Whenever I see a place that only has five stars, I run for the hills because I think of two possibilities. 1. Everyone who went there loved it, or 2. They must be part of some occult. And there's no way they all loved it, so they're definitely part of a cult. To my surprise, Michael was truly extraordinary, and he has an impressive background to back it up. He used to cut hair for celebrities in West Hollywood in Sally Hershberg's salon. That's right, and now he's here in Orange County! PA; for all the pretentious people In OC who want something concrete to brag about, see Michael! He brings something that other hairstylists can't provide, and that's a personalized 1-1 experience all about you and your hair; Michael has created a unique space that allows you to have an excellent private haircutting experience with a social connection! We've all been to places where you've had a great haircut, but there was a disconnect or robotic and forced "friendly talk" with the hairdresser, OR the great social experience with the hairdresser but ended up with a dramatic shearing like Anne Hathaway in Les Miserables. All of the apprehensive social awkwardness that goes on when going to a salon: like ignoring judgemental looks, waiting to be seen, and trying to have a natural conversation with your stylist while other people are eavesdropping, are all gone! There is no wait or sitting next to someone loudly blabbing about life in their bubble to no one because the stylist isn't listening, lol. Michael is a true pro; he doesn't do any "specialty" or "dry cutting" marketing nonsense. He cuts all hair types and lengths and makes the cut work with any styling and parting! He exhibits complete control with his shears, meticulously sectioning, cutting, and measuring while engaging in authentic, personable conversation. After drying and doing last-minute details, he presented the finished look, and I stopped talking to admire my haircut! I realized the experience had ended, and I had completely forgotten I was at a hair salon! I absolutely loved my finishing look and experience -- I wanted to stay longer! I entirely understand the ratings now and recommend that anyone with hair see Micheal at least once! He's an exceptional hairstylist and an incredible down-to-earth person. read more

I have lots of long, fine hair, and without a proper cut, it will look thin, flat, and generally bedraggled. Back in February, I was on the hunt for a new hairdresser and decided to give MSG a try based on all the five star reviews, and will never look back. He is able to give my hair shape, movement, and make it look thick while still keeping much of the length (if that's a concern for you). read more

Michael is a hair-genius! Seriously, his talent knows no bounds and he truly gets to know your hair and you. He's also smart, funny, kind, and a total badass. So glad I found Michael and am proud to be one of his clients! read more

I can't say enough great things about MSG! From the moment you walk into his chair, you can tell he's got both style and skill. He has an incredible eye for detail, really listens to what you want, and somehow makes it even better than you imagined. He's not just a hairstylist--he's an artist. He knows how to blend precision with creativity, and he makes the whole experience fun and relaxed. I walked out feeling confident, fresh, and completely impressed. If you want someone who's not only talented but also genuinely cool, easy to talk to, and passionate about what they do, this is your guy. Highly recommend--you'll leave looking sharp and feeling even sharper. read more

I have lived in Orange County 11 years and am so happy and thankful that I finally found someone who gives a great haircut. I will be going back as long as he is cutting hair! What a joy to have a true pro finally ! read more

Best Hairdresser. I had a great experience and Michael really takes his time to make sure you're getting the best haircut. Love my hair and definitely going to come back. Thank you so much. read more

Michael is a very gifted stylist he counts many SoCal entertainers as his clients. His salon has a single station which keeps it very private and peaceful. His cuts work with your hair so it's easy to maintain and looks good all of the time. I always receive compliments on my cut. read more

Best hair experience I have ever had!! I truly couldn't say enough fabulous things about Michael. He is phenomenal at his craft, is fun to talk to, and has curated a beautiful space. This was my first time seeing Michael, and prior to that I have never left an appointment loving my hair. When he was done, to say I was obsessed with my hair cut and style is an understatement. Thank you Michael!! First picture is immediately after my appointment, and second picture is from the next day after I showered and blow dried it. -Allee read more

Amen and praise the hair Gods!!! I have been in OC for a little over a year now and have been on a wild goose hunt. But I can say this is the last stop!! He did an amazing job noticing my concerns and fixing them. After a year of bad haircuts, my hair finally feels amazing!! Thank you Michael!! read more

