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Illuminata Skin Care
Category: Beauty and Spas Skin Care Skin Care [Edit]
977 Valencia St(between Liberty St & 21st St)
San Francisco, CA 94110
Neighborhood: Mission
(415) 971-3943
$95 for Extended or Purifying Facials
Valid for first time clients and weekday appts only, with Tori or Lana. Must mention YELP when booking online.
- Hours:
Mon, Thu 12:30 pm - 8 pm
Tue 1 pm - 8 pm
Wed 10 am - 8 pm
Fri 11 am - 6:30 pm
Sat-Sun 10 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
63 reviews for Illuminata Skin Care
63 reviews in English
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Review from Dulce V.
San Francisco, CA
10/23/2011
The signature facial with Tori is TOP QUALITY.
Simply put - Tori is amazeballs at what she does. I am beyond pleased with the results of my skin so far, but the overall experience left a lasting positive impact on my entire weekend.
Not only is she highly likable but her warm genuine approach clearly reflects an authentic empathy she shares with her clients. She quite easily gained my trust by building an honest rapport and I realized, mid-facial - that when done properly - giving and receiving a facial can be a pretty intimate shared experience. It's like a mini-journey with a lot of twists and turns that demands ultimate vulnerability to a wide spectrum of both emotions and physical sensations. After all, we are essentially there to face our demons. I was able to really let go with her and relax enough to allow what needed to happen, just happen. It was therapeutic in more ways than just skin. The ability to soothe people in such a well-rounded way is truly a special talent. Tori is the total package.
Tori utilizes an expertly skilled approach to guide your way through the emotional roller coaster that only a bad ass cathartic facial can take you on - and the completed experience will send you walking down Valencia with a big fucking smile on your face, sassy as hell, ready to paint the whole town red. :) -
Review from J. P.
San Francisco, CA
10/11/2011 2 Check-ins Here
This review has been a looooong time coming. I've lost track of how many times I've had the most amazing facials with Cynthia over the past few years. They are simply the best of times. I can tell you how many times I've had to cancel because of things like a wretched cold because those were the worst of times!
Because of her, I actually take better care of my skin. She's always great at explaining my skin, both the good and the bad. Luckily I don't think there's been an ugly yet. I love using the cleansers she recommends (basic one and an exfoliating one) and the sunscreen that smells wonderful.
And after an appointment with her, I just feel so relaxed. Ellie V. is right about those "magic hands". Any review that says otherwise just rings false. -
Review from Victoria D.
San Francisco, CA
1/25/2012
As someone who has NEVER written a Yelp post, I felt compelled to do so after my facial with Tori. I found her through Yelp and had a great experience. The room was gloriously peaceful, the products sublime, and Tori was nothing but professional. I will be going back soon.
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Review from michelle k.
San Francisco, CA
8/6/2011
I've been to Illuminata for 3 facials with Tori now and gosh... I don't know how it could get any better than this!
I have been suffering from mild-medium acne for 3 years now and have tried everything from chemical peels to prescription topical medication. None of those have compared to how my face feels and looks after a facial with Tori. I'm hooked!
Also, Tori recommended the illuminata exfoliator and I decided to give it a try. I was ACTUALLY impressed with the way it made my skin feel afterwards. I couldn't believe how dewy and smooth my skin could look and feel.
Thanks to Tori I'm well on my way to not having to wear any face make up. -
Review from aimee r.
San Francisco, CA
8/24/2011
Ahhhhh...that is how I feel about the facial I received from Lana last night. I am a big believer in facials and try to get them somewhat regularly...and it was probably the most relaxing facial I have ever received.
After a whirlwind of a day I showed up, rang the bell, was immediately greeted by Lana and her calm, lovely presence.
After a few minutes of skin discussion she got started...Her approach was gentle but deliberate, thorough and attentive. The extractions process was quite bearable and felt therapeutic and almost even relaxing...
The massage portion was fantastic...
I enjoyed every moment of this experience. My skin is glowing. Thank you Lana! -
Review from Julia H.
San Francisco, CA
2/10/2011
Part of me wants to keep Cynthia as a secret....but I do want to say she gives one amazing facial.
