Gentle Star Medspa

 

2

5

sammy o.

San Francisco, CA

This place is great!!!  they have all the best products and the latest and greatest treatments, I love the decor and how professional everyone is.
they truly know there skin care and how to make yours  look it's  best!

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4

5

Lisa M.

San Mateo, CA

I love this place!  Nikko is a dear and made me feel comfortable and cared for.  I had a facial with Holly who was very gentle with my skin.  With that being said, she gently got rid of all of the junk in my clogged pores.  I have never had such a thorough face cleaning!   I felt like butter when I was done.
The staff is knowledgeable and so  friendly.  I even got a hug when I left :)  
GO TO GENTLE STAR!  YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED!!!!!

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0

6

J V.

El Cerrito, CA

I have never been to a spa that has given me greater results than Gentle Star.  The people are great (I've gotten acquainted with Craig, Holly, and Nikko, I hope to meet Dr. Ellis soon), the treatments WORK, and their products are effective.  I've learned how to take care of my skin, tone down my breakouts, and not look like I just emerged from a burrow every morning.  

The first time I walked into Gentle Star, I was a little nervous.  Maybe it's from watching too much Ugly Betty or the Devil Wears Prada, but I thought I was gonna see some sort of sterile operating room and creepily beautiful (think mannequins or wax figures) people appraising me with their lips curled while holding metal instruments.  I know, I know, it's such a cliche, but even though the reviews say otherwise, it did pass through my mind.  I walked in and felt more relaxed: the space is cool--it has a warm vibe to it and cool art.  Then I notice Nikko, Holly, and Craig (I don't know them yet) and sigh. They're all gorgeous and have clear skin.  Nikko, who has a background in fashion, belongs on Vogue,  Holly is stunning, and Craig has flawless skin that reflects light. I gird myself for a moment just in case these are mean beautiful people who will smile at me fakely while eyeing my zits and stealthily reaching for a tweezerman.   But no, Nikko flashes me the warmest smile, offers me tea, and puts me at ease.  He is great, encouraging, and constantly make sure you are in the loop about your appointment, answering questions, and offering wonderful beauty and fashion advice. He clearly cares about the clients, and everyone loves him.  

I was a little starstruck when I met Craig a few months ago.  I bumped into a chair, spilled my tea down my shirt, blurted out intelligent things "Craig, what color IS the blue peel?". Why did I do that?  Well, a) I'm a dork, and b) he's a rockstar in skincare with a rep that's becoming legendary (just read the other reviews).  And again, his skin is so clear it reflects light. He gave me a free and lengthy consultation a few months ago, with invaluable advice on how to care for my skin, and, recently, an acne peel that I'm now addicted to.  Acne peels at Gentle Star are the best skincare discovery I've made!  No, they don't involve metal pans of boiling acid (yeah, I imagined that too). Mine was a mask that revealed fresher skin immediately, and the redness disappeared immediately after it was washed from my face.  Spots where I had acne became dark, and flaked off within the next few days, making my zits smaller or eliminating them all together.  On a personal level, I liked Craig instantly. Craig connects with people and knows skin. And he's extremely genuine and disarmingly honest.   He is booked months in advance so plan accordingly!

Holly gave me an amazing facial (you ain't ever had a facial until you've had the Gentle Star signature deep pore extraction facial). She cares about doing an extremely thorough job and even shaped my eyebrows for me.  Seriously, my eyebrows are hard to manage because they are sparse yet unwieldy and she conquered them.  While she was removing a lot of gunk from my pores, she was very sweet and personable.  She followed up with me after the facial and gave me great tips. She also suggested some products without any pressure.  And she gave me a pretty incredible makeover with a fabulous line of mineral makeup that they carry that doesn't clog my pores and makeup lesson.  My friends were surprised at my new look, showered me with compliments, and one of them asked "what happened to" me because I "look good."  Although I have a sufficient amount of 'inner cuteness', I have pretty unremarkable looks in general, so her makeover of me attests to her great talent and artistry.

I think the main reason why I like the people at Gentle Star, however, is that they don't apologize for what they do. They are people whose business it is to look good and make other people look good too.  I think a lot of us (myself included) try to hide how much time we spend on our looks and wind up being extremely critical of ourselves or judge others for how much time they spend on their looks etc.  Craig, Holly, and Nikko are very supportive, caring, won't judge, share their beauty secrets, while at the same time being extremely professional and trustworthy.  So Gentle Star's beauty is definitely beyond skin deep.

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0

3

Ligidy L.

San Francisco, CA

By far the best place for a facial in SF. If you want results, go here. They will discuss your goals with you and find a way to meet them based on your budget.  I highly recommend Craig as an intro.

