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ModVellum
Categories: Beauty and Spas Skin Care Beauty and Spas Day Spas Skin Care, Day Spas [Edit]
1628 Union St(between Franklin St & Gough St)
San Francisco, CA 94123
Neighborhood: Marina/Cow Hollow
(415) 400-5107
- All ModVellum skincare and chemical peels are cruelty-free, vegetarian, dye and talc free, paraben free, propylene glycol free, sodium Lauryl Sulfate free and organic whenever possible
- $99 for $150 worth of facials or peels promotion lasts for 1 year from date of purchase. After that period, your Certificate is redeemable for the amount you paid. Only 1 Certificate(s) can be redeemed per person. Must be used in single visit. Gratuity not included. Certificate can only be used for services, not retail products. By appointment only, must be scheduled online at www.modvellum.com. Not to be combined with other vouchers, coupons or discounts. Subject to the Yelp Deals General Terms.
- Reg. Price $150
- Discount 34%
- Savings $51
- Hours:
Mon-Sun 8 am - 8:30 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
137 reviews for ModVellum
137 reviews in English
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Review from Charlene C.
San Francisco, CA
11/17/2011
I've had the Electric Youth Facial twice with Allison now and I am hooked! I first heard about this place from a Living Social deal and it's just up the street from my workplace. My facial with Allison was amazing!
I felt so relaxed and refreshed after my service. She gives an awesome facial/shoulder massage & took her time doing thorough extractions on me.
My skin has never felt better! I love the products they use too. Everything smells wonderful and this place is super clean & cute. I will definitely be back. Thanks Allison! -
Review from MizzSnoopy L.
San Francisco, CA
1/4/2012
I went to ModVellum last week after purchasing a Groupon for a 50/50. I was placed with Jackie, who was very sweet, patient in answering my questions, and personable. She recommended (because I have sensitive skin and it was my first facial) to try a macrodermabrasian for the results I was seeking, so I followed her advice and added on a "Real Housewives of SF" peel for an extra $30.
Five days later, I am just about done peeling and am very happy with the results! I had some dark sun spots under my eyes and on my nose, and they are virtually gone! I also feel like the fine lines in my forehead have smoothed out.
I would definitely recommend going to Jackie at ModVellum, especially if you can get one of these deals. I will be going back for sure. :)
Note: The only reason why I didn't give a five star review is because I did feel that ModVellum pushed their products a bit more than I would have liked. However, once I said no they didn't continue to push the sales thing. -
Review from Janice C.
12/31/2011 1 Check-in Here
The reviews for ModVellum seem to be across the board, the lukewarm ones complain about how cumbersome making appointments are, but personally, I haven't had a problem (yet?) using the online scheduling system.
Darya is the best! She takes her time to examine my skin and recommend the appropriate treatment depending on my skin's needs at the time of appointment. I've done the 1/2 and 1/2 facial which is a half peel and half facial; this is great if you've some congestion underneath your skin that simple extractions can't get rid of.
If you're a first time client, book the Vespa facial at $50. They clean your skin a good 2 - 3x, do extractions and put a calming mask on your face so you don't have any redness after.
Regular prices for facials are steep, ranging from $70-$150.(so are their products, but they are of good quality and paraben free, etc) If I was smart enough, I should've asked the bf for a gift certificate here as a Christmas gift!Listed in: I can't pay my rent...
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Review from Alison C.
Manhattan Beach, CA
11/29/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Not great, but not bad either. Prices are definitely reasonable, but the women who work there seem a bit green. Especially when it comes to recommending the right products for my skin. Unfortunately I walked away with a face wash and lotion that have my lips peeling and face flaking if I don't alternate with other products.
I will give the eye brow wax an A+!!!
I'd recommend this place and would return myself, but I probably won't be a regular. -
Review from Stephanie J.
San Francisco, CA
11/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
Why did I ever stop getting facials??
I literally JUST left ModVellum an hour ago after receiving the Vespa facial with Jackie and I have to say - WOW! My face feels absolutely AH-mazing! It's been at least two years since I've had a facial and now I remember why I loved them so much: deep cleansing, gentle extractions, exfoliation, hydrating masks and soothing antioxidant moisturizers have left me glowing and vibrant. Can't wait to see how my face looks in a few days...I have a feeling it's going to be smoother than a baby's bum and more fabulous than Demi Moore's face lifts.
Only downside? The ridiculous prices of their organic, vegan, cruelty free, green products. I'm all about the cause but who can afford a $76, 2 oz bottle of antioxidant serum? I can tell you, I can't. I guess a girl can dream...
Oh and a final note - making my appt online was fast, easy and trouble-free. They send you a confirmation email, you click the link to confirm and you are good to go! -
Review from Ange A.
