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San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology
Rating Details »
Categories: Hair Salons, Makeup Artists, Cosmetology Schools [Edit]
Neighborhood: SOMA1067 Folsom Street
(between Moss St & Sherman St)
San Francisco, CA 94103
(415) 355-1734
Free stress relief candle!
Spend $50 on Dermalogica products and receive a FREE stress relief candle with your purchase! Perfect escape from the holiday madness.
Announced 1 week ago- Hours:
Tue-Wed. 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Thu. 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Thu. 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Sat. 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
- Price Range:
-
$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
120 reviews for San Francisco Institute of Esthetics & Cosmetology
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11/25/2008
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One of the Business' Favorite Reviews What's This?
Not much else to say that other people haven't already.
This is downtown's best-kept secret.
$20 and a 15-minute walk from the office (if you're a Union Square drone like me) will get you:
- A fabulous haircut that seemingly never stops looking fabulous, even two months later when you normally start to look like a wet dog from the back
- Lots of cool tunes and stylists that sing along with you (Elvis Costello, holla!)
- FREE COFFEE AND TEA while you wait.
- Gossip mags galore
- Answers to every single question you have
- absolutely no attitude
- A stylist that is so impressed by the 'wave pattern' in your hair she is calling over her friends to come ooh and ahh at it.
Have I mentioned TWENTY DOLLARS?
Yeah, I know, it's a beauty college. Just get over yourself and GO. You will not regret it.
Got my haircut here a few months ago from Megan (I think). The staff is friendly but not in a fake way. They're very nice and have great expertise. The hair stylists aren't professionals but are students.
I had fun talking to Megan. I think that was her name. I'm trying so hard to remember it right now. I could be totally off. Anyway that's not the point.
What I'm trying to say is that if you want a good haircut for a cheap price, come here. Make an appointment cuz it's easier that way. Go in the afternoon because the more experienced students work then.
It's a school, kids. Students cut your hair. It takes longer because they are learning. That's why you get a discount.
5 stars for a $15 haircut!!!
This might not be the place for you if you're:
1. impatient
2. risk-averse or really anal when it comes to hair
I am neither of those things & now have a pixie haircut worth $100. Great energy because the students are engaging and excited. I will go again for sure.
I went in for an appointment this afternoon because my hair was in desperate need of a cut and Iv'e been trying to save money. I heard good things about the Paul Mitchell school, so I thought i'd go check them out.
Making an appointment was painless and I was seated right away for my 6pm appointment. My stylist is very considerate and did a fantastic job with my haircut. It's a bit longer in the back than I usually have my A-line bob, but I think it looks quite nice the length she made it.
So why the three stars, you ask?
Because my appointment didn't end until 8:20.
Even though the appointment was only $20 and even though they have me a very nice lavender mint wash/scalp massage, I still think my time is worth more than that. I don't have the money to spend $50 for a cut at my normal stylist, but she knows how I take my coffee, keeps the Economist as well as People and Glamor in her shop and a cut doesn't take almost two and a half hours. I can give her vague instructions like "short" and "sharp" and she knows how to take care of me.
This was a good experience. I may go back if this cut holds its shape well. However, I think I understand why I spend $50 at my other stylist...
When I feel like a day of shopping prior or following pampering myself for cheaps and am too lazy to straighten my own hair, I love hoping on BART and walking a few blocks over to this place.
To get your hair-washed, cut, blow-dried, and straightened (with the super skinny treatment) costs $30 -- which all includes the utilization of high quality Paul Mitchell products. Which is a really sick deal! (Straightening and blow-drying alone at most professional salons can cost near $50!).
Everyone here is a student aspiring to be a Paul Mitchell artist one day, and each time I've come, I've had a great time conversing with the students -- such a fun and friendly environment.
Quality-wise, great for the price!
The only cons are:
1) Wait time -- I always get seated late...even if I come early.
2) Hair prep time -- because everyone is a student, the average time they take to complete your hair cut/styling feels like it takes 2x's longer than a professional salon...so, make sure you have ample time and aren't in a rush anywhere afterwards.
3) They are only opened on weekdays. (Because that's when the school is in session).
I always make sure to allow 3 hours when I come here.
All in all, don't be afraid to give this place a chance! The students do a pretty good job!
