The best Beauty Salon in San Francisco. The service is outstanding, Christina did what exactly I wanted. Highly recommend to everyone who wants high quality service. The owner Alex is very caring, attentive and professional. When I found this place, I knew I was in good hands, thanks a lot!!! read more

I'm not a Bergdorf Blonde, but nearly as obsessive: every 5-6 weeks religiously. Now, being a So. Cal. girl (SF, don't be a hater), I've never had too much trouble finding someone to color my coiff. But, SF is a totally different ballgame. Must be something about the fog that makes colorists want to do drab. I'd been to 5 different (unimpressive) colorists before hearing about Alex Chases. No, you can't get in with him, but God bless him for importing a colorist from LA: Vivian's got blondes nailed. I won't be going anywhere else as long as I'm in SF. Update 7/28/07: Vivian Grimaldo has moved to Zindagi Salon in Union Square: http://zindagisalon.com read more

Alex Chases Salon - Alex Chases - Hair Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

Every single person I've worked with here is fabulous. I get brows and makeup done with Christina. Got lots of useful tips for doing makeup myself at home. Most surprising is how great she is at doing redheads - usually most makeup artists totally fail. Have you ever had a 5-star shampoo? Get Elizabeth. Got an awesomely perfect cut from Scott. Had a gorgeous curl/blowout with Julie. Always complimented when I walk out of this salon! If you're doing serious pre-party prep, this is the place to go. read more

Alex Chases Salon - Treated myself for my birthday - makeover with Christina and blowout with Julie. Looked fabulous for karaoke night! - Hair Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I know this is a Salon, however I don't have my hair done here. This is where I come for "brow maintenance" yes to have my eyebrows, trimmed, shaped & tweezed by THE BEST in the business Paige Boyer, she is an amazing artist. I mean if you have no arch or uneven arches (as I do) you will leave looking amazing. It is a little more pain full process than waxing but way more precise and easier to touch up yourself. It's $35 before tip, 30 min appointment and they will entertain your baby should you have one with you! The whole staff here is great and they do gorgeous cut's & color but Paige needs her props too, she's great so you will need an appointment & it may take a week or so, she is well worth the wait & you will leave her with a smile on your face! read more

Love this salon. Book with Maclaine! Super convenient in Union Square on Geary. Close to great shops and cafes.

I cannot recommend going to this salon enough. I was seeing CK for balayage but since she left, she recommended that I go to Alex for my hair color. I am very picky with how my hair color is done so I did extensive research before coming to Alex's salon and I am so glad I did! Alex is really kind, great conversation and an incredible artist when it comes to hair. Everyone I meet thinks that it is my natural hair color, including my hair stylist. Alex is very busy but I book in with him for the year with 3 month apart between each appointment. He is just the best. read more

When I feel the need for change, the first thing I do is redo my look. I refresh my hairstyle with a cut or color and it always does the job. But the MOST IMPORTANT thing is who does their MAGIC to PERFECTION! I have COMPLETELY TRUSTED my Professional hair stylist, Vanessa Auerbach, with this job for the past 10 years and have NEVER been disappointed. I always receive the BEST compliments and get asked "Who did your hair? It looks great!" So if you want a professional to work on your hair, I HIGHLY recommend her to anyone & everyone!! read more

