I can count on one hand the number of times I've had a facial, so I don't consider myself a connoisseur or anything, but I think I can sense a person's expertise and dedication when I see it. I got referred to Merle by a trusted friend (Patricia J, whose review got filtered out--unjustly, I feel) so I decided to treat myself. Located in an unassuming medical plaza near CSULB, it felt more like visiting a doctor's office than a salon at first, but once you step in it's a very nice, welcoming environment. Merle is very personable and professional and made me feel right at home. You know you're in for a pretty serious treatment when you actually have to change into a strapless towel dress for just a facial. She starts off with a paraffin dip for your hands, which are then bagged and placed into these electric oven mitt thingies that keep the wax and your hands warm. She takes these off about halfway through your treatment and gives you a hand and arm massage. Just so you know, this is not a usual thing you get with a facial--stuff like this would be extra. She does other bonus things like this all throughout your facial: she scrubbed my feet and gave me a neck and shoulder massage while waiting for various masks to dry. The actual facial begins with her examining your skin to see what kinds of treatments you need. She doesn't offer a menu that you choose from; it's kind of like getting an omakase meal at a sushi restaurant, where you defer to the chef's expertise in determining what you're going to eat. She did a minor eyebrow wax, microdermabrasion, a chemical peel, light treatment (she gave me a whole fascinating history of her experience with light therapy), some spot antibacterial wand thingy, extractions (ow), and I think two kinds of masks--all the while doing all the bonus stuff. My face got worked for about an hour and half, and I left feeling very much like I got my money's worth. I also felt like I gained a lot of knowledge about my skin and skin care in general--Merle loves to share her knowledge and her own experiences, and welcomes whatever questions you may have. Anyway, I wish I had the means to go see her on a regular basis, but alas, it shall have to be a special treat for me. If you want a really serious facial, you can't beat a visit to Light Touch Therapy. read more

Light Touch Therapy - Skin Care Near Me - Long Beach, California

I have been been a client of Merle's for nearly 20 years. The treatments and dedication that she provides are very effective and are individualized for my skin as well as my particular needs at that particular time. Merle is very skilled and very caring, and I am convinced that you can't find a better, more dedicated aesthetician any where at any price. If your looking for effective treatments and advice that will help your skin stay healthy and youthful, you couldn't to better than Light Touch Therapy. read more

I own a hair salon & a client of mine referred me to Merle, maybe 10 years ago or so. I was so impressed, that I have been going to her every 4 weeks since! She has kept my skin looking healthy & has prevented my skin from further damage due to the elements. She is so sweet, generous & caring, not just about your skin, but about you as a person. She is constantly continuing& expanding her education & it's reflected in her treatments. I highly recommend Merle to anyone who cares about their skin. read more

OMG, this will be THE best facial you have ever experienced! Merle is the top in her field for esticians, this facial is amazing! The skincare line she uses has stem cells in it , one of a very few lines that has stem cells. You will never be pressured to buy anything....however you will definitely want to know! Ok so for around $125, this facial will be around 80 minutes long, unlike other esticians, she is always doing something relaxing to you, be it a hand paraffin wax plus massage, or a foot massage, or even a neck massage, it is completely RELAXING. Before she ever uses a product, she tries it her self to be sure it is top quality! Previously she shared the space with a doctor who was only here once a week, howver now she has a massage person in with her....she's in a medical building so wouldn't run it to her business, don't let that's fool you, she is by far THE best kept secret! She uses Light Therapy on you (ask your current estician what that is...if she even knows, lol) excellent at anti-aging! I'm telling you, this is the best facial you will ever have! PS I am a VERY picky person, so for me to even write about this, ha ha....you will see what I mean! read more

Merle......With a degree in chemistry she evaluates and chooses products that maximize penetration into the skin to promote collagen production and skin rejuvenation. You as a client, can trust that Merle will establish a skin care plan that will include masks and products best suited for your skin condition. Light therapy and microdermabrasion are included with each facial - at no additional cost! A friend (in her 60's) had such amazing results from Merle's facials I was convinced to make my first appointment. I have been to Merle every four weeks since - for the last 3 years! Even my hair stylist has told me that my skin looks great and he tells it like it is! If your facial goal is maintaining or improving the condition of your skin then I would highly recommend Merle's expertise. BLL Long Beach read more