Michael St.Germain - Hair Salons Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

Normally I don't wait so long to write a review, I like to write while the experience is fresh on my mind. With a new hairstylist it's a whole different thing! I like to wait a few weeks, wash and style my hair a few times so that I can truly give a well rounded review. Even before I came in Michael gave me tips to follow in order for me to have the best results possible! I loved that! He doesn't just cut your hair but he cares about the in between time before your next visit! When I showed up, a tad early, he was all ready for me! I like a stylist who runs on time! So that was a BIG plus in my book! His studio is sleek and intimate. There are no distractions, he's focused on you and your hair! He sat me down and we went over what I wanted, what I had been doing up to this point etc. He talked about framing my face, and what would look best. We decided on a plan and then headed a couple of steps over to the shampoo sink! He made sure to ask if I had a tender head (I had never even heard the term!) which I don't but this just shows how he really thinks about his clients, their comfort, and their needs. Loved that! Then he got to work, snipping and chatting. It was effortless and fun! Michael is truly an artist! I was blown away, not only by the haircut itself, but by the way he cut it in such a way so that it actually looked longer than when I came in! BTW I'm growing my hair out so this was a GOOD end result! The first time I styled it on my own, I was so excited when it looked just as wonderful as when Michael styled it! This is HUGE in my book! That's the sign of a great cut! I have styled a it a few times since my cut, and each time my hair did exactly what I wanted, and looked amazing! I'm thankful to have found Michael! I highly recommend him! read more

Michael St.Germain - Love it! Thanks! - Hair Salons Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

I was referred to Michael by a friend. She HIGHLY recommended him. As I walked in the door, I was pleasantly greeted by Michael. He made me feel comfortable and answered all of my questions. He took time to discuss ideas for my hair. I felt 100% confident that he would give me a cut that was perfect for ME. I am so pleased with my haircut! I love it!!! We are SO fortunate to have Michael's level of talent right here in Aliso Viejo. Wow!! And, for my hair color, JESS did an amazing job! She is so talented and friendly. Love the balayage ombre, it looks beautiful, I am so happy! I highly recommend making an appointment with Michael! read more

Michael St.Germain - Hair by Michael St.Germain - Hair Salons Near Me - Aliso Viejo, California

Last year my stylist moved locations and the travel time was not working. I have a girlfriend with long hair and I noticed over about 6 months that it looked absolutely STUNNING. She referred me to Michael. It was the best referral EVER. I had over-processed my hair and it was in terrible shape/condition. Michael has transformed it. He cuts my hair every 4-6 months. He specializes in long hair--specifically, long layers. I no longer HAVE to style my hair. I'm good to go out of the shower. I get asked weekly if I have extensions (I don't). I have never had so many people ask me who does my hair and what products I use. I assure people, it isn't the products! It's Michael. My daughter also goes to Michael. Her hair looks unreal. He is a consummate professional-- detailed and precise. He trained with the greats early on in his career and has worked with Sally Hershberger in LA for years. He takes his job very seriously, and your happiness is his goal. I feel so fortunate to have Michael's level of experience in South Orange County- -LA/Beverly Hills' talent right in Aliso Viejo! read more

Michael is the best! I have thick, naturally fizzy hair and Michael is able to make it look soft and sleek with just a blow dry. He does such a good job, that it doesn't have to be flat ironed and with the layered cut he does, it has bounce and body. read more

Michael is an artist! He knows exactly what he is doing. I do not want to have to tell my hairdresser what to do. Michael KNOWS!! I wish I knew him earlier in my life! read more

Had the pleasure of getting my hair cut for the first time by Michael and couldn't be happier. First off, he is EXTREMELY talented. You can tell as soon as he starts to cut your hair and after about 5 minutes I knew I had nothing to worry about. Secondly, he is super personable, I felt completely comfortable talking and laughing with him, all the while, being amazed as he skillfully cut and styled my hair. I came in with long boring hair and left with long beautiful layers. I was so happy with the way my hair looked and felt and still am after washing and styling it myself! Michael exceeded my expectations in every way! I am really happy that he is located close by in Aliso, however, based on my experience and my hair, I'd follow him anywhere to get my hair done, that is how good he is! If you are looking for the last stylist you'll ever need, here he is! CALL HIM! read more

