I love this place, you get great service at amazing prices. My last 2 facials have been by Macy, I was so impressed by how professional and knowledgeable she is, she gave me advice on which facial would benefit my skin the best. She was right, so I booked another facial with her. Thank you Macy! read more

Still having trouble with the booking. This time, the front desk did not answer the phone (surprise, surprise). I left a message with the exact details I wanted - date, time, preferred treatment, and two other options in case they were booked. They could simply call me back to confirm. They called back 7 hours later (THANKFULLY I answered the phone) and said the preferred treatment was not available. I asked about the alternatives I had listed, but apparently they didn't write down that part of the message because the caller was clueless. So fine, I scheduled for one of the alternatives on the phone, but if I had missed that call it would have started another cycle of phone tag. I don't know if the services and price will continue to be worth the headache of the front desk.... So not only are they understaffed, they are also inefficient even when you try make the process smoother from your end. read more

Received a Murad leg tone and firm body wrap (30 minutes for $35.00) The products are first class and I had 2 ladies doing the treatment. it was very relaxing. The students were a bit hesitant in the pressure massaging the serums on the skin, but also went beyond the leg area and included a hand massage as well. So, I was happy! Then I decided to get a restorative facial (60 minutes for $50.00). I was impressed by the technician, Alexis, and recommend her highly. She was very through, explained each treatment stage, was sensitive to tension in the muscles and did a neck shoulder massage while the facial mask was drying. It is a great value and the spa area is beautiful read more

It's SUPER cheap but you get what you pay for plus you're depending on the luck of the draw of what kind of student you get for your services. I went in for a cut and color -- simple cut, I have long layers and am growing out that Rihanna bob that everyone and their mom had 2-3 years ago. I just wanted a trim to my layers and whatever they needed to do to smooth out the shape in the back; and a single-process color (dark red). First off it's not the easiest place to find if you've never been there, even with GPS. I made it to the intersection and called in to ask exactly where they were and to let them know I'd be just a few mins late while I made my way there. I had a noon appointment. I get there about 12:05, and not only does it take almost 10 mins for the receptionist to deal w/the customers in front of me (who were deciding...taking forever...what they wanted done for their next appt) and check me in, I then see the student that is to take me say she'd marked me as a "no-show". I was barely 10 mins late and most of that was waiting for the receptionist to check me in! The instructor did tell the student, wait till 30 mins to mark a no-show. So I finally get in the chair and explain (as above) what I wanted done. After about 15 mins of the student going back and forth w/her instructor about choosing and mixing color, we finally start. It's a mess. There's dark red dye everywhere, and worse, she keeps flipping my hair into my face and eyes till I finally speak up and tell her to be a little more careful. It's the undyed hair, but of course there is dye residue from her gloves on it, so now I have dye streaks on my face. Okay, whatever, as long as it's in progress. The poor girl next to me has been sitting there since I got there w/foils in her hair, apparently having gotten the wrong color before and made zero progress in the meantime. So after the dye's applied I have to wait 45 mins for it to set. It's now about 2pm and I'm wondering exactly how long I'd be here, since we hadn't even gotten to the cut yet. She rinses out the dye (sort of) and washes/conditions my hair, takes me back to the chair. I notice I'm dripping what looks like cherry Kool-Aid everywhere but I know there's always a little bit that you can't wash out. The students seem to love color but don't seem confident at all about cutting. Every step of the way they have the instructor show them the next step. In my case I was actually thankful for this cause I didn't have much confidence in this student either. Plus, it was interesting to hear them talk about the technique, the arcs and layering and such. Basically he'd demo the initial trim for a section and let the student finish. This took a while since I have a lot of hair and thus a lot of sections. Finally I'm trimmed and ready for blowdry. I was a little disappointed because I didn't get a roundbrush or flat ironing to finish like it seemed like everyone else was. She kind of just ran a vent brush like I have at home through my hair and blew it out straight-ish. I finish at 4pm, four exhausting and butt-numbing hours later. I think of my regular girl and think she is worth every single penny of her normal salon price + tip. This is kind of mean, but even though they are students...I kept thinking the student I got was destined for Supercuts and not a nicer salon :| The color result turned out how I wanted, but the really weird thing is, it took TWO WEEKS for all the dye to come out of my hair. I left a trail of pink stained towels at home. Verdict for hair services: It was CHEAP ($12.50 for cut and $35 for single process color) but I think I'd rather just pay normal price for my regular girl. Of course, if I had gotten a more competent (more advanced?) student it might have been a better experience. LOL but I still have a bunch of money left on my gift certificate so I'll be back to try out their spa services. Crossing my fingers... read more