I have major black head congestion and in particular, my chin has been transformed into completely younger looking, clean skin! Thank you Gentle Star!

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0

1

ms.maiplum t.

Oakland, CA

What can I say?  I love this place.

This is mainly a review for Craig and Nikko.  I've only talked to Holly on the phone and she is very pleasant and nice.

Nikko is the cute kid who runs the front of the place.  He's very fashionable, but is never snooty.  You can tell that he likes his job, and that he is well taken care of.  He always makes me feel comfortable, and I always look forward to see what he is going to wear on my next visit.

Craig is a miracle worker.  When I first came to Gentle Star my skin was terrible, and now I feel comfortable leaving the house without makeup.  I had a lot of acne scars and discolorations, and I was first recommended the Jan Marini products.  These products have worked better than any product that I have used.  They seem a little pricey, but you end up saving money because they last a long time.  Then, Craig recommended the Vitalize peel.  My skin has not looked this good since my mid-twenties.  The discolorations are gone, and the scars are leveling out.  

Besides being really good at what he does ... Craig is also a really nice person.  He is really sensitive towards your needs, easy to talk to, and really does care about his clients.  

After he makes my skin look perfect I'll be sad that I won't see them as often!

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1

5

Jennifer S.

CA

I started going to Gentle Star last October when I had a viciously bad breakout from some products (kinerase)  I'd been using. I started with a deep cleansing facial from Holly, which was excellent. My pores were clogged beyond belief, so it took a lot of time to get them all cleaned out, but Holly was patient and methodical and chatty enough that the time passed easily. There was no extra charge for the extra time, even though it took close to 2 hours.

I went back a week later to start the Obagi regimen. I wasn't sure that I could commit to the twice daily routine for the 18 week cycle, but here I am, nearing the end of the cycle, and my skin looks better than it has in years! Craig has been an excellent coach through the whole process, and has had many follow-up consultations with me, all free of charge. The follow-ups have been great for reassurance and also for slight readjustments in the regimen. Craig is also wonderful about LISTENING to what my concerns are and adjusting accordingly.

It's always great to walk into Gentle Star and be greeted by Nikko like a family member.  I think it's impossible not to like him.  :-)

If you're looking for some serious skin care with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, this is your place!

One quick update -  it's been about 6 months now, and I have new skin! The transformation is really unbelievable! I highly recommend getting the Clarisonic - yes it's pricey but justify it by saying you'd spend that much in clothes or a weekend trip or a facial, for that matter. It's worth forgoing any of those treats for this one that will make you look better, every day.

I wish I could show you all before/after pictures of my skin because you truly have to see it to believe it. And for the first time since high school - I don't wear makeup anymore!

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1

2

Omar N.

San Bruno, CA

I was excited to come to Gentle Star because I heard it was rated number one in SF. When I walked in, the staff was welcoming and the decorations were very stylish.

Holly, who was my esthetician, was informative on products, answered all of my skincare questions, and gave me some at-home skincare tips.  She recommended the Jan Marini skincare line which really helped with my breakouts and my skin texture is a lot smoother and less oily now.  

A few days after the facial and microdermabrasion, my skin felt purged and smooth. Cool place, nice people, great skincare- I would give them a 10 star rating if I could! Thanks Gentle Star, see you again soon.

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0

5

Kay F.

San Francisco, CA

First off, I love that Nikko is in the pics.  Yo, I didn't know you had such a hot bod under the fashionito clothes!

I love Nikko, Craig and Dr. Tom.  I'm not into wearing a lot of makeup, so I need good skin.  Nikko is charming and a great chatter.  Craig makes my face pretty.   Dr. Tom keeps the wrinkles at bay.  Now if only I could find a way to afford to look like Craig... I'd be flawless.

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2

10

Sarah T.

CA

I know it seems impossible to be true, but Gentle Star is truly worth it's flawless 5 star rating from all of its satisfied clients.  I first found out about this place when I searched "botox" on Yelp.  I was so impressed by the reviews I thought I had to try this place myself.

I called and left a message on a Thursday.  Someone named Craig, who I later found out was one of the owners, called me back within 30 minutes.  I talked to him about what I was looking for (getting older, noticing fine lines, feeling like I can't look like this at 31) and he said I could come in for a free consultation.  Added to this was a last minute cancellation for that Saturday at 2pm. Did I want the appointment Craig asked?  Umm, HELL YES!

