There's a reason this place has such high reviews. Everyone here is experienced, professional, and they go the extra mile. I've had filler once, Botox once, and two RF microneedling sessions and it's like the technicians are OCD. Three full passes, every patch of skin is covered, and the results are the best I've had. They give you time to numb, and they do a great job distracting you from the discomfort if you do decide to go for a more intense setting. Also, really helpful with the GLP, clear labeling on each syringe, and easy FaceTime with the doctor. I've never had to wait past an appointment time and there's always parking. Really grateful I found this spot. Note: Sheila did the rf microneedling if you end up scheduling that service. I normally have some white spots but after the service with her my entire face is covered and it shows in the results. read more

I want to start with the negative. There's barely any but one that pushed my button a little. That is to say that I wish the NP who saw me virtually had a little more etiquette. Coming from a healthcare setting myself, I am big on treating patients as people and not a box one has to check. Suffice to say, introduce yourself. I had to ask her "Who are you? Because you never introduced yourself." I believe that is basic etiquette. Second, I was quick to notice the lack of patience with which my call was handled hours after my visit, the one where I had a chemical peel. (There was a whole lot of information to remember before the visit and they don't all sink in until you're done and you get the kit.) Otherwise I had a pleasant experience getting my first peel with Sheila/Shiela. I'm now on my 4th day post-procedure and looking forward to the results. I also want to acknowledge the wonderful experience I had weeks before that with Joy, who did my Dermplaning Facial, although I wish I had known sooner that if I did both at the same time, I could've saved a lot more. read more

I booked a consultation with Dr. Shay with the intent to purchase a skin treatment package since the $200 consultation fee can go towards the treatments. The interior of the medspa is clean, minimal, and thoughtfully designed. The consultation was pretty short and confirmed what treatment I was looking for. I felt uncomfortable about the various treatment and product recommendations because I didn't feel like I had a say in what I wanted to opt in or out of. Dr. Shay informed me that a package of 5 was recommended (since packages are usually at a discount vs individual) and that it is typically $950/session for the face, but that she would honor the 5-package sessions to use for my arms as well. When I was walked back up to the front desk, I was quoted a different (higher) price for the package. I wish there was more communication between the staff because I definitely felt cheated. I was ready to purchase the package of 5 as quoted by Dr. Shay, but after hearing the discrepancies I felt hesitant to commit to Kintsu for so many sessions and opted to purchase just a single session which I used the next day instead. Additionally, a skincare product box set was brought up to the front as if I was going to purchase it when in fact I never agreed to it. Thankfully the ladies respected my decision and didn't try to push the product, although I did feel like I was being judged in the moment. I was also recommended a facial which I was not interested in and again felt like I was cornered into purchasing. The day of my treatment went much better, but could still use some improvements. It would've also been nice to have a clock in the room where the prep was done. I was sitting in there for what felt like ages and didn't want to move around too much reaching for my phone. The treatment itself felt pretty straightforward and the nurse had a calm demeanor which was appreciated. I couldn't remember what the aftercare instructions were, so a post-treatment care sheet would've been helpful. The nurse also said she would give me an ice pack afterwards to help sooth my skin, but I wasn't given one and just went up to the front to pay - oh well, no biggie but sometimes the details are what makes the clients feel appreciated and coming back. Overall, I wouldn't be opposed to coming back here if I wanted the convenience of going somewhere close by. The treatment itself was fine, but just be aware that products and services may be pushed on you and to just be firm about what your focus is. read more

Kintsu MedSpa & Wellness - Laser Hair Removal Near Me - Berkeley, California

I was thrilled with this place. I'm glad I now have a go-to medspa in the east bay owned and operated by women of color. The service was top notch and the environment was very relaxing/rejuvenating. I posted about the location on threads and received around 1,000 women interested in the facility. Hopefully they come enjoy as well! read more

