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Studio Abasi
Categories: Beauty and Spas Skin Care Beauty and Spas Makeup Artists Beauty and Spas Hair Removal Skin Care, Makeup Artists, Hair Removal [Edit]
2315 Durant Ave(between Ellsworth St & Dana St)
Berkeley, CA 94704
Neighborhood: UC Campus Area
(510) 665-5544
- Hours:
Tue-Sat 10 am - 6:30 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
Mosa L. said: "The only way I could be happier with my experience here is if they could find a way to make the treatment painless. That said, even the pain of laser hair removal is made far more pleasant by the delightful and thorough Kari. I am…" read more »
125 reviews for Studio Abasi
125 reviews in English
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Review from Marie B.
San Ramon, CA
9/19/2011
My gf recommended this place to me because she was a previous client of Shannon. The gf knew I was a little hesitant to get waxed because of my previous experience at a nail salon (i know i know, i should have known better!).
So on with my review... So I originally scheduled my appointment for a Brazilian however i switched it to a "bikini facial" due to an ingrown that went out of control. Shannon immediately took action and took care of the situation! I was so relieved when it was over, she was super gentle and talked to me the entire time. I know some people may not like it, however it worked for me cause I totally got distracted from what she was doing! (not going to mention the details). After that she tells me I can still get waxed since my ingrown wasn't anywhere near where I was going to get waxed!
I go to the next room to get the waxing started... let me tell you I was a nervous wreck!! I was super scared it was going to hurt... after about 10 - 15 mins it was all done :) It hurt a little, but on a scale from 1 - 10 (10 being the highest) i give it a 2! Shannon is totally professional and she knows her stuff...
I'm definitely going back for my 4 week follow up... Thanks again Shannon!! You are amazing! -
Review from Nick L.
Glendale, CA
8/29/2011
I came to Studio Abassi in the Fall of my senior year in college, with a face full of acne. I had low levels of acne throughout college, but in an attempt to rid myself of it completely I actually ended up aggravating it to unbelievable levels. I tried Proactiv before, and that did nothing for me. The over-the-counter acne products made by Johnson & Johnson worsened my acne dramatically. Furthermore, benozyl peroxide dried my face out (and any attempts to remedy the dryness with lotion just created more acne flare ups!).
When friends and family began commenting on the dire status of my face, I decided to search for professional help. Studio Abassi had the best reviews on Yelp, so I went in for a consultation. It was easy to get an appointment (usually you can get one within 1-2 weeks), and Shannon (who runs the place) is a fantastic aesthetician. I learned so much about acne throughout the process too. Shannon not only helps you get rid of your acne, but she also teaches you some of the science behind acne prevention. I now know what foods and face products to avoid to keep my face clear.
I would definitely recommend Studio Abassi to anybody who is fed up with whack acne treatments on the market today. You might get sticker shock when you see the prices for the acne treatments (I was a very, very severe case and spent between $500-$750 over the course of 9 months), but you get a lot for the money --a program that works. I saw noticeable acne reduction in 2 months, and a gradual improvement all the way to 100% clear by the end 8 or 9 months. I was just so fed up with using products that didn't work (and wasting a lot of time researching them) that it made sense for me to go in for professional treatments.
Great staff, great service, great products. -
Review from Youri P.
Garden Grove, CA
1/25/2012
I can't believe that I can finally say that I have CLEAR SKIN.
I've had acne since the 6th grade. The type of acne I had wasn't extremely noticeable to anyone but me. I didn't feel like my skin was mine, it had so many bumps underneath and these would flare up all the time. It was a constant battle on my face and I felt so helpless to do anything about it. I thought of resorting to laser treatments because the dermatologists that I went to didn't do extractions and couldn't help me control my acne.
I found Shannon through yelp and seeing the 5 star ratings with over 100 reviews was really comforting and helped me take that first step to set up an appointment. She is a little pricey, but for finally clear skin and not wasting more money on products that actually hurt your skin, it is so worth it. She not only does acne facials to extract everything out (super painful, I take Aleve before I go and it still hurts so much), she coaches you on what products to avoid, what foods to avoid if you're acneic (no more seaweed :[ ) and provides you support to get through the treatment process.
After about 4 months of going to her, I only have one more visit left and she says I don't have to ever come back unless I want to get a facial or need more products because I will be finally free.
I can't thank her enough. If you're struggling with acne, go to Shannon. She will change your life, and as cheesy as that sounds, it really is the truth. -
Review from Rebecca B.
Roslyn, NY
2/6/2012
this place deserves all of the reviews that it gets. shannon is absolutely the sweetest, and most knowledgeable person ive ever been to for waxing. she talks you the whole way through it and the wax she uses is not painful basically at all. best place in berkeley!
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Review from Judy P.