Hayward, CA
1/5/2012
I went to Modvellum for the first time and first ever facial....I was literally in HEAVEN right here on earth!!! OMG!!! NO ONE ever told me how divine facials can be! Can't wait to go back! I scheduled another appointment & one for my mother for Valentine's day!
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Review from LEE-JOHN S.
Palm Beach, FL
Updated - 10/30/2011
On my first visit a year ago I wrote a bad review over pricing (Service was never an issue).
For me, when an owner reaches out to correct the mistake and offers a re-treatment gratis, I feel it only fair to make amends.
My session with Jazmine today was as good, if not better, than my previous session. I can, therefore, recommend Mod Vellum with the highest accolades. Thank you Rachel.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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2/9/2011
The facial (a special pricing $50) by Josh was great ( and possibly the best I have ever had).… Read more »
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Review from Di A.
San Francisco, CA
11/2/2011
I had the Electric Youth Facial from a groupon I purchased. My appointment was with Darya. I am very happy that I went!! I am so GRATEFUL to her for the advise she gave me on my skin care regimen (I was overdoing it ) and also for the Sunblock Spray she recommended..I love that product -worth the extra money.
For a few days after my facial I didn't notice a huge difference but here I am writing on Yelp about 1.5 weeks later and I can't find the lines on my forehead anymore. Not sure what did it, but they have disappeared!! -
Review from Amber S.
San Francisco, CA
10/17/2011
I just love this place. Mostly because I love the hour worth of laughter with Claire. She knows I think so, but for all you reading...Claire is amazing!
Modvellum constantly runs deals, so they can be really hard to get an appointment. But Claire holds a few appointments open for her regular clients. This little factoid has saved me from waiting weeks for an appointment.
One time, I had an appointment with Claire and when i got there she noticed an issue with my skin. She was not comfortable doing a peel for fear that it would irritate the spot she was concerened about. So, she put some sunscreen on me, recommended that I see my derm, and re-booked me for a new appointment. No charge...no cancellation issue...just pure sweetness. And she was right, I needed to be treated by my derm for the spot in question.
I recommed Modvellum and particularly Claire. Even if you don't know what treatment to book, just buy a deal and she'll make recommendations based on what's going on with your skin (and she won't try to sell you more expensive treatments).
Heads up - bring cash for your gratuity and it's a best practice to tip on the regular price of your treatment and not the deal price. Trust me, she's worth a couple extra bucks! -
Review from Maree C.
San Francisco, CA
9/30/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
Great, great peel! Okay, it was my first peel, but it was GREAT!
I'm always a little nervous hitting up local beauty salons, spas, nail studios because there always seems to be this pretentious factor that I can't deal with. I don't like it when I'm sure whoever is working is rolling her eyes behind my back. But the facialist, Jackie, was so cool! She seemed really down-to-earth, which I like a lot. I felt comfortable.
I also liked the space. It's in a Victorian, so it has the typical long corridoor with doors running along the sides. While I don't like this for my own living space, it's perfect for getting a feeling of privacy doing something like a facial and had a really nice, clean vibe.
Finally, the peel itself. It was the "Defibrillator" It took about 30 minutes, and I had to leave some sort of residue on my face overnight. The results were great. I'm one of those people who stares at every inch of their skin in the mirror, and freaks out over large pores and zits (which I, unfortunately, have), and I search for fine lines like a crazy person. Normally I use a low dosage of retin-A to ward off all these wonderful things. I took a one-month break for the peel, and it seriously was like retin-A on crack. My skin lost that weathered look I had been freaking over, it just seemed younger. Now, weeks later, I'm starting to lose the effects of the peel. Obviously, these are things you need to do often. This is why rich people look so great. They can spend hundreds every month on their skin.
Normally this peel costs $150, I got it for $50 which was well worth it. Would I do it again for $150? Maybe like twice a year. It just seems like over time it would really help my skin, but it's not something I can afford more often. If you're like me, you'll be glad you did it. But maybe try to find a deal for yelp or groupon first, to make sure it's also for you. -
Review from Billy R.
San Francisco, CA
8/27/2011
After reading all the reviews, I wasn't really looking forward to the facial. It has also been challenging to get an appointment, and yes, they don't call back. So my expectations were not exactly that high to start off. I kinda just wanted to get rid of my living social coupon before it expired.
However, when I got there it was a great experience. It's not a fancy spa like place, but it's nice and clean enough. I was welcomed by Claire who was also my aesthetician. She was very professional and the facial in total was excellent. She explained her choice of products throughout , what she was doing and how I would feel. My skin looks great. She is great.