Okay, so fast forward to Saturday. It's a dreary San Francisco afternoon and I am hauling ass through the rain to get to my consult. When I arrive I am greeted by the super nice and handsome Nikko. He escorts me into a super chic little exam/treatment room (after offering me some tea, of course). Dr. Ellis arrives at exactly 2pm for our consult.  He gives me a mirror, had me make a bunch of expressions so he could see how my muscles were working and talked me through some possibilities.  He was friendly, very informative, and relaxing to be around.  We decided on a course of treatment that he told me I could start today or make an appointment to do another time.  I came prepared and said I would do the botox treatment today. Dr. Ellis took some "before" pictures, then we were ready to start.

Getting botox done is fairly painless (and this is coming from someone whose threshold for pain is like -2 on a scale of 1-10).  In a nutshell, this is how it works - 1) you figure out the treatment areas, 2) the doctor applies a topical numbing agent, 3) Dr. Ellis followed this with an ice cube for an added numbing effect, 4) the doctor tells you to furrow your brow or raise your eyebrow so they can get the perfect position to insert the needle, 5) the doctor takes a small amount of skin and lightly pinches it together as they put the needle in the skin.  The injection takes about 5-10 seconds and leaves a little raised area on the skin and no blood (the raised area goes down in about an hour).  That's it.  

After my treatment Nikko and Dr. Ellis helped me get some complimentary make-up on my forehead to minimize the appearance of the raised, treated areas.  I felt fine, and looked normal. Then I scheduled a follow-up appointment in 2 weeks so Dr. Ellis can evaluate the results and tweak anything if necessary.

It takes about 7-10 days for the best results from botox. I will update this review when that time hits and discuss the results.

I appreciated the fun, warm staff at Gentle Star as well as the informative way Dr. Ellis helped me make decisions without being overly pushy. The whole philosophy at Gentle Star is turning up the looks you already have without looking overly processed.  Like ALL the others before me, I had a great experience!

PS - their prices are VERY reasonable for the attentive, thorough service you receive.

UPDATE:  It has now been 8 days since my botox treatment with Dr. Ellis.  My eyebrows have been raised and arched ever so slightly, I have less visible fine lines, and the "furrowed brow" between my eyes is noticeably less prominent. No one, besides my attentive husband, have asked if I have been "done" in anyway. I think this is great because the goal of doing this was not to alter my face radically, but rather to touch it up a little and try to prevent further aging signs. I have a follow-up appointment with Dr. Ellis next week to see what he thinks.  I am VERY pleased with my results and plan on making these treatments part of my beauty routine.

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0

7

Brad s.

Los Altos, CA

The ravages of time, the elements, and bad teenage acne took its ravage toll on my face.  Fortunately, I discovered Gentle Star Medspa.  Craig, Dr. Ellis, and Nikko have been a "saving grace" in my overall appearance.  

I began going to Gentlestar 13 months ago.  I've been getting deep pore facials with Craig almost every month and using the Obagi products he recommended.  When you look at yourself in the mirror everyday, you don't notice the subtle changes that occur.  It wasn't until friends/family start commenting about a change in my appearance. When I looked at the photos comparing my first treatment (13 months ago) to the one I had today, I could truly see the transformation that occurred.

Although it's a 90 minute commute (each way) to Gentle Star, I look forward to my monthly visits. I've read many of the other reviews that were written about Gentle Star Medspa  an they're all true!

Thank you Gentle Star Medspa (Craig, Dr.Ellis, and Nikko) for your help and guidance in my transformation!

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Elite '08

24

63

Michele K.

San Francisco, CA

Today I had my first visit at Gentle Star!!!  Nikko welcomed me and gave me a tour.  The Spa is Beautiful and looks like a hip art gallery....(think 111 Minna). But smaller....
Craig is absolutley wonderful!!!! I had an outstanding facial and diamond microderm treatment!!!!  WOW!  My skin has never felt so good.  I have been to MANY spas in the city and have had many facials and none even come close in comparison.....I am hooked, I can't wait to go back, and I will never waste my time at any other spa....I have finally found what I have been searching for all this time!!!!!!!  The absolute best spa ever with wonderful staff and great products....They actually care about your skin and the results are priceless.

Thank you Nikko and Craig!!!
xoxoxoxo

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3

1

Francesca D.

Menlo Park, CA

I really love this place. The staff is 100% genuine, 100% caring, and 100% committed to helping you attain radiant, flawless and "dewy" perfect skin.

The staff is incredibly informative and committed to keeping up with the latest research in order to provide the best treatments available. That said - they differ from other spas in that they do not aggressively push any unnecessary skin products on their clients (which I appreciate.)

