I had been going to Long's wife Kay for over 13 years until her recent death. She was fantastic! My hair always looked great with her talent. Now in the new location on N. Main Street I continue with Long. He knows how to cut wavy/curly hair very well, which isn't any easy thing. Long will listen to you explain what you want. Highly recommended! Susan F. read more

The BEST in the BAY! First class conversations. It's always a good time whenever I visit Long. He is a true friend and great family man. His cuts are always clean. I'm a former Marine. I had a clean shaved head most my life until Long convinced me to grow it out and style it. I've been coming to Absolute Salon for over a decade! Always perfection. read more

Absolute Salon - Long time friendship with Long. - Hair Salons Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Long has been doing my hair for years and regardless of model I received excellent cut mostly because he is awesome and also listens to what people have in mind. Highly recommend it! read more

I was visiting from São Paulo and I brought my son to get a haircut, and I loved the cut, style and conversation with Long. He had us feeling & looking good. While there he told us he also cuts men's, woman's and kids hair. We will be back again! read more

I have been going here since I was in the fourth grade and I am now 19 and still have never switched or wanted to switch barbers. Long is incredibly dedicated to his craft and always welcomes customers in with a warming energy. He is always open to new haircut styles and always gets them perfectly, i recommend bringing in a picture of what you would like and he will make it a reality. read more

Absolute Salon - Haircut from today, and it's already turning heads - Hair Salons Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Long is the man! Excellent high quality cut. Highly recommended!!! been coming here for years

I needed a trim so a friend recommended Long to me. I went in not knowing what to expect because the last time I let a professional cut my hair, I came out in tears. This was not the case, Long was very informative and clearly knew what he was doing. He asked all the right questions and made sure I was comfortable before moving forward. Even in the process he would occasionally let me play with my hair to make sure it was what I wanted. He made it easy for me to trust him. So you are wondering what cut I got?Well, my hair is extremely long and I still wanted to keep the long length and maintain the "V" shape with a little bit of layers and side bangs. He gave me just that and more! I was very pleased with how it came out. Long was great and very friendly. If anyone who is new to the area or even just want a cut, I would highly recommend this place! Thanks again Long. read more

Absolute Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

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I loved the haircut that I got from Long! This was my first one since the quarantine started. He cleaned up the sides and the top while going into detail the type of hair I had and what to expect from that type. Another thing that was a relief to see was that each of the stations in his salon was sectioned off and he wore a mask the whole time. Would definitely come back! read more

Long absolutely fixed what another local haircut place really messed up. Really great job!

Came here based on previous reviews, and the place did not disappoint. Scheduling was simple just by visiting their website, and they were available when I needed a haircut. After quick consult going over some ideas, Long gave me a simple trim; just what I was looking for. The studio is a great experience and there's plenty of parking nearby in the downtown lots. Will definitely be visiting again in a few months, thank you! read more

I came in for a much needed touch up for my sad highlights that have grown out and faded. Long aka stylist/owner did an amazing job. He is so down to earth and is really passionate at what he does. His wife Kay is super sweet, she too works at the salon. What struck me the most is their commitment to their customers, Long gave me his full attention and really focused on my hair. I definitely appreciated this and highly recommend this salon. read more

Professionalism: 10/10 Creativity: 10/10 Price: 10/10 I've been coming to see Long for over 3 years now, and every single time I leave his chair, I look amazing. His ability to bring the style you always wanted to a reality is hard to find anywhere else. A craftsman with scissors, razors and clippers, he makes his tools look like an extension of his hands as he sculpts your hair that best accentuates your features, while complementing your appearance. I've gotten every type of men's haircut from him - fades, undercuts, pompadours, classic cuts, and even the edgier hardline tapers, hair tattoos and Mohawks. He's done them all with amazing skill, making the hair naturally look great. The whole crew is great as well. Kay and Mary also provide great hair looks, as well as making the overall experience genuine. They're all very welcoming and make you feel like you belong. Absolute Salon is definitely the place to go for a great looking haircut. And Long is the man to see if you have a design, style or idea for hair you want to have, done in the best way possible. read more

Absolute Salon - Razor fade 1 on the sides, texturized pompadour on top, custom hair design on sides down the back - Hair Salons Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Long is AMAZING!!!!!!! Every time I go to see him he treats me like an angel He is super sweet, funny and he is spectacular with hair I wanted to go super crazy today but I also wanted him to be honest and tell me what would look good and what wouldn't. We ended up deciding to go fun and sexy and I couldn't be happier with the result. I can't wait to go back!!!! Kay was super adorable!!!! She is always a sweetheart and I couldn't imagine not seeing her read more

Absolute Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

I came here to get my highlights done and I absolutely love them! Great service, and amazing results.