A couple suggestions for management. Send out some "softer" toned confirmation emails and please answer the phone. These are easy things to rectify and would go a long way to providing a better customer experience.Comment from Rachel T. of ModVellum 9/11/2011
Billy we are so glad you decided to come and enjoyed your… More » -
Review from kaykay l.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 9/12/2011
@ Rachel T- Please don't disrespect me and say "If you didn't have a facial here then we hope that you find the electric facial you are looking for." I don't write bogus reviews! Your facialist told me that the brush that was used IS FROM NORDSTROMS (not professional grade)! She said it from her own mouth. Well it's unfortunate that I had to pay for something that ruined my face for weeks!!!!!!!! You know how important it is to have nice skin. I just hope that you comp your clients from now on if you can not perform what was asked or expected! I wish I could get comped for the facial I paid for and also for the CosMedix Rescue $42.00 that i had to invest in to get my face back to normal!!!
You can always send me a message, so please let me know if you'd like to comp me. That would be the most modest thing to do.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/29/2011
If I could give no stars I would. I came here because they advertised on Groupon, they said they… Read more »
Comment from Rachel T. of ModVellum 9/11/2011
Hi KayKay, we have tried to contact you to get more… More » -
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Review from Cristina P.
San Francisco, CA
8/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
I am absolutely SHOCKED that this place has such a high overall rating. It must be that they hound customers to write reviews. This place does NOT merit these high reviews. To be crystal clear, DO NOT GO HERE -- you'll be disappointed and out money, with nothing to show for it.
I bought a LivingSocial deal and made an appointment for a human extractor facial with Amy. I showed up and was kind of surprised by how non-spa-like this place is. It kind of feels like a bootleg apt-turned-spa.
Anyway, I was taken into a small, white room with Amy who seemed nice but new... at which point she started the facial. She didn't really tell me what was going on (this was my first facial) and I had to ask about what she was going to do.
After she spent a few minutes preparing whatever scrubs she just whipped up in the kitchen (no really, there's some kind of kitchenette there) she told me she probably wouldn't be able to do any extractions. WHAT? Seriously? Okay, then do a different facial..
But instead, she decided to just scrub a random concoction of stuff on my face for about 40 minutes. Really? This is a facial? (This is actually a joke.)
After it was over (btw, this was supposed to last an hour, not 40 minutes - of which 10 she left the room), I left and looked into a mirror. Honestly, my face looked worse than it did before. And it didn't improve at all. I have no idea what she did, but I'm pretty sure this was a complete scam.
I know I'm sounding harsh, but I was just severely disappointed in this entire experience. What a complete waste of money. If it isn't already clear, I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND MODVELLUM. -
Review from Lara M.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 9/15/2011
I decided to give Modvellum another shot- and this time was much better! I had a morning appointment with Alison, and she was very nice and welcoming. The service itself was great, and Alison did a good job of tailoring the treatment to my skin. A day later, I'm glowing! Alison also made a great product recommendation for a jojoba bead scrub that will work with my skin.
The only part of the experience I didn't love is that you can hear people using the bathroom during the treatment and talking in the hall. Still a great treatment though all in all!
Thank you ModVellum!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/19/2011
Bought a groupon deal and went in to get a facial- although the online booking had me looking for an… Read more »
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Review from A. M.
Sunnyvale, CA
8/23/2011
I found this place through one of the daily deal sites and it's a cute little salon. Had trouble getting an appointment because she was booked so far in advanced.
I had the half/half peel/facial and it was nice enough, but I don't think it made a huge significant improvement on my skin in the following weeks. However, it is nice to treat yourself as often as you can afford. -
Review from Monelle P.
San Francisco, CA
8/18/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've never had a facial before. Last night, Jackie popped my facial cherry. And I really enjoyed it!
I tried out Modvellum based on a Travelzoo deal. I booked an appointment for the 1/2 and 1/2: equal parts peel and facial. Get the benefits of both in one shot. We will choose a Blueberry or Pomegranate peel to leave you looking luscious for weeks. No idea what that meant, but I decided to give it a go anyways.
The interior of Modvellum is clearly renovated from a residential apartment. The design is sleek, white and modern and everything was very clean.
My facial was applied in a dim room with a heated blanket, light music playing, and steam blowing in my face. The experience was very relaxing. I was in such a state of relaxation that I found myself falling asleep but here's my best recollection of the facial process:
-oil based cleanser
-another cleanser
-skin analysis: i found this really useful. Jackie noticed some things in my skin that I hadn't noticed before: sensitivity and dry spots, and she encouraged me to increase moisturization even though my skin was oily.
-light exfoliant scrub
-extraction: this was painful, but I was grateful to Jackie for being so thorough. I wear makeup daily so there was alot of congestion in my t-zone.
-peel: fruit acids are applied to get deep down and intensify exfoliation and cell turnover. It felt tingly all over, but was not painful.