Reception is always gracious, very clean and warm. The nurse took time to explain the process to me with great patience & not like I worked in the medical field. I came in for vitamin injection and the nurse kept it simple and painless. I will admit I am a bit of a cry baby. I go back regularly because the injection worked great and the customer care is divine. read more

Curated products and services = results! My skin is smoother more clear and supple. Staff are well trained, answered all my questions, and products and services are fairly priced for the East Bay. Definitely recommend Kintsu Medspa & Wellness to my girlfriends seeking to refresh their looks. read more

Sheila was incredible and gentle! She was so knowledgeable and helped me absolutely transform the lower half of my face with Botox and filler. Also love Kintsu. They're always so kind :) read more

Joy is amazing! She helped me pick out what facial would work best for my skin and gave me specific skin care routine suggestions that have been life-changing for me. So glad I found her! She's also all about highlighting the natural beauty you already have, and giving your skin what it needs to feel good. read more

I would not recommend Kintsu. It's taken me months to write this review because I was hoping my skin would recover -- unfortunately, it hasn't. I initially visited Kintsu for a basic microneedling session. During the consultation, Dr. Shay strongly recommended microneedling with radiofrequency instead. The consultation felt more like a sales pitch than a true medical evaluation. We didn't thoroughly discuss potential risks, how to properly prepare my skin, or proper aftercare. She pushed for a package of three sessions, turning what was supposed to be a few-hundred-dollar treatment into a multi-thousand-dollar investment. While the facility is modern and the staff is friendly, I question their level of training. The first two sessions were performed by a very sweet technician, but I became concerned when she struggled to draw my blood -- something that has never happened to me before. She was drawing from the wrong part of my arm, which is a basic error for a nurse. Dr. Shay was training her on my face during the procedure, something I was never made aware of beforehand. For the amount I paid, I did not expect to be used as a training case. The third session caused the most damage. It was extremely painful -- much more than the previous two. I asked her to stop midway, and she said she "turned it down," but insisted it was the same setting as before. I felt pressured to continue even though I was clearly uncomfortable. After that session, my healing process was very different -- much more inflammation, irritation, and prolonged tightness. I noticed that she kept the needle in my face for a longer period of time and I question whether that lead to the volume loss through heat. I requested two follow-up appointments, even though Kintsu does not normally offer them. During these follow-ups, I expressed my concerns -- compromised skin barrier, uneven healing, small indents in my face (which look like acne scars or uneven texture), and now, visible volume loss, especially on the left side of my face and more pronounced "11's". Dr. Shay's response? "That's odd," followed by a suggestion to try additional services -- at more cost to me. I came in with healthy skin and left with long-term issues -- loss of volume, different skin texture and sensitivity that I never had before. I trusted Dr. Shay because of her credentials, but the inadequate training of staff, and poor aftercare information has left me incredibly disappointed and with a less youthful looking face. I think it's important to know the consequences of improper and aggressive rh microneedling treatments. In Oct 2025, the FDA published a warning with potential risks that includes "burns, scarring, fat loss, disfigurement, and nerve damage." I started my treatment before this was published and wish I had known earlier. You're investing in your face, and the consequences are very real. I have an upcoming dermatologist appointment, and I am hoping they can fix what Kintsu did to my face. read more

I love coming here. The team are lovely, very friendly and really do listen. They are make suggestions but also take into consideration your needs, e.g. preference, time and cost. I have been coming here for a few months now, I have learned a lot from Joy, and had some great results so far. I highly recommend. read more

Sheila was very profession and efficient. She explained the process including the home care. Appointments at Kintsu are always on time.