There'a a lot of attention to detail...some details I want gone. :) I never feel like the treatments are too much...they're just right. The extractions are great too....she's got skills. I leave there with glowing skin. And she gives amazing arm, neck, and shoulder massages!
She also will customize skin care products for your skin.Listed in: When beauty sleep is not…
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Review from Yael I.
San Francisco, CA
2/13/2011
I know, I know.. another 5 star review. But I HAVE TO...
Cynthia knows her facials. She reads my mind, knows exactly what feels good and delivers every time. Plus, she is so kind, sweet, funny, honest and professional. And attends to every detail. And after I leave, my face feels and looks different. Better. Healthier.
I will never go to another facial place as long as Cynthia is in SF. But the waiting list is looooong cause she is so damn good. -
Review from Jenny L.
Berkeley, CA
4/7/2011 6 Check-ins Here
I don't see how Illuminata can get less than FIVE STARS!!
Cynthia is a total sweetheart. We need more people like her in this world.
I was a facial newbie and decided to give em' a try. Plus, my friends always had flawless, acne-free skin, and I felt like the ugly duckling next to them. I pretty much gave up on all the skincare products I bought ranging from drugstore to high end brands like Shiseido, Clinique, and Lancome. Nothing worked on my face (and I dread wearing foundation everyday...) I knew I had to seek professional help.
Illuminata was the first thing that popped up when I searched for "facials" in my neighborhood---and the kajillion 5-star reviews convinced me to make my first appointment conveniently online.
Cynthia started off with a skin consultation and ended with a skin care recommendation. She really took the time to explain everything clearly. I had no idea that I had dehydrated and oily skin at the same time! Cynthia was certainly skilled. She was super gentle and I enjoyed the cleanser, enzyme, mask, and moisturizer she put on my face. They all smelled so luscious! I asked Cynthia to explain each step, but I unintentionally dozed off due to the warm, scented lavender cloths. Moreover, the music was so peaceful and tranquil.
During the consultation, she told me to use a cleanser that was sulfate-free...but I didn't own any. But, because Cynthia was extremely kind, she gave me samples of the tea tree oil cleanser and SPF-free night moisturizer. It's her own organic line, which just shows how talented she is.
Already, my skin has been improving a week after the facial and I am determined to purchase Illuminata's cleanser and moisturizer because of the great results.
See you soon, Cynthia! -
Review from Jessica D.
San Francisco, CA
11/20/2010
Just had my first facial done at Illuminata with Tori. I have to say I loved it. Loved it so much I am actually writing a review about it. I have been to a couple of facial places, but none that can amount to what I have experienced at Illuminata.
First of all, the ambience was great! Nice lighting and soothing music to help you relax. Tori was very gentle and informative. She told me what type of tool she will be using to extract my blackheads. She even demonstrated how it will feel like when she is doing the extracting. (Note: if you do not like pain then you might not want to get a facial because the extraction part is the most painful part of the whole process).
As for the other stuff, I loved the mixture of hot and cold applications to my face. After the extractions, Tori would put a warm towel on my face and then clean it up with a cold towel. Then she would apply some warm lotion and then cold lotion. It was shocking at times but definitely felt nice, especially because there is a little massage involved as well.
One thing I definitely loved the most was the hot stones and the massaging of my shoulders as well as my arms. The last facial places I have been to never did that.
Highly recommend this place and Tori!!! -
Review from Ellie V.
Daly City, CA
9/13/2011
Now I know why there is a month and a half wait for Cynthia! She was great, very personable, extremely patient and listened to all my concerns prior to my facial. And those magic hands! :) She had a very gentle touch even during the extractions. She also gave me a free sample of their moisturizer which I've been using for a week now. It does make my skin smooth but not too fond of the smell so am not sure if I will be buying that. I will wait and see how my skin looks at my next appointment a month from now. As other reviewers have noted, she doesn't push her products on you. All in all, a very pleasant experience and would be recommending her to friends.
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Review from cat k.
San Francisco, CA
12/6/2010
I just visited Tori over the weekend for my first facial and it was spectacular. It's true I have no other facial experiences to compare this with, but I would imagine a great session to be just like the one I had.
I decided to try this place out due to other Yelper reviews and the current special with Tori for a 60 minute session for $75. Thank you Yelpers for another great find!