I have been going to see Merle for many years and she is as good as it gets. I agree completely with Elle C. This will be the BEST facial you will ever have.She keeps refining her products and often tries out new products that are ahead of the curve. Not only will you experience a great facial but she gives you a paraffin wax dip for you hands with heated gloves, a foot message, and a shoulder rub. You can even have your facial while lying on a table that messages your back at the same time. My skin looks great and I owe it all to Merle. read more

Been trying to get an appointment at this place for weeks now, sent an email and left voicemails but have not heard from the establishment. Seeing how the reviews here are from 2012 and no new ones, is it possible that this has closed? Would love to try this place due to all the great reviews, but not sure how to get a hold of somebody. It's either they closed up shop or they don't take new clients. read more

Merle is amazing! I have been coming to her for over 10 years, and have always been thrilled with her services. Merle always knows the most current innovations in skin care, and tries all of her products on herself before using them on her clients. I have referred many of my friends and family to Merle, including my 16 year old daughter. Merle's salon is warm and inviting...very soothing to the soul. If it's a massage you are yearning for either before or after your facial, Merle has a massage therapist in the salon as well. Book an appointment today.....you will not be disappointed. read more

I agree with the others. Merle really cares about her clients and their skin. I don't know what I would do without her. I have also been going to her for many years and love my once a month treatments. I come home feeling like a new person. read more

I have been going to Merle since I was in my teens and at (almost) 28 years old now, I don't see that changing any time soon - she is without a doubt the best there is! Not only is she extremely knowledgeable when it comes to the basics of great skincare, but she is always so current with the newest treatments and tools that are out there. She constantly researches/educates herself on health and skincare trends and is a great resource for any questions I have about vitamins, skincare products, nutrition, etc. Not to mention she is the sweetest, most adorable lady, and her facials are absolute heaven! I am literally glowing when I leave and feel like a million bucks:) Always have recommended Light Touch Therapy with Merle and always will! read more

Merle is the hardest working esthetician in the business! Given her background in chemistry, she keeps abreast of all the new products and developments available. She is constantly on the cutting edge of new technology and researches non-stop!!! I have been a client for close to 10 years and would never consider going anywhere else. I have very sensitive skin, so she is always very conservative with the treatments I receive. Often, I am complimented on my skin and have referred several people to her. I recommend her highly and know you will be completely satisfied if you book an appointment with her. The building she is in looks rather tired, but her space is warm, charming and very inviting. read more

I have been a LOYAL customer for over 15 years, and LOVE what Merlee (owner of Light Touch Therapy) has done for my skin. She is very knowledgeable about all types of skin and has excellent products to keep your skin looking beautiful! She is current on all kinds facial treatments, peels and machines that really do work. read more

I have enjoyed Merle's services for many years and believe that the compliments I receive regarding my skin are because she is so knowledgeable. She customizes each facial and always has something new to try--stem cell serums, peptides, or peels--so that my skin always looks its best! I would be lost without Merle; she is truly a treasure. read more

I have been going to Merle for my facials forever! She is the best! Even in these hard times her service is the one thing I won't give up. I don't even ask her what type of treatment I need when I arrive for my facial because she knows what I need by looking at me and I always leave happy and relaxed. Merle is always current on what new products are out there and her understanding of chemistry is very impressive. She always adds in little extra services here and there. Merle is an amazing aesthetician and friend. read more

Merle is the bomb! Have been seeing her for years. Those who I have treated over the years, love her as well. She is on top of her game when it comes to the industry. You will just love her facials, treatments and other services. It is true it may be hard to get in to see her at first, once you are, she will work with you the best she can to get you in. Love Love Love Light Tourch Therapy. read more

Merle Was fantastic ! My mom took me there for my first time to get my eyebrows done. It couldn't have been easier Merle was super nice and she did a great job. I can't wait to go back ! read more

I have been going to see Merle for over a dozen years. Every time someone complements me on how young I look I attribute it to Merle. She always tries to find the latest and best ways to help her customers maintain the most youthful and glowing appearance as possible. I never have any qualms when she tries something new on me because I always end up looking great. Other reviewers have mentioned how she does all of the 'extras' which nowadays would usually raise the cost of a facial in other places. She pampers you so that you come out of the facial relaxed and rejuvenated. While she targets a mature clientele, both of my daughters go to her. Again, as mentioned in previous reviews her facials are customized to the wants and needs of a client so she handles their acne and various other young adult skin problems with the same care and diligence she shows me. I strongly recommend giving Merle a try...you won't regret it. read more