They empower people with information, and help guide you along the way with their caring, comprehensive, hands-on approach. I love that I can email Craig anytime with questions (in fact, he insists that you do!) and that I can rely on his attentiveness if I have any concerns. In fact, just today, Craig made room in his schedule to see me for a free same-day consult (after seeing him 2 weeks prior for a facial) and even scheduled a follow-up in the next 2 weeks in order to check in on my progress.

All in all, I just feel very good about this place. After struggling with temperamental skin for a good 10 years and experimenting with various treatments,  lotions, potions, and spas (not to mention dermatologists) I think I have finally found the place for me. :)

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Elite '08

351

223

Darin I.

San Francisco, CA

Ladies and Gentlemen!  Have I got GREAT NEWS!

Are your

- jowls touching your knees?
- wrinkles turning your face into the Grand Canyon as seen through Google Earth?
- zits smoking like Pompeii before the conflagration?
- expression lines written on your face with a broad-nibbed Sharpie pen?
- eye bags looking a little "Hefty"?
- skin cells acting like a petulant lover who refuses to "turn over"?

WELL I HAVE THE PLACE FOR YOU!

At Gentle Star, there's no hard sell, no lotions which smell like roses yet do fuck all for your skin, no bitchy facialists who took their beauty classes at Torquemada U.

Here, there is only meditation on the Platonic Ideal of Perfect Skin.  These guys know their shit -- from Nico, the warm and welcoming front desk manager, to aesthetician and uber facialist Craig Shishido, to Master of the Botox Needle Thomas Ellis, M.D..  

And yes, I like facials from time to time....Oh, go fuck yourselves.  I'm gay, what do you expect?  Plus, I'm from Hawai'i -- where we chain smoke Kools on the beach WITHOUT SUNSCREEN -- and have suffered from acne all through my miserable, pockmarked life.

AND I SEE YOU QUEENS APPLYING CREME DE LA MER AND STARING AT YOUR FUCKING PORES IN THE MIRROR FOR AN HOUR  -- WHO THE FUCK ARE YOU BITCHES TO JUDGE ME?  I'M MORE MAN THAN YOU WILL EVER BE!

I'm so glad I found Gentle Star, thanks to the nearly unanimous five-star rating here on yelp.

An air of professionalism infuses this clinic.  Can I just say: what a fucking relief!  I'm so sick of walking into "spas" only to leave poorer and smelling like a motherfucking tuberose.  I mean, if I wanted to smell like that, I'd douse myself in Marc Jacobs perfume for women AND SET MYSELF ON FIRE.

I've only met with Nico and Craig.  Both are consummate professionals who take great care of their clients.  Nico judiciously checks in with you both before and after your appointment in order to insure that your face hasn't melted off or anything.  Craig has a great "bedside" manner when conducting the dreaded "extractions."  He explains the numerous facial procedures available to you, and is truly interested in your individual concerns.

Plus, they both have great complexions.  Do you really want to be worked on by someone who looks like they were rode hard and put away wet?  I thought not.  An intial consultation is free (yes, FREE, asshat).  Check them out.

But if any of my appointments are cancelled because of overbooking, I'm so gonna get Medieval on your asses.  Because, you know, I'm all man.

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0

7

pete c.

San Francisco, CA

ahh gentle star...where do i start?  

perhaps the adorable and affable front desk person (nikko) who always greets with a smile.  

the atmosphere?  the whole place is laid out to relax you.  everyone is super friendly.  

i had a facial with craig that was above board.  he takes the time to explain everything and followed up with a call.  

recently, i started seeing tula to take care of minor hair removal.  she is AMAZING.  

you couldn't find a better spa.  you couldn't find a better staff.

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Elite '08

39

71

Sirima S.

San Francisco, CA

I'm a low/no maintenance gal when it comes to beauty. (short of EXTREMELY  good hygiene) I do take good care of my body, skin, hair, teeth... all the fixed parts. Gentle Star Medspa is a wonderful place to get solid scientific/medical advice and good common sense skin care. Better and more gracious service that any dermatologist I've been to. Craig, Dr Ellis and the staff are super friendly. AND I got a whole host of yummy fish recipes, restaurant reviews and great skincare advice from Dr Ellis on my last visit. What more can a girl ask for?

Did I mention they leave out the most amazing dark chocolates for all their clients. I had 3... ok maybe 4. (no one was counting.. or cared.)

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0

15

Billy Dee R.

San Francisco, CA

This will be an easy review for me, everything people are saying about Gentle Star Medspa is true!  I can just stop here with a 5 star rating, but that would just be lazy!

Craig has years of experience in his field, I couldn't recommend better hands.  Expect state-of-the-art, professional results and an atmosphere that is an absolute treat to the senses.  He and Dr. Ellis will give you personalized service and fully explain to you options and what results you can expect.  