Tori was very calm and zen when I met her. The room I entered had peaceful music playing in the background and the room and sheets were clean. For 60 minutes, Tori massaged my face and neck, cleansed, creamed, extrapolated (not painful at all), and used hot and cold stones and towels on my face. It was all very soothing and hydrating. I told Tori that the recent cold weather was taking a toll on my face and that my skin was very sensitive. She was very gentle through the whole process.
I would highly recommend this place! It was just so soothing and my skin still feels wonderful days later. I will be coming back here again soon! Thanks again Tori! -
Review from Evan F.
San Francisco, CA
1/6/2011
Refreshing.
Relaxing.
Professional.
About two years ago I had some serious skin issues; it was an epidemic.
Cynthia helped me immensely; not only with the in house treatment - but also with several masks and lotions for home use.
I'm better now.
=) -
Review from christina s.
San Francisco, CA
5/15/2010
i agree with the good reviews written here about cynthia. The whole experience is more than just a facial. i was complete relaxed by the time i got done (even with the extractions), and my face was glowing, and soft. You can see that cynthia put meticulous thought into everything that goes on, and I can't think of anything she could have done to improve my experience.
Cynthia also sneaks in lavender aromatherapy with cool breeze, which feels euphoric with the tiny warm stones she uses to massage the face.
also, try the face wash she recommends. its a gel that's applied dry and it's the only wash i've tried that does an amazing job of cleaning without the dry-out effect. -
Review from Jennifer C.
San Francisco, CA
6/30/2010
Let me just say this to start, I'm still feeling relaxed and my face is still glowing...
Cynthia is amazing. It is pretty much as simple as that. I've gone to 3 different facialists (is that a word?) in the city and this was BY FAR my best experience. Cynthia takes time to get to know you, your concerns about your skins, and what you're hoping to accomplish through treatment. Great start.
The facial itself is supremely relaxing AND effective. She even throws in an arm and back massage while she's waiting for the serums/masks, etc...to do their job. She offered to either tell me what was going on, or just let me relax through the whole process, which was a nice touch. She mixes state of the art equipment with eastern touches, like hot and cold stones. She's also really good at extractions, the best and most thorough I've ever had.
After the facial she does a debrief with you about your skin, including her suggestions for improvement. She doesn't push her product at all, but if you're interested, she has great stuff to share!
Can't wait to go back in 2 months :) -
Review from Jessica C.
San Francisco, CA
4/3/2011
If you have a face, do it a favor and take it to Cynthia. She's as good as it gets!
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Review from Jessica t.
San Francisco, CA
12/4/2008
The holiday seasons are quickly approaching and if you are trying to think of a good gift for someone you care about - I highly recommend a gift certificate to Illuminata.
Cynthia is a magician with the skin. She is one of the most skilled and thorough esthetiticians out there.
I'd been to Cynthia when she used to be at In-Symmetry and was impressed by her. Now that she has own business - I am even more blown away by her skills. She uses the same hot stones, the same products, but in my opinion she's even improved her technique and expanded her skin-know how.
I came into Illuminata last week, when my skin was going crazy with changing seasons and work stress. I was aggravating it further by loading on different products trying to fix it. And so desperate to get my skin back in shape before the upcoming Yelp Holiday party - I called Cynthia.
Cynthia easily fit me into her schedule. Once I arrived, I explained all of my issues - feeling my body tighten as I described them in detail. Cynthia was patient and listened carefully, She told me that she'd sort it out. She smiled and I could feel my body already relaxing, as I crawled into the warmed blankets of her magical "spa" bed and closed my eyes.
Cynthia massaged and plumped my stressed out skin into pure bliss. Her extractions were thorough, and all the products that she used on my skin were gently and non-irritating. Probably the highlight of the session, was her massage. Cynthia is intuitive and knows how to get out neck and upper shoulder kinks with unreal precision.
By the end of the session I was in heaven.
These past few months I've been a regular at Gentle Star (still a great spot - but not all that relaxing). After this weekend's session with Cynthia - I am solely devoted to her skin secrets. My skin feels normal again. I know that I'm treating it right with the natural/non-fragranced products that I'm using, and unlike Gentle Star's firm clinical spa touch, Illuminata manages to be truly spa-relaxing, soothing, and successful - while still being affordable.