I had a facial here. It was ok. The student was very nice, but it wasn't clear that she knew what she was doing (after all she was only in her 3rd month of school). The teacher/adviser consulted with the student, but only briefly. I felt a little like a school project, except I was paying $50 to be part of someone's training. The facial was fine, but it definitely was not a relaxing experience for me in this type of environment.
1. Good for those of us with public transportation ADD - Close to both Cal Train and BART.
2. Didn't go for hair, but the skin services are great. I think the facialist's name was Rosalie, she was attentive and answered all my questions even when I could tell she was trying to concentrate on the five million extractions needed.
3. Comfy bed. Fun time to play a game I made up called "Try To Stay Awake With Good Smells And Magic Hands All Over Your Face".
Rosa Lee's facials are the tick...tick...tick...tick...BOOM dyn-o-mite!
In all seriousness, I am one of those gals who has had many a facial in her lifetime. I've had bad facials and I've had good facials but I can honestly say that the best facial I've ever received was at the hands of SFIEC's future professional Rosa Lee. Here are just a few of the reasons why:
* I never knew I had sensitive skin before meeting Rosa. Yes, I have an uneven skin tone with a profuse amount of redness and, yes, I blush like crazy and burn easily and all of that but I've never met a product I couldn't handle, even if it stung a little, and other estheticians never shied away from scrubs and the like. But it clicked when she said it and the proof was in the pudding, so to speak...
* I've never met a facial I didn't walk out of with extreme redness either dotting or covering my face. Not with Rosa!! Understanding that I had sensitive skin, she recommended several calming procedures and I walked out of the facial (even after extractions) with an even skin tone, as if were wearing my makeup. So good, in fact, that I swear I didn't have to use concealer when applying makeup the next day -- and I *always* wear my MAC concealer so that really is saying something, folks.
* The relaxation factor was off the charts, despite not being in a private room. I was lamenting the fact that I couldn't get a massage with my facial (if I go in for one, I generally like to have the other done, too) but Rosa's facial came with a bomb mini-massage. The facial itself was a massage on my face but she also rubbed my arms, head, shoulders, neck and upper back. And, I'm just sayin', she has a magic touch. I love my boyfriend but Rosa gave me tingles and just melted the stress away and I am as thankful for that as I am for not having to walk out red-faced.
*Rosa is *very* knowledgeable and clearly passionate about what she does. She is in no way pushy or condescending (and I've met more than a few esties who can be judgemental divas); she was just friendly, down-to-earth and has a really good, positive, calming vibe. We discussed products and Rosa's recommendations reflected an understanding of my skin and lifestyle as well as an appreciation for my budget.
*I LOVE the products I purchased from Rosa! I loved the glow my skin had and how soft it felt and how even it looked. My boyfriend actually commented on how my skin was glowing and, let me tell you, he rarely sees my skin without makeup but I felt comfortable - and I've never heard glowing from him anyway, even with the MAC. ;-)
The staff was generally friendly (Cory!), and parking was super easy (1-hour non-metered parking lines both sides of Folsom Street for blocks). The price is certainly right ($45?! Stop it. That's cheap and you know it.). And, you know what, I'm a happy customer. I will follow Rosa to wherever she goes from SFIEC and will be a lifelong customer.
I just got a haircut here for the first time after a Groupon facial a few months ago. The facial was great, but the haircut was super- far exceeding my expectations for a $15 student cut! Gretchen is a rockstar- I will definitely go back.
A couple recommendations- if you have particular concerns or "finishing" you'd like, be sure to speak up. I have to make a mental list for myself, or I'll forget to ask for more texture or a little more off around the ears. Also, take a photo of what you want. Even with a professional, it's much easier than trying to explain what you're after. And bring a book, or pick up a magazine to read while you wait between steps.
Hooray for the end of $75 haircuts!
Rosa Lee was an amazing eyebrow artist. She communicated with me, and we came to a conclusion together about what shape is best for me. She made me feel very comfortable. My brows look great! Natural but arched.
I would recommend Rosa and the SFIEC to anyone. Plus it was a great value!
This place was packed with guinea pigs. Probably was not the best time to come while swine flu is at its peak. I had to wait 30 min because my student was running behind, but the result was quite pleasant for $20. Much better than ones I used to get from Hair Shaper for the same price.
If you can, take with you a picture of the style that you want. The student will discuss with the instructor about how to implement your request, and then she will help time to time to get it right. You can't go wrong for $20.
