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Shimmer
Categories: Shopping Fashion Women's Clothing Beauty and Spas Tanning Women's Clothing, Tanning [Edit]
266 Sutter StFl 4
(at Grant Ave)
San Francisco, CA 94108
Neighborhood: Union Square
(415) 362-2323
- Hours:
Mon-Tue, Fri 11 am - 7 pm
Wed-Thu 11 am - 8 pm
Sat 11 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
Kim G. said: "This was my first time tanning and it was a great experience. Tommy and Eddie were friendly and informative and walked me through the whole process. Tommy explained everything to me and took me on a tour or the different beds. He…" read more »
52 reviews for Shimmer
Review Highlights
"I plan on giving the body wrap a try as well."
(in 4 reviews)
"...Level 1 spray tan with clear solution (i like the element..."
(in 5 reviews)
"...secret to getting your hands and feet to look natural (the..."
(in 3 reviews)
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52 reviews in English
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Review from Jessica t.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 9/12/2011
I couple of months ago - I finally pulled myself out of my tanorexic phase. I just got to a point where I realized that I couldn't self-tan myself forever. Sometimes you just have to accept yourself as you are - see through skin and all.
Though I don't miss the in-between self-tan periods, and the grueling process of heavily exfoliation beforehand, I do miss the staff and vibe of Shimmer. It really is one of the most convenient, efficient, and nicest places around to get your spray-tan on.
All of their staff remember you by name, are fun to talk to, and, their prices if you get bulk packages are pretty darn reasonable
I would love the rush of speed-walking over here during work lunch breaks for a quick tan pick-me up. I would walk in pale, and after a quick shimmer session - would be a lovely golden hue by the end of the day.
If you're going on vacation, have a big night out, or just want a little more color - check out Shimmer. The staff will make sure that you're well taken care of.
Trust.Listed in: Places and Businesses that I…, My Short List of All Time…, Where to shop to look fabulous, Beauty 101, Getting ready for Vacation
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/21/2008
So awhile back I swore off fake n'spray.
I was determined to re-claim my natural pale skin.
Mostly, I… Read more »
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Review from Ali R.
San Francisco, CA
9/6/2011
I've been to a few spray tan locations and this is probably my favorite. They use a 4 position spray system and have dryers. The 4 positions allow you to get your sides and inner thighs/arms more evenly than a simple front and back spray.
I'm a pale pale ginger and I went with Level 2 based on the recommendation of the ginger who was working. I've always stuck with the lowest possible but I'm glad I did the Level 2. Also, this girl was really helpful and not salesy. It's nice to be able to ask questions and not feel pressured to buy more sessions before you know what you're going to look like.
If you're questioning the spray tan, this is definitely the place to go. Also the main thing that will bring me back is you can do a "legs only" spray tan! -
Review from ruggy j.
7/25/2011 6 Check-ins Here
As much as I want to keep this a secret, I'm about to make a shocking confession: I exercise the "T" of "GTL" here at Shimmer from time to time. I mean, we're here above the 37th parallel and sun doesn't quite penetrate the way it does in Southern California, so unless you fancy a skin pigment akin to Miracle Whip, you have to resort to desperate measures from time-to-time, and Shimmer is just the place to keep a warm glow.
I've only been here a handful of times, but they do the trick for a quick bronzing. It's fast, it's usually pretty easy to procure an appointment even without giving them much notice, and the folks at the front are always friendly. It's a little pricey, but the close proximity to my office makes it pretty easy to dip in on the way home from work, or during lunch when they do a "happy hour" of sorts with cheap incentives to pop in for a quickie in the middle of the day.
They have signs that say not to bring in your own lotion, but I have a hard time believing they'd actually give you a slap on the wrist just for trying to protect your skin from those dangerous UV rays. Plus, they try to nail you on buying one time use tanning lotions for $6.50, and you don't need me to tell you that's a pretty bum deal.Comment from Janice F. of Shimmer 7/28/2011
*Mr. Ruggy, we specify not using tanning oil in the MP lay… More » -
Review from Ciera M.
San Francisco, CA
4/28/2011
Fab spray tans.
Best bit is, for your first visit you get another spray tan free if you go again in the next two weeks. It was my first time doing a booth spray tan (previously I'd had the kind where someone sprays you) and the guy was really nice, plus very clear with his explanations (thankfully no Ross moments were had - my fear going in to this!).