While not the most prolific yelp reviewer out there, not by a long shot, I nevertheless feel a sense of yelp-related integrity when it comes to the reviews I do choose to write. With that, I must start this review by saying that James Colgan found me, not the other way around. He read my review of Blow and sent me a message via yelp asking me to come to Alex Chases for a complimentary blow out in the hopes of delivering a satisfying blow out (and, quid pro quo, getting a new client--particularly one who might deliver a postive review on yelp). I did take him up on the offer and received an excellent blow out. He was attentive, friendly and skilled. An hour later, I walked out with a thorough washing and great, bouncy hair that didn't need to be washed for 5 days. Not kidding. I question whether my geneological roots are purely caucasian because of how long I can go between washings but that's a story for another time and place. One with cocktails, ideally. Despite my great blow out with James I felt a titch conflicted about writing a glowing review...mainly because the service had been free and I didn't want to feel like I was becoming someone whose reviews could be bought. And yes, I'm an attorney, so query as to why I'm suddenly on a moral high horse about online reviews when, well, you know, insert your standard "I hate attorneys" punchline here. Moving on... When due for a haircut last month I decided to return to James (yes, his proactive messaging was a good business move) and was thrilled when he agreed to an 8am mid-week appointment so that I wouldn't get to work too late. We were the only ones in the salon (which, it bears noting, is clean, contemporary and boasts great views of Union Square) and, again, I got an awesome shampoo and even better blow out. Though this time he also did a cut--giving me long layers in the back and tons more movement around the face while taking very little off the overall length. Basically, the ideal cut for 90% of long-haired women, though that's not to say it's a generic cut. Just a very good one. As with my first experience, my blow out lasted for days...I may have pushed this one to the edges of what most non-hippies consider "sanitary" (and here I must pay homage to Chris Farley's 'I might not have what you call "good" "hygiene" ' character on SNL) but I'm willing to live with that. I believe the cut was around $100--maybe a bit more. Certainly on the high end but not outrageous in my book. Thinking I'd eventually get motivated to write this (now long overdue) review, I took an awkward self-photo of my hair once I got home--it's in my profile. I think it says as much about James' skill as this review. In closing, and thank you for staying with me if you're still reading, James is a great stylist and a kind soul--someone who clearly cares profoundly about hair and making it look good. And, honestly, what's more important than that? read more

James is the best! I thought I was hopeless when it came to doing anything different with my hair. It's long and pretty much straight (but not completely so...) I usually flat iron after blowdrying. Anyways, i always ask to make my hair look like Jennifer Aniston's because it's the most obtainable in my opinion, but James made my hair look like Kim Kardashian's! He cut and styled my hair so that it had full body and movement and I'm in love with it!! I would say that James is the most attentive stylist I've ever met. Having him work on my hair was definitely a pleasure. I loved the decor of the salon- it was simple and chic This is definitely what I expect a high end salon should look like. read more

I went to James and said "just trim and clean it up." James had a better idea. He tried to persuade me to choose a more dramatic cut, which I struck down in no uncertain terms. Then, he chopped my hair, blew it dry, and - as the tears welled up in my eyes - complimented how great it looked. Truthfully, it looked great and hip and dramatic. And truthfully, James is very talented. But, it wasn't what I wanted. read more

I have to admit I was intrigued when James told me he could "bring sexy back to my hair." Well that was being modest. James delivered the best cut and color of my life. I feel like I was on a makeover show before and after. I had some disastrous strawberry blond experiment that needed to be gone. James has a black belt in fabulous color, he even uses organic bleach made from seaweed in Ireland. The staff was very welcoming and nice too. Only go to James if you are willing to take the risk of having the best hair of your life. read more

Just wanted to update my review since I've been putting my hair in James' capable hands for nearly two years. I love each and every cut/color combination James and I come up with, and the staff at the salon is extremely friendly and helpful. The atmosphere is comfortable and hip. I love it here! read more

I love the salon, all the staff there are so courteous and Jim is just the best there is. Reallly, I am very fussy and I will not trust my hair to anybody else. I get compliments on my hair all the time, I just wish I could dry it as well myself! read more

I am very picky about my hair and James at Alex Chases Salon is the best stylist I have ever been to, hands down. I use to go to the master stylist at Juut for my haircut and to a colorist who specialized in blondes at LaBelle in the Stanford Mall, however, I switched to James for both cut and color since I thought I looked so much better in his hands than I ever looked at either Juut or Labelle. Well worth the car drive from Palo Alto. His haircut was honestly the best cut I ever received and his blonde is amazing. I look so much better than I did before I saw James - I recommend him to anyway. He is very professional and seems to really care about achieiving your results, in my case a great cut and color. read more