I've become quite addicted to SFIEC. Partially because my BFF is a student there and partially because it's an awesome deal and great excuse to head to the city for an afternoon.
I've always had boring one length hair and have highlighted my naturally dirty blond hair a few times. I've been wanting to try something new with cut and color so I finally decided now is as good a time as ever since my BFF Stacy S would get to practice on me, because lets be honest, by default she'll be my stylist for the rest of my life!
Stacy gave me an awesome triangular graduation haircut that I get compliments on all the time! We've played with different color & highlight techniques and every time I love it!
I admit it, I am partial to SFIEC because of Stacy, but I've received services from other Future Professionals and have been just as happy. Taryn gave me a great wash & blow dry, and Victoria sculpted my overgrown eyebrows!
One thing you'll need to keep in mind is these are students, and they do take a bit longer to complete a service, but the money you save makes up for it!
$15-20 cuts!
$55-60 color!
$10 brow wax!
I've had hair cuts and waxing done here before. My hair has always turned out looking pretty good. The first time I went in, the girl cut my hair perfectly. I loved the style, length, and her interpretation of what I wanted. The second time around I wasn't as lucky, but it still turned out alright. The second time my hair was cut too short and there was one random piece that was longer than the rest of my hair. My sister said it looked like I had a tail. =(
As for the waxing, I'd have to give it a two star rating because the waxing area is very uncomfortable. By uncomfortable, I mean that there isn't one private waxing room, and it's more like a hospital ER with pull-around curtains to separate the "rooms", so there's a lack of privacy. You can hear what else is going on with other clients next to you. I had a brazillian wax done for my birthday. The girl was extremely kind, very professional. The area was very clean, but since my stylist was a student, her supervisor/ "learning leader" had to come in and make sure things were going smoothly. Another thing that lowers the rate of stars I'm giving is that the waxing process took much longer than any other place I've been waxed.
Costs are very reasonable.
When my six year old decided that she wanted a series of rainbow stripes on her head for the first day of school, I breathed a sigh of relief. I could now stave off the purchase of a pet snake by indulging her aesthetic endeavors. Considering this is way off the chart when utilizing Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, there are several areas that need to be taken into account before this journey begins. In this particular instance, elements are ambiance and environment, stylists, ability to accommodate a child's unique needs, and finally, price. On a recommendation from an adult who is not a parent, we decided to give this place a whirly-whirl.
First, unless I'm clubbing, I'm never in SOMA. I didn't realize the cleanliness that hides under the darkness. The space is right down the street from the public library, another favorite haunt, and the Civic Center stop-not too far to walk for a six year old. We ascended the stairs and were immediately welcomed by two bright eyed, young, smiling, black-clad H&M styled attendants. Lots of natural light flooded in from the long windows and the floor and work stations are compulsively clean. The attendants had us sit in the waiting area and offered us water with lemons as we waited for our appointment.
Within ten minutes of sitting, our Learning Professionals came to greet us. They were confident, poised, professionally dressed, and attentive. We were offered water or tea as they spoke to us about what we were thinking we may want to do with our hair. They mapped out a drawing and gave us feedback about what potentially could be positive or negative about the ideas we had in mind. Particularly helpful is how Zoe, my six year old's Learning Professional, is specific and forthright when communicating to her. She drew her pictures of her future hair, showed her the various available colors, and interacted with her; instead of making me be the intermediary, only looking to me for clarification. I think it was courageous to dye a six year old's hair while her parent is sitting right next to her.
As the process began to lengthen, the Learning Professionals checked in on us and ensured we were comfortable and content. They helped my six year old to the bathroom and gave her crayons and paper to doodle. Other students came by and checked in on the kid, making her feel very special and admiring Zoe's technique. Finally, after three hours, the hair was ready to be revealed. It was shockingly cool. See for yourself!
Price was beyond reasonable, it was a steal. I mean we are talking about a six year old, who probably will forget that her hair is a rainbow by 6pm that same evening. Professional, competent, a great experience and product all for $55! Insane. Weighing the above elements: ambiance and environment, stylists, ability to accommodate a child's unique needs, as well as price I feel confident in giving five stars! We're going back for Halloween make-up!
Paul Pu, Paul Pu, Paul Pu!
