I have been a client of Carlos for over 15 yrs and hope to continue for another 15 years! He is fast, thorough, artistic, flexible in his hours and affordable and it always looks great when he is finished. I highly recommend Carlos Arellano read more

I was walking and a stranger, young woman, called out to me "great haircut" as she was walking by. Came as a shock since as an older woman I'm used to being pretty invisible. A week later someone else complimented my haircut and asked where I got my hair done. Carlos really is good!! read more

I had some time to kill so I wanted to get a quick haircut. I checked our Yelp of course and found Carlos!! He was very quick with his response and was able to take me in the window I had available. I had pretty long hair (middle of my back) and told him I wanted a cut that I wasn't able to always out in a ponytail. I love giving stylists free choice and Carlos really ran with it. He worked his magic and played with my natural curls and waves. I loved it!! I didn't tell anyone I got my haircut and when they saw me they all loved it too! He was friendly, kind and really loves his work! Thank you! (Was just a little pricey BUT sometimes you have to treat yourself) read more

Arellano - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Better late than never! Carlos did a trim and partial highlights for me right before graduation, and it came out great! I'm trying to grow out my hair, and he did an excellent job trimming the absolute bare minimum while keeping it healthy. I have a hard time describing what I want in terms of color, but he was super patient with me and gave me color that was both natural but also pretty damn blonde, as I like it. Prices are average for the area but the service and skill level is definitely above and beyond! read more

Arellano - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

Carlos Arellano is legit. I came to Carlos to correct a mess left on my head a few days ago by a previous stylist at another salon. See my before and after pic! That particular disaster had occurred on Friday, and I was able to book an appointment with Carlos for Monday after finding him on Yelp, and texting him about my issue and his availability. I love that he makes it easy to reach him! He communicated back very promptly and was clear and helpful at all times. My main (or should I say 'mane') issue was that I been cut previously by someone else into a very unflattering triangular shape and my mane needed a radical chop into a feminine pixie cut that I had my heart set on. My hair type is course, black (but bleached to blonde), frizzy and badly damaged - probably one of the hardest types of hair to work with! Carlos is a great listener. He really does understand and reflect on what you're saying. Without judging, he examined my hair and we exchanged ideas about the best style to go for, given my face shape, hair type, desired level of maintenance, growing out of my frazzled bleached highlights, my switch to using all natural products, and more. Any one of these issues could have been a contention issue, but with Carlos, it wasn't. I was a little nervous about bring up the subject of my switching to using ONLY natural products - specifically I am now using products with no sulfates, silicones, parabens, drying alcohols, waxes, and some types of proteins. I'm also avoiding using shampoo, only co-washing. I might have been a nightmare client situation for some hair stylists, but Carlos was sensitive to where I'm at on my hair journey, and didn't mind when I asked to see the ingredients list for one product he was going to use. I really appreciate that sensitivity. He could have advised me against the route I am on (but didn't), as my fried fake blonde hair is just about ready to break off! However, when he was done, my hair was smooth and frizz-free and still is now. He didn't use any harsh products, nor heat, yet the hair is transformed. I couldn't believe it. When Carlos cuts, he does not waste time. He used a razor to cut my hair which meant better hair condition, a speedier cut, and greater control. He uses his tools masterfully - he sees something in his mind and makes it a reality with complete confidence! It's a pleasure to watch him working on my hair. Also, it's refreshing to find a stylist that keeps a respectful distance and the conversation stayed on the subject of hair. If you want to avoid the chit-chat and small talk I can definitely recommend the way Carlos concentrates on the task at hand. Arellano ticked all my boxes of what I personally was looking for in a salon/ stylist that I intend to keep coming back to for my hair care needs. The person needed to be: - an EXPERIENCED stylist yet not with a crazy high-end price tag - I don't care about a luxury salon, but I do want a high-quality luxury haircut; - in a location possible for me to get there without a car (I live near Piedmont Ave); - the right balance of hip and casual. I tend to be allergic to pretentious attitude. Wanted to find someone/ somewhere down to earth. I don't need the extras like champagne, beer, a library, a salon dog or anything besides the point of DAMN GOOD HAIR! - someone with great Yelp reviews (I trust the Yelposphere!) At the end of the appointment, Carlos let me know the price and let me know that if I checked in on Yelp I'd get a discount, so the wash & cut ended up being $66 - an amazing price for such a luxury cut by a stylist with a lot of experience (over 2 decades). Personally I couldn't be happier and would recommend him if you are anything like me in what you want from a salon/ stylist! Thank you Carlos and I look forward to seeing you again soon! read more