I was in desperate need of a haircut after too many months without. I called and got a same day appointment. My stylist was Mary. I like the cut and style that she gave me and she was really enthusiastic about her work. The price was moderate. They validate parking in two garages which are a block or so away from the salon. See my before and after shots. read more

Absolute Salon - Coming in - Hair Salons Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

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Went to this salon for the first time. My hair looks great! I'll be back for color in a month. Long is the best.

I just came back from the worst haircut I have ever had. Like several others who have posted negative reviews, I don't think Mary, one of the stylists there, should be cutting hair. I am a male and came in to get a haircut before a wedding. My "widow's peak" was shaved off entirely without my consent or any prior discussion (picture attached). The worst part is I have seen Mary more than 10 times before this with good results (one time she decided to trim my beard without me asking and screwed that up, but my beard is short so it grew back quickly and that never recurred). She typically knows exactly how to cut my hair, and we were to a point where I would simply sit down and she would cut my hair how she typically does every 3-4 weeks. So, you would think changing someones hairline would be something that would warrant a discussion beforehand and that someone wouldn't decide to do this unilaterally and without consent in any situation, yet alone when it is the 11th or 12th time that they are cutting someone's hair. I now have to shave my forehead and cover the shaved area with make up or something to hide the stubble and to make my hairline seem reasonable when it inevitably grows out unevenly until after the wedding for which I am a groomsman. I have never ever in my life had anyone do something like this and am over 30 years old and have had hundreds of hair cuts, including a handful of bad haircuts. This though is far and away the worst. The people working here are very nice, but Mary should not be cutting hair. read more

Absolute Salon - My hairline was altered horribly without prior discussion or my consent by Mary. - Hair Salons Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

My haircut with Mary at Absolute Salon today was great. Mary took my grown out and sadly in need of some TLC short-medium hair and brought it back to life today! I enjoyed how she talked with me, and checked in with me throughout the cut to make sure I was happy with where it was going, and she clearly knew from years of experience what would look good (I love the razor look!) and that I am not the kind to spend a lot of time on my hair every day so she showed me how to easily make it look good with a little leave in conditioner. I've tried a few places in Walnut Creek close to home; got a not so great but cheap haircut at one (resorted to using the scissors on an edge that was left behind!), and a good but expensive haircut at another. This place made me happy on both fronts. I think I found my new regular salon. Thank you Mary! See you in a few months. read more

This place is Amazing! I went there for my first time last week, and had my hair cut by Long, who is also the owner. He is a master artist with shears. I have never had a better haircut in my life. Not only that, but the service was outstanding. I'm rather hair illiterate and on top of that my hair is a combination of thick, wavy, and sometimes frizzy. Even the best salons have let me down at times, but I could tell immediately that Long knew what he was doing. Long consulted with me about my desired style, offered tips and suggestions, and we set a plan for my hair that would work. He told me every step along the way what he was doing and why, always checking in with me for approval. He also taught me about my hair and styling in general - a downright education. I was stunned by the results and impressed by the attention to detail. The salon itself is a great place with friendly stylists who really make you feel at home and comfortable. I felt like I'd been a client for years with how they treated me. And, the value is outstanding - this is the type of service you get at the priciest salons. I could go on and on about how wonderful this place is. I'm very excited to go back in a couple weeks, and I recommend it to anyone and everyone when it comes up. Give it a try, you won't be let down! read more