He turned around a tragic haircut, and made it shapley, with body and not out of control. He was a-m-a-z-i-n-g. A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! He listened to exactly what I wanted, unlike other stylists I've been to. He was really communicative, put me at total ease, and explained exactly what he was going to do.
Curly-haired women: here is a capable, understanding up-and-coming stylist who can do wonders with your mane. Ask for him, seek him out...then bow down!!!!!
Paul Pu! Paul Pu!!
You gotta love the idea of receiving world-class service at a bargain-basement price, even for a guy like me, who typically doens't give a rat's rear to how I look.
So this is my first-ever facial treatment. With a $5 facial coupon at hand, I walked into the Institute on a crisp Sunday morning. Just minutes later the lovely Venessa Barnhill took me in. Of course, the shirt must come off before it starts. Vanessa politely asked me if I'm shy. Among all my virtues, being shy isn't one of them.
Shirt off , laid down, I found myself wrapped in a warm blanket and ready to doze off. Not before Vanessa told me about a dozen things I'm doing wrong to my skin. Like riding a mountain bike in blistering heat up and down the San Gabriel mountains, using mechanical shavers, washing my face in the shower and with bar soaps, etc. etc.
I'm sure I don't need to elaborate on the process... Indeed, I was so on the verge of dozing off I don't remember much of it. Her hands are soft and gentle, as is her attitude.
Before it ended, Vanessa offered that she also does waxing. Ouch, not for this monkey. Have you seen a waxed monkey, that must have been the image of God. But ladies, if you ever need any help in that area, find her. She's really good! Oh, take a picture after it's done.
Kidding kidding.
I wasn't alone in thoroughly enjoying the experience. After my facial I saw two little kiddies playing in the waiting area. As it turns out they've been waiting for hours for their mom to finish her hair. It must be worth the wait!
I went here once for a Teen Vogue party (by invite only). Some of the students here have some amazing talent. My gf and I got a massage. Nice!
We also got our hair styled. That's what was offered that night. No cuts just a style. I got my hair curled and I have a LOT of hair. So my hair was puffed out with curls. It was quite a look for me.
I had so much hair that she had to get another student to help her. Haha! She gave me her cell phone number and told me to call her. I guess she wanted clients when she gets her own place. Ooops......I lost that card.
The next day, my hair wasn't as puffy and the curls not as curly and my hair looked FANTASTIC! I absolutely loved it! I just gotta stop being so darn lazy and do it myself at home.
They offer pretty cheap prices for their services. You can pay for a new student.....supervised ofcourse. or you can a bit more for a more advanced student. I would definitely pay more. You do get what you pay for.
That post is crazy talk!
I've visited many schools, even Paul Mitchell-The School (several socal locations) and this is by far the best school any future professional could chose to go to. Damn right do your research, you wont find another school like this! Yes the tuition is high, but you get what you paid for. Excellent education, Excellent classes, and not to mention the kits are off the hook, you get everything you need in those kits. Sure some students need more work and yes it does take awhile. So i guess it's a good things its called a school....weird huh? I was in the Cosmo program in 2006 and came back for the Esthetics, moved back from L.A to go here because i wanted the best education! Its all focused on one line, compared to your local community colleges that use a whole bunch of different, weird lines/products etc.
Hair-Paul Mitchell
Skin-Dermalogica
Make up-Being True Cosmetics
aaannnd the Leading Makeup artist L.L is Debra Dietrich, for those who don't know her, might want to google her.
There are so many advantages to going here and awesome opportunities that one little post from some girl who obviously had some bad crab cakes isn't gonna hurt this school's reputation!
Hey if you want less than, or would like to pay something cheaper, go to a community college!!
The haircut was ok. It might have looked good on another person... maybe it does look cute on me as claimed by the learning leader... but it wasn't what I expected nor what I wanted. I brought a picture to show them the cut I was looking for and asked them to try to replicate it. I guess it wasn't meant to be... i think it might be best to just let them know what you want instead of trying to bring a picture. 3 stars for ok hair, good service and friendly staff. I'll give them credit for trying...
a bit intimidating if you never been to this type of place before (since I never been and didn't expect the school to be run the way it is). intimidating is not bad - just expect that you need to ring the doorbell next to the hair product store they run to get buzzed in. get checked in. sign some forms. wait for the student. sit down in those chairs. wait for the teacher. talk to them about what you had in mind. let them do the work... and pay at the front. I was silly enough to wash my hair beforehand.. turned out they will do it for you already...
i'm glad my hair grows fast... this is how i measure whether or not i like my short haircut. If i feel the urge to tie it up, the haircut is not good. and right now, i am feeling a big urge to figure out how to tie up my hair....