Been here for two different services a massage and pedicure. The massage was great, however it is in a communal type room with curtains dividing it and i could hear some guy talking the whole time. Super rude and annoying! I go to a lot of nail salons so i expected and massage chair and bubbly foot bath. It was just a chair and a bowl full of cold water. The girl who did the pedi was super sweet and i wish the service was better so i could justify going back but i just cant. for 20 bucks i could go somewhere closer and get a long foot massage and sit in a huge comfy chair. but will be ack for another massage. read more

I've been to Bellus a number of times for different services: 2 times for manicure and pedicure, once for a facial and eyebrow wax, and once for a hot stone massage. I have to say first, that I've had mani/pedis elsewhere and while at a typical salon the have more fancy stuff, the students at Bellus do a good job and it's wicked inexpensive so definitely worth it! When I got my facial, the esthetician was very cognizant about what to do for my sensitive skin, so I really liked that. She did a great job. She also waxed my eyebrows and while it wasn't the best I've had, it wasn't bad. I probably would pass on that next time cause I'm a bit picky. However, the hot stone massage that I had was AMAZING! I'd had massages before, but never hot stone, and this one was so good! I'm definitely coming back to try this massage again, and hopefully it'll be just as good! read more

As a cosmetology student here to anyone considering attending Bellus- DO IT! This school is the best you'll find. I toured other schools first, and there's no comparison. It's clean, professional, and the instructors really care about giving you a quality education. They go above and beyond just preparing you for your license- like a class that teaches you about goal setting, financial responsibility, and having a positive outlook. It really helped me, and I know I wouldn't get that anywhere else. Many of the instructors are still working in salons or had a lot of salon experience (which means they have a lot of relevant advice.) I'm in the night program and love the environment. Highly recommend! read more

I don't know about the hairstylists...I haven't gotten anything done with my hair here. My review is about the facials. I have gone to get facials on 2 different occasions and have had great experiences with both. The great thing is that a facial is only $15 dollars because you are basically letting a student practice on you. I guess that could be a scary thought for some but so far so good! One was a friend and one was my sister....so I wasn't too nervous. The salon is very nice and I will definitely continue to take advantage of this perk while it lasts!!! The only downside (if you don't live in Poway) is that it is quite a drive. read more

This is an update to my previous review. Their Gen. Mgr. contacted me and offered complimentary services to make up for my last experience there. Although I was promised that their very best top students would perform the services, one out of two isn't too bad? Again, the facial was lame but the massage was out of this world! Hate to admit, but it was prolly better than my regular masseuse and she's da' bomb. Anyway, I still think the students were better back in the days, but it's still a hit and miss. Price-wise, there are just too many professional salons offering great deals out there that I don't know if its worth paying the same price for a student anymore? The reason I decided to update my review with additional stars is for the efforts Bellus academy put in to correct the situation. I really did appreciate it. My faith has been restored (somewhat) that they still do care about what the clientele thinks or feels. Thanks guys! read more

Went to school here a few years ago. Its a great place and most everyone is nice, just keep i mind that they are STUDENTS who are working on you, be patient and know that if you don't like how it turned out, that same student is gonna be the one to 'fix' your problem! read more

I got a facial done by Gloria and she made it an amazing experience! She was very friendly and it was nice that she let me know what she was doing as she went along with the facial. She definitely knows what she's doing. I can't wait to get more services done by Gloria! read more

This site is the most professional and customer service oriented , teaching based school I've ever experienced. The staff I have experienced Erik and Dorothy, supervise hair and are on task, professional, engaging and concerned. I listen to advice they give students and learn things myself! The students Lauren, Jamie, Janey, Are very good and I will keep listing the best as I experience them. I am also VERY impressed at the front desk. They are CONSISTENTLY professional, high energy, ultra polite, helpful and sweet plus they are fast and timely. There are STEF, ALYSSA AND ROCHEL. read more

Bellus Academy - Laurens creation - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Poway, California