PLUS, most important to me, everyone here is fully customer focused and knows how to pamper.   Get a glass of tea and if they have Coco Delice chocolates at Nikko's desk when you leave, be sure to reward yourself with one.   It's worth it!

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4

97

Lorissa W.

Richmond, CA

I previously went to a dermatologist and paid 80 dollars for a five minute consultation (although I had confirmed for a milia procedure on the phone). That's why I was fed up and came here. Craig was very nice and so was Nikko (both look fabulous too). They were patient and encouraged me to ask questions. They gave me the long term solution I was looking for to my skin issues.  I'm now on a skin care system that has improved the look and feel of my skin within a few days.  Craig took pics of my skin so that I have something to compare how my skin looked like before.  So far, I am pleased with the results and look forward to a productive skincare relationship with Craig and Nikko. Thanks!

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Elite '08

32

138

Audra E.

San Francisco, CA

I usually write a GBU (good, bad, ugly) review - but everything about this place is all GOOD...

1. Nikko is super nice and very accommodating.  He always calls me in case there is a cancellation to try to get me an earlier appointment
2. Craig is wonderful.  He listens and pinpoints your skin issues and recommends products at a slow pace - one or two at a time and if there are any issues - you can return them for a full refund.
3. Craig checks up on your progress with the products and my product was Obagi-C hydroquinone - and it lightened my sun spots within 2 weeks.  
4. I've never received so many compliments on my skin as I have in the last 3 weeks.
5. The office is well decorated and feels like an upscale disco spa - I love it.
6. Waiting for an appointment takes patience, but they do their very  best to accommodate you - it's worth the wait!

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2

9

imitura ..

San Francisco, CA

I went to see Craig last week.  Having him take care of my skin was like having a rocket scientist help me with my math homework.  I hardly felt worthy.  Oh, and he's so beautiful I could barely look at him.  His beauty, however, goes far deeper than his gorgeous skin.  He got to know me, paid attention to what I felt I needed from the visit and taught me valuable lessons beyond skincare.

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0

3

Sean A.

San Francisco, CA

I am not one to write a review good or bad but sometimes you have an experience so wonderful that it should be shared.  Gentle Star Med Spa is just that experience.  I came kicking and screaming to my first laser hair-removal apt., but the moment I walked in the door I was at ease. The place is off-the-hook chic, something you don't find at all spa's. Usually your sipping yet another cup of green tea and listening to whale noises while counting the leaves on a bamboo stock. Not here. At gentle Star you are treated to the latest fashion mags, the best chocolates, and a warm, educated, helpful staff. The spa's hallways are exposed brick leading to very private rooms. There is even a mirror ball hanging above the reception area. The visuals were something out of  a dream and to my shock, so was the experience! I was immediately put at ease and ready for my first treatment. A lot of myths were dispelled, namely the level of pain; not even as bad as a rubber bands snap. The results were well worth it and I look forward to taking advantage of their many other services such as... Well, I'll never tell!

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0

7

wendy a.

Santa Rosa, CA

Craig is a gifted aesthetician. I was laughing during the whole two plus hour process of extractions(lots!).  I felt like I made a friend at the end of my appointment, Craig is so kind and present.  He didn't even really mention any products, I pursued that, and he was so genuine and real.   He is someone who understands acne skin, don't let his beauty fool you!  I will be back for a vita-peel soon!

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Elite '08

211

114

tiffinie m.

San Francisco, CA

I'm not just the president, I'm also a client!

Okay. So I'm not the PRESIDENT of Gentle Star... I'm the acupuncturist. Whatever. I'm also a client. And I was a client before whole acupuncture thing. So isn't it about time I reviewed Gentle Star. You bet'cha it is, betch!

Gentle Star is the kind of place where once you walk through the doors you're transported to a place of peace. A place of beauty. No need for scowl lines here. No frowning necessary. Pretty little crystals twinkle and sparkle like the heavens. You're offered a cup of tea by the cute boy at the front desk. He smiles and you know that you have arrived...

...and with a very minimal wait, you are shown to a treatment room.

Then fast forward as you realize, while reclining in the fabulous Italian spa chair, you wonder if the fabulous Craig can tell that you're not just a little nervous? That you're sweating bullets over here? Okay, so not really, but there's that anticipation of the unknown...

Hmm. Doesn't seem to notice. His soothing, non-judgmental voice as he inspects your neglected skin doesn't let on at all. ((sigh)) Your poor, tanned-with-olive-oil-as-a-teenager (which was decades ago) skin is the reason why you've chosen this path of the unknown microderma-magic! And you know that you're ready!