The place itself is pretty cute and clean, they have lotion and wipes etc which is handy. Kind of random entrance, if you can't find it look up as they have a big banner a couple of floors up! Book an appointment a bit in advance if you want a weekend slot too. -
Review from Julia G.
San Francisco, CA
3/12/2011
The place is REALLY GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It is small,very classy, very clean and cozy.
I did the high pressure,which is $33 single visit (it's buy 1 get 1 free). The tanning booth is Italian. I used exactly the same one in Europe couple of months ago and I have to say,that Shimmer has SIGNIFICANTLY BETTER LAMPS!!!!!
They have very comfortable rooms with towels and mirrors.
At Shimmer they also offer bodywraps. Can't wait to try that. -
Review from Connie C.
7/20/2010 1 Check-in Here
I first heard about Shimmer from http://yipit.com when they offered a body wrap for $50. Come to find out on Shimmer's actual site that they offer a buy one get one free (usually priced at $100/body wrap) so I decided to get that instead since results won't be noticeable from just one wrap.
I was excited and be sure to book your appointments within two weeks if you decide to do it, because that's part of the fine print in case they forget to tell you.
The staff that helped me were very helpful and they made sure I was aware of how the process would go, what and what not to do, and also telling me about the buy one get one free deal ( i know a few people complained that they weren't told) They provide you with warm tea and I think I remember them saying it helps warm up muscles? They even provide you with a starter folder with information packets and a track sheet for you to keep track of your measurements and hydration levels.
When I went in for the body wrap, I was surprised that there was no body wrap. Instead, they bring you to a room with a heating pad placed on a chair similar to those at a dentist's office. I also wore this white smock thing, i guess to prevent the sweat from getting on the pad. They cover you over like a sleeping bag and that's the heating part. I was a little disappointed because I thought they would wrap me like a mummy so that my muscles would be heated more directly than just being covered like a blanket.
I did undermine the process because by the end, I was sweating like a beast. good thing my sister was accompanying me because she helped me reach for things i could not reach. (They wrap your arms and you can't really bend them) I'm going back again Thursday and will hopefully see results. after my visit, i also had to lie on my side and they give you a juice box to rehydrate in case of low sugar levels.
WRAP UP TIPS (hehe get it?):
1. if doing the buy one get one free, schedule all appointments and don't wait until after your first visit. the time slots go by quick!
2. come well hydrated
3. don't wear any metal (buttons, zipper, underwire from bra)
4. wear leggings or yoga pants, and a long sleeve shirt
5. bring a change of bra and panty -
Review from Kat G.
San Francisco, CA
12/14/2010
The Shimmer is a very beautiful, accommodating place. I got my first ever spray tan there and Tamara, the assistant there, was so helpful and patient in explaining how exactly it works so it was totally foolproof! The shimmer itself is clean, modern and there is this naturally friendly atmosphere that makes you definitely come back soon for the great value (2 spray tans for the price of 1, namely $30).
The results of the tan were also wonderfully natural! Very even, no white patches, seriously, the best way of tanning WITHOUT damaging your skin or looking orange! -
Review from Stephanie G.
San Francisco, CA
2/18/2011
A love this place! Everyone is so knowledgeable and always so helpful. I usually feel like a dumbie asking so many questions but they inform me with all the details and answer all question thoroughly without making me feel like a dumb-ass.
It's in a great location..just a few blocks away from Union Square. The boutique is set up very nice/clean and updated. I love the point system..it's extremely helpful with spring and summer right around the corner.
It is a little pricey..however being one of the very few tanning centers in the city-it's understandable and worth it. -
Review from jay h.
7/2/2010
I loved the experience and the overall ease of it.
My abs and legs are still kind of tan after 5 days but I had specifically got the spray tan to even out my tan lines on my shoulders...it was fine the first day but by the second evening it had already started to fade. I even had the 5 dollar pre-spray which was supposed to make the color even and last a little longer.
I was in a wedding so I had hoped you wouldn't be able to see the lines in the photos...thank god for long hair! I was a first timer so I got two for the price of one. I'll do one more spray and maybe the second time will work out better. -
Review from Bridget W.