Kintsu really cares about customer service. Every time I go there the front staff is welcoming and friendly. The people who have treated me were always professional. Only one time I had a complaint and the manager was quick to resolve which I really appreciated. So many places just shrug problems off or never even get back to you. This was not the case with Kintsu! Highly recommend. read more

I had my first session with Joy yesterday, and I'm actually inspired about getting my skin back on track! Joy is deeply knowledgeable, discerning (meaning she's not just suggesting more and more expensive products and treatments), she's kind, funny, and an exquisite communicator who masterful at her craft. My skin is aglow, and I feel cared for and ready to re-up my commitment to a home routine. I'll definitely be back! Highly recommend! read more

I had a great facial at Kintsu MedSpa. Joy did an amazing job and was very knowledgeable. My facial felt great and my skin is glowing! Joy listened to all of my concerns and gave me great advice on products I can use to improve my skin. I will definitely book another appointment with Joy in the future! read more

Kintsu is fantastic I have experienced many different treatments and I'm always happy with them Elise is very professional and meticulous She takes her time , answers questions , explains the procedure and listens ! Its not just about fillers anymore Kintsu offers so many different techniques - laser, micro needling , Sofwave to name a few Become a member and save some bucks ! read more

I got microneedling with Sheila and she was super knowledgeable and kind throughout the whole process. I'm excited to see my results!

Joy was absolutely amazing, I love the time that she took with my treatment. I am glowing. I would highly recommend her to anyone and everyone!!! read more

What an amazing experience! The MedSpa, Dr. Shay and all of her team are so wonderful. Everyone made me feel right at home and best of all was the botox service and results! If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. I've been getting botox for a little over 10 years and I think this might just be the best so far, Elise was so gentle, there was no pain and it settled in about a week exactly as I had hoped!! I love it and am so looking forward to my next appointment! read more

I've been going to Kintsu MedSpa in Berkeley for about a year for laser hair removal treatments. Each nurse has handled me with care and ease, checking on me during the process and giving me tips on how to care for my skin post treatment. Laser hair removal can feel uneasy, but I love how each nurse checks on me, even when I don't say anything. They are very aware of their patients, answer questions and are supportive. Their front desk staff is warm and helpful (I really adore Monica) and I haven't met anyone there that has made me uncomfortable. Also, love the diversity of the staff, which speaks volumes to their knowledge, skills and capabilities. Lovely experience and so grateful to discover this space. I always look forward to coming in. read more

I just had a facial with Joy and had to leave a 5 star review! She is gentle, educational, and a fun conversationalist (I like chatting during my facials). read more

Amazing experience! The Berkeley location is so nice and the entire staff is so kind and helpful! I would definitely recommend coming here.

Dr. Shay and her entire team are wonderful. Fantastic facial options. Easy parking & lovely location.

I cannot recommend Kintsu Med Spa highly enough! I've been seeing Dr. Shay and her team for a couple years now and they are the absolute best. Botox can be kind of scary but everyone here is so friendly, and the spa itself is clean and inviting, I always feel right at ease. Best med spa in the bay! read more

Great team at this spa. Alexa and Dr. Shay are very knowledgeable and patient. It's my second time here and feeling good about everything they offer. read more

I have been going to Dr. Shay for a year now and she does incredible work. She knows how to give you the exact results you're after and tell you what looks best. Love this place! Also the staff is very nice and attentive. read more

very kind, clean, informative - staff are great. I would recommend, especially as someone with internalized feelings around facial and body hair, they make it easy and de-stigmatized. read more

Such a great salon with an attentive, careful, and gentle doctor. I've always had bad luck with bruising after botox and fillers. This morning I woke up and my face was smooth as glass, not the trace of a bruise in sight. Dr. Shay had lots of great advice given my lifestyle and time of life for general health and well-being, of which youthful skin is a part, and we developed a plan for my skincare that I look forward to following. Cute office, too! read more

I highly recommend Kintsu! I am very pleased with the results from my treatment and the customer service at this place! I have had many facials in my day and most times the post-facial glow is gone within a day or two (if I'm lucky!). Not the case here! I had the Glo2 Oxygen Facial with Joy almost a week ago and my skin is STILL glowing! Joy is incredibly knowledgeable and was able to answer all of my skincare questions. She was able to analyze my skin, offer me solutions to my skin concerns, and give me a great home care routine that I am loving! My skin hasn't looked this good in years! I will definitely be back! read more

This place was enjoyable we did arrive late but pay the full price. However, of the staff and the provisions were all good.