This academy is one of three partner schools in San Diego that offer discounted salon-type services which are performed by students. I have been going to the Poway school for years, usually for leg-waxing. I've been pretty satisfied with the level of expertise and professionalism of the students. The prices are great, since they're still students, and they offer numerous services, haircare, spa, massage, waxing, and more. read more

Looking for a day of pampering without the exorbitant cost? Bellus is a Beauty School so you're having your services done by students but they are total pros and they are being supervised. I've had my eyebrows waxed, hair colored and cut, and a pedicure. My husband goes there for a $5 haircut every two weeks and we take the kids too! This place is great! I've been so happy with all of my appointments!! Stop paying all that money and go to Bellus where you'll be helping students gain hours and experience! read more

About 2 years ago, my husband and I received free services due to a military appreciation event. I got a massage and facial while he endured teeth whitening and a facial (Being the tough Marine he is, he decided not to tell them that he just had surgery several weeks prior... Not good when people are going to be touching you... I think he enjoyed his treatments, but won't admit it). I must say that even after two years, the massage I received there is still number one on my list. My masseuse's name was Annie (after two years, I'm sure she's outta there by now) and the facial was so relaxing. I remember leaving feeling rejuvenated). I asked a friend to return with me, but now I'm afraid after reading all this trouble getting booked... Wish me luck! read more

I go here for the pomegranate facial, it is more than worth the $37, and the girl I always ask for is great! It's so relaxing and my face feels refreshed after. Since I've always had great luck with the facials, I want to try one of their massage services some time. I have also gone for a shellac manicure and pedicure. They were okay, but I probably won't do it again. The shellac on one of my nails peeled off the next day, I'm not quite sure how it happened. read more

Came in for a facial today with Lyndsay Law and she did an amazing job. I highly recommend Lyndsay for all skincare needs ! She gave me a Vitamin C treatment, exfoliation, and even zapped my zits with a high intensity light. My skin is already looking better ! Lyndsay is a skincare rockstar :) read more

I used to go to the academy in La mesa when I loved there, Now this is my Go To Beauty salon. The Staff is Great. I have Got my hair cut and colored here, also did the teeth whitening! Teething whitening is well worth it $$ read more

Loved my stylist Kylie who got my hair and makeup ready for a formal event :) The only downside was when getting my makeup done they were completely out of foundation and there was obviously nothing in the back/there wasn't any sort of stock of the products. Seems to be quite a huge problem and doesn't seem fair to the students trying to do a good job. Kylie did a great job and was able to combine 4 different foundations in order to make enough for one application but nonetheless a beauty academy should have enough product. first visit = 50% off services. Overall, I was very happy with my stylist/end result. read more

As a caveat, I think my positive review is partially influenced by the fact that I got an AMAZING deal from Groupon that allowed me to get $125 worth of services for only $40. If I'd paid the full $125 (still a good deal, but not as great), I might not be quite as glowing. But I was pleasantly surprised by Bellus - despite a somewhat dismal location in a run down shopping center, the inside felt like a decent salon and the facial and massage I got were up there with professional services I've had in the past. It was a bit weird lying in a curtained area with other clients on either side, but I knew it was a school and felt that the treatments themselves made up for the lack of privacy. The only disappointing experience was the pedicure, which was my last treatment of the day. The woman did a fine job, but my friend and I were in the pedi area for two hours - and that part of the experience felt the most chaotic and student-ish. Unlike in the massage and facial area, nobody came and checked on us and nobody seemed to be making sure that clients were treated in a timely manner. I'd say skip the pedis at Bellus - you can get a professional one for about the same price somewhere else. But overall, I would go back. I think they do a great job for the price and an affordable spa day is a nice treat. read more

I love this place and this is coming from a straight guy. I have been here multiple for facials and back treatments. I have only ever been to Lindsey Vanleuven so I guess this is a review on her. Lindsey really makes you feel at ease with he expertise. She really shows you she knows what she is doing and makes you feel really relaxed. If you have any issues or concerns, all you have to do is let her know and she will make sure you have a wonderful experience. I remember the first time I came in. Of course I was really nervous as i was out of my element but she took amazing care of me and I have been going ONLY to her ever since. Keep up the great work and you will have a customer for life!! As far as the building, you wouldnt think that it would be so nice when you are inside. but dont let it fool you. The inside looks like a high end saloon with a fraction of the price. Everyone is always nice and friendly and I really cant rave enough about it. TIP: They do take credit cards but you need cash for a tip. read more