Thank you good people of yelp!! I am so glad I checked this place out, it's super close to my house, 6 minute walk, which makes it even greater. I haven't had my hair cut in 9 months, so I was definitely needing it, plus my hair is super long and thick so I was extremely nervous about someone hacking it off too much. My hair stylist was great, Janina was a sweet heart, she could tell I was super scared and she came at me with full confidence, which is something I definitely need from whoever is cutting my hair. She is only there for another 4 weeks, so I am a little nervous about tryin someone else out cuz I know it is always a hit or miss, but luckily tonight it was a hit!
i think everyone knows that trying a new hair stylist is hit-or-miss, cosmetology school or no.
my first experience here was completely underwhelming.
it's not so much that i wanted to go from brunette to blonde but ended up with brown hair with a few highlights in it...
it's not so much that i asked for a dramatic, multi-layered cut but got a boring, typical long-layered style...
it was more the fact that even though i was clearly unimpressed, the student and learning leader chose to ignore that and instead repeatedly tell me how excited they were about how my hair had turned out. since they were so excited, i wish they could wear this hair around for the next few months instead of me, but sadly i'm the one stuck with it until i can afford to go have someone else do it better.
basically, i wanted Mission and i got Marina. next time i'll go back to marinello's.
My neck, face, cheek, and forehead is covered with dye. My shirt is ruined. I would look better if I went to Supercuts. I spent an entire 7 hours in the salon. I will
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/20/2008
My neck, face, cheek, and forehead is covered with dye. My shirt is ruined. I would look better if… Read more »
Now that the mistakes have been corrected, the 10 lb weight of irritation has been lifted and I have had a moment to reflect, I feel like I can write a more useful review.
Being unemployed, I came here trying to save money. And like I said Never. Again. Why? Well first the whole ordeal took 3 HOURS. I don't care if it is a $20 haircut. My time is worth more than $20. In fact 3 hours of my time is probably worth at least $60. Yes, even when I'm not working.
Also I hadn't had anything to eat before I went in, which is not their fault but had I known it would take 3 HOURS, I would have surely eaten lunch before hand and probably would have been as irritated and impatient in the end.
And at the core of all of this, trying to explain what I wanted felt impossible. Despite my stylist being well meaning and accommodating, I have to say he didn't have a clue how to make my hair look good. Mostly because my stylist either wasn't experienced enough with my type of hair or hadn't been taught how to do thinning or other stuff that my regular stylist just does because I say I don't want my hair to look "boxy". Which (haha) was precisely what I got. I'm so used to giving a vague description of how I want my hair to look and someone just GETTING IT. Maybe that's what I pay $60 bucks for.
In the end I went to my regular stylist for a fix and it looks 10 TIMES BETTER. I've learned my lesson. The $60 I generally pay isn't just for the cut. It's the experience and confidence to interpret my needs and desires.
I recently went to the Paul Mitchell school to get my hair trimmed/re-layered and had the pleasure of having Taylor cut my hair. It's rare you find a hair stylist who actually cuts and knows how curly hair works, but Taylor P was able to correct my bad, prior haircut and make my hair flow beautifully. In an hour, I was given an awesome shampoo, cut and blow dry/flat iron style, which is the quickest I have ever seen any stylist work with such skill. I will definitely come back and see Taylor again and strongly recommend her.
I don't know if she'll stay at the school but I got her email just incase: taylorsf13@yahoo.com
Today I was Samson and the cosmetology student who cut my hair was Delilah.
I have a feeling this place is pretty much hit or miss... It's a scary moment when you realize that you know more about cutting hair than either the hair dresser or the instructor overseeing the hair dresser.
Sure it's only $20 but when your boyfriend comments that you basically went to SuperCuts and have the haircut to match- well that's the reality I'm facing.
My advice: either get one of the "creative students" to cut your hair or if something doesn't sound right (for example, "You will look great with a bowl cut") def speak up. Godspeed.