San Pablo, CA
12/14/2011
Very impressed with service. My first appointment was for a bikini wax, was very nervous due to a previous experience at another place. The services was great, made me feel very comfortable and made sure I was aware of her next steps. The wax and techniques performed were practically painless and prices are affordable.I am definitely making this one of my go to places.
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Review from Nancy C.
San Francisco, CA
7/10/2011
High-maintenance, hygienic or maybe both, depending on how you look it, I like my hooha to be hair-free. I feel sexier, prettier and all-around more confident. However, the process of having hot wax poured on what would be considered a sensitive area and having hair on said sensitive area yanked out by the roots can make me feel far from sexy, pretty or confident.
Alas, I only entrust what can potentially be a slightly awkward and embarrassing situation to Shannon. For the past year, she has been my go-to person for my monthly Brazilian waxes. I've been to places in LA that charged 1 1/2 times the price she does, and have done a way shoddier job. It only takes Shannon about 10 to 15 almost-painless minutes to remove every lil' stray hair down there, and I don't have to get in any weird positions that make me wonder, "Does my butt look fat from that angle?"
Shannon's great at distracting from the pain and her cold-wax-next-to-the-skin-hot-wax-next-to-the-stri p method helps as well, but good rules of thumb for those visiting Brazil for the first time is wait at least 2 days post-period, and pop an ibuprofen about half an hour before your appointment.
Even though I'm moving into the city, I'll still be trekking across the bridge for my monthly Brazilian. Looks like every place in SF charges LA prices, and I can't be guaranteed quality like I know I can get from Shannon. -
Review from Jen S.
Berkeley, CA
6/8/2011
100 reviews and 5stars? I guess I'm lucky 101 and I'm privileged to start the rally to 200+.
Today I had my first visit to Studio Abasi after booking a same-day appointment just hours before and it's really no wonder this place is so well liked. When Shannon found out I was a first-timer, she gave me a hug. WHO DOES THAT? I love it. I'm usually not super fond of instant contact with a stranger, but you know what-- it's nice to get a hug first from someone you're about to be intimate with in a strange yet highly professional way. It really put me at ease.
The truth is-- I think Shannon has a terrible job! I can't imagine a worse job. (Well, maybe being a dentist. I guess I'm not one to cozy up with strangers' orifices, but I digress.) That being said, I could not be happier that someone so wonderful has chosen this line of work! Thank you, thank you, thank you for doing what you do!!
Something else-- I was here for a waxing today, but I left with an appointment to come back for a facial and skin care consultation. Shannon told me how old she is and she really, truly looks younger than not only myself (I am 17 yrs her junior) but many of the u-grads I've taught at Berkeley! Holy WOW, she is stunning. If only we could all age so well!! She gave me a printout of information and consulted with me about bad foods and ingredients for your skin (even though I was there for a wax!) Someone like this, who goes so far out of their way to make you comfortable and happy, deserves each and every one of those stars. I hope Yelp has helped her business flourish!! -
Review from Michelle Y.
Berkeley, CA
12/1/2011
Great facials. Great service (shannon). The only reason I dont give it a 5 is because of the prices (steep) but no pain no gain! if you have a special occasion, this is the place to go. It is worth it.
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Review from Mai P.
Alameda, CA
11/23/2011
I had my first visit today in preparation for my April wedding. I've never had a facial before, so Shannon guided me through every step. I can tell she's very passionate about skin care. She thoroughly answered all of my questions and offered tons of honest, helpful tips. I'm going to see her monthly between now and my wedding day, and I'm sure I'll continue coming back afterward! Thanks, Shannon!
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Review from Elaine L.
Berkeley, CA
6/23/2011 1 Check-in Here
Okay, let me preface this by saying I am a waxing novice. I had my first full Brazilian done last year at a different place and it left me raw, mildly traumatized, and most importantly, with my legs up in the air for the next two hours trying to (blindly) pull out all the orphan hairs left behind. It wasn't a fun ordeal.
So I may not have the same breadth of experience when it comes to the finer points of punani epilation (and I almost used the word defoliation here -- oops), but I can say with 100% conviction that Shannon is amazing at what she does. Have you seen that dorky little chart they have at doctors' offices with the smiley faces and the pain scale? This was probably a 2 with nary a grimace; by comparison, I tear up when I pluck my own eyebrows, so y'know. She walked me through the process step-by-step, explaining the wax choice, pulling technique, and the reasons why I might've had a less than stellar experience with my previous wax. I never felt like I was being rushed and she took plenty of time to make sure I was completely satisfied the results, and even then, it probably took 20 minutes max.
I'll definitely be coming back for future waxes and I'm also considering giving the acne treatments a try.