San Francisco, CA
7/6/2011
yay! I was nervous about getting a spray tan and Shimmer made the entire process so easy. I got the level 2 clear spray around 6pm and didn't shower till the next morning... I woke up with a lovely tan! The color was a light bronze... and I'm FAIR as hell. Seriously. People ask me if I'm wearing tights all the time. I think next time I'll do the level 3 clear because I want to look like a different ethnicity. Just sayin.
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Review from Janise M.
Sacramento, CA
7/13/2011
I had the best experience here! The staff was extremely knowledgeable and so helpful! It was my first time doing an infrared body wrap and they made me feel so comfortable. The clothing they carry is super cute - just a little out my price range :(
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Review from Brianna H.
San Francisco, CA
5/28/2010 9 Check-ins Here
Want a quick fix to your San Francisco paleness sans UV rays? Get a spray tan.
Want a legit place you can trust won't give you streaks or that orange glow? Get a spray tan at Shimmer.
I've learned the "hard way" the difference between Magic vs Mystic vs California Tan. And whatever else is out there. Turns out Magic Tan is the way to go.
Shimmer recently vamped up the layout of their space, and added a heat lamp to the spray booth so you don't get cold when you're standing there in your birthday suit.
I get packages with points that brings the per-tan $$ done, and I typically get the clear solution with prep on a level 2. Recently however I felt compelled to do something risky and go for level 3 in preparation for Baywatch to Breakers- and I loved the results! It's somewhat addicting though because apparently they've also added a new "ulta dark" level of spray recently. And I'm intrigued... -
Review from Janney B.
San Francisco, CA
4/1/2008
"Tan fat looks better than pale fat" - My mom.
I was terrified to lounge poolside in Las Vegas with my gorgeous friend, Lindsey. Add to this equation 3 Million boobless/buttless spring breakers, and 50 million March Madness businessmen with sports-betting addictions and you'll see that the end result was not looking very good for me, or my cute sparkly bikini.
After doing some Yelpsearch, I noticed Nicole G. is a die-hard Shimmer sister. With two days remaining before my Vegas Getaway, I called the tanning goddesses and begged for an open spot. Fortunately, there was a lunchtime appointment available the following day. This gave me enough time to exfoliate my body pre-tan AND to panic about turning the color of a jack-o-lantern. Orange is so not my color.
The girl at the tanning place was very helpful. She explained the BOGO package (second must be used within 2 weeks) and charged me $35, which includes the pre-spray.
I followed her directions, got sprayed with clear mist (will develop overnight), hopped a cab back to work and thus began the freak-out:
What if my tan streaks? What if I look like a cheetah? What if I enter the pool at Hard Rock Hotel and orange dye starts spreading through the water and attacking young children?
And what actually happened, dear Yelpers?
It turns out that my faux glow was applied beautifully. I had no tan lines and instead of looking amazon, I appeared glamazon.
Thanks to my bronze bod (courtesy of Shimmer) I got toasted and roasted on the sundecks of Las Vegas' sexiest hotels. -
Review from Michelle B.
Seattle, WA
8/9/2009
Their introductory 2 for 1 offer turned out to be more fake than my tan.
You only have two weeks to return - which on first glance seems fair, until you call and can't get an appointment, and then realize you are going out of town, so you shoot a quick email ahead of time to them to let them know the circumstances of you trying to redeem and not being able to and request an appointment for as soon as you return and you are denied because they've "had problems with this in the past."
Caveat ochreous emptor. -
Review from Nicole G.
San Francisco, CA
1/26/2008
I've found the perfect tanning salon, and it doesn't have a bed on the premises. The pale and pasty are with me (right, sistas?) when I say glory be, hallelujah.
A perfect remedy for the color challenged, Shimmer has a fab clear spray tan that develops slowly during the day, leaving you perfectly bronzed by the next morning. I like to head over on Fridays for the $25 lunchtime special so I've got a glow going on for the weekend.
Okay, so it's not peerrrrfect. My feet tend to turn out a little darker than I would like. But the owner/receptionist is a total sweetheart and will teach you little tricks to help minimize any issues.
I Heart Shimmer!Listed in: Beauty & Wellness in San…
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Review from Christine G.