This is the absolute best haircut I've ever had! I'm from Los Angeles, and I have been to countless fancy and overpriced salons for cuts and colors over the years... and I've never left as happy with my hair as I left today! Long Nguyen, the owner of Absolute Salon, is a gen of a human being and an absolute pro at the tip of his game. I was up in Walnut Creek visiting my dad, who insisted on bringing me to Long when I was lamenting about needing to cut my stringy and scraggly hair for summer. Long's salon is in the heart of charming downtown Walnut Creek, right next to the regional arts center. I was welcomed with a big hug upon arrival (since he's been cutting my dads hair for years, and knew all about me). The salon is clean and beautiful. I watched as he finished a cut for a very happy customer before me. I showed Long photos of the direction I wanted to take my hair in, and I was thrilled with his passion and excitement for the look I wanted to go for. I could tell her just "got it" immediately. We cut my hair dry (a first for me), then washed it and fine tuned the cut. He was fun, smart, kind and warm. I've never had so much fun or left feeling so good at the end of a haircut. Bay Area folks- go see him! read more

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Left a voicemail on Monday afternoon and got an email that Kay would call back when the Salon opens on Tuesday. First thing in the AM..I get a call from Kay and she was able to fit me in for an emergency color and haircut! This place is great! Don't walk..run (after making an appointment) to this salon. This husband and wife team are experts in their craft and provide a warm and inviting ambiance! A true hidden gem in Walnut Creek. Now the secret is out! Thank you!! Pauline~ read more

Been going to Absolute since 2010 and could never imagine going anywhere else... only now we are moving to the east coast! Wish I wrote them a review much sooner... Over the years, I've had amazing service and hair cuts by both Long and Kay. They have always been very accommodating; offering tips for styling and caring for your hair between cuts. Never had an issue with adjusting cuts/styles. About 3 years ago I changed my 'do, with Long's guidance, and could not be happier. With Long & Kay you get professional service, in a friendly, comfortable environment. They both go out of their way to ensure you're satisfied. We've had lots of laughs and good quality chats over the years (something I also look for in a salon/shop), never sacrificing the quality of the haircut. They also provide great suggestions for hair care products (shampoos, styling stuff, etc.). If you are looking for a place with consistent, high quality, friendly service, with reasonable prices, look no further! read more

I came back yesterday evening for the hair re-do. Although the start of the ordeal felt tense due to the hairy situation, I eventually eased up because a beautiful thing happened -- I got an actual haircut and good service! It was very gracious of Long (owner/manager) to acknowledge and apologize for the erroneous hair cut, although it wasn't his fault. The whole hair debacle was eventually mended through Long's hysterically random conversation between his instructional hair cutting process. It almost felt like I was conversing with two different individuals: 1) a very serious and meticulous instructional artist, and 2) a goofy Asian dude that looks/talks/acts like Jo Koi the Comedian. Overall, he was very thorough, precise, and personnable throughout the process. He even offered to give me a full refund after he took the time for the hair redo. This was a very nice offer, but I couldn't accept b/c in the end I got a haircut by someone who can actually cut hair. I ended up losing 6 inches of length. I initially went in for a 1 inch trim and a few more layers to my midback hair lenght. I left that Saturday with hair 3-4 inches shorter-lopsided mullet with a rat tail. For the interim, I hid the debacle in a ponytal for an entire week. And yesterday, I returned to cut the Billy Ray Cyrus do' from '92 and left with a symmetrical should length hairdo. Honestly, I don't like my haircut even after Long fixed it because it was not what I wanted. I came in for a 1 inch trim, but 6 inches had to be cut away. However, Long did what he could to salvage my head of hair, and I aprpeciate that. read more

I found Absolute Salon through an online deal and made an appointment to get a wax. The Salon was bright and clean. The waxing room is upstairs and it too was tidy. I was very impressed with the wax I received from Erica. Not only was she very through, and pleasant, the entire experience was pretty painless. I would go back again if I was in the area and in need of a touch-up. read more