Oh, and so you don't wander around like an idiot for ten minutes like me: when you walk into the Berkeley City Club, walk down the hallway next to the right of the big staircase in the lobby. Another set of stairs is on the left and that'll take you up to Studio Abasi. I'm sure these instructions are elsewhere, but I clearly missed them, hehe. -
Review from Zaazaa M.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 5/16/2011
For what its worth, I am updating my happy review from years ago:
I have continued to follow Shannon's skin advice and use her products, despite having moved to and all around South America a bunch of times since my last review. This required me to weigh down visiting friends with packages of face-wash and elixers, and believe me, I wouldn't have done it if I wasn't absolutely convinced that Shannon's advice and products are the reason my once acneyed skin is now clear and beautiful. It sounds too good to be true, but that's all there is to it! I hope that if you decide to visit her studio you have as good an experience as I have had!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/8/2009
I haven't had reliably nice skin since college, but this summer my skin got really kind of bad after… Read more »
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Review from J H.
Berkeley, CA
12/15/2011
They have great reviews for a reason! As good as it gets. Professional, pain free service in a beautiful space. Valerie is hilarious and will keep you laughing while you're getting waxed so it's not at all awkward. And their prices are totally reasonable. There are places a few bucks cheaper, but the trade-offs aren't worth it. This place is tops.
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Review from debbie t.
3/16/2011
Shannon is a dream! I LOVE Studio Abasi. I've been coming here for over a year, and she def. helped clear up my skin. I'm sorry did I say "helped"? I mean she alone did all the work. I just followed her advice--not all the time, but for the most part ;] She's the reason I have great skin now!
Everyone, and I mean everyone from family, friends to strangers, have complimented on my skin. I use to travel a lot and with the stress of school, my skin was horrible! Acne? Check. Hyperpigmentation? Check. Pus? Check. Redness? Check. Plain ugly skin? CHECK. Due to a normal routine of Shannon, about 2-3 times a month, I now pretty much have clear skin for the most part. An occasion break out or two, but I guess that's normal, esp. compared to my face full of acne a few months ago. Now people come to me for skin advice! I still wish I have skin like my sister. She puts FOOT CREAM on her face and still does break out. Sigh. Oh well, at least I have Shannon.
Shannon is so friendly and welcoming! I dont know how she does..she works without breaks and has a little one at home, but she still manages to put a smile on her face whenever I walk in. She loves what she's doing and it def. shows. She use to have acne, but it's pretty hard to believe since her skin is so beautiful. You dont have to take my word...ask her anything and she'll happily answer you. She's honest and keeps up with her research.
Shannon, you're a GODDESS! Keep up the good work =]
I'm not going to lie...Shannon can be pricey, but I def. think it's worth it. You only have one face, and Shannon can help you look your best. So instead of eating out so often or buying that sweater, invest in your skin, invest in yourself. Trust me, you wont regret it =] -
Review from Cathy L.
Berkeley, CA
9/2/2011
Hands down the best, least painful, fastest bikini wax I have ever had. Will never go anyplace else.
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Review from Lexie O.
West Hollywood, CA
5/20/2011
Not sure why it has taken me so long to add to the plethora of 5 star yelp reviews, but I figured now is as good a time as any.
I have seen Shannon for acne treatments and Valerie for almost the entire menu of waxing, both are EXCELLENT at what they do, its no wonder they are booked out weeks in advance.
I finally decided to give Studio Abasi a whirl (almost a year ago exactly) when my wedding was fast approaching and my face was not in wedding shape... I had been trying every cleanser, moisturizer, and acne treatment in the books from Murad, to clean and clear, to lancome, clinique... you name it, and none of it worked! So I stepped into Shannon's office of magic and in 1 month she was able to get me to a presentable state. I can't even begin to express the gratitude I have! Shannon is personable, caring, and extremely dedicated and passionate about her work. She is a god-send, and I am so glad I am one of her clients!
Valerie also does AMAZING work... I have had my eyebrows waxed plenty, but don't knock eyebrow waxing until you have gone to Valerie! The wax and technique she uses is a world of difference from the typical nail salon eyebrow wax! I love love Valerie, she is so fun, cheerful and energetic and makes waxing fun and nearly painless. I am just a huge fan of Studio Abasi in general (aka Shannon and Valerie) because they truly care about their clients, they are excellent at what they do, and you are guaranteed a good experience every time you go. -
Review from Lara C.
Berkeley, CA
8/22/2011
After a traumatic painful experience getting a bikini wax in Hawaii the day I arrived, at a random salon where the lady clearly didn't know what she was doing, I decided I needed to carefully research who would do my next bikini wax. I found Valerie at Studio Abasi on Yelp one year ago and have been really happy with her. Her cheerful chatter keeps my mind distracted from the fact that she's tearing hairs from one of the most sensitive parts of my body. Amazingly, it barely hurts. She uses high quality wax and she obviously knows what she's doing. She also makes sure not to leave strays behind at the end. Thank god for Valerie, she's managed to cure me of the PTSD related to bikini waxes that I experienced after Hawaii.