San Francisco, CA
3/12/2008
OK though I am Filipino and already have a bit of a tan, my legs are whiter than the rest of my body because they hardly eva see the SF Sun (or lack thereof). Anyway -- I love this place because whenever I want to look extra hot for an event or before traveling to an exotic locale, I head to Shimmer. It is by far, the best spray tan I've ever had.
If it's your first time here, they will give you 2 for the price of one. Make sure you watch the video too or else you won't know what to do before and don't want to look like Ross on Friends (if you saw that episode). Anyway I looooove Shimmer. It's a great place to get a quick tan. -
Review from Theresa E.
San Mateo, CA
6/28/2011
Best spray tan ever.
Versa spa is the bomb. No streaking. Loved it. They are all super nice!!!! -
Review from Valerie D.
San Francisco, CA
4/25/2008
Unfortunately, I had to work on a Sat., so I figured why not test drive Shimmer (which is in the Financial District too) before I go on vacation to Miami in May to see what they can do for my white-as-a-ghost state. It also gave me a reason to wake up early on Sat. to go into the Financial District and distracted me from the fact I had to work.
I went to Shimmer on Sat. (4/19) after exfoliating myself raw and putting on some Bath & Body Works Body Cream. The cream had time to absorb whilest I was working. I chose the Level 1 spray tan with clear solution (i like the element of surprise vs. the brozer that may get all over my clothing). The spray tan room is huge and private. They had an excellent "tan repellant" lotion that I put on my hands and feet....that actually worked (another salon gave me some Suave cheap lotion that did not work). I was given proper direction and went in. It was cold, but that's okay, this isn't about comfort people, it's about looking fine (or in my case, not sickly).
The best part is the dryers that come on at the end. No longer must you worry about wiping/ buffing the extra solution off, it's taken care of for you!
I ended up w/ a light tan that was completely even and perfect. No one noticed that I was tan, but I got a lot of compliments that I look happy and healthy!
With my FREE extra tan (Buy One Get One Free...for new clients $30), I'm going to up the ante to Level 2 to try to see if I look like a Bronzed Goddess....
...I went back to use my free tan and got the Level 2, clear solution. I was not splotchie and looked great! It lasts about a week, but the strong color only lasts 2 days. -
Review from Karin B.
San Francisco, CA
6/4/2011
Great place. Loved the results. Clean and professional facility. Would definitely go there again, but get you in and out the door really quickly, so wouldn't recommend it for first-time tanners.
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Review from Jill C.
San Francisco, CA
2/16/2009
Never much of a golden beach bunny myself, tanning was a pretty foreign concept to me. My fair skin was just part of who I was, and I was always fine with it. Then I discovered how just a little bit of a fake tan makes you appear magically healthier, more well-rested, and seemingly five pounds slimmer. Fantastic! Let's fool everyone.
But the at-home lotion thing is a real pain to remember to do every night, plus it smells kind of weird. I always felt like it was such an effort to do five days of self-tanning before daring to show my legs.
Then Shimmer came into my life, and now in less than an hour, I get a fabulous, even, believable tan.
I've only tried the clear version, which develops color over time. (My coworker really enjoyed monitoring my subtle yet glamorous darkening as the day went on.) What's really great about the clear formula is that is dries quickly and doesn't stain your clothes, and no one knows you just did a spray tan on your lunch hour.
The spa is cute, quiet, and noticeably very clean. In fact, after you use the spray booth, which is a decent size and not at all claustrophobic, the booth automatically cleans itself. Neat. The booth itself is a little chilly, especially when you get blasted with solution, but I'd much rather tolerate a little breeziness than live with UV damage.
The pricing seems fair, and considering the amount of time you save by just doing one short treatment, it's totally worth it. Every time I've talked with the staff, either on the phone or in person, they've been really nice and helpful. This is especially assuring since you're psyching yourself up to go into what you fear will feel like an automatic car wash.
Definitely give Shimmer a try if you're curious about the spray tan experience. -
Review from Lula Mae W.
San Francisco, CA
8/9/2006
I don't mind being fair and freckled. I'm not trying to fight it. But as diligent as I am with the sunscreen, it seems I always end up with some odd spots of color. Doesn't get me down, except when there is some special occassion that calls for a dress that will show the world all my many odd spots.