Then you hear it. The the diamond-tipped tool. It sounds like a dental drill (oohhh! bad association), but it's NOT!  It's the sound of beauty.  Craig warns (in his low, zen-like voice) that this might be a little "uncomfortable".  Ohhh....

Then wait for it... Wait for it...

Contact!  
You feel it spinning and sucking your skin. Spinning and sucking away dead skin. Spinning and sucking. Not so bad. Spinning and sucking. Feels pretty good, actually. Spinning and sucking around your nose...

"Let me know if it's too intense and I can turn it down," says Craig in his gentle zen voice.

"Feel free to turn it up," you hear yourself say.  He does. It feels... GOOD. I mean, GOOD! Like, massage good. A diamond-studded massage. Gorgeous diamonds buffing away unseemly sun spots. Gorgeous diamonds refining the little forehead lines. Gorgeous diamonds revealing gorgeous new skin!

Then it's over.  Wait. That's it?
But wait. I need more sucking and spinning, you think. I need more gorgeous diamond-abrasion!

But no. Craig's a professional, and when he says it's done, it's done. I mean, you've been in the fabulous Italian chair for a good while. And, more imporantly, you trust him. Craig and his soothing zen-voice. You trust him because he knows his skin!

The end result from this one treatment? Skin a little plumper. A lot brighter. Incredibly baby-behind smoother! Gorgeous!

You want to hug him! Hug him for smoother skin. Hug him for knowing his stuff!

Next time, you think,  (waving a little "ciao" to the cute front desk guy) I'm having him crank that diamond-studded microderma-thing up to 11.  And that's when you know that you're hooked.

****
UPDATE: 4/5

just wanted to add that the cute front desk guy at Gentle Star is Nikko... The Fabulous Nikko, if I may. And Nikko gives the best front desk & phone I've seen in a long time! Professional and caring. Full of information galore about the services. Never product-pushy. Never a shread of attitude. That's big in my book.  Sometimes it's everything. Well done NIkko :D

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3

9

samantha k.

San Francisco, CA

If you are looking for relaxation, this is not your place.  If your skin sucks and you are not happy with the services at your dermatologist and you have that case of acne that Jessica Simpson and Kelly Clarkson just can't get rid of, this is your place.  I had a facial with Craig.  Ouch!  BUT.. my skin is completely different/cured now.  Also, my friend just finished the esthetics program at the San Francisco school of esthetics and Craig is an instructor there.  He is known there as a skin GOD.  She blushed and got weak in the knees when I mentioned his name.

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3

9

Linh N.

Berkeley, CA

This place is wonderful!  From the wonderful front desk Nikko who is so enthusiastic and helping down and Craig who is a perfectionist and so good at explaining everything he does. I need to make time soon to see Craig=)  If you want someone who can give you beautiful skin that is glowing and luminous he's the man!!!!!

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2

19

Jennifer C.

San Francisco, CA

If you've always wanted to try acupuncture, but were afraid to try-  this is the place for you. Tiffinie has the right touch! Know that acupuncture isn't just about sticking needles into people, its about balancing 'chi' (traditional Chinese medicine). So, if you're looking for that little pick me up, want to de-stress, be pain free, or help with fertility issues it could be a matter of unbalanced chi. Trust me it really works (see below)*.

Tiffinie has been treating me for 6 months now. Not once have I winced or yelp'd (no pun intended!) when she's placing the needles. I am an info gal, and I love the fact that Tiffinie always describes to me in advance what she'd like to do and WHY- which is huge. A practitioner who treats their client like an intelligent human being is a must for the intimate practice of acupuncture.

*Results, after 3 months of treatment: I don't have headaches, I sleep better, I didn't catch the flu or a cold last season while everyone around me was dropping like flies, and I have an energy level that even Tigger would envy.

Go see Tiffinie!

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3

Jenice A.

San Francisco, CA

Run, I mean Run, and go see Craig.  Not only is he a cutie and a healer, he knows the chemistry behind getting good skin.  He is an empathetic detail man with a passion for healing the inside and out.  No need to feel embarrassed or ashamed when you lay down and face that glaring truthful light.  He is addicted to transformation and I can't wait to see mine.  Everything about the place and his gift is all about the details.  No doubt.  I walked in a total congested depressed oily mess, and I walked out with expunged oil and grit, face as smooth as a baby's butt with a smile on my face and hope riding on my shoulders.  He even got to my neck, behind my ears and on my ears!  