The team is super nice and helpful. I appreciate how easy it is to text for appointments and follow ups.

My first visit of many more to come! I made a consultation appointment for my very first Botox treatment. Dr Shay was incredibly warm & knowledgeable. She gave me different options & was transparent about the cost. Elise met with me next, answered even more of my questions & put me at ease. She's extremely gentle & efficient. What I truly appreciate is they don't pressure you into any treatment, nor do they recommend anything unnecessary. Chanel was also super professional & friendly... many thanks to her for telling me about the membership plan because I WILL be returning.. its only been a few hours & I already see my forehead and brow lines diminishing. Not to mention- all three women had gorgeous, healthy skin! read more

Dr. Shay is a genius. I started seeing her 3 years ago, when I was 30. I've always been complimented on my good skin. After seeing Dr. Shay, my skin has TRANSFORMED. Everywhere I go people ask what my secret is and how to get my skin. Since seeing Dr. Shay, people I meet think I'm between 22-24 because of how great my skin is. No wrinkles, very thick/collagen-filled, even color, zero pimples, zero age spots, ZERO TEXTURE. She's also a wizard with lip filler. My lips look incredible, full, and natural. In addition to her skill, Dr. Shay is incredibly kind and has a lot of integrity. She suggests services that she thinks will work well with each individual (never more than needed/unnecessary services). She creates an individualized plan for each client based on their needs and desired results. Clearly, I can't recommend her highly enough! (Before seeing Dr. Shay & since seeing Dr. Shay pics below) read more

Great office environment, had a wonderful facial with Joy. I already made my next appointment.

I have had many comfortable treatments with Dr. Shay over the years. Each one has been perfectly executed with longer lasting results than expected. I didn't know I could look so good. Kintsu Spa is beautiful and relaxing. Dr. Shay and her staff make you feel at home. I can't wait to return each time. read more

I've been seeing Dr. Shay for over 18 months now and I am extremely happy with the results. Dr. Shay takes the time to explain all of the treatments clearly. The staff is very friendly and accommodating. I also appreciate how easy it is to book an appointment online. read more

I wanted to take some time to express my gratitude to Kintsu Medspa. I was looking on google for a place in my area to get medical grade chemical facial peels, and that's how I found Kintsu Medspa. I have been going here a little bit over two months and I have seen massive improvements to my skin! I have extremely sensitive and oily skin... and over time my skin doesn't get as oily, my breakouts have reduced significantly and my hyperpigmentation has gradually cleared up. Also, the staff here are really sweet and accommodating. Thank you all so much! read more

Did my first small area laser here today (bikini) and was super quick and easy! Will follow up with results

I'm updating my review because I was promptly contacted and offered a more thorough consultation as well answer to my questions. I believe inconvenient situations can happen but what's more important is how it's handled. The interest shown in maintaining their high level of service has turned a negative into a positive for sure! Definitely recommend as they stand by their words. read more

Great Professional Service from the time you walk in you are greeted with a smile. My appointment today was with one of the registered nurses Elisa...She was helpful friendly and informative. Will definitely be back for future appointments. Overall 10 out of 10 highly recommend. read more

Lovely people, excellent treatment! Dr. Shay and staff are sure friendly, and accommodating with client's scheduling needs. Their gorgeous facilities are kept in tip-top clean condition, and plenty of parking is always available. They are super responsive (including via text message:-) and offer a wide range of services, membership packages, and awesome facial products. For several years now, I don't mind driving "an hour, round trip" to see Dr. Shay for her personalized treatment-----it's well worth it! She's personable, knowledgeable, honest, and truly takes the time to listen to her client's needs. Thank you lovely Dr. Shay and Kintsu Staff! read more