Most recently, when I needed to be evened out, I went to Shimmer. I was drawn to them for two reasons: 1) The clear (no-bronzer) option, so I don't look like George Hamilton on my walk home; and 2) the non-Union Street location. -
Review from Sara P.
San Francisco, CA
7/8/2010
If you like tanning you must check it out!
Awesome location - close to BART, financial district, union square...
I recommend making an appointment, you dont have to but I hate waiting.
4 stars only because the tanning packages are a little overpriced.
P.S. You must check out the awesome sale going on in the boutique...I've been lusting over one of their swimsuits and I got it for $30 :)Listed in: SF Lovin'
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Review from taiwo l.
San Francisco, CA
6/2/2011
let me start by saying i've never written a review for any business before.
i went in to shimmer this morning for the FIT body wrap using a coupon i bought online. the service was impeccable. Tamra, the front desk associate was great, at some point she was the only staff working but that didn't stop her from providing excellent service. she was also very knowledgeable about her products. i really appreciated the service i received. i will be back there for sure -
Review from Katja S.
San Francisco, CA
3/19/2010
I have been a customer for at least 4 years. When the customer service is 5 stars everything else gets a higher raiting for me. I use them every 4-5 months to get a bit of tan before i get out on the beach. I only do the beds, never done the spray tan (scared to look like an orange) and i can say is perfect. Clean, great staff, nice clothing to shop for and location could not get better for those stuck in SOMA or FiDi...
Enjoy! You can't go wrong with Shimmer! -
Review from Vanessa P.
San Francisco, CA
5/29/2008
I'm starting to wonder if I'm addicted to spray tans. I love, love, love Shimmer. Everything from the great belt I bought there to the way a spray tan makes me look 10 pounds lighter. Seriously!
I've had spray tans at other places and their booths are out-dated and the rooms are smaller, colder and sort of messy.
I hate fake-n-bake and the whole idea of killing myself for the sake of my own vanity. I found my solution last October and I've been goin ever since. I guess you know it's bad when you ask for a spray tan package from your mom for Christmas. She sure came through though! -
Review from Erin M.
Mountain View, CA
7/21/2009
Staff is always efficient and friendly, and I haven't yet had a problem booking an appointment when I've needed one. I've never done the hi-pressure UV beds, I'm a spray-tan-only kind of girl (similar to the way in which I've never permanently colored my hair; just too risky). Room is always clean and I like that you can see the diagram of the positions from inside the booth, just in case you forget.
Word to the wise: definitely get the clear solution (without bronzer), there's no need to have orange rubbing off all over your clothes. Also, lots of specials running, check the website before you go in.
The only reason it's not a 5-star is that the outside of my hands tends to come out a little dotty and a wee bit too orange. I think I just need to be better about exfoliating and moisturizing my grubby little hands beforehand. -
Review from Chia T.
Albany, CA
4/7/2011
They are super accomadating and very friendly service. I would recommend buying a pack when they have a special so you can use it all year round and safe. This place have the best spray tan machine that doesn't leave you looking orange when you leave.
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Review from Anastasia O.
Pittsburg, CA
5/3/2011
I really like this place. Everything is clean and smells good. the rooms are spacious and well put together. The two people I have talked to at the front desk were helpful and explained everything thoroughly. I have done the beds and the spray tan both are excellent. I plan on giving the body wrap a try as well. I will let you know how it goes. Wish me luck.
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Review from Alvina W.
San Francisco, CA
2/8/2009
Prior to Shimmer, I had never tried any type of tanning (other than the times I get to lay on the beach-but in San Francisco, you can read: no tanning). But I decided, it's a new year, why not try spray tanning? If I don't like it, it'll only last a week...
So I did. Two weeks ago I tried it for the first time and had a pretty pleasant experience. I panicked about having a "Ross experience" and tried to prepare as best as I could by scrubbing beforehand and reading the yelp reviews so I knew what to expect.
They tell you that it's not harmful to breathe during the tanning, but that they recommend you hold your breath for the few seconds. Okay, so I've gone twice and I can't do it. The shock of the spray and the coldness of it inevitably makes me not just breathe, but take a deep breath. Props to those who can hold their breath. But I digress.