We've been coming here for years now for men's hair cuts, and once I received waxing services. They are really nice people, and strive to please their customers. The owners work in the salon daily, so there's no "Salon Nightmares" going on when upper management is absent (like I've seen in some other places). I can only speak for the owner, Long, as far as my hubby's haircuts, and Erica for waxing. About Long: he's good at listening to what the customer wants, he's consistent, and he's quick, but not to the point of rushing or making big mistakes. If I'm there and see something that I want changed, he does his best to do what I'm describing. Luv that! About Erica: she listened to my thoughts about my skin, and previous experiences I've had that I didn't want to repeat, as well as how my favorite esthetician (in Sacramento) does things for me. Her techniques seemed to work well with my skin as far as pain & "recovery", and the results were nice. There's always a risk of ingrown hair after waxing, and for some reason after this visit, they were especially bad & numerous... however, that could have been coincidental rather than causal, ie. not at all related to anything Erica did or used, but just my time, if that makes sense, hah. read more

I've been using Yelp for years and have never written a review until now.... but since looking in the mirror is a constant reminder of the horrible experience I had here, I figure it might as well vent. I usually go to SF for cuts, but wanted to find a local place so called up Absolute on the advice of a friend. I didn't specifically request a stylist so I got Mary. She was nice enough, and I pretty much wanted a trim of the same cut I already had (long layers - nothing fancy), but as I was trying to describe what I wanted, she kept interrupting me to say "yeah yeah, make it look good". Well no sh*t sherlock, of course I want it to look good. But that's not really a description of what I want. It was totally pointless trying to communicate with her (her English does have an accent, but that's not really the problem) because she had an idea of what she wanted it to be and thats what I got. The layers were way too layered, and my long bangs got truncated so awkwardly I'm now trying to consider if I should just switch to short bangs as a solution. And then she asked if she could flat iron my hair afterwards to "make it look good". Apparently running a flat iron t hrough my hair is an additional $20, making the debacle $55. If I go for a cheap haircut and get a bad one, I kinda figure I got want I paid for, but this wasn't even much of a discount. I later found out my friend had gone to Kay, who apparently is a much better stylist. read more

I see ERICA at Absolute Salon.. she is amazing!.I get my hair done by her, waxing, and everything inbetween! I love her work.. followed her from the wax center walnut creek.. big improvement! The best in Walnut Creek! One satisfied customer.. :) read more

I went here after trying like crazy to get an appointment with my usual stylist but she was booked solid for the next week or so and when I want a hair, I want it ASAP. In retrospect, I should've waited, because I think I would've been a little more satisfied with the haircut I received from my usual salon. Not that the couple who owns this salon are bad stylists, (which is why they get 3 stars instead of 2), it just wasn't what I was looking for. The stylist used the razor-scissor method way too much on my layers and I felt like it kind of ruined my hair. I'm currently waiting for it to grow a little more so I can get it cut again. Also, I asked for 1 1/2 to 2 inches to be taken of but it seems like she took off 3 inches instead. Of course, every stylist is different and maybe measurements aren't always exact...plus my hair was wet and when it dries its shorter, but I left feeling like more of my hair was gone then I wanted. I just wanted a trim. My side swept bangs were also cut differently (even though I asked to keep my hair style the same, just an inch or two shorter), so now that when I curl or flat-iron them, it looks weird. A side note: I had parked at the meters and put in enough for an hour and 10mins, which wasn't enough time. I'm conflicted because the stylist had the receptionist run out to my car/meter and put more money in (which was nice), but at the same time, why did it take longer than an hour and 10mins to wash and trim a couple inches off my hair? And I had to pay extra to have them style (flat-iron) my hair...I haven't seen that before. I most likely won't return but the couple here is very nice, friendly, and overall efficient/fast. read more

After moving to Walnut Creek from San Francisco. I thought that I wouldn't find a salon in Walnut Creek that could compare to the High End ones in SF. I was wrong... Absolute Salon is amazing! Kay cut my hair perfect. I love it! I'm now heading out to Miami for Miami Fashion week. I can't wait to go down the red carpet with my new hair cut. Guys - You won't be able to find a amazing spot to get your hair cut for the best price in town. read more