Arellano - Before Arellano got at my hair (ruined by another salon/inexperienced stylist) and AFTER - just one hour later my hair looked sleek + cute! - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Love the color and haircut! My hair were pretty destroyed, and Carlos did his magic! Now they are soft, bouncy and no frizzzzz!! read more

Arellano - pretty hair! - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Carlos did a fantastic job on my hair for my wedding. He was also a prompt communicator throughout the process of figuring out what and when I wanted (texting was really convenient), and gave good advice (e.g. for appointment time day-of). I sent him a few photos beforehand, and he got the gist of what I was looking for right away. He magicked lovely, sculpted curls out of my relatively short, straight hair, and they lasted all day. His salon was a pleasant, peaceful place to spend the morning (he was more than welcoming to a couple of tag-along wedding party members). The cost was also very reasonable. Thanks, Carlos! read more

Arellano - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Arellano continues to be the best place to get a haircut in Oakland. Carlos is sweet and professional, a master at his craft. I needed a last-minute cut and he was able to fit me in that very same day, within minutes of my call. He gave me a great cut and recommended a leave-in conditioner specific to my hair type. I don't normally spend much on cuts or beauty supplies, but I trust his judgment. It's so nice to go to a salon where the hairdresser knows you by name, remembers your last cut, and always has sage advice. read more

I have been a loyal customer of Carlos' salon for over 15 years. When my usual stylist stopped working Carlos stepped in and made sure I was taken care of. Ive been getting bored of my flipped bob look that requires straightening and curling. I mentioned that to Carlos and that I like the layers he had been starting to put into my hair. Then on the spot he created a new layered, loose curl style for me that I love - its a style that shows off vs hides my naturally wavy hair - I love it, its easier to maintain, more flattering, and Im getting tons of compliments. Thank you Carlos! read more

Rina has been cutting and coloring my hair for almost 20 years now. I don't let anyone else touch it- she's the only one I trust because she does the best job! I live in Dallas, TX and only get my hair done when I visit the Bay Area! She's a master with blond highlights. Go to Rina- you won't regret it!!! :) read more

Arellano - Perfect blond color - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

I was indecisive about cutting/trimming my hair but I'm so glad I'd came across Hairstlist Carlos he listened to all my hair concerns and hair cut desired( currently letting my hair grow). I truly recommend him. Very professional, creative and Great service. read more

I was able to get in quickly, same-day and get the exact bleach and tone I wanted. I'm super happy and grateful for the price. Carlos even trimmed the hair around Myers and neck for free! I'll definitely be coming back read more

Arellano - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Her hair was dry and brittle and she wouldn't smile, it was long, uneven and she was sick of it! I chppoed it but didn't know what to after. Made an appointment the rest is history. Carlos is a master at styling all hair types. He's patient, funny and you leave feeling renewed after sitting in his chair! We'll be back soon! read more

See all

Carlos has a warm, welcoming personality and really listens to make sure he understands the kind of cut you're looking for when accounting for length, your styling capabilities, etc. Carlos did a thorough job cutting my hair and even explained what brushes and styling techniques I could use to help increase the volume in my hair. Thank you Carlos, love the new cut! read more

I have been going to see Rina for about 5 years now. Ever since she lay her hands on my hair no one else has touched it since!!! I tell her the look I want and then we discuss if it will work for my hair type and how it will affect the health of my hair. I basically just listen to her every time and I've never been disappointed; I always leave the look I want!! She really takes care of me and my hair! Book her! read more

Small salon, convenient College Ave. Location and nice, patient and qualified hair stylists. My son was asking for something specific and I communicated thru Yelps message service with Carlos showing pics. He was very attentive in responding and has made my son very happy. read more

Carlos has done my hair color a couple of times already and I am very happy with the quality of work he does. He is a true artist that understands how his products work to give me the best shading and look possible. I really thought what he did to my hair was impossible and I am very happy I found him. My review is genuine and I would recommend him to anyone because he not only does a fantastic job but his cost is beyond reasonable too. read more