It's a win-win situation with Illuminata. I would recommend Cynthia to everyone. One of the best values in the city. -
Review from Leah E.
San Francisco, CA
9/25/2009
I wait to do my shopping and pampering until I'm in Asia:
- I would get nightly massages from a masseuse who does housecalls.
- Mani-pedi in the comfort of my own home in Manila while sipping ice cold pineapple juice.
- Herbal massage at Wat Po Temple in Thailand while the sun was setting down. Totally unforgettable experience!!
- Getting a haircut from a popular stylist who just cut the hair of the movie celebrity sitting right next to me.
-- Shoppings and more shoppings in Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong and Manila!
And I am nowhere near wealthy! These are all totally affordable even for a 9-6 American worker like me. The fees are so dirt-cheap they're obscene!
Don't get me wrong--Asian countries, even a poor 3rd world country like the Philippines--boast of thousand dollar spas with the million-dollar tropical views that can compete with the luxuries of US and Europe.
But why pay American prices when in Asia, right? And I can't expect to pay Asian prices here in the US, either. That's why I wait until I go back to my annual trip to Asia (except I haven't gone in 2 years) to be treated like princess.
But I couldn't wait anymore, my skin needed TLC and pampering but do not know where to go. Thanks to fellow Yelpers who wrote reviews about ILLUMINATA. I followed their lead and got an appointment with Cynthia for an Extended Facial. It was the best facial I ever had in my life! And the massage just turned me into a HUMAN JELLO.
Illuminata's is located at a flat on Valencia. It Is classic with hardwood floors and simple/clean-line furnishing Pottery-Barn style. Clean but not sterile, serene and very conducive to relaxing and falling asleep. The background nature sounds were very soothing all throughout the whole hour and half session.
Cynthia herself made me feel very at ease. She is friendly but professional. She knew about her stuff without sounding like lecturing during the whole process. She recommended some products but never pushed them on me. She just gave me a sample to take home.
The facial procecure started in a private and cozy room. She asked me to take my clothes off after she left the room and get under the the soft covers that felt like a down comforter.
She covered my eyes but did not dry out my contacts and proceeded to give me massages on my face, neck and shoulders. She used hot and cold lotions. The sensations made me want to go into a deeeep sleeep but felt too nice that I wanted to stay alert. That was the relaxing part.
The extraction part (taking the oil out of the skin with an instrument) hurted a little but it was not so bad. Cynthia has a nice touch.
More massages and finished the session with a light head massage. I just melted and light as feather after everything. My skin felt softer. She never rushed me to get up.
Cynthia is so great that the fee for getting such relaxing treatment was worth every dollar. It was pricey but I will be back for more! There's no price for your health and well-being. http://illuminatasf.co...
I recommend you book your appointment soon. Cynthia is so popular that you have to wait your turn for a month and a half. Believe me she is worth the wait!
4.5 Stars. I'll save the .5 for my next visit!Listed in: Good for the Heart and Soul, Because I'm Spoiled
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Review from D e v a n.
Oakland, CA
6/16/2008 ROTD 7/7/2008
A facial with Cynthia is just what my stressed-out, broken-out, jacked-up skin needed. After she was done applying her fabulous potions and laboring over my pores, my face looked at least 50 percent less scary than when I walked in. Miraculous!
The results alone would have made me happy, but Cynthia also went all out with adding tons of blissful massage to the treatment. At one point she put hot stones under my shoulders, and later she massaged cold stones across my face, which felt amazing.
Her studio is pretty and relaxing, and Cynthia has a wonderfully mellow and kind presence. I can tell that she loves her work, and truly cares about making her clients happy. In addition, I feel good supporting a new small business, rather than giving money to some corporate med-spa.
As I left Cynthia's and headed down Valencia with my dewy face, a sweet old man told me that I had nice tits. This proves that the benefits of Cynthia's facials extend far beyond your visage, and will cause beauty to emanate from every part of your being. After my next treatment, I'm hoping to get some attention for the beauty radiating from my ass.Listed in: The Beauty Myth
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Review from Jenny G.
San Francisco, CA
2/23/2009
I've found her!! The perfect esthetician!! I went yesterday for a signature facial and I can't express how happy I am with the experience and the results. Cynthia is amazing...