-neck & shoulder massage
-mask: a "hot & cold" effect
Today, my skin feels cleaner and tighter. I definitely see the effects of having a facial and I will try to do them more regularly.
Jackie made very useful product recommendations, but I did not purchase any as I am going on vacation. As I will be in the sun alot, I do not want to begin any new facial regimes or make my skin too sensitive. However, I took her recommendations into consideration and will definitely try to incorporate them into my skincare routine when I return.
Jackie was very friendly and made an extra effort to explain each step, answer my questions, and make me feel at ease. Whether you're a facial virgin or veteran, your face will be in good hands with Jackie! -
Review from susan w.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 9/27/2011
Rachel, the owner, offered a comp-ed facial with Claire. I returned with a much different experience.
Claire is a wonderful aesthetician and has an excellent sense for relaxing facial treatment, and just the right touch for extractions as well. I highly recommend her! Thank you Claire.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/12/2011
I bought a Plum District deal to try out this place for a facial. I looked at the reviews and signed… Read more »
Comment from Rachel T. of ModVellum 9/11/2011
Hi Susan we are sorry that your experience was not great.… More » -
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Review from Jose P.
San Francisco, CA
11/12/2011
You can't go wrong with Claire. She has taught me more skin than my dermatologist and she does an OUTSTANDING job on face. She does the best job of exfoliation I've ever had anyone else do on my face. Besides doing good work, she is a very nice person and makes you feel comfortable. Even if you have a pay a few more bucks to see her, it is well worth it over getting a "face wash" some where else.
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Review from Parker B.
San Francisco, CA
5/25/2011
I wanted to like this place. It had good reviews, I got a livingsocial deal, it was a convenient location for me, everyone there seemed nice. But, a few days out, I have to accept that it was the worst facial I've ever gotten in my life. It did NOTHING for my face. I want my money back.
I get a facial every few months, and I've had about ten in my life. I wear a lot of foundation, and it makes my pores big and clogged. After a while I start getting some acne. Facials generally do a "reset" on my face. They clear out my pores and bring my face back into proper balance. My skin looks better and the zits stay away for a while. I've had better and worse facials in my life, but they've all delivered a face reset. Until now.
I told the woman who worked with me what I was after with my livingsocial deal, and she said the 1/2 facial/peel would be a good option. It was a pleasant experience: relaxing space, friendly staff, and best of all, the woman working with me didn't push products on me. It seemed perfect, and I walked out thinking I'd come back.
Then I saw myself in a mirror. My pores were the same size as always. I had just as many blackheads as before. The woman had done extractions with some sort of tool I hadn't heard of before, and she apparently didn't notice (?) that the tool wasn't doing anything. My skin looked worse than before: the peel brought my blackheads up a layer, so now they stood out even more. One half of my nose looked particularly bad, suggesting she'd started in on one side and then ran out of time or forgot to pay any attention to the other. It was awful.
The situation only got worse in the coming days. The very next day I developed two new zits--that's never happened before! The peel didn't tighten my skin, reduce fine lines, or do anything good. All it did was keep me from running out and trying to get another facial to repair the damage.
I'm giving modvellum two stars because the staff was so nice and I appreciated that they didn't try to push products on me. But if you have other choices, I'd recommend saving your money and getting a facial elsewhere (anywhere really). I certainly wish I had.
Another thing: though this was my first time at modvellum, I've been on their e-mail list for a while, so I know they regularly send out offers for special deals if you give them good yelp reviews or vote for them in sf spa competitions. So, take the high ratings with a grain of salt. -
Review from Jennifer C.
San Francisco, CA
9/12/2011
I have been going to Claire and ModVellum for the past six months and my skin has never been better in my life. After receiving a terrible facial in Tahoe my skin began breaking out. I went to Claire and she told me what was wrong with my skin and how we would fix it. Since then I have been seeing Claire regularly and couldn't be happier. My skin is absolutely perfect and there is no way I could have done it without Claire. I also LOVE their products and don't think I will ever be able to live without them.
If you want amazing skin this is the place to go. If you want to use a coupon where you get one facial with no plans to ever go back, you are probably going to be disappointed. This isn't a spa and they make no claims to be. -
Review from Kelly R.
San Francisco, CA
12/29/2011
I have a pre-paid travelzoo voucher for a facial at Mod Vellum that I bought in August. I'm finally getting around to using it, and have been trying to schedule my facial for more than a week. Their online booking tool is down, so the site tells me to call. I've left a message and no one has bothered to call me back (it's been a week). I've called several times and each time I get the machine. I guess I'll be eating the money I spent on a facial that I can't seem to schedule. Too bad- I was really looking forward to it! :(
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Review from Lauren P.
San Francisco, CA
3/15/2011
Terrible Service!