My girlfriend and I were here for the pomegranate facial and massages. We loved it and it was SO cheap! We'll definitely be back! Like many reviewers mention, don't expect a spa environment. You'll be in a large room with others, with your area partitioned off by curtains. But for the price - who cares?! read more

I've been a customer of Bellus Academy since they offered the Groupon back about a year ago. I've had my hair highlighted twice, 3 or 4 haircuts, and my 5 year old has had her hair cut. I've NEVER been disappointed with the quality of their work. I went today to just get a haircut, and Brittney was my stylist. She was SO sweet and did an awesome job. When I got home even my 3 year old son said "mommy has pretty new hair!" Another stylist that I think is really great is Judee. (I saw her today and she even remembered me!) She cut my daughter's hair once and went out of her way to make sure she was comfortable and putting her at ease. She even let my daughter play with her iPhone! Both these women will be gone (graduated) in June, so hurry up! :) Don't be afraid to go to a "beauty school". The students are closely supervised by experienced stylists and you won't be able to leave unless the supervisors are happy! read more

I had my first haircut today at Bellus Academy by Lauren Nielsen and it was incredible! Lauren was very professional yet personable and reassuring. The teacher supervising the students really took the time to answer any questions the students had and helped them if needed. Lauren took the time to listen to what I wanted and executed my vision better than I had imagined. I got a wash, haircut, blow dry and hair straightening treatment for $6. I had a 50 percent off coupon as haircuts are generally $13 (which is much better than the 50 dollar haircuts I had been receiving). It took 1.5 hours to get the cut because of how thorough the whole process was. 5 stars... i definitely recommend this place to others and will go back myself! read more

Today I called to ask for a request for my upcoming appointment. The person that answered the phone was Amy. I asked if I could have an African American person to do my hair, because every time I come here, the person doing my hair knows little to nothing about doing my texture of hair. Amy told me that she couldn't provide this because these appointments are based on the availability of students, so I cancelled my upcoming appointment. read more

Definitely do NOT recommend this place. The absolutely most unprofessional (even for a beauty school) and rude employees around . I have twice booked services here , a month in advance , and then had them cancel when I SHOWED UP at the appointed time . They hound you with calls and text message appointment reminders , and then when you show up on schedule , they cancel the appointment with ZERO notice . They have no qualms about wasting your time or money driving over there and revolving your whole evening or weekend day off to get their low priced salon services . I would MUCH rather pay full price or use a Groupon and not have my appointments cancelled when I show up expecting a service to be done . Save your time and money and go elsewhere . In addition to hair services , Bellus Academy should be teaching Customer Service 101 to their students and employees. As a side note , when I was standing there at the reception desk this past Friday evening asking WHY my appointment was cancelled yet again with NO notice , the Poway police or sheriffs dept showed up in force , descending on the place . From what I overheard a student or students were stealing products out the back door and the police were there to arrest them. This is certainly not the relaxing environment you want when booking salon or spa treatments. RUN the other way ... there are many reputable salons and spas that are seasoned professionals that offer good deals on Groupon and will not waste your time canceling at the last minute ... over and over again . read more

Great place for inexpensive haircuts, salon treatments, mani/pedis etc. You do need to plan accordingly and make sure you have lots of extra time available since these are students, but the ambience, professionalism and price make up for it. I have not been disappointed by the quality and outcome of the services. read more

As a student who took an LOA after dealing with quite a few family emergencies, I was very hesitant to return. Upon returning, I learned my new esthetician instructor would be Ms.Christy who automatically jumped me right back on track. She took the time to make sure I understood how many hours I needed to make up, to still be able to graduate close to my original date. She went above and beyond in making sure I was comfortable working on clients & is constantly giving me the upmost advice in helping me succeed. Though I haven't had the greatest past few months dealing with personal issues, returning to school has definitely help me regain focus & has motivated me to keep reaching for the stars. I greatly appreciate Ms.Christy for all the support she constantly delivers. read more