The first time I tanned, the color came out pretty evenly and I was satisfied with the results. The only thing that bothered me a bit was that my hands were really dark compared to the rest of the body, but it wasn't a big deal. (Overall 4 stars).
I went back for my second "free" session recently and the color did not come out as evenly. To be fair, most of the color on the body came out nicely. But MY HANDS!! My hands are blotchy and uneven and seriously look like I have some sort of skin disease. I have no idea what happened, but parts of my hand and fingers are "tan" and others are not and it has been driving me nuts ever since the color has developed.
Bottom Line: this place is clean, I liked that they called me after the first session to see how it turned out, it's awesome they give first time customers a second session for free. I would probably give this place a 3.5-4 stars, but I also type a lot (read: I have to look at my hands a lot). And everytime I look down, I get a little more freaked out. -
Review from Keila E.
Los Angeles, CA
6/20/2007
I had a really great expierience here. The receptionist was SOOO NICE, and went out of her way to show me what to expect in the booth.
The tan has lasted almost 4 days! I couldnt be happier!
And since it was my first time, I got 2 for 1!! i will be back this weekend! -
Review from Lacee K.
3/11/2009
I do believe I love you.
No longer do I need to worry about treking a mile to Tan Bella on foot and finding a cab to come back. No longer do I need to ponder how very sad and pale my skin is, for I have found Shimmer.
You freaked me out at first with your strange sign and yelp reviews regarding spray tanning at lunch (wtf?) but I have learned you have beds. Big, beautiful medium and high pressure beds. Now I can walk in during lunchtime plop down onto a medium pressure bed (perhaps take a nap?) and emerge just a bit tanner, injected with vitamin d and NO LONGER FREEZING AND SHIVERING. Hooray for ANYTHING that has me take my coat off in SF! Hooray Shimmer!!
P.S. I went in today before 1 and was pleasantly surprised at the $5 off if you come in between 11 and 1:30 promo!! -
Review from william w.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 6/11/2010
The new Fit bodywrap is amazing technology... I really didn't know what to expect. but, after 3 sessions this week my body fat dropped 2% and I look and feel a bit more toned... very pleased... It's my new alternative "workout"
I also found the heat to be very relaxing... soothing on the muscles and joints... Already purchased another package... Highly recommend it!...1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/6/2010
Absolutely the best tanning salon in SF... this place looks amazing... the new make over of the… Read more »
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Review from Katherine J.
San Francisco, CA
1/30/2007
Shimmer --- 4 stars
You can go to Shimmer on your lunch break, from 11:30 --- 1:30, and get a discount on your tan; plus, if you get the clear formula (which gradually darkens in to a "natural-looking, golden tan") your officemates will be none the wiser upon your return to work.
First time customers get a 2-for-1 deal---pretty standard in the spray-tan world---so I got the clear solution on my first trip and the medium-dark, instant tan solution on my second. They both turned out well, and the clear formula was particularly nice because you feel like you're less likely to stain your clothes.
My only hang-up here is that I would have preferred that the staff be a little more attentive in helping me remove all the excess tanning goop post-spray.
And lastly, I remember the shop girl telling me that customers who mention they found Shimmer on Yelp get, I believe, 20% off the price of the tan. So that's nice.Listed in: I'm just naturally tan.
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Review from Autumn K.
Updated - 7/16/2010
Went for my second spray today and I am so enamoured with the staff, the service, and the excellent results. I see this becoming a weekly routine. Who knew I had such untapped potential? I thought I was pretty hot before...now I'm like WHOAH. LOL. They really are magicians over there. Can't wait to try to "super dark spray" once I'm veteranized.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/15/2010
I'm a believer. I'm a convert. I may be an addict. After years (and I mean YEARS) of convincing… Read more »
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Review from Caroline J.
San Francisco, CA
3/15/2009
Convenient, clean, classy, and cute - Shimmer salon is the total tanning package. The store is perfectly located downtown so you can get your Vitamin D before or after work. They offer high pressure, low pressure, and spray tanning - for any desired darkening process. Prices are about average for a san francisco tanning salon - not too expensive, but not cheap either. The staff is helpful, friendly, and SUPER sweet and make waiting for beds an enjoyable experience. Call and book an appointment to reserve your favorite bed ahead of time. The next time you need to clear the clouds away - make a stop into Shimmer for a little bit of sunshine to brighten up your day!