I've been to a variety of places and just haven't found a skin care regimen or esthetician that really made me feel comfortable. Most of the time I feel like I'm getting ripped off because they recommend buying the full product line to continue to see results. I did this once and my face ended up smelling like one of those nasty multi vitamins and it took me almost 30 mins in the morning and night to go through it all. I'm a low-maintanence person so would like just to clean and hydrate.
I turned up for my appointment and right off the bat I felt comfortable with Cynthia. We chatted about what I wanted to accomplish. I told her I just finished my products from another place but I wasn't happy with the results so I thought I'd try her out. The facial itself was incredibly relaxing and soothing, she did a wonderful job of checking my skin. The extractions were thorough and the massage was downright heavenly.
At the end of the session she gave me a sample of blended moisturizer based on what she thought my skin needed. I asked to purchase a cleanser because I was out and told her that I'd be back if the moisturizer worked well with my skin. Never at any time during my session did she ask if I wanted product. She explained what each mask and product was going to do and today my face feels and looks like it's glowing. I highly recommend you check Illuminata out. I'm going to be going back on a regular basis. -
Review from Kelly P.
San Francisco, CA
7/25/2009
This was a delightful experience from start to finish. I wasn't expecting to enjoy myself so much, mostly because facials are usually so painful and I find myself put off by the faux-medical terminology and hush-hush atmosphere. I usually feel so relieved when they're over, and I never say much during the experience itself. It's embarrassing having someone look at your skin with a gigantic mirror!
Well, I found myself transformed into a regular chatterbox with Cynthia. I think it's because I felt so at ease, and because it didn't hurt that much, and because I could tell this was what she was born to do. I absolutely LOVE being around people who are doing what they were born to do, who love their work SO much that it just comes out in every detail. She has a very genuine and approachable way about her that made me feel comfortable and safe.
I started this review a month ago and then forgot to finish it, but my skin is still looking good (thanks to lots of sunscreen, her special scrub, and her moisturizer--which I bought because I needed some, and not because she told me to, which she didn't)...
Can't wait until my next visit! -
Review from arlene r.
San Francisco, CA
5/8/2009
She is definitely as good as it gets. Affordable, nice, personable, amazing service, amazing products.
I don't even know how to begin yelping her cause she's just so good from the moment you make an appt online (so easy), the moment you step all the way to the moment you leave.
She has a different touch, it makes you feel soo relaxed and my skin have definitely looked and IS better since I found Illuminata.
If I can come see her every week, I would :)
Let's just say I 4 of my girlfriends are converted now too.
Aaah just typing this review reminds me that I need to make an appt. lol. -
Review from Christine N.
San Francisco, CA
2/16/2009
I love Cynthia, even though I just met her and only spent an hour with her, I just do. She's amazing and instantly made me feel comfortable. Her space is beautiful and intimate, and smells so-so good.
We sat down and discussed my skin issues, which she herself could relate to, so I knew immediately that I was in the right hands. Her scrubs/masks are gentle and her massages with hot stones are heavenly. I felt all the tension in my shoulders and neck pushed out and my muscles just melted into her hands. When I opened my eyes an hour later, I had almost forgotten what the room had looked like.
For just seventy-five dollars, you get a knowledgeable esthetician that only uses products from Mother Earth, a hot stone massage, an aromatherapy wonderland and the best part, smooth gorgeous skin. -
Review from Amy H.
San Francisco, CA
9/15/2008
This is a great find in the Mission/Noe/Bernal/Glen Park area. We have been in need of expert, friendly, reasonably priced facial services for a long time and with Illuminata SF, they have arrived!
I actually really enjoy getting my eyebrows done with Cynthia. She's not only darn good at what she does (my brows are a testament to that), but she's a pleasure to chat with and her space is relaxing and well-maintained. I'm looking forward to a facial with her because based on the way she speaks about her work and her products, I know it will be darn good! -
Review from Pop L.
San Francisco, CA
5/18/2011
Tori really knows what she's doing, and is gentle and friendly to boot. She's very conscientious and detailed, and takes care to make sure you're comfortable with what she's doing. She'll also give you samples and recommendations for keeping the glow after your facial.
Also, it's super easy to schedule an appointment using the booking system on their site. You can see the upcoming schedule and choose your time online. -
Review from Keika L.