Just came from my first services at BA and I'm pleased. I did not experience any of the front desk issues expressed in other reviews. On the contrary, I found the front desk staff (both Lora and the other petite woman) to be very friendly and helpful. Judy Wheeler cut my hair well, and took the time to style it, too. My hair is long and I have the stereotypical long hair phobia when it comes to cutting length. Judy got my buy-in to a 3-4" cut before she began, and I'm pleased with the outcome. It's healthier looking, and afterall, it's hair -- it'll grow! NOTE THAT TIPS ARE CASH ONLY, although credit and debit cards are accepted for services. I'll go back... and refer friends, too. Right now I'm trying to think of an upcoming occasion that I can use as an excuse for an updo! read more

Cheryl- back facial Karen- deep tissue massage both were A-OK. Everything was fine but bottom line, you are not going to get the WOW factor here. These are students and it's very affordable, so i'm a fan and will continue to come here from time to time but if i need a serious deep relaxing massage or a skilled extractionist, i won't be booking my appt here. read more

Still love coming here! Everyone is so nice and professional. They do great work. It does tske longer but who cares? Don't book an appt if you have lunch plans or other immediate plans. I always save my entire day for them to work their magic and haven't been disappointed yet. read more

This review is in regards to the Graduation "production" that was held this past Sunday (Nov 3). I want to start off by congratulating all the students. Job well done! Now, on to the "production"....The person in charge of putting it together, should be fired. I felt like I was attending a Kindergarten puppet show. For something that this person had MONTHS to prepare for, it may as well been thrown together in an hour. Even the school Director wasn't there to congratulate the students in all the hard work they went through AND PAID FOR...because she had other commitments? Come on, really? For the amount of revenue this school brings in monthly, you would think this graduation, which men't so much to the students, would have had more effort put into it. It was pathetic, and I am actually embarrassed for the person who "threw" that hot mess together. read more

I am a student at Bellus and I LOVE it! The instructors are so knowledgeable and are beyond helpful! The teachers truly want every student to excel and succeed in their future careers. I think if you are looking at attending a cosmetology, barber, esthetician, or nail technician you should truly go to Bellus read more

*This review isn't for a usual appointment* I hosted an event to have 10 girls get glammed for homecoming, and I was blessed to find a business that can provide enough hair stylists and makeup artists in one time slot. Though I wasn't personally dolled up by Bellus since I hosted, the girls looked gorgeous and were extremely happy with their makeovers. As a note, my 10 girls were all special needs students who had unique personalities...some being unwilling to get either hair or makeup or both done even after showing up. Regardless, the ladies at Bellus were extremely sweet to them. Not once did they make it seem like a burden to work with so many clients at once, and I was beyond grateful that their educator (Elvisa, not from Poway though) stayed flexible regardless of how hectic everything was. Imagine a bridezilla on steroids--I was the next closest thing to that! These ladies worked so quickly! They were done with 8 girls (2 didn't want makeovers) in less than 2 hours. Thank you, Andi, for being so sweet and helping me work out paperwork beforehand and booking my group! read more

I had a facial with Lissa that was fantastic. I have read some bad reviews on Bellus and I think you have to know what you are getting into before you go. It is a school and you are getting a discount because it is going to be a totally different experience than you would get in a spa. You are still getting the same high end products that you would get in a spa but without the ambiance. I recommend asking for Lissa for a facial; she explained all of the products and did a fantastic job. I'm sure she will do very well when she graduates and moves on to a spa. I hope she will let me know where she is going so I can follow her. read more

Had my first ever facial here & it was 10/10 amazing. She was professional, thorough & friendly. I love my results and will definitely be coming back. read more

This school is definitely ahead of its time, The facilities are clean, high end and feel like the real deal. I came in for a skin treatment with Lyndsay Law, she was incredible for only attending the school for the short amount of time that she's been there. She was thorough and explained everything that she would be doing to me during the treatment. I can't wait to follow her throughout her practices! read more

My husband came in and got his haircut by Savanna Lewis. She did an excellent job and we would highly recommend her for anyone looling for a clean, well groomed look. read more

I love this place and can't speak highly enough of their massages and facials!!! They have evening hours, reduced costs, monthly specials and high quality services - the perfect way to pamper myself! read more

I've been going to Bellus Academy for over twenty years (even before it was Bellus) and absolutely love it! I trust Bellus to handle not only my cuts and color, but also skincare needs (facials) and massage therapy. Currently, Queen does my hair and she is absolutely fantastic! I will be sad when she graduates and moves on in her career! I highly recommend Bellus and will continue to support the amazing students and instructors who make this Academy so great! -Tina read more