I went to Carlos because he was recommended by a friend and when I saw his experience I thought that he would know what he was doing I asked for a haircut and a ombré color and he saw that I had red hair I asked him before he got started if he could do this look for me and he assurede that he could do it I wish I could show you a picture of how bad and horrible my hair looks I have 5 different colors in my hair and there is nothing close to an ombré color I am amazed at how bad he is my hair I am so pissed off at this man for doing this to me I am scared for life to say the least I don't wish this on anyone else so please be careful before you go to this man read more

Arellano - The before picture is what you left me with after I asked for ombre hair color I don't think that I was hard to please - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

I'm just coming back to add pictures and say that Carlos has kept me as a customer for years and has worked with my unconventional desire to have my hair lightened so I can put henna in it when I get home. I don't even have to be specific with regard to the cut because whatever he does looks great. He just asks whether I've been putting it up more, or braiding lately, and voila, something that's adjusted to those needs and fits my personality and shape of my head, hair type, and face. This is the sort of crux of a lot of experience, good assessment and listening skills, and good training.I have always been nervous about highlights but since he said they were a good idea, I decided to give it a shot and my hair has a very dynamic luster that I wanted to show in the pictures when I updated my review. You can see for yourself though! read more

Arellano - Carlos did a great job with layering and highlighting my hair. - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

See all

Carlos did a great job with a nice chestnut brown solid color-job. I've gotten several compliments (that could also just be because my roots were growing out and looking tacky before!!) He was also a sweetheart and gave me Advil and coffee for a serious hangover--I was very appreciative. If I had had more time, I would have gotten a cut and highlights as well. I think he would have done a fine job. Other than his creative (but questionable) artwork displayed in the salon, and slightly hesitant chair side manner, I would recommend Carlos without reservation. read more

I have been following and having Rina cut my hair for decades. I can't go any where without getting compliments on a daily basis on my haircuts and color. She has also been cutting and coloring my kids, family and friends hair. Her new salon is friendly and the owner, Carlos is very welcoming. I would highly recommend Rina!‍‍ read more

Carlos (the owner) had been coloring and cutting my hair for at least a decade. He is so excellent with color (he paints in his spare time). He's very honest about what he CAN and can't do with your hair. I usually bring in a photo of what I want and we talk about what he can do. The color and cut that he gave me a few weeks ago was amazing. So many people ask me where I get my hair done. I decided to get my lazy butt on Yelp and let all know. THANK YOU CARLOS! read more

Arellano - My colt and layering was done by my man Carlos. Nice bright highlights around my face. Mwah - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

Call me crazy I wanted a perm, the style we all had from the 80's, curly all over straight bangs. Luckily I have a friend who has been seeing Carlos at Arellano for 10+ years and she knew he would be up to the challenge and would not laugh me right out of the salon!!!! Carlos might have been holding the laughter, couldn't really tell, but perm my hair he did. My hair is exactly how I wanted it and Carlos gave me a lot of pointers on keeping it curly and healthy. Carlos is talented, his shop is small and cute. I'll make the drive to see him again. read more

Carlos can give you the hairstyle you dream about. I have flat, straight, thinning hair that's normally cut in a modified pageboy. Like almost everyone else, my hair grew longer in 2020 than I normally let it as I waited for hair salons to reopen. At first, Carlos just trimmed my hair in almost my usual style as my hair grew out. My hair is now shoulder length. So last week Carlos worked his magic with a fabulous cut and perm that gave me wavy hair full of body and bounce. I don't have to comb and style my hair just so, the style looks great even on windy days (like we've had recently). He also recommends effective products for your hair type that are worth the cost. Thanks, Carlos! read more

If I could leave more than 5 stars I would. Carlos at Arellano's salon is the best hairdresser I have ever had.........and I am very fussy and in my 70's so you can imagine that I have visited many salons over the years. Carlos actually listens to what you want and he also has GREAT ideas. I would never go anywhere else unless I leave the state. My hair has become thin over the years and he makes it look quite thick! Genius!!! :) read more