First off: I'm male and asian and writing a review about my haircut. There's a bazzilion reviews for women...and like nothing from guys in the greater walnut creek area. So here goes...hopefully to help some other guys out there who does care about their dew...or at least the women in their life care enough to make him care. I picked Long's Absolute Salon to try for two reasons: 1. It's walking distance from my work 2. I recognized from the reviews that he's #1 a guy, #2 Asian So I figured he'd at least know about the difficulties of asian men's hair even if he may not have a large clientele from them....And he does. You can stop reading if that's all you needed to know. Everyone's hair is different so just going to someone knowledgeable and skilled is all someone needs to know. Also the service surpasses every else I've ever been to (including a few $75+ haircut places in downtown SF). Long's prices are great too. The place is also developing their clientele so you can get an appointment or even same day drop-in, of you're lucky. If for whatever reason you care about my individual experience (though not really relevant)...read on. Like the other reviews, Long spent a significant amount of time discussing my hair and the man totally understood my difficulties...basically I've done the buzzed sides and spiky top thing for the past decade...yes, haven't seen a comb in years. going into my 30's i wanted something a bit more mature. I spent the past 6 months suffering the awkward growing out stage. So I was very particular about who was going to start me on my new look. Right off the bat Long advised me that the journey will take some time before I get to where we both thought I wanted to go. Realistic expectations and honesty...that's what a guy wants to hear. I didn't have enough length on top and my sides were still awkward. It was about a 45 minutes and the result was clearly an improvement. I've had the cut now for 2 weeks (I purposely waited some time before writing a review because we all know it takes some time to settle into a new hair style). I gave long 4 stars because he clearly had the skills and knowledge to recognize my issues and concerns. Service exceeded my expectations, price was competitive and reasonable. The result was a good cut...even 2 weeks later. I may be picky, but I didn't give him 5 stars because, I think in the end...he was swayed by the temptation to have me leave the salon (after my first visit) with a "great look" in the short term, but falling a bit short on my long term goal. I'm being picky because he CLEARLY asked me about it before moving forward and I said "yes". So he's off the hook, but sometimes you want a Yoda-like guide in life who know better what you need. If he was Yoda, he'd would have gotten 5 stars...like I said..."picky". Here's the details: So it was agonizing to grow our my sides...took months for gravity to finally take hold and to get the "umbrella" to finally collapse enough so it wouldn't stick out the back of my head (asian hair grow out...out...out, for those not in the know). Long's first attempt had him use a razor to strategically thin out the sides a bit to lay the ground work for the sides to grow downward to the contours of my head. Obviously, this didn't look great, although it was a definite improvement. It would have require another couple months or more to develop into enough hair to get to where I thought I wanted to go. He asked if i was ok with going shorter on the sides and committing to come in more often (every 3 weeks) for maintenance. I said yes and he proceeded to buzz off my sides and that was that. SO now I'm thinking I should simply go back to a tight buzzed side and maybe work with Long to figure out something for the top and front. A part of me wished I had stayed committed to the medium hair length I was envisioning. I know I may have hated it in the end, but I feel let down I didn't try it...especially after so many months. Maybe I'll give it another go in my 40s. read more

Nice people, doesn't mean they can cut hair. Kay did not listen to what we wanted on my son. He said "short on sides, long on top" and showed a picture! Nope. She went short on sides and top. He even said "you don't have to take off any more!" cause it looked like she was going to keep going on the top. Won't be going back. If you just want cheap this is the place. however we've had better with Ken at Supercuts in Lafayette , costs a little less too. read more

(For some reason my yelp post on this salon came up missing. The cut I received at this salon deserved a "re-post" as I actually missed a day of work in order to get it fixed at another salon.) Called this salon in need of a little trim and was able to get in same day with Mary. I really wanted to leave a great review for this salon but can't. There are some Pros: Very nice staff. Salon is nice. They carry a product line I love (which was part of the reason I made the choice to call and drop by). Cons: My cut is a horrible mess. Literally HACKED up! The left side is longer than the right. It is incredibly "texturized" (which is one of my pet peeves-a little can be great, this is a mess). It isn't what I asked for AT ALL. I felt as though Mary wasn't listening to what I really wanted. I had the urge to get up and leave at one point but she was so sweet I felt guilty, now wish I would have. Today I have to go to another salon to have it fixed. What was supposed to be a little trim and shaping up is going to end up costing me well over $100 by the time all is said and done. Maybe another stylist in this salon would be better. Kay seemed to understand what I was wanting. I simply can't recommend based on the cut I received. Thankfully my hair grows quickly. Once again Very NICE salon- HORRIBLE cut. Update: Hair was bad enough that friends and coworkers commented on it and not positively. read more