Painful Facial!
Pushy Salesperson!
Horrible Rash the Next Day!!!!
The only reason I'm even giving this place one star is because I have to. I found this place from a livingsocial coupon I bought and I was excited to try it since it is so close to my house. First of all, this place feels like you are inside someones apartment....It doesn't have that "spa feel" by any means. No big deal, I figured they had just moved and hadn't finished decorating yet. I checked in and they kept me waiting for 15-20 minutes after my appointment time! I thought maybe they were running behind but that wasn't the case at all. The girl I had my appointment with was busy on the phone conducting an interview... What?
Anyway, she brought me in and looked at my skin and suggested that I "take advantage" of the special they had going on that day and save my livingsocial coupon for another time. Since I had never been there before, I didn't want to spend even more money on a service that I wasn't sure of yet. So I told her I would just use my coupon for the facial I booked. She then tried to convince me to get a different facial than the one I booked... which was of course, more expensive. I politely told her no.... and so the facial began.
Now let me just start off by saying, I've had my fair share of facials and I was fully aware that there will be extractions during the facial. The girl warned me that she is a little rough during the extractions but I thought it wouldn't be anything that I couldn't handle. I was wrong! It was sooooooo painful! She was digging and putting so much pressure on my face. My eyes were watering and I just eventually told her to stop. At that point I didn't even care. I don't even have bad skin! What was she digging for?
Then she used multiple creams and soaps that stung my face, and used a heavy scrub. She rubbed lotion on my neck and shoulders. This was probably the only relaxing part of this facial.
When I was done she tried to get me to buy two different products that she said were a "must have." After that whole experience I just wanted to get out there and I was tired of trying to be sold additional things the whole time! She gave me her card with a coupon to come back and get 50% off my next service.... Can we say desperation?
The worst part about this whole thing was that I woke up the next day with a terrible rash all over my neck, chest, and shoulders!!! The texture of the skin on my face was really bumpy and started to peel. I had nothing close to the glow you are supposed to have after a facial. The facial was a week ago and my skin still isn't back to normal yet.
I WILL NEVER GO BACK TO THIS PLACE AGAIN EVEN IF IT WAS FREE.
I WISH SOMEONE WOULD HAVE WARNED ME. -
Review from Danielle W.
Berkeley, CA
9/10/2011
I bought a Groupon for Mod Vellum and scheduled the 1/2 facial and 1/2 peel. Booked my appt at 8 in the morning so parking wouldn't be as horrendous. I decided to go for the first timer's Vespa for $50 (a choice I made on my own) upon arrival just because I've never had a facial before and wanted to start off without being overwhelmed.
Lovely chic decor, clean facility, and Amy was wonderful! I got to ask her a ton of questions during the appt. She didn't try to sell products on me during or after our session. Extractions did make me tear up but I didn't leave with blotchy red irritated skin. In fact, as the appt went on, I couldn't believe how clean, moisturized, and soft my skin feels. I think this is probably the first time in my life where my skin GLOWED. It's been 2 days and I still feels phenomenal. Amy's neck and shoulder massage was heavenly. Add all these factors together to great music from The Postal Service and you've got me yelping.
She warned that after a facial the skin might purge and end up breaking out a little, but so far I haven't had any breakouts (not even on my chin which is my new trouble spot these days). I have been hydrating like a waterbeast, so that might be helpful as well.
As a student, there's no way I could afford Mod Vellum's regular price of +$150 fora facial. But as long as I keep getting deals for $50 for a facial here, I'm in. If I have to stop getting waxed in order to pay for more facials from Amy...I just might just willingly become a hairybeast.
Needless to say, I can't wait to book my 1/2+1/2 with Amy.
Also, visit Cafe GoLo (1602 Lombard St) before or after your appt, and you're going to have yourself most enjoyable day. -
Review from Alisa G.
San Francisco, CA
4/7/2011
Until about a week ago I was a facial virgin, yes... I had my (f)V Card. That being said feel free to take my review with a grain of salt... However, I really enjoyed my first facial at ModVellum.
I met Jill at 9:30 on a Saturday morning and the she had already completed one facial as I walked in. Girl gets big points for dragging herself out of bed before noon on a weekend to 'extract' the goop out of girls' pores! She was very professional, very kind and I very much enjoyed the end result of my facial. Considering I did the first time "vespa facial" for $50 it wasn't a bad experience... She walked me through each step so I didn't feel as though she was just applying layers of random stuff to my face. Today-- a week later-- my skin is still glowing so she obviously did something right!
Overall I was quite happy with my experience at ModVellum. Also, there were cupcakes in the waiting room... Lord knows the next time I'm there I will be shoving one in my face before the facial begins! -
Review from Christie S.