San Francisco, CA
5/24/2010
This review is for my first appt with Jodi.
Jodi was sweet and seemed knowledgeable and after the facial I thought it was great, but it has since made a turn for a "meh" experience.
I have battled some really bad acne growing up and have had many facials and other skincare treatments (for both medical and spa purposes) and this was just OK.
The night of my facial, I actually ended up having to do some self extractions on my face. I'm not sure if Jodi didn't get to them all because there was enough time or what, but I felt I shouldn't have had to do another facial at home the day I got one.
I wanted to follow Jodi's advice about my cheeks being red by exfoliating less and using my strong acne medication only on my T-zone. After 2 weeks I've begun to breakout on my cheeks which hasn't happened for years.
Overall I had a good experience during the facial and a bad experience afterward. I'm scheduled to get another facial at another place this week and will be getting the meticulous extractions my skin needs. If I were to go back to Illuminata, I would try to get an appt with Cynthia judging by the reviews posted about her so far. -
Review from Karoline C.
San Francisco, CA
2/3/2009 1 Check-in Here
Cynthia is absolutely AMAZING! Friendly, caring and truly passionate about her work. I found Illuminata on Yelp and felt immediately at ease the moment I walked through the door.
I have only been in for an eyebrow and lip treatment so far, but I can't wait to go back for one of her facial & massage treatments. Gorgeous, soothing treatment room. Pleasant background music and lighting, heated massage table and excellent conversation. Not only did I leave with my eyebrows in spectacular condition and my lip fuzz decimated, I was relaxed and refreshed. I am hooked on this spectacular lady and her skills! -
Review from Tom L.
San Francisco, CA
4/6/2009
Cynthia is amazing. Her skill with skincare is exceptional.
I drifted away to never-neverland.
What makes it better...Cynthia is a delightful person and such a pleasure. -
Review from Maile N.
2/5/2009
This place is definitely a gem in the City! I heard about Illuminata through Daily Candy sometime last year, and finally got around to making an appointment earlier this week. Along with the good reviews here on Yelp, I was pretty confident that I would have a good experience -- and it was!!
Cynthia is pleasant, easy to talk to, and opens the floor up for questions after discussing your skin history and what your concerns are. As an intro, I got the signature facial.
The massage was soothing, and I love the sensations of the different cleansers, masks and washes with wonderful scents of lavender, orange, etc. Some of the products were cool to soothe the skin and others were warmed to comfort. Lovely!!
I highly recommend this place, and I will be back when my skin needs more TLC! Thanks, Cynthia! -
Review from isabel c.
San Francisco, CA
4/5/2010 1 Check-in Here
i recently returned from a 3 month backpacking trip, and i was in desperate need of a facial. I was very lucky to be the replacement on a last minute cancellation at Illuminata. yes, it's true....book 2 months in advance! and for a good reason. Cynthia is amazing and very knowledgeable when it comes to skin. her own skin is the best selling point.
she has thought of everything to make sure you have the most relaxing facial, accompanied by hand massage and products free from chemicals and harshness. i am always looking for natural ways to take care of my skin, so i feel fortunate to have found her. i was glowing when i left that office! super easy to book your appointment online, but make sure you plan ahead. you might not all get as lucky as i did! -
Review from Pet O.
San Francisco, CA
11/11/2008
Illuminata is fantastic and Cynthia is incredible! I have never been consistent or a big facial goer but Cynthia has changed me. Ever since I moved to the city my skin has been extra congested and oily. I went to Cynthia for the first time in October and after my first visit I was already seeing a huge difference. She is very knowledgeable about skin care and has given me a lot of great advice and the mask she suggested I use at home has been doing its magic!
Her place is small and adorable plus extremely close to my house. The price ($75) for a signature facial is completely worth the amazing products she uses plus the massaging involved. The hot/cold stones are a beautiful surprise. I have also had my eyebrows done there ($25 for lip/brows) and what a deal! And she did a great job! She is so meticulous and gentle.
Cynthia is so sweet and I really enjoy talking with her. It's not like other spa/hair/whatever salons where you feel awkward to keep up conversation. She is sincere and warm but will also give you the space to relax and nap in case you fall asleep! I am always looking forward to my next appointment with her! -
Review from Allie B.