I have had trouble skin since my early 20s, and been to a zillion aestheticians and derms.  I know my way around a facial or two, and no one has taken care of me quite the way Craig has.  He does not leave any clogged up pore untouched.   If you want a serious extraction session and an accurate reading of the skin without all the fussy fuss fuss of a spa, this is the place.  No hiding behind big words without any understanding and nice smelly creams and lotions or aromatherapy, no sirree.

Nikko is a darling and will take care of you intuitively, no need to think when you walk into Gentle Star.  They do all of that for you.  Even when you walk out dazed and confused from a terrific extraction marathon with a smile knowing that you have just been taken care of, really.  Nikko was so kind to call me just as I parked, to let me know how to get around the construction, because what he had told me the day before with the confirmation call, had changed.  

No pressure on products, suggestions, but no pressure in buying them.  Smart scientific advice on what you need and why.  These people have been there and done that and know what to do.  

Thank you Craig!  I am already seeing results from the session and my new regime and it has only been 4 days.

UPDATE: So, the face I always wanted to have, but never thought possible..........I have it now.  And I did it all with nothing but Jan Marini, no invasive or harsh additives.  Thanks to Craig and his patience and pure dedication to leave no stone unturned.  I am now a Gentle Star girl.  Ask to see my before and after pics, I am so proud of them.

Now I can start doing other things to enhance my new face. Excited!

P.S. Craig, Matt noticed when I came home that it didn't even look like I had an extraction marathon! Now that is something, eh?

Update:  I have now been seeing Craig for five months and my face has dramatically changed.  My contours have come back, hyperpigmentation is slowly fading with the Jan Marini products, and the clarisonic brush has polished it baby butt soft.  Nothing but good things.  Still fighting some acne breakouts, but my face has always been difficult, and I have complete faith I am on the right track and just need to find the right tweeking.  I wouldn't have anyone else tweek me the way Craig does!  Tweek Tweek away baby.  
Now I am looking into other wonderful options at GentleStar. It is so nice to have someone Know what those options are all about and give you an honest opinion on what would work for you, WITHOUT any pressure or leading you to the most expensive option. I don't think Craig could hard sell if he was forced by gunpoint to give his plate of crunchy fries away. He is a Gentle Star soul.  They want to keep you happy and coming back.  And that my friend, is just what I will do.  Thanx Craig and Nikko.

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5

Melissa L.

San Francisco, CA

Ok, so its been a few days since I had my first facial at Gentle Star.  And I'm only writing this now because one, my face has finally had a little time to rest after the insane extractions, and two, I'm not really sure I want to share how awesome this place is with everyone else.  It's hard enough to get an appointment as is.  But this place is sooooo good that you can't hate.

If you're like me, obsessed with skin care and constantly looking for the next best thing, reading into various products and what they do, this place is for you.  First off, your search is over, no more reading through product lines and testimonials, they do it for you.  Everything they prescribe/ use they've tried so all products are backed personally by them.  

This isn't your typical spa, where they want you as lifetime clients.  They're method is to teach you about your skin and help you facilitate the betterment of it.  They talk about your skin, what's been going on and perhaps the causes.  Usually I just get berated from the esthetician.  This time, I actually got some answers, after the reprimand of course.

I can go on about how wonderful the staff is and how everyone has skin like silk or how the proof is in the pudding (never understood that clich), and that Craig is heaven sent, but really you should go check it out for yourself.  Best Facial EVER!

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Ange P.

Brisbane, CA

Amazing!  Best Med spa in the world.  True professional and results are truly amazing.  Great products that I can't go without anymore.  They provide the best service, have the most advance equipment, and products that actually work and feel good.  I regret all the money I've spent at the other med spas in the city.... wish I knew of this place sooner.  Only downside is it's very hard to get an appointment since they're becoming so popular due to their great work.

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R S.

San Francisco, CA

I have been a loyal customer of Gentle Star since it's inception, I love this place! I usually get a facial from the fabulous Craig, but they suggested I try a new girl, Holly, so I did. Normally I would just stick with what I know, but I figured if they hired her she must be good, I mean they only hire the best (Tula is awesome with hair removal).
So I went in for my facial and don't tell Craig, but Holly was great! She explained everything as we went along and really found out what problems I was having with my skin. I would recommend her facial to anyone. Thank you Gentle Star!

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Shirlyn A.