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Review from Ann B.
Suisun City, CA
5/11/2011
There was a huge mix-up with the time of my appointment. However, Shannon graciously took me about twenty minutes late.
She really knows her stuff and is all about educating you on how to get clear skin.
I have had bad acne for four years now, and for the first time in those four years, I feel hopeful that I can see some long-term improvement in my skin.
The extractions were painful (of course) but I felt refreshed and clean afterward.
The products she advocates and sells are excellent and reasonably priced; I highly recommend that you use them! -
Review from Rachael G.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 6/29/2011
I just wanted to quickly update my review by saying over a year later (and having only seen Shannon a few times since my last review) my skin is still looking GORGEOUS solely because I follow her instructions and use the products she recommended.
It was also really sweet that out of nowhere she happened to email me and check-in to make sure things were going well. I love Shannon and will continue to recommend her to all my friends especially since I don't even have to go that often to get amazing results.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/17/2010
I first went to see Shannon almost a year ago when I was at my breaking point trying to figure out… Read more »
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Review from Jed P.
Berkeley, CA
7/25/2010
This review is long, long overdue. I'd totally forgotten about it until I had to reschedule for a clean up. I've been waxing for quite some time now, but this was my first time in Studio Abasi (or in Norcal for that matter).
I actually intended to try About Face & Body first, but when I went there, I felt so discriminated against. They have a policy that they don't wax anything below the waist for men. How unBerkeley-like! C'est une scandale! You know, girls aren't the only ones who wax their lower decks! And I do hope that the pragmatics of my previous utterances has led you to deduce that I am in fact a boy. Having established that, let's continue.
So there I was, dejected, borderline suicidal (okay, I exaggerate a little bit). Then I had an epiphany - duh, I have an iPhone, I can just Yelp other waxing places. Seeing that Studio Abasi was listed number one, I gave them a call and inquired if they did brazilians on men. I was so happy that I was on the verge of tears (again, I do have this tendency to dramatize certain events for aesthetic reasons) when they said YES, but as part of their protocol, the first visit was an orientation to get to know me. I did and still do not know if the "orientation" was simply because I'm a guy and they had to see that I'm not some freak of nature out to devour women. Fortunately, I am not a freak of nature and women, let's just say, aren't my thing - though I love my girlfriends with a passion.
I had Valerie and she made the experience really easy for me - I mean, not so much the pain but rather the idea of getting naked to another complete stranger just when I was beginning to warm up to the one in Socal. She's a funny girl, talking to you to get your mind off things even in the most awkward positions - you know, those situations that you usually do with your partner (unless you're into casual encounters - I don't judge). Do excuse me, I have a tendency to digress.
In terms of the "pain," I usually deal with it by taking Advil half an hour before my appointment. But alas, how unfortunate I was, I thought, to have no pain relievers in my medicine cabinet on the day of my appointment. Interestingly enough, even without the pain relievers, it was still less painful than the ones I had in Socal. It was definitely the least painful experience I've ever had.
As other reviewers have pointed out, the fact that they have a user friendly interface online to schedule/cancel appointments is definitely a plus! That and the fact that they accept credit cards. How convenient! -
Review from Cynthia H.
San Jose, CA
1/26/2011
Shannon and Studio Abasi are awesome! I love this place, even though I usually tear up a bit during my facials. Extractions aren't supposed to be fun - they're pushing out all the gunk in your pores - and I'm a big believer in the "no pain no gain" mantra. After going to see Shannon since last June (right around when my skin was starting to get a bit moody with me due to the stress of graduation and life in general), my skin is the best that it's been in years.
Over the years, I had tried a few different products like Retin-A and antibiotics, but being the lazy bum that I am I would tend to slack off on my regimens and end up with the same oily slick skin that I started off with. With Shannon, she customizes a facial regimen for you, which I have to say was more than enough to make a lazy person like me commit to a home regimen using the products she recommended. The first month or so I was still breaking out, but about 2-3 months after my first appointment my skin cleared up so much that even my naggy Chinese mother complimented me. That's definitely a win in my book!
Plus, the products that she recommends are actually quite affordable (around $18-25). The first appointment itself was the priciest because I purchased products, but the products definitely last a long time, with some lasting up to 6 months, so just think of a long term investment in yo' face.
FYI: Parking in Berkeley, especially around campus, can be tough, but I've always managed to find metered street parking on Durant (usually right next to or across the street from the Berkeley City Club). -
Review from Jasmina R.
Emeryville, CA
9/7/2011
I just had a pain-free brazilian wax!!!! I didn't think it could be possible. Shannon was kind and great at making me feel at ease, THANK YOU. I absolutely recommend her services to all who are looking to have a ready for the beach bikini line!!!!!
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Review from Jennifer M.