Jim C. is one of the best hairdressers around. Here's why: 1. he is creative -- my first haircut with him was an asymmetrical two-tone cut. it was bizarre and strangely flattering. he rescued me from the biggest single hair disaster i'd ever experienced. 2. he is versatile -- a year after that my hair is a simple shoulder-length, pleasantly layered bob. this was made possible by his skillful haircuts over the past year. 3. he can execute -- the haircuts look great at first and grow out beautifully, the color is always perfect. he is practiced and extremely focused. 4. he has vision -- like everyone, sometimes i know exactly what i want and sometimes no idea. he's good in either situation or those in between. a good listener who provides honest and thoughtful criticism. for example, he still remembers with true disgust and horror the disaster haircut i had prior to visiting him. 5. he is professional but every appointment is a delight -- he talks the right amount, and never when he's doing a tricky part of the haircutting, which i like, because it appears that he's concentrating on the work. read more

ONLY GO FOR PAIGE AND OSCAR! I worked there for a year.. trust me

I absolutely love Jim. I will never forget the first time he cut my hair. He called me the next day to make sure I was happy with the cut, assuring me that I could see him at any point in the near future in case I needed some adjustments. I always love my hair cuts and they always grow out beautiful! Jim is friendly, professional, always on his element, and very classy. He exceeds every expectation. There is just no way that I am letting anyone else touch my hair. Period. read more

Gustavo is a magician. My bff referred me to him and there's no one better. I've been going to him for two years after spending eight years abroad. He does color and cut which is rare but his experience doing both shows. He's really lovely too as are all the staff at the salon. He is worth 5 stars plus! read more

i have been seeing jim (james) colgan religiously every 6 weeks for cut and color, for over 2 years now!! i am an interior designer (picky) and professional colorist myself, so i feel qualified to say that jim is, hands down, the most amazing hair colorist i have ever met. ive had people stop me on the street to compliment my color (and cut). this is due in fact because he uses the highest quality products, but primarily because he is a highly trained expert. what i love about jim is he REALLY thinks about the cut and color, considering how it will accentuate the shape of your face and head, and your skin tone. he has vision and he takes his time - this kind of expert treatment can not be rushed - i have never felt like i was just another appointment in his day. i also appreciate his honesty - he is all about helping me look my best, so he will tell me if an idea is not going to work on my head. finally, on top of all his skills, he is an amazing person - incredibly funny and easy going. read more

If you are hair-challenged, go to Oscar Faro. I used to dread going to the hair salon for what was typically an expensive, frustrating, and disappointing hour. But after reading an article in the Chronicle a few years ago about the Chase/Nikas debate, I booked an appointment at Alex Chases salon and put my hair in their hands. Oscar Farro made a salon convert out of me, and I no longer have shear fear. I am lucky enough to have thick strong hair, but it's been a challenge to cut and style. I've suffered years of boring cuts and good ideas gone bad. But now my hair always turns out well layered, my bangs fall at the perfect length and shape, and my color is a work of art. I tried going to someone less expensive, but that turned out to be an expensive mistake that Oscar had to fix. If you've tired of hating your haircut, go to Oscar. read more

James Colgan has been cutting/coloring my hair for 3 years now and I've never once been disappointed! From dramatic short cuts to maintaining long healthy hair, he's been my go to guy. He listens to what I want, but also makes insightful suggestions that I love! James knows I'm terrible about spending time on my hair everyday, so he always cuts/colors it in a way that looks great with little maintenance. I'm moving to NY and don't think I'll be able to find a stylist as good as James :( I will definitely be flying back on a regular basis! read more

Fellow Curly haired Ladies, as you all know its a nightmare to find someone who can work with curly hair. Jim Colgan, at this salon is amazing . I came to him with fired hair, it was bad, post trying to maintain a hair straightening regime. Jim has finally gotten me to embrace my curls and he Can actually give them some style and great great color. read more