San Francisco, CA

September 26,2007

This is the 1st time I received a perfect thorough extraction from the meticulous Craig!=) He is such an expert that he's able to extract a clogged, hard whitehead that has been hiding in the corner on my right eye for years in about 3-5 mins! Simply incredible! And even so, he still remained humble about his expertise and jokingly said that he could always return my "jewel" aka " hard whitehead" if I miss its presence.:P Although the facial seemed to be intimidating, but Craig kept me entertained by chatting with me through out the procedure. He's such a cool esthetician!:) The most indulging part of the facial is when he applied the cooling cucumber mask on my face after the complete extraction. I felt like floating  in the la la land & the pain on my face was gone.^_^

Last but not least, I would like to thank Craig & the rest of his crews (Nico & Holly) for being so accomodating during my visits! This spa is indeed one of the kind!=) And thanks for the follow up thank you card as well! That's a really nice touch!:) I couldn't ask for more!:)

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This place is awesome! After only using the products Craig has recommended for me on my 1st FREE consultation with him for a few days, I notice visible results!:) My skin is smooth and glowing. In fact, I never fail to get compliments from many people. They thought I look younger than my age.=) Thanks to the ever wonderful Craig! And not forgetting the caring receptionist, Nikko as well!^^

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Denise M.

CA

RUN, don't walk to Gentle Star!  I was referred by a friend and feel this was the best facial experience ever!   Craig is the ultimate in professionalism and is very knowledgable in skincare.  It has been 1 week and my skin looks so much better.  The spa is beautiful and I did not feel rushed at all. Education = knowledge,  and that's what your experience will be all about.  From the minute Nikko books your appointment, it will be a great experience. Thank you Craig and Nikko!!!!

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valerie c.

San Francisco, CA

Standing on the hidden sidewalk of Mint Street, I got buzzed into what I was hoping was the right place..and after a couple quick steps up into the chic yet soothing space, I was sure that I was.  The modern, industrial feel of Gentle Star is instantly intriguing and this being my first time with acupuncture, I was definitely put at ease.  

A cup of delicious tea and a few quick forms later and I was in a comfortable room chatting with Tiffinie, the newest addition to the group.  Her "detective-like" style of discussing my concerns and medical history helped her to create a personal treatment for me that would target just the right areas of my..er..qi? chi? I'm not sure exactly but I know that it was fantastic.  

The first needle was one to calm me, and it did.  After that I realized any fear I may have had was unnecessary so I closed my eyes and enjoyed the experience.  The whole process was very relaxing and I appreciated Tiffinie's attention to detail and making sure that I understood all aspects of what was happening.

Bottom line, I was timid and unsure of what exactly acupuncture was and I found the right  person to introduce me to the practice.  My experience from start to finish was comforting and informative and I left feeling rejuvenated physically and emotionally.

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5

kels s.

San Francisco, CA

I LOVE THESE GUYS!  Craig is undoubtly, the BEST, most knowledgable, thorough, fastidious, precise and just flat out fun esthetician I have ever encountered.  I have yet to use Dr. Ellis' services, but I did meet with him and really thought he was professional, kind, honest and warm.  So when the time comes (which is probably soon, but with Craig's help, not as soon as before), I will definitely work with Dr. Ellis.  

I'm in my late 30s and had acne since my teenage years.  As an adult my skin cleared up but was prone to periodic breakouts (which I could handle by having facials and using pretty basic products).  However, a couple of years back I lost someone very close and dear to me and the magnitude of that loss resulted in, among other health issues, adult acne-- tiny little bumps everywhere and pretty big yucky bumps on my chin and jawline.  

The adult acne refused to go away.  And adult acne, unlike teenage acne, leaves blemishes that last far longer (as you're older and your skin just doesn't heal as quickly; moreover, I exacerbated the problem as I picked and picked and picked.  Asian skin (which I have) is prone to hyper-pigmentation, so adult acne was a real problem, especially if you're prone to pick.  

Thus, in vanity and desperation, I first went to a dermotologist and the regime was Retin-A and some topical antibiotics.  That didn't work.  I went to a couple of spas and one was even very good, but they could not really fix my problem either.  So, at a loss, not sure what to do, I googled and ended up on Yelp reading the then few reviews of Gentle Star.  The reviews seemed so sincere that I had to try Gentle Star.  Thank goodness I did.

My skin looks and feels so much better.  Craig's facials really cleared my skin (I've had his deep pore 5 times and microdermabrasion twice).  His recommended products worked beautifully.  I wish I had a before and after picture to post.  But really, my skin is no longer bumpy.  It is softer and more dewy.  My pores look healthier.  And amazingly, the expression lines on my forehead are far softer.  So the results are:  no more bumps, far less blemishes, nominal breakouts, smoother aka younger, healthier looking skin.  I know I sound like a commercial, but it's true.  

So try them.  I'm so happy that I did.  Please know that I have been to many spas and none are of this caliber.  When it comes to skin, I am very picky.  I expect results.  Gentle Star delivers.  Oh, everyone there is so incredibly nice, supportive, great listeners and no attitude.  How great and rare is that.