OK so this is tough, since I didn't get my haircut here but I did take my boyfriend with the promise of a great cut for $20. He always goes to those cheap places where everyone gets the same cut and it never looks good. So we come here, a stylist meets him and off they go, I'm excited with anticipation, which turns to bordom, frustration and finally really annoying. 1 1/2 hours later he comes out, with a nice cut but seriously our time is worth more and next time he said take me to a salon and I'll pay $50 to get the cut in 20 minutes.
He said the stylist was so slow and at the end both were tired and had nothing to talk about because guys are not meat to be in the chair for that long.
I went here to get a haircut (I have long hair, wanted a sort of easy low-maint. style, layers) based on reviews from yelp, word from a friend, and location to my house. So glad I went - I got a fantastic haircut, low price, and salon quality professionalism from the girl cutting my hair. (Stacy R - fantastic.) She really listened to what I wanted, and checked in with her instructor when she came across things she was unsure about doing. I will def be back for the next haircut.
I've been coming here for almost 7 years and it's still great - some of the original directors are no longer there and things have changed from the way it used to be, but this is still a great place.
While I can imagine that getting your hair cut/done here can change depending on the student you have, the facials and waxings are consistent...
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/8/2008
I've been a loyal client to SFIEC for many years. When they first opened their doors back in the… Read more »
Just had a facial with Rosa and loved it!! I would totally go again and would definitely recommend her.
On a side note, my friend also got a facial at the same time and was not pleased, so perhaps it really depends on who you get. I highly recommend going to Rosa :)
If you are looking to become an esthetician or cosmetologist, this is probably the best school in the area to go to. You will pay for it tho - it's also the most expensive school, by far. If you'd like to do CIDESCO training however, go to Miss Marties because they build it into their program - which ends up being more hours of training and costing the same as SFIEC without the CIDESCO training.
The time I spent there was a challenging, life changing one. I might not do it differently if I could do it over again.
My reason for only 3 stars is that this school is a cosmetologist, nail technician and esthetician making machine. Once you've passed your state board and gotten your first job - that's it, you're out of the nest, flying free, expected to say nice things about the school because they brought you up so well.
Oh, and, if you are a career changer, this is definitely the school for you - they love students who know how to apply themselves, are well put together and smart. These students will get all sorts of support and encouragement.
I met these fabulous women when helping with a prom for kids with life-threatening illnesses on Friday. They immediately volunteered to do the girls' makeup, hair and nails when called. The school was great, the women we met volunteered their time for a great cause and went above and beyond!
The girls had the best time, laughing and getting glamorous for their big night. They were pampered and taken care of and all the women there were a big help. The girls looked beautiful for their prom! If I lived in the area, I would go here myself, as I saw the friendliness, professionalism and results myself, firsthand!
I was a little skeptical about going to a cosmetology school to get my hair done, but I had confidence in my fellow reviewers, and they did not steer me wrong. I got one of the best cuts I've ever had and for $20.00 it was a steal.
The space was clean and spacious and very busy. My student was a month away from graduating. She took time to listen to the concerns I had about my hair. After consulting with her instructor we were a go. The student that cut my hair was very precise and wasn't afraid to go and ask questions if she had her. I appreciated her lack of bravado. One of the issues I've had with previous salons is they don't listen to you and feel that they know what is best for your hair. The only small issue i had was that I had trouble verbalizing how I wanted my bangs cut. The student quickly grabbed her instructor who taught the student to cut my bangs how I requested. I felt better that the instructor did them. After 2 1/2 hours I was done and completely thrilled with my new cut.
I'm planning to go back and get my hair colored as I saw a lot of students and clients going in to get that done.
Overall it was a great, but long experience. I'll definitely be back.
One word of advice is to bring cash with you for tipping as your tip can not be added to your credit card.
My friend found this place through Yelp, and may I say it was a successful discovery.
We had appointments and started right on time. Up-style and makeup for only $40, it really can't get any cheaper.
I definitely recommend this place to anybody who has time to spare and money to save.
Went there for a haircut one day and then two days later for a facial and eyebrow waxing. My stepmom is a cosmetology teacher and usually does my haircuts for me, but I needed one ASAP so I went here. I have been to a lot of beauty schools around northern california and this one is the nicest looking one and the most professional I've seen. The students were soooooo nice. Thanks to my fellow yelpers, I knew it was going to take 3 hours for the haircut so I expected it and was happy it only took 2 and half hours!!!
I even got a thank you postcard in the mail from the nice student that did my facial!!!!