I have been going to Rina for years, and she is a very talented stylist. I was referred to her by my former stylist, who had left the business. I was worried about having to suddenly start going to a new person. But Rina made me feel very comfortable right from the start, and after my first appointment with her I knew I'd be sticking to her like glue! Rina knows just what to do to make me look and feel my best. She is also extremely dedicated to her clients. A few months ago, I had a job interview and Rina came into the salon on her day off specifically to do my hair so that I could look my best for the interview. I'd never had a stylist willing to do that before, and I appreciated it so much. Thank you, Rina, for all that you do! You're a true gem! read more

Total gem: down-to-earth yet on top of the latest color trends and super skilled. Highly recommend for balayage and other fun colors. Great eye, reasonable prices and amazing attention to detail! read more

My hair can be quite complicated. It's curly and has irregular growth patterns. Carlos nailed it! I didn't get another haircut for 4 months because I loved how it grew in. He is part artist part scientist. I highly recommend Arellano, and specifically, Carlos. read more

Quick, efficient, courteous service. Fair price. One of the best haircuts I have had in my 73 years. Outdoors for Covid safety- Carlos took all the necessary precautions read more

Call in the morning when he opened and was able to get an appointment for the same day! I was a little nervous about getting my hair cut but Carlos really understood what I wanted done. My bottom layer was really damaged and was actually about right above my shoulders. The rest of my hair was hair to it covered it up. I wanted my hair cut short but not as short as what the bottom layer was. Sounds confusing but he got it. Carlos cut my hair to the length I wanted and most importantly he was able to blend in the bottom short layer. Finished off with a blow dry and style. Big pro: he doesn't pull your hair like crazy. I honestly had a hard time staying awake. My days of going all the way to San Jose to cut my hair are over thanks to Carlos. read more

Carlos is amazing he made my layered a line haircut so perfect and complementary to my face shape and the perfect warmth of color for The Fall season. Thank you! read more

After a considerable time looking for a good hair stylist, I found Carlos. He is a true STAR! Perfect haircuts every time. He is also an excellent lstener (very rare). Leigh H. read more

Just got my bangs cut by Carlos. Perfectly done and attentive. I can't wait to come back.

That was the best Pedicure I've ever had. They use natural products. The best part is the hot wax. my skin feels nice and soft afterward. The prices are very reasonable. I highly recommend this place to everyone. Huyen is the BEST!!! read more

I cannot tell you how pleased I was with the cut Carlos gave me. He spent a lot of time with my hair understanding how it falls and then gave me the best cut I have ever had. I will definitely come back and I highly recommend him to anyone that is still looking for a great stylist! The compliments I got on my new cut were off the charts and the price was so reasonable. read more

The power of the pen can be a sword or shield and sometimes reviews or emotional rants become an unwarranted weapon. Communication is always key to allowing someone to rectify a issue. Carlos is a long standing valued proprietor in the Rockridge community and is always consummate in providing specialized hair care and keeping his customers happy and beautiful! I find it hard to believe he did not try to resolve whatever hair dilemma one person recently experienced but he is also not a magician either! One should self evauate how they handle themselves in the situation. I am a client and referred numerous people who consistently remain loyal clients for over 25 years. I am throughly offended by someone remotely being scared to patronize such a professional, friendly as well as established business in our community. read more

I'm a big fan of Arellano Salon. I've been seeing my stylist Rina there for 6 years! When I first went in she literally taught me that I have curly hair. I never had a haircut that complemented my hair so well before. She took the time to evaluate my hair and routine and gave me a cut that maximizes my natural curls and is easy to maintain with my lifestyle. It was a life changer. I've been a loyal customer ever since! Highly recommend this place - especially Rina! read more

I've been going to Carlos for the past 12 years. I have coarse, curly and thick hair. He is the only one who's been able to "tame the mane." My hair looks good as it grows out - so if it's been a few weeks (or months) from Carlos' handiwork - it still looks good! I would recommend anyone to Arellano's Salon. read more

Carlos is fantastic. We were in a bind for some services late on a Sunday afternoon on a holiday weekend, he was booked and talked me through what to do. I went home and tried and couldn't, went back after he closed and he opened for us and was kind, helpful and solved our problems. Talent and service like this just doesn't exists any more. Thank you Carlos - you are a gift!!! read more

My hair was awesome after it was done. The dye looked exactly the same color in my hair and on the example, it was pretty fast and a great first time dyeing my hair! read more

Arellano - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California