Edgewood, RI
3/24/2009
I had a facial with Cynthia when I was back in SF this winter and what a treat! I found her thanks to all you Yelpers- "THANK YOU".
It is all true-- she is the best. I've had many, many facials before all over the US and she, by far, is the most gifted--- and she makes it look so easy. I'm ordering product from her from the East Coast since it's the closest thing I have to re-living that dreamy experience. I envy you local clients! -
Review from Jennifer B.
Chico, CA
8/14/2010
There's magic in the bottles.... Not lying... Cynthia's products are magical! I was skeptical at first and purchased her 1 oz sizes to try before I buy.... Perfection! This gal knows her stuff... All natural... paraben free and effective.... seriously the perfect combination... Unfortunately due to my schedule and the fact I no longer live in the city it's near impossible for me to get for a facial... Hell I can't even get to the city to pick up my products so Cynthia is sweet enough to send them! Personal faves.... Pore Clearing Cleanser and Oil Neutralizing Astringent.... This time I ordered the Radiance Serum which I am absolutely loving already!
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Review from C F.
Los Angeles, CA
11/7/2008
Cynthia is the best! It has taken me a year to find a great facialist up here in SF -- who knew I should have just been looking in my own neighborhood...
Unlike other facialists that hawk over-priced products, Cynthia gives great skin care advice, but no pressure to buy anything. The products she does have are top-notch. She provides an incredible, in-depth facial that not only relaxes, but also leaves your skin better off than before. All this and insanely moderately priced for the quality of service you get - great value! -
Review from Sadie P.
San Francisco, CA
1/6/2011
As someone who has NEVER written a Yelp post, I felt compelled to do so after my facial with Tori. I found her through Yelp and had a great experience. The room was gloriously peaceful, the products sublime, and Tori was nothing but professional. I will be going back soon.
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Review from Andrea W.
San Francisco, CA
2/20/2011
I was very pleased with my facial with Tori. I have never had a facial before, but have had plenty of skin issues recently. After seeing a dermatologist who has stressed me out like crazy, Tori put me at ease. She took the time to listen to what I was going through and offered some advice that made perfect sense. My skin issues are clearly a result of something inside my body manifesting itself on my skin and her practical advice about diet made me feel that she was really looking to help me for the long term. It was really relaxing and just what I needed. I would highly recommend this place!
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Review from Lisette E.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 6/29/2009
Went back last week and the experience was the same as the first! Love love loved it!
Can't wait to book again!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/7/2009
Cynthia is awesome!! I don't think I have ever felt so at ease when someone who is about to analyze… Read more »
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Review from smegalandtootsie s.
San Francisco, CA
2/10/2011
Tori is a true gem. I've had many facials but this is the first one where I almost fell asleep. Her touch is soothing and relaxing yet her skill is completely refined. She took care of a few problem areas I was concerned with and gave wonderful advice as to how to prevent future issues.
I will definitely be back to see her. Thank you Tori! -
Review from Eleanore T.
San Francisco, CA
8/19/2008
i haven't had a million facials to compare illuminata to, but for what i did know i wanted, cynthia gave me with a very gracious talent for relaxation, technique and customer service. her products are all botanical-based, her technique is gentle, thorough and effective, and the value of a facial with that much massage that left me completely refreshed and stress-free can not be underestimated.
her space is small, but didn't have any effect on me feeling 100%, completely taken care of and relaxed. i've been to a couple of big, corporate spas here in the states and could only compare those to the absolutely fabulous facials i had in asia, and cynthia is on par with the latter. she is an amazing aesthetician and i can't wait to go back. -
Review from N S.
San Francisco, CA
9/17/2008
I've been seeing Cynthia for facials for a year. She's knowledgeable, professional and fun if you choose to converse while you are getting your services done. Only drawback is the parking, but there is a very reasonable parking lot on 21st @ Valencia, just a half block away.
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Review from Henry T.
San Francisco, CA
4/7/2009
I am a huge fan of Cynthia and Illuminata! Cynthia is not only extremely knowledgeable about skin care but also knows exactly what to do to restore your chi . On top of it all, the arm and shoulder massages are phenomenal- OMG, I was so relaxed I dozed off! Thank you Cynthia and please keep up the great work!