I had an amazing experience. The cut is adorable and I feel like a million bucks. Yes, not every little thing about the cut is perfect, but I just spent $70 trying to re-create it at a professional salon, and they didn't even come close.
One biggest complaint: wait time. I was waiting a good 30 minutes past my appointment time.
The master stylists and teachers were coming by enough to check on the student working on me, but not so much that they were annoying. They checked in regularly and kept an eye on what was happening. The cut itself took a good hour to complete, but I was so happy with it, it didn't matter.
I'll be returning. For sure. But only on a day when I don't have something immediately afterwards.
The services are only as good as the students, who should be supervised better. I decided to go all out and purchase a 90-minute make-up lesson since I am a bit of an idiot when it comes to doing things myself and I didn't want a hard sell from the make-up counter.
The "future professional" was nice, but there was no lesson; she told me in general terms what she was doing while she was doing it (something I have found to be pretty standard whenever you get your make-up done.) The "lesson" was completed in little over a half an hour (it was supposed to be 90 minutes). At no time did a supervisor come over to check the work or see how things were going.
I was expecting not to be billed the full-price since I didn't get a lesson - just a make-over that wasn't even much of a make-up application. I was not told about types of products, techniques, colors, etc. except in response to my specific questions. I never was given an opportunity to try anything myself, even after I asked some pointed questions. It was done for me, not instructed. This was not a lesson.
I am very disappointed! I have had better make-overs by non-professionals. Once again, the student was nice enough, but when I paid $60 for a half-hour's worth of work from a student, I expected more from the school and their professionals.
As time goes on, I get even more pissed at the rip-off!
I have been here at least 4 times (color and cut) and have always left with a huge smile on my face!
Personally, I love that it takes so long, about 3 hours for a cut and about 4 for color, it's really like being pampered. You're offered a beverage and something to read right when you sit down.
Every student has been very sweet and friendly and really took into consideration what I wanted and didn't want. I just saw Genna the other day, she gave me the sexiest bedhead cut and style I've ever seen! And if you have no hair skills at all (like me), they'll answer all of your questions about maintenance, styling, etc. so ask away!
I highly highly recommend this place
(The Adaptive students are before noon, $15 for a cut, and the Creative students are after noon, $20 cut, with more experience)
My gf's told me about this cool place. I went there twice, once for hair conditioning and once for brow work and facial...
I was satisfied both times. Even they are students, they are professional and attentive and they took their times and explained everything thoroughly. The prices are reasonable and afforable. Great convenience location and is closed to muni. Great cafe across the street for breakfast. I would definitely go back for a facial.
I got a facial here recently. They used all Dermalogica products which is a reputable brand used in many facial places. I couldn't say whether the facial was good or bad, but I did wake up with the SOFTEST skin the next morning. Facial services here are $45 for 60-min session. The student that I got was a bit nervous to touch my face, so she was extremely gentle (I won't mention her name for her privacy). I wanted a bit more pressure. It took her about half hour to cleanse, tone, and examine my skin. Then she took an hour for the actual facial treatments: mask, little steaming, little extraction, chemical exfoliation, and an electro therapy thing that pushed the treatment into deeper level of my skin. I wish she had done more deep cleaning aka extraction. If you want major extraction, do not come here since the facialists are not estheticians and they're not allowed to do deep deep cleaning. The instructor who came to check on my skin was very knowledgeable. She recommended some Dermalogica products to me, but she was not at all pushy. She also gave me tips on skincare. Thumbs up for the skin consultation.
I'm reviewing the following wonderful ladies outside of the Shattuck Elite review because I think they deserve special mention. Although I knew we were going "rockstar" for this event, I did not know they were going to have hair and makeup on site (maybe I just didn't read).
In case you didn't know, I love being pampered. I also like to help people out. After Nicole told me my eyes needed a little more oomph (thanks Nicole!), I sat down in Lovely Lily's chair to let her work her magic. And magical it was. She made my eyes that much more scandalous, powdered me up, and gave me pouty red lips to DIE for. She also made my cheeks stand out. And when I asked her for a touch-up on the pucker, she obliged- quickly. I also go a little hairspray on "The Bangs That Wouldn't Cooperate"
I will definitely look into going to see these ladies again- thank you very much to the Lovely Lily, Sacha, Amy and Kelsey (I hope I didn't forget anyone).
I look forward to seeing you really soon!