Berkeley, CA
1/13/2011
I thought I could go five months without getting my eyebrows done, so I could wait to see my aesthetician back home, but alas, my eyebrows were looking unruly, so I needed to find someone who was up for the task. Shannon at Studio Abasi was definitely up for the task.
Normally I only get my eyebrows tweezed, no wax, so I was really hesitant to try a new place. Shannon could tell I was apprehensive, and was great about making me feel at ease, and listening to what I wanted. I did allow her to wax small areas of my eyebrow to give them a cleaner look (they were in really bad shape when I went to see her!), but she was great about stopping and letting me look at the progress so I could give her the go-ahead before just going to town on my eyebrows. This was really important to me because I have really thin/fine hair and there are parts of my eyebrows, due to bad past waxing experiences, that need to grow back in, so she was really careful not to over wax/tweeze to allow the parts to grow that still need to.
I left with perfectly shaped eyebrows, exactly how I wanted them, and paid what I thought was a reasonable price. I went back home over the holidays to my regular aesthetician, but when that most recent clean-up wears off, I'm definitely making another appointment with Shannon.
I think the key with Studio Abasi, as with any place that provides beauty services, is to be really explicit about what you want, but to also put a certain level of trust in professionals. I was very clear with what I wanted, Shannon was great about "checking in" with me during the process, but I also left some decisions up to her discretion...there's a reason why I don't tweeze my own eyebrows at home!
One minor warning: the studio is in a beautiful old building, which doesn't have a lot of space, so there's no "reception" area. As a result, you have to write your name and appointment time on a note and slip it under the door to the studio, to let Shannon know you're there. It felt really odd at first, but when I finally met Shannon she explained the situation to me and while it does seem a bit strange it makes sense given their space situation. The waiting area is nice, and like I said it's in a beautiful historical building so it's a nice place to be in general. -
Review from Kate S.
Berkeley, CA
7/22/2010
First off, I've never had anything waxed. I go to Shannon strictly for her facials and acne treatments. I have been struggling with acne since high school, and no amount of Proactiv, peels, dermabrasion, Differin gel or dermatologists visits helped me control my acne the way Shannon has.
On your first visit, Shannon will sit with you for a good amount of time and discuss your specific problems. She is incredibly personable and will help you to understand your given skin challanges.
I always book the package appointments (4 for $250) as I routinely go in for facials or if I have a breakout. You can book and cancel all of your appointments on an online system, which is really user-friendly. They also send you a reminder notice via email 24 hours before.
All of the products I have purchased from Shannon have worked, and she is happy to give samples for you to try a product for a week or two before purchasing it. Products I have used are: Green Tea Cleansing Beads (Face Wash), Vitamin A Treatment, Benzoyl Peroxide 10%, Sulfur Sal Gel, Glycolic Serum, and the moisturizer and sunblock.
Shannon is honest, and an all around great person. If you have acne that you have been struggling with, I highly recommend giving Studio Abasi a try! -
Review from Jen E.
Berkeley, CA
12/11/2010
First off, history: I've been going to dermatologists since I was 11 or 12, whenever puberty hit and the accompanying acne ravaged my Face. I've been on Accutane and countless topical creams/gels - differin, retin-A, etc -, tried antibiotics, and all of the above in countless combinations. The only thing that really worked to clear up my skin was Accutane, but it was in the early days of the stuff, so I don't think I was put on a really thought-out program or regimen for it. And the acne came back.
I'm not sure what it was that motivated me to see Shannon, but I'm really glad I did. I no longer take prescription drugs and I don't use acne-causing makeup anymore. The products and care she recommends have done so much more than anything I've gotten from a dermatologist's office. My face is much more consistently clear, and the education she armed me with makes it even easier to maintain when I don't see her.
Just FYI, I recommend Shannon for her expertise and experience. She's studied with some serious names in dermatology, constantly keeps her education up-to-date, and I've found that her answers to my questions are much more thorough and researched than anything I've gotten from my dermatologists. She knows her sh*t.
I've only tried the acne treatments and consultations in terms of skincare, so that's what I'm rating on. Just to note, if you go to Studio Abasi for acne treatment, don't expect spa services or fluffy facials - acne treatment is serious stuff that requires a commitment and work beyond the initial visit on your part. (And it's so, so, so worth it!) -
Review from L S.