I love that when I look back at my high school yearbook photo, it looks like I have two caterpillars crawling across my forehead. Yah, unfortunately my mom failed to inform me about eyebrow maintenance, among plenty of other things I found out all too late - but that's a different story. Luckily, I had a brutally honest friend in college who broke the bad news. "You've GOT to do something about your brows. Can I PLEASE just pluck them for you?" On that day, I learned to understand the importance of well-maintained eyebrows. Of course it took a boyfriend (now an ex, of course) to so innocently point out that my eyebrow pencil shade did not match my eyebrows: "Are your eyebrows supposed to be two different colors?" Uh, no, but thanks for pointing that out at a wedding when I don't have my make-up on me and can't do anything about it and will just have to sit self-consciously while I eat my rubbery chicken. So anyway, I found a great eyebrow technician (?) stylist (?), whatever you call them, at Alex Chases salon. She tweezes my brows perfectly and helped me find just the right shade to match my brows. Better late than never... read more

I moved to Sonoma last summer and regret being so far from OSCAR FARO at Alex Chases Salon who happens to be my dream hair stylist ... I have tried 2 others locally and convinced I just have to make that trip into SF. No one can do a blowout like Oscar ... you're RED CARPET ready and I have very curly, difficult hair! I've never observed anything but beautiful hair exiting his chair ... he's a true artist and delightful to chat with during the process ... hesitated to write this because it's not easy getting in to see him but he deserves the review. He's a 5 star stylist. read more

My favorite hair colorist Maritza Vasquez is at Alex Chase! She's phenomenal and pays such attention to detail. She's been doing my color for a long time and always thinks of new ideas and stays educated on new trends. I love her work and so will you!!! read more

Maritza Vasquez formerly from Cinta Salon has arrived! I'm a 10+ year color client of Maritza's and I'm so excited for her next chapter at Alex Chase. I can not recommend her enough for color. She's given me killer red hair and super low maintenance blonde balayage after kids. She's an expert in hair extensions as well if you're interested. Aside from her killer talent, she's so professional and stylish, so she inspires me. read more

I've been buying products here for about a year and need to comment on Meng. In addition to what she does as a makeup artist, she brings customer service to a whole new level! She consistently goes above and beyond and is an amazing asset Alex Chases Salon! read more

I have never felt the need to write a yelp review until now. After visiting Alex Chases Salon and having James as my stylist I must share my wonderful experience. James is exceptional at what he does! I new it from the very first visit too. The way he looked over my original cut, surveying how it moved and laid, how it shaped my face (or didn't shape) and how healthy (or should I say how unhealthy) it was, showed a personal interest and made me feel that my hair condition and style was important to him. I had no idea what style I wanted but felt completely confident that I was in great hands! I have never been that comfortable in a hair dressers chair before. James is absolutely meticulous in his work. My hair has never looked better. It has a healthy glow, the cut works even when I blow it out at home, and the color always looks natural! I always have my clients and even complete strangers asking for my hair dresser's name. James makes you feel right at home and is so attentive to your needs. He has impeccable manners and a thoughtful disposition. The entire staff has such a high level of hospitality you really don't want to leave. I don't know how anyone could not fall in love with their experience. If I could have a dose of it weekly it would be great therapy :-) I drive three hours to see James and it is worth every mile. read more

Paige is her name! The eyebrow stylist (and makeup artist)! I have been to many people to get my eyebrows done, and I haven't found anyone better than her. Not only is she the sweetest, most caring, fun person to spend 20 min. with, but her work is impeccable. She doesn't use wax, only plucks, so it is a bit more painful than usual, but the outcome is worth it. read more

I have super thick, frizzy South Indian hair and I like low maintenance hairstyles as I mostly air-dry my hair. I am the kind who barely changes hairstylists and was having a hard time finding one in SF when I moved here in 2007. I waited to visit my sister in NJ every year to get a haircut from her hairstylist. Yep, I am that picky. After all your hair is your crowning glory! I was referred to the one and only JAMES COLGAN at the Alex Chases Salon by a friend (who always had best haircuts). I called to schedule with James and I got a friendly text message the day before reminding me of the appointment from him. You will feel James warmth as soon as you meet him. He is calm, polite with an awesome sense of humor. And he is a FANTASTIC hairstylist! I trust him so much that many times I don't ask for a specific hairstyle and leave it up to him completely. And he delivers. E v e r y t i m e. He has given me so many different hairstyles to match the season's hottest cuts and yet they have all been very low maintenance styles. I recently got married and I didn't have time to do my hair for one of the events. With James haircut, my hair looked fantastic! James is my hairstylist for life! The salon is lovely. The staff is very friendly and always makes sure you are comfortable. read more

