little shop on Pierce St. I highly recommend her for all of your waxing needs....
Oh, and her colleague Carrie is just as good... -
Review from Hiromi N.
San Francisco, CA
7/1/2010
After losing Daniel at Re-charge Spa after he relocated back to Philly, I was in desperate search for a replacement so that I could look "well-maintained" for SF Pride. Et Voila! Thanks to yelp, I found Dermal Essentials and Erika Lee. Making an appointment for a brow & upper lip waxing was relatively easy, I called in and received a callback w/in 24 hours.
Not only did I LOVE the cute-cute-cute shabby chic decor, but I appreciated Erika's FLEXIBILITY. It wasn't a hassle to schedule and when I was running behind schedule due to TRAFFIC, she tried her best to accommodate me. She is friendly and efficient. I was in and out w/in 15-minutes and my brows looked stellar.
I've already made my follow up appointment! For my initial eyebrow appt and my upper lip = $37 (not including, tip).
The only complaint that I have about the area is the PARKING situation. Uggh. It can definitely be HIT OR MISS with the parking. Lucky for me, I found parking w/in a block, but it probably would not always be so easy.
Thanks so much for the great job, Erika! I look forward to seeing you in July! -
Review from Alexis T.
San Francisco, CA
1/5/2011
All of the great reviews below summarize what a wonderful place Dermal Essentials is. I have just started going to Erica for my brows and she is awesome. So friendly, efficient and gosh darn good at what she does!
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Review from Lisa L.
12/29/2008 2 Check-ins Here
This review has been long overdue!
Carrie is pretty much heaven sent. She is not only great at what she does (no really, she is) - she is down to earth, easy to talk to and just FABULOUS!
I have to admit, I saw the 5 stars and thought, "Seriously?" But after a year of appointments with Carrie, I am a client forever. I mean, come on! The gal travels from Sacramento twice a week just for her clients in the city. That deserves 5 stars on its own bit!
Maya L. loves her too (after some brow therapy)! So this is enough reason why you should try ANY service here. I promise you, you won't be disappointed... you don't find a 5 star establishment every day for all those necessities in life. -
Review from Jamie F.
San Francisco, CA
12/12/2010
I've been getting my eyebrows done by Erin for the last 9 months and I've never been disappointed! She's very reasonably priced and does an amazing job EVERY time!
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Review from Dariana L.
San Francisco, CA
12/5/2007
I LOVE Erika! I followed her from Benefit too and am so happy I did! She's a great waxer and does a fabulous job on my eyebrows. I get compliments on them all the time. I hope she doesn't leave San Francisco before I do. I don't know what I'd do.
The only downfall is the parking situation right around there, so walk if you can. -
Review from Lisa K.
San Francisco, CA
8/14/2007
I think Carrie is phenomenal! She is incredibly skilled at what she does and manages to be an great conversationalist and probably a bit of a therapist, all while whipping brows into shape, tinting lashes, and getting rid of unwanten hair. She is very sincere and has a wonderful demeanor with clients and can even make you feel comfortable in your very first bikini wax, which lets face it, is quite a feat!
This quiet little shop rocks and will take care of all your needs. Prices are incredibly reasonable as well. -
Review from Nicole G.
San Francisco, CA
8/8/2010
I first met Erika after moving to the neighborhood a few years ago and I have never strayed. She does a beautiful job on my brows and I am always getting compliments on them. Best of all, she is so sweet! You'll love her too!
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Review from Laura B.
San Francisco, CA
2/6/2009
Erika is a goddess at what she does! When I moved from LA I didn't think I would be able to find anyone like my girl in LA, but Erika is that and more!
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Review from Kelly P.
1/14/2008
Simply the best place for beauty needs. Super professional and friendly. Location is very cute and insanely clean. Like a little intimate cottage, but for waxing services instead of tea and crumpets. Prices are reasonable based on the quality of service. I recently moved out of the neighborhood, but will definitely make a special trip back here when in need.
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Review from jennifer c.
San Francisco, CA
7/29/2010
I Went to Yelp to help me find a new person to wax my eyebrows. Erika/Dermal Essentials had 5 stars. Wow!
I have been very impressed. She is very professional and accommodating. Her place is adorable and very clean. My eye brows looks GREAT! The best in years. I highly recommend Erika and Dermal Essentials :) -
Review from teri s.
San Francisco, CA
5/13/2011
Very clean and professional :) Erica is so sweet and always does a great wax!
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Review from I Q.
Oakland, CA
4/3/2009
I cannot say enough good things about Erika and am so glad I found her. She is super sweet and a master of her trade -- quick, painless, and knows her stuff. Her shop is adorable -- I am a sucker for scented anything (candles, lip gloss, lotions), so I love checking out all the new goodies she has whenever I visit. Great place to stop if you are in need of a last-minute, girly gift! Erika always tried to be as accomodating as possible, and will squeeze you in if she can! Also, you cannot beat her price list. For the quality of service and overall pleasant experience, she is THEE girl for your waxing/ tinting/ pampering needs!
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Review from k m.
San Francisco, CA
9/29/2007
Wonderful lil nook in the wall. The girls are not only sweet, efficient and affordable, but also great to talk to. They are very clean and sterile- always using a new stick for each swipe of wax. No chance of getting infections from other costumers!
I have unruly eye brows, but they always turn out perfect here. For a fraction of the cost of other places in the neighborhood. Sure wish Carrie was there more often! -
Review from Telene J.
San Francisco, CA
10/2/2006
i followed carrie rice here from benefit on fillmore, and would follow her just about anywhere! she does the best brazilian in the shortest amount of time, with the least amount of discomfort.
she is ultimate. -
Review from Jessica H.
San Francisco, CA
1/3/2008
Erika is FABULOUS!! I have been going to her for all of my waxing needs for almost 7 years now. Yep 7 years! I constantly get compliments about my eyebrows. She really does amazing work be it eyebrow, bikini, leg - you name it. Her new little shop is adorable and perfect place to take care of your waxing needs.
The skin care line she sells is great as well - she knows what to recommend for your skin and it always works! She is super professional and an all around wonderful person. Her mother's place in San Rafael is fabulous too- great microdermabrasion. I will follow Erika and Dermal Essentials wherever they may go!