San Francisco, CA
4/15/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Really can't rave enough about ModVellum...
I've been in twice so far (most places I only go once & then try a different place next time I need a facial) & have already booked my 3rd appointment for next month.
The first time I did the vespa facial that is on special for newbies. I booked it with Claire & was very pleased with how sweet she was & how much information she gave me. The experience was great and so were the results - so I decided to try ModVellum again.
She recommended next time I return to come back for the 1/2 & 1/2 so that's what I did (and of course booked it with her again since she's fab) and I really, really can't even explain how amazing that was. By FAR the most amazing experience I have ever had done to my face... I have been telling everyone I know how badly they need to go get it.
Next month I'm doing the Napa peel (I keep getting more and more extreme, apparently) - which was also recommended by my favorite esthetician, Claire!
Keep an eye out for Groupon/Living Social deals - they're on there a lot and if you get on their email list you can even better deals. I've already got my room mates hooked, as well.
Rachel, the CEO, is also a gem and is very attentive to clients and responds to emails personally and very quickly!
Try out ModVellum (and try to book Claire, if you can find a time she is available!) and you will definitely not be disappointed - promise :) -
Review from P P.
San Francisco, CA
3/10/2011
A greay SocialBuy coupon introduced me to this cute little place and I've been back twice so far. I have been going through a pretty traumatic bout of acne with the texture not much unlike a bag of peas to the touch. I opted for the Signature Facial the first which was very relaxing and helpful in purging the majority of evils that've taken residence in the [main?] moneymaker. My face. Okay, it doesn't make me any money but I digress.
My first peel was the acne oil change and it was equally a pleasantly relaxing session. Short and sweet it was kept and albeit I ran the risk appearing similar shades to those of an oompa/DinaLohan, I was in and out in about 20 minutes. I have yet to savor the joys of my subsequently impending peeling; however, I do have somewhat resilient skin so I'm not too worried.
Above all, my aestician, Nicole, was the biggest pro of Mod and a pleasure to work with and very knowledgable about what she was doing. Because sometimes people do not. And that is bad. But Nicole is very personable, non-threatening/non-snotty and has a fun sense of humor which complements her personality perfectly.
I had to retract a star to keep some perspective and objectivity; cash must be tendered in order to tip and cash is unanimously gross and cumbersome to have on hand so maybe they can utilize the magic of http://square.com and no I don't work for square. Trying to find parking is like trying to find parking in San Francisco so plan ahead for transport.
Anyway, it's definitely worth a go especially with the added incentive of coupons! And a big thanks to Nicole again for her talent with treating skin and the people that have to live in it. Yay! -
Review from G W.
San Francisco, CA
3/2/2011
Bless me father, for it has been one hundred years since my last facial...
With that said, I'll have to say I made up for the sin by treating my skin to the best absolution it's ever had!
I have to admit, I didn't expect much, a) because I hadn't had a facial in 100 years, and b) the amount of aggravation in actually booking an appt. and find out more about the services was enough to make me break out.
When I finally did get someone on the phone, as the website was a bit squirrelly, the person was gracious and apologetic and assuaged my fear that I was entering the "Hotel California" of facial-dom.
Upon arriving, I met Jill, who was also my aesthetician. I got the Vespa signature facial for the first timer price of $50. She told me about how they use largely organic, natural ingredients rather than harsh chemicals, and as my skin is sensitive I can attest, they definitely felt like they were working, but in a good way. The shoulder and neck massage was a great plus and my skin felt like butta' the next day!
I will definitely go back, before my 200th b-day. I would suggest to the owner, however, that phone calls be returned on a daily, not 48-hour basis, and that the website get cleaned up so it's not so cluttered and hard to read-- not to mention the black-- the salon is mostly white, and I think that black-dominant websites should be left to well, dominatrix service sites. ; 0 ) -
Review from Joan P.
San Francisco, CA
9/25/2011
have been getting peels for longer than I'm prepared to say publicly- one reason ( besides good genes) that I don't have all the spots and wrinkles of my friends. So when I say that the services here were more satisfactory than I've had at some high priced doctors' offices, you should listen up. Thank you Alison, I will be back.
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Review from Janna M.
1/13/2011
I learned about Modvellum via Groupon, and of course I went for the deal. It's hard to resist a $50 facial at a 4.5 star business, right?
Here's the good:
Booking is done online and is super-easy. I'm a night person, so midnight is the time I'm most likely to be figuring out my schedule, etc. Being able to log on and make an appointment then is fantastic.
Second, Jill did a great job on my "Human Extraction" facial. A confluence of factors had left my skin in not-so-great condition, and she was meticulous in treating it. She was also personable and knowledgeable about all things skin-related. I left feeling like I had achieved exactly what I was looking for.