Oh my, James Colgan is a master! Two years ago, I went to see James for the first time with, I must admit, frizzy Van Halen like, over-colored scraggly hair. James has magically transformed my hair into the kind of hair that I had when I was a child: soft, glossy, sunkissed and super healthy. His cuts are exquisite and one would think he uses a wand for coloring it is so extraordinary. By the way, James recently moved, just up to the 16th floor in the Barry Brimmel salon, in the same building. James is "it"! read more

I came to see Alex for the first time in advance of an upcoming class reunion. I want to look my best for this event, so I was nervous trusting someone new. Alex exceeded my expectations! He listened carefully to what I had in mind, made some terrific suggestions, and gave me a lovely, softly layered cut and flattering haircolor. His relaxed demeanor made the whole experience a joy. I knew I was in good hands the minute he started working. He knows what he's doing and is a masterful stylist. He has gained another loyal customer in me. Bravo! read more

It is December 2010 ... and I still got to Oscar about every 8 weeks as I have been for the last ... almost 4 years ... and I'm picky. I always find them very friendly in the salon. Sure they coif the socialites. Why not? They are good. But I'm a normal nobody and they treat me like a old friend. read more

I recently visited the Alex Chase Salon (Sense Spa) at the Rosewood Sand Hill in Menlo Park and had a first-rate experience. Luca was recommended by the receptionist based on the list of items I hoped to accomplish with my hair. The overall experience was exceptional and far superior to many of the bay area salon experiences I've encountered. I will definitely be scheduling another appointment here! read more

It has been several years since I have been so thrilled with my color and cut. I have Scott Smith to thank. He is a true artist and has an instinct for what needs to be done and a vision of the best you. He is incredibly humble but do not let that fool you. He has been trained by the very best in the industry. read more

If you are looking for a fabulous hairstylist in San Francisco, I highly recommend James Colgan at Alex Chases Salon in Union Square. Not only does he give a wonderful haircut, but he is great with color. Recently we have been experimenting with some healthier products (no ammonia) and have had beautiful - and lasting - results. After hearing my concerns about harsh chemicals in hair dyes, James went to the trouble of sourcing a line called Organic & Mineral Research from his native Ireland. Talk about listening to your customer! We hope that we are on to something good and I look forward to more ideas, and great service, from him in the future. read more

James is a master when it comes to hair - cut & color - I like to think of him as the hair magician! Everyone is the salon is friendly and I love the view from all the windows. Not only is James a superb stylist and colorist but he is one of the nicest people I've met. No one else will EVER touch my hair! read more

James has been my hair stylist for quite a while now. I recommend him to all my friends and they all love his work. I follow James where ever he goes. Recently I visited Alex Chases Salon that James works at. The place has a great view with very friendly staff. Although it was my first time there, they made me feel very comfortable and at home. No doubt that James will be my hair stylist for life, Alex Chases Salon will be the salon I go to from now on. I walked out with great satisfaction and that's what an aswesome stylist and salon are all about! read more

I've been coming to James Colgan for years, so this is long overdue. Fortunately, I don't need to say much. James is the absolute best hair stylist I've ever had. I've been to countless places in L.A., San Diego, and throughout Northern California, including Vidal Sassoon and diPietro Todd, and I've never walked out of any salon really happy. James changed all that. Brilliant blonde color, perfect sexy/flattering cut that does not require a ton of maintenance, and charming company. He is efficient, yet attentive and incredibly talented. He is also versatile - my bf is as happy with his hair as I am with mine. If you're looking for someone with skill, go see James. read more

The salon is prestine with elegant floral arrangements,however, if it weren't for my stylist Agneta and the extrordinary job she does with my very scary hair, I don't think I would go back. There was a gentleman sitting at the receptionist desk who never looked up to greet me when I walked in and if I had not had contact with my stylist, I don't think anyone would have given me the time of day. I would follow Agneta where ever she laid down her scizzors and blow dryer so it's certainly not the salon that keeps me coming back it's Agneta. read more