Concord, CA
10/31/2011
I am so lucky to have found Shannon!!!!! I'm 33 years old and I've struggled with acne since I was a teenager. My acne was mild when I was young and I believed that I would grow out of it. The older I got the worse my acne seemed to get. About 4 years ago I began to develop cystic acne. I've used all of the products you've seen advertised on TV; Proactive, Skin ID, Murad. I tried every 3 step regimen out there. I went to countless dermatologists and was prescribed harsh creams that would dry out my face so much that I could not use the products consistently. I was also prescribed antibiotics that would upset my stomach and did little clear up my face. At my final visit with the dermatologist I was told there was nothing more they could do for me and because of my cystic acne they suggested I start taking Accutane. I did not want to take Accutane and began to accept the fact that I would just have to live with my acne and hide my face behind my make-up... Then I found Shannon. I came across Studio Abasi by accident. I was simply looking for a place to get a facial. I noticed Studio Abasi's 5 star rating and began to read reviews. I read great things about the Acne care Shannon provided. I was extremely skeptical. I felt like I had tried everything already; but I made an appointment anyway. It's the best thing I ever did. I began seeing Shannon in June 2011. In my first visit Shannon asked that I bring everything that I was using on my face, make up, cleansers .., etc. She went through the ingredients in all my products and pointed out ingredients that I should not be using. I ultimately threw away every piece of make-up and cleansers I brought in that day. I followed Shannon's regimen. It is now October and I am completely acne free. I never thought my face would be healthy again. Shannon truly cares about her clients. From day one she made me believe she could clear up my skin. My goal was to be able to walk out of the house without make up. Shannon made that happen for me. She has given me my confidence back.
Thank you Shannon!!! =) -
Review from Gretchen Z.
Oakland, CA
7/8/2011
She is even better than my derm!!
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Review from laura m.
Oakland, CA
8/4/2011
I had a wonderful experience with Shannon who did my eyebrow wax, I've been loyal to other places in the past, but this is my NEW place. Shannon is warm and friendly, and knows her stuff, I would highly recommend going to Studio Abasi. Thanks Shannon!
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Review from Meera G.
Berkeley, CA
12/22/2010
Shannon was great at her work and also friendly. She was talkative enough to distract from the fact that she was ripping hair out of the roots, but not too much to be annoying.
She uses different types of wax based on the location of hair to be removed. Waxing my underarm has never been this remarkably, relatively, painless! Seriously, it barely hurt.
The location is unusual: inside the Berkeley City Club, up around the stairs, but it is quite a lovely building!Listed in: Weddings: Planning a…
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Review from Kay G.
Richmond, CA
1/1/2011
Will not go here again. Some people like the talkative, friendly thing. When I am going to get a waxing I am not always in the mood to tell all about who I am and why I am visiting them. I think it's best for salons - hair or wax to feel it out with their clients.
Also, I left with rash burns...I guess I should have started with that. -
Review from Robyn F.
Los Angeles, CA
6/14/2010
Best Brazilian wax I've ever had.
In case anyone is wondering, waxing your hoo-ha is painful. No way around it. However, the wax Valerie did at Studio Abasi, was the least painful I have ever experienced.
And, lest you all think I was subjecting my precious hoo-ha to waxing at cheapskate nail salons....I want to point out that all of the other places I visited were similarly priced and had equally high marks according to other Yelpers.
I've tried:
1. Marilyn Jaeger - $70 (about $20 MORE than Studio Abasi) - They did a great job, but not as awesome as Studio Abasi.
2. Lonni's Punani Waxing - $55 - She was fine, but actually refused to give me a landing strip. Apparently a landing strip makes my lady bits seem....out-dated. I was given a triangle instead. And, while ostensibly making the va-jay more...current, it had the undesirable side-effect of quicker regrowth. Lame.
3. Waxing by Tracy at Hair Help - $50 - This was my worst experience by far. Tracy's beside manner was great. But, she BURNED me. It hurt, and my skin was peeling for days after. I'll never return.
I've also learned that hard wax is the sh*t. Times 5,000! Studio Abasi was the first place to use it on me. It minimized pain, left a smoother finish, and effectively left me with ZERO ingrowns.
This is the only place I'll go in the Bay area from now on.
Highly recommend :-D -
Review from victoria c.
Berkeley, CA
2/22/2010
Shannon is a sweet woman, however it doesn't make up for the experience I had. I waited for a few weeks to cool down before writing this review as I wanted to be as objective as possible.
the GOOD:
* on-line booking is convenient
* Shannon utilizes a comprehensive approach to skincare and consults you even about your decorative makeup
the BAD:
* strong sales push of the products she carries
and the UGLY:
* when I came Shannon asked me if its OK if some girl she trains would be present during my facial. I replied that I didn't mind, as i thought to myself there is nothing bad about another person being in the room. I though Shannon would just show her what she was doing and would talk her through the procedure. Boy how wrong I was.
* Shannon actually gave her student to perform my facial. I mean the entire facial, even extractions. NOW THIS IS NOT WHAT I CAME FOR.
I waited for the entire MONTH to get to see Shannon specifically, I pay the full price in order to get my professional facial care, and I get a student to do it? If I wanted to put my face in the hands of a novice, I'd go to some beauty school and let their students to practice on me for $15.