Here's what made me uncomfortable:
The email I received after booking online included this: "We love good tips. Please base yours off the full price of the service (not the discounted amount)." I realize some people are bad tippers, and that sucks (karma, people, seriously!). However, there's no way around the fact that asking for "gratuity" is bad form.
Additionally, the email I received thanking me for my visit included this line: "We love good Yelp reviews, and each month we select our favorite review to win $250 towards services." Bribing clients? Again, bad form, and it makes me wonder how accurate the 4.5 star average is. $250 is a strong incentive to write an extra-positive review.
I genuinely recommend Modvellum for the services, but there are other places in town to get a killer facial. In this market, explicit instructions on topics like tipping and writing reviews are enough to nudge me elsewhere. If these factors don't bother you, however, I wouldn't hesitate to book an appointment. Please tip properly, though. If you don't, I will not feel sorry for you when you develop Botox-resistant wrinkles later in life.Listed in: Guilt Complex, Pretty Girl
Comment from Rachel T. of ModVellum 1/17/2011
Dear Janna, Thanks for trying us out, and I'm glad you… More » -
Review from Mina M.
San Francisco, CA
10/6/2011 Purchased a Yelp Deal
I had the Vespa facial with Allison earlier this week. The treatment was SO relaxing, and the products were really nice on my skin (and smelled great!). My face felt so nice afterwards. Best thing about this place is that they don't try to push products on you at all, making for a very pleasant experience. I'll definitely be going back.
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Review from Sue W.
Tiburon, CA
3/18/2011
I recently found ModVellum through LivingSocial daily deals and love this place! My first facial was with Rachel and it was amazing. My second facial was with someone new, since Rachel doesn't take new customers anymore. It was good but not as great.
I love this place since its super efficient in making an apt online and they have great deals that make me want to return. Their product choices have changed my daily cleansing routine for the better. Yes the product are more expensive than my former Walgreen's stuff, but I think its reasonable and worth it.
Its not a fancy spot, but its local for me and its cozy, warm atomosphere. The people there are nice and not pushy with product or services.
I will continue to get more facials there soon! Keep up the Livingsocial deals please. :) -
Review from Jim S.
Oakland, CA
8/17/2011
ive had facials and peels at other places around the city in the last few years and Modvellem is my favorite so far!!!!
once or twice a year i get gnarly breakouts on my face so a friend recommended i check out the "oil change" at Modvellum. my aethetician was Amy and i really enjoyed her! she was very nice and i felt welcomed. but what i was most excited about is that she helped me understand what was going on underneath my skin to cause the breakouts, and then what the product she was putting on my face was doing for me. no one has ever done that and i appreciated this soooo much!!! the last few treatments ive had done at other places, ive felt that they were just wanting to get me in there, get paid, and then move onto the next appointment.
I would definitely book with Amy again!!! the work she did on me really calmed my skin down, and im really happy with it! I'll be back! -
Review from Keika L.
San Francisco, CA
4/15/2011
Best extractions EVAR!
It's so hard to find an esthetician who isn't afraid of extracting every pore on your face. No pain no gain, ladies!
Sherri did the dirty deed and she was so friendly and informative at the same time. She also took the time to go over what to do and what not to do after the appt and my skin hadn't felt so smooth since I was a baby.
This place ain't about the ambiance and more about treating your skin which I don't mind at all. If you want to improve your skin and learn how to take better care of it, this is your place! -
Review from Susan S.
San Francisco, CA
2/4/2011
I've had a bad couple of months. I've been bedridden with a herniated disc, swamped with work, and then dumped. So, when I say that my Vespa facial with Claire was the best thing that happened to me all winter, I'm not exaggerating.
My mom and I bought the Groupon deal (yes, I was also reduced to living with my mom) and made appointments in January. When I arrived, Claire offered me the first-time customer deal, which was $50 for the Vespa facial, and told me I could use the Groupon for another facial later. She was incredibly nice, the extractions were (nearly) painless, and the neck and shoulder massage was heavenly. It was actually sort of creepy when I touched my face afterward. My skin was SO soft and smooth that it didn't feel like it belonged to me. I also looked really great the next day.
My mom had the 1/2 and 1/2 facial/peel with JoAnna. She was also thrilled with the experience and left with a healthy glow.
I look forward to going back to use my Groupon for another facial. I also look forward to my life being less like the plot of a country song. At least my face will look good. -
Review from maja B.
San Francisco, CA
10/8/2011
ModVellum is a great place....
Claire is a wonderful aesthetician and has an excellent sense for relaxing facial treatment, and just the right touch for extractions as well. I highly recommend her! Thank you Claire -
Review from Tiffany L.