I have been looking for a new place since my long-long-term stylist moved away, but this is not the place. I did not ask for anyone in particular -my mistake- and got Mary. Not easy to understand, did not wash my hair first which always surprises me, and piled on the products, which is not unique to this place. Not a horrible cut but I won't go back here. read more

My sister recommended this place to me over winter break because I desperately needed a trim. Kay was great, very accommodating of how attached I am to my hair (she didn't cut off 10 inches instead of 1, even though I probably need it!). Loved how she styled my hair, and she's such a friendly person. Everyone in the salon is welcoming, and the atmosphere is peaceful and very family-like. Price is also very reasonable, especially compared to NYC salons. Makes me miss California! read more

Elegant ambiance, friendly service, talented stylists, great massages.. BUT, I have to pay particular gratitude to Long because he is the man who really makes it happen for me. I am an unnatural blond who looks like she has been blessed by the sun god - the color is that natural/ bold...As for the cut - my hair is always kept in the perfect sexy secretary bob with rounded bangs - a hairdo that requires quite a bit of craftsmanship. Mostly I've had stylists who will give me some crazy haircut that I might love in passing, but they could not replicate its grandeur if their life depended on it. Long is quite the opposite. He posses immense skill, timeless style and reliability - all invaluable traits. Finished everything up with an awesome massage upstairs. I came out feeling refreshed, and looking good =) read more

For years I've been loyal to my stylist & paid the extreme price that came along with the Walnut Creek salon. Then my husband insisted I try a cut with Long. Long did an AWESOME job on my hair. I have never received sooooo many compliments on how cute my hair is. I keep a stash of their business cards in my wallet because I'm often asked where I get my hair cut. The price is unbelievably reasonable! Everyone there is so friendly and down to earth. Kay and the crew also did the cutest peekaboo highlights for my daughter and made her feel like the little princess she is. Fabulous haircuts, super friendly staff, and an awesome price! I wish I had found them sooner before paying an arm and a leg for my haircuts. read more

I've brought my baby girl here for her first and now second hair cut and suffice to say I'll never take her anywhere else! Not only does Long magically do a beautiful job with a squirmy six and now ten month old, but he makes her laugh and makes us feel like family. We look forward to our next visit! read more

Absolute Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

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Long Nguyen is a genius. He knows so much about hair and how it's structures your face and what cut would look best on you. I came here to fix the mess that an Oakland Chinatown salon had done to my hair. I had uneven, chunky layers that did not compliment my face well at all. Long worked his magic by thinning out my layers and gave me a more symmetrical cut. He explained every step before he did anything and was very thorough when asking what kind of look i wanted. I'm very satisfied with how my hair looks now. Back in March of this year, i had the pleasure of having Mary cut my hair. She gave me long, beautiful layers that even looked great when my hair started growing out... then i made the terrible mistake of getting a "simple" trim at a Chinatown salon with some dude that did now know what the heck he was doing. Never again will i sacrifice cost for quality. Long does charge a little more than the other stylists there, but i think he's worth the money. Mary is also really skilled in her craft and i will probably return to her when my hair starts growing out again since she does such a great job and her asking price is cheaper than Long's. read more

Another great experience at Absolute Salon! I cannot express how happy I am with this Salon. I came here back in December and had a great experience. Then, shaved my head so didn't need a hair cut until recently - haha. This is a family-owned and operated business that truly cares about the customer. It amazes me how the reviews are either 5 Star or 1 Star - I encourage the people who rated them so low to go back and give it another try. THANK YOU for being so accomodating to my hectic schedule and for doing a great job!!!! I will be back in 3 weeks - read more

Today I came in to get my hair cut by Kay (I hope that's how her name is spelled) and I had no idea what kind of hairstyle I wanted. Kay was very professional and she took the time to help me figure out what would work well for me, explaining every step along the way. Everyone was friendly and my entire experience was most excellent. I can't recommend Absolute Salon and Kay enough! read more