Listed in: And the paycheck goes to...., Beauty in the Bay, Best BODYWORK.
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Review from anjela i.
Concord, CA
6/2/2010
I have been going to Shimmer for fake tans for about a year. I went in last week to try their new bodywrap. AMAZING!! I strongly recommend!!
The employees are very hospitable - they gave me tea to drink before the wrap, a bunch of forms to fill out and a choice of what movie to watch. Once I was in the room the girl who was helping me explained how everything worked and what to do.
Once I was dressed and ready to go (and after applying the free sample of the cellulite spray) I was weighed in and measured my BMI along with body fat %. They keep a log so after the 3rd time you can see the results.
It was time to lay down in the bodywrap bag (which looks like a huge sleeping bag). After 10 minutes the girl came back in to check on me and make sure I had plenty of water, a towel and the temperature was comfortable.
The whole time that I was laying down I was incredibly relaxed. I literally felt all of my muscles start to relax. The heat never got uncomfortable.
Once I was finished the same girl that was helping me came back and helped me get out of the bodywrap. They also provide juice (I'm guessing to get your blood sugar back up).
Right away I ZERO back pain (I usually have chronic muscle pain in my back). I has been 5 days since my wrap and I can definitely see the difference! I lost about an inch off my waist, my cellulite went down about 20% and my back has never felt better!
I can't wait for my 2nd and 3rd sessions!!! -
Review from Billy Dee R.
San Francisco, CA
1/16/2008
Last time I went for the spray on tan I was given coffee filters to put on my feet. Yes, you read that right, coffee filters! Surprise, the bottom of my feet, toes and nails were stained by the spray tan, and it took days to get it off. Who needs that?
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Review from Aud V.
San Francisco, CA
2/7/2010 5 Check-ins Here
Shimmer fakes it best. I've been going here for several years anytime I need a glow - usually before a trip to vegas or somewhere that my pasty SF self will stand out with a bit of color. I've been to several places in the city and am the happiest with the results, accuracy of color (not too orange or too brown), atmosphere and prices of shimmer. Their little boutique is cute, they also have a real tanning bed if you're into that (i swore it off, for now but it's good to know its there just in case). It's the most convenient tanning place to the fidi and they have late hours so its very easy to get an appt for right afterwork and they even have special lunch time prices too. So - as you can see I'm really happy with Shimmer and have referred many friends there over the years. But my latest encounter with them is what scored them a 5 instead of 4 star review. I went in one evening before heading on a trip that required a tan. Did the normal routine (so I thought) - no prep spray, clear, level 2. I woke up the next morning ready to see my bronze and check for any possible areas i may have made a mistake that would need to be fixed in the shower. And WTF is it me or am I the exact same color...? umm... uh oh. So I spend the rest of the day periodically checking and inconspicuously comparing my skin color to others and being pretty bumed with the similarity of my freshly "tanned" (or lack there of) skin versus my friends non-tanned skin. Humph. Something went wrong. Well i was away for the weekend so i couldn't deal with this then - but as soon as I returned I sent an email to the email address on their website letting them know what happened.
Their owner replied very quickly with a sincere apology and let me know she was out of town but would look into it as soon as she returned Then the next day I got an email explaining to me the mistake (kind of mine and kind of theirs) and offered me a very fair offer to come back to fix the mistake. I was really impressed with the speed and sincere concern they showed to make sure I was taken care of.
5 solid stars for Shimmer.Listed in: Make me Glamorous
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Review from Roseanne W.
San Francisco, CA
12/27/2005
This place is ok. I'll be honest. I like to spray tan. A lot. Generally I use mystic tan (Shimmer uses Magic Tan), and I have to say that I like mystic better. Magic tan uses alot more bronzers, so tons of color came off onto my towel. Also, it was much blotchier and there were more drips than Mystic tan. I have to wait until morning to see how this tan really turned out, but as of now. I'm a little scared.
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Review from Jenn K.
San Francisco, CA
5/2/2005
This spray tan actually looks real - HONEST. Definetly listen to the staff for the secret to getting your hands and feet to look natural (the dead give away for every other spray tan I have ever tried) but it looked great and lasted for a couple of days. And, it is much cheaper then going to Hawaii for a week!!