San Francisco, CA
10/25/2010
I had my 1/2 and 1/2 facial with Rachel this past Saturday. It was extremely difficult to book an appointment to the date you want so I had to settle for early on a Saturday morning 3 weeks into the future. I also had a bunch of questions to ask but nobody answered their phones. I think when you put your face in someone's hands they should have someone there to answer questions before the actual appointment.
The appointment itself was very nice. My skin was AMAZING afterwards! The extractions were quick and weren't as painful as I thought they would be after reading thereviews. All the products she used seemed powerful yet soothing enough to calm my skin. I definitely would recommend this to anyone looking for just a quick pick me up on their skin. My skin felt like it was glowing after. But yeah it doesn't last for a week, maybe 10 hours til the next day. I feel the same now and its been 2 days. Rachel is super sweet and makes you feel very comfortable so I would ask for her because she is very knowledgeable. At the regular prices though, it can be tough to go every 6-8 weeks as she suggested. I only went to take advantage of the plum district deal which was great!
The place on Union Street is not a spa, it's more like a glorified medical office with yummy smelling products and all white walls & furniture. It is very soothing.
I took off two stars for reading this on the confirmation e-mail they sent me, they actually sent this to me twice:
*We love good tips. Please base yours off the original price of the service (not the discounted price).
Gratuity is accepted in Cash only. The is an ATM on the corner of Franklin and Union at the liquor store.
I thought that was really tacky of them. This is a place of luxury and those who use these services are usually up to par on the standard rules of tipping. I know I'm suppose to tip and telling me to do so before the actual appointment especially on the "full" price was extremely offensive. I probably will not be back based on the pre-emptive tip demand. Presumptuous much? -
Review from Stephanie N.
San Francisco, CA
11/24/2010
I went for an electric youth facial using my groupon and it was to die for. JoAnna is a doll. Very sweet and explains everything that's happening as she does it. She gave me a choice of what to do as I don't have skin problems and am not aging, really nothing works better than the other for me. But I got a great clean and rejuvenation from it nonetheless!
There are a variety of facials and peels that target different skin types and ages. It's really worth a look at the services on their site as well as an in-depth consultation at the beginning to know what is appropriate for you. It's not as simple as just getting a peel or facial, there is an option to get a double peel, for example, so for those of you who cannot deal with a peeling face for a week, you should consider another treatment. Also, they have a first time customer $50 facial deal that is ridiculously hard to beat!
I bought this groupon with three of my girlfriends and they ALL raved about it, two bought products and one booked another appt! I would have, too, but she makes way more $$$ than me. However, this facial just might sway my constant inner struggle about whether to go into sales. Oh commissions.
This was the most relaxing experience I've had in a LONG time. Not only did JoAnna talk me through it (my first time, and you know that's a tender moment), she massaged my face, gently applied all the masks and exfoliants as hot steam danced across my pores, and gave me a shoulder, back, neck and chest massage I'd have to do the unspeakable to a man for. I mean, granted I'm a paying customer, but I'd rather be buying the goods than giving them out for free know what I'm sayin'?!?
Like an amazing date when I think "when can I see this dude again?!" ...I was already thinking about a yelp review halfway through. She said I have beautiful soft skin that is near perfect. Was she buttering me up? Maybe. I don't care. It was so great I did not have enough cash on me to tip her what she deserves, so I'm sending her a check. Yeah, it's worth it.
Definitely note that it's CASH ONLY and upstairs in the back!!!
ModVellum, you rock my world. -
Review from Inna Q.
Palo Alto, CA
8/16/2011
I bought Living social deal and went for 1/2 peel-1/2 facial with Darya. It was a great experience. She was very nice and extracted everything out of my nose. My face feels renewed and refreshed. Given that I only paid $50 for $150 service It feels like a great deal. Too bad It's much pricer at their regular rates.
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Review from Elle H.
San Francisco, CA
2/16/2011
The facial I got there was one of the best I ever had.
The place is very clean looking and not pretencions.
Jill was very nice, professional and competent.
In other words: I highly recommend this Spa. -
Review from Kimberly J.
San Francisco, CA
1/21/2011
I adore Claire for creating amazing customized facials to keep my skin bright and beautiful! I am so impressed that she can keep all of my cosmetic and food allergies straight and create unique facials and peels using only ingredients that keep my body and skin happy and healthy.
I'm allergic to nuts, seeds and most fruits but I can have lemons and bananas, so she created a custom treatment of a banana enzyme peel and lemon treatments during my first Vespa facial. For my last treatment of the 1/2 and 1/2, Claire produced a pumpkin treatment since she remembered my obsession with eating winter squashes!
I've never been to a place that took so much effort to make sure my allergies and skincare needs were being addressed. I can truly relax during my treatments instead of having to question every product they use and know I will have fabulous results.