* after the extractions my skin received a lotion and cream. That's it. Other cosmeticians I've visited put calming mask on after the extractions, or some anti-bacterial mask, or do high-frequency. I got moisturizer on my open pores and got sent outside with a RAW face.
* I came for a purifying facial. No one ever touched the clogged pores of the nose. I walked out with a gray-ish looking nose, same as I walked in.
* Shannon's protege bruised my face. I had purple marks all over.
* Nearly every *extraction* I got, turned into a massive inflammation the next day, which was expected (I mentioned above that I received no calming treatment after the extractions)
*In the result my face looked tenfold worse after the treatment than before it. I cried the next day because I was embarrassed to go to work and school - that's how bad it was. I was so disappointed and heartbroken. I can not stress enough how horribly my face looked after the treatment. I had to wait 2 weeks for my face to heal before I was able to get a facial with another estetician and recuperate from the damage that was done to my skin.
I'm not very dramatic person, but this experience was very close to nightmare. I got by far the worst facial in my life, that had only negative consequences.
I wouldn't be back under no circumstance. -
Review from Em M.
Albany, CA
Updated - 6/8/2011
It's been about a year and a half since I began regular treatments from Shannon of Studio Abasi. My skin is LEAGUES better than it used to be. The intense acne that I used to experience is gone. Of course I still have little problems here and there but they certainly heal faster and more completely thanks to the regimen Shannon has designed for me. She is really helpful with adjusting which products I should be using depending on the current condition of my skin, since women of course have hormone fluctuations which can really impact the skin (as can diet, stress, what have you). Bonus: Some of Shannon's products that I use to manage my acne also provide anti-aging benefits. My skin plays an immense role in my self esteem and this morning I looked in the mirror and felt really good about how my face looked... and I owe it to Shannon. :D
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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5/12/2010
Shannon is an absolute JEWEL. I had been struggling with acne and acne scars for years. When I… Read more »
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Review from Amy S.
Oakland, CA
1/8/2011
I've been going to Studio Abasi for a few years now. First just for waxing but now also for facials. Valerie and Shannon are both great for wax and Shannon is a miracle worker for skin. Shannon cleared up my rosacea and I never had to use all the drugs the Dermatologist recommended.
And Weddings, Shannon did our make-up and Valerie gave me beautiful eyelashes and we looked wonderful! -
Review from Cara Y.
Oakland, CA
Updated - 12/3/2009 3 photos
Let's just say there's a reason for all of these 5-star reviews.
Shannon is awesome.
Facials.
Waxing.
Makeup Application.
Sunless Tanning.
She does it all. And she does it all exceptionally, from her lovely little space located inside the gorgeous Berkeley City Club (parking can be a bitch, but hey, that's Berkeley).
The thing I love about Shannon (ok, so it's one of many things) is that she is incredibly knowledgeable, and is so focused on long-term, lasting results. She covers all the bases during her consultations, from your medical history, to dietary triggers, to actually investigating your current products to see if they contain contraindicated ingredients (who takes the time to do that sort of research? seriously awesome.).
If you're wanting a frou-frou facial where you're going to be surrounded by scented candles and anointed with essential oils, warm neck wraps, fairy dust and massaged for an hour with unicorn tears...you should probably stick with a place like an Aveda salon.
But if you want beautiful-skin-boot-camp, with a minimum of products (none of which Shannon is going to give you some hard sell about), you are in the best of hands. She has totally educated me and whipped my ass into shape, and I love her for it. Not to mention her flawless waxing skills!
I'll never go anywhere else.Listed in: Oh Baby.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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10/12/2008
Shannon Carter, where have you been all my life?!
Awesome facials, virtually painless waxing,… Read more »
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Review from Jennifer S.
Oakland, CA
12/2/2009
Shannon is absolutely amazing....there is a reason she has 5 stars with 40 something reviews! Not only is she good at what she does, she's a kick ass chic!
I went to Shannon for the first time for a wedding make up consultation this past August. I loved not only the great job she did with my make up but the advice she started giving me on my skin....which has had many problem areas for awhile now. I bought some products to help clear up the acne and booked my wedding day makeup. Fast forward to the day of. My make up was finished by 12:30. I proceeded to start crying by 1 and don't think I stopped until 8 that night. The day was beautifully overwhelming. When I look at the pics from the end of the night, it looks like my make up was just done. I kid you not. The airbrush foundation and eye make up did not budge in the midst of all the tears. I HIGHLY recommend Shannon for wedding day makeup!
In the meantime, my face got worse after the products that Shannon sold me were all used up and I panicked. I went back to Shannon last week to get me back on track. I had the Acne Facial and bought more products. She is knowledgeable and empowers you to really know your skin and take an active part in getting it clear. I really feel like my skin will be OK and I will no longer be embarrassed to go without a scarf. Thanks girl! -
Review from Katy O.
2/12/2010
My acne starting getting a lot worse when I started college. I hunted around for a couple of years for miracle solutions and I've read tons of testimonials for this product and that. Nothing worked and I had finally come to the conclusion that I would just have to grow out of it.
I decided one day that I'd treat myself to a facial and went to Yelp for reference. After doing a little research on Studio Abasi, I made an appointment for an acne facial.
Shannon gave me really good information on my particular type of acne, gave me the facial (which I won't lie, is a little uncomfortable when it comes to the extractions) and then recommended a treatment plan with 5 products.
It's true, it's expensive. $75 per facial (I went back five times total) and all my product together were I would say about $150-200. But it ACTUALLY works, and if you think about it, in the long run it's cheaper than the Proactive or Neutrogena SkinID (I got at least a year supply).
Those little bumps under my skin are almost gone. When I do get a breakout, it's only few pimples and they go away in a few days and without leaving those terrible little brown spots on my skin. Also, a couple of my products double in preventing wrinkles.
No only do her treatments work, but Shannon really does take a personal interest in your treatment and invites you to email her whenever you have questions or concerns, and she gets back to you in a flash.
Also, I have to mention, her waiting area is super comfy. I used to go early just so I'd have the excuse to sit there.Comment from shannon c. of Studio Abasi 3/4/2010
Hi Katy, Thank you for giving me the opportunity to work… More » -
Review from Beth H.
Berkeley, CA
2/28/2009
Shannon is definitely the best.
I saw her regularly for facials to keep my skin clear before I got married this past summer. After the festivities died down, I took a break from treatments (to help the wallet) and within a few months, my skin totally reverted back to breaking out. It's amazing how your quality of life can be affected by clear skin! I'm back to seeing Shannon again, and it's already a lot better.
Shannon also did my makeup for my wedding (as well as for the two mothers and my sister in law). I was intrigued by the fact that she uses airbrush make-up, which feels very light but is very long lasting. Working with her was great: we had a test run a few weeks before the ceremony, and she is very good at listening to what kind of style of make-up you are after. Her rates were also very reasonable, and she came on site to the Claremont Hotel to work on the day of the wedding. She was also able to recommend a hair person for me.
And finally, I just love Shannon as a person. She is always fun to talk to, very nice but with a wicked sense of humor. I'm always laughing through the (sometimes painful) extractions. -
Review from Jennifer C.
San Francisco, CA
12/1/2007
I was in a rush and had only about 30 minutes before my next appointment when I noticed in the car mirror how horrible my skin was looking. Why is skin so much easier to see in the car mirror? Anyway - should I pull over and buy some makeup or try to get a facial? Facial.
I dashed into the salon on college. I was skeptical, but optimistic. Shannon was amazing. She identified with my adult acne and knew exactly what to do. She was calm under my stress and rush. She did a vitamin A peel and put some vitamin A directly on my face before I left. by the end of the day my skin was glowing. I had to rinse it off a little early for a dinner party, and I was worried about my skin being red and blotchy and I was without makeup. Instead my skin looked healthy and glowing. Shannon also used an ultra sound to loosen up my skin before doing extractions. That was a new technique to me, but it seemed to work. Shannon gave me many great skin care tips in our short visit. I will definitely be going back to see Shannon. For my short and intense visit, Shannon charged me $75, which I thought was high for such a short session, but totally worth it. -
Review from Nuri K.
Berkeley, CA
10/11/2009
I've tried going to the cheap salons where you end up paying maybe $25 or $30 less than you would at a nice place but walk out feeling cheap in addition to the sting down under. And while I am genetically predisposed to loving bargains, I don't consider an extra twenty-thirty bucks every two months a great expenditure, if you're going to take the plunge to get a Brazilian. And Shannon will make your time and money worthwhile; if you've had bad or even sub-par waxing experiences, you may even still feel indebted to her, even after what you go through-- and there will at least be minimal pain.
Because no Brazilian can truly be painless. And Shannon doesn't make any pretenses about that, but rather seeks to make this most uncomfortable of experiences comfortable-- and dare I say, even fun. She is not only personable, gracious and hilarious but obviously passionate about her work and very knowledgeable. I love that she informs me of what products she is using and details every process so that I am aware of what to expect. Hair is removed quickly and efficiently, and I will say that Shannon's Brazilians are the least painful I've had.
Studio Abasi is the best one-woman show in town. If you want to look and feel beautiful, support local business, and treat your boyfriend/girlfriend all at once, consult Shannon Carter for any of your beauty needs ranging from hair removal to skincare and makeup. -
Review from Elisa D.
Oakland, CA
5/30/2009
Lovely person. Lovely space. Lovely service.
I had my first visit with Shannon yesterday. What a treat of a person and professional. Her space in the Berkeley City Club is gorgeous (a Julia Morgan building--felt like I discovered a hidden treasure).
Really, really liked her and the treatment. I've already booked another.