After too many careless, sloppy cuts that lack precision and detail, I am so thankful to have found Michael. He is a true master of his craft and don't even get me started in his blow-outs. Incredible! read more

My hair goes past my waist and I only trust Michael to trim it. All other stylists don't listen to my requests and cut off too much hair. I've haven't lived in OC for years but I come back to get an annual haircut with him. read more

Best haircut I've had in Southern California Michael is SO extremely talented, patient, knowledgeable and kind. He was able to take my terrible mis-handled mop and cut out all the terrible haircuts I've gotten in Los Angeles. I am so grateful to Michael for the best haircut! I will definitely book another appointment. A million thanks Michael for helping me get back on track with his haircut. read more

Michael has magic fingers. Literally the best haircut ever. And...literally the coolest personality ever. Extremely fortunate to have found him. My hair has never looked so amazing even when it's not fixed. Seriously, to say he's talented isn't even enough. read more

When I first moved to Los Angeles 2 years ago, I was looking for a stylist who could cut my hair. I found him in Michael. My hair is very thick with an uneven wavy texture that had previously made it impossible to wear down without styling. Michael not only knows how to cut my hair, he seems to make it more and more manageable with each trim. Michael works with my natural texture to enhance it and lessen the styling time in the morning. I am now a firm believer in air drying and it has not only saved me so much styling time in the morning, my hair is healthier now. Thank you Michael! read more

Michael is amazing! I have long thick hair that requires careful layering to sit properly when styled. Michael has always given me the perfect cut and blowdry, and always listens to the amount of hair that I asked to be cut off and never cuts more than needed to keep my hair healthy. Ill never trust anyone else with my hair but him.... Im very pleased that I don't need to drive to LA to get my hair cut by him anymore! :) AMAZING! read more

Michael is a pro! I feel so lucky to have someone of his caliber cutting and styling my hair. The first time I visited Michael he really listened to my preferences, and then made recommendations for a cut based on my bone structure. That was a first for me. He's not only incredibly detail oriented, he gives the best blow dry I've ever received. A great family man who is easy to talk to and a pleasure to visit. You won't regret a cut from Michael St. Germain! read more

Michael is incomparable technically and creatively. I have never once told him what I want done to my hair because a) I trust him implicitly and b) I have never looked short of awesome after a visit with him. For days and weeks. Moreover, I enjoy spending time with him. He is a smart and sensitive person whose opinions are compelling and interest deep. That I get a sterling haircut after a visit with him is a bonus. You are not going to get a better haircut anywhere. Ever. read more

Michael has been cutting my hair for over ten years. I've followed him to every salon he's been at and will continue to follow him- when you find a GREAT thing, don't let it go! I'm an absolute perfectionist when it comes to my hair and he never disappoints; the execution is always perfect. We work together to figure out the best cut and I always trust his guidance. Orange County couldn't be luckier to have such an incredible talent! read more

Michael is amazing! He literally saved my hair. I just moved to orange county and tried out a new salon and my hair got destroyed. Michael worked his magic and was able to fix my horrible haircut (which I thought was unfixable). Now because of him I can leave my house! Lol he has so much experience in the hair industry and is truly trustworthy. I know 100% that I am in good hands when I go to see him. I was feeling super overwhelmed with finding a new hairdresser down here, but now because of Michael I am actually excited when I get my hair done! We are so lucky to have him in South Orange County! read more

Michael is the bomb.com . I usually have long black hair . I made the mistake of letting another stylist give me a "lob" and have regretted it ever since . Ive been trying to grow it out but my hair was a crazy mix of half lob half grown out .. Just a hot mess . He took a look and immediately had a plan to fix my hair . He was incredibly gracious and worked around my fussy baby (last minute babysitter fail ) I am soooo happy with the gorgeous layers he gave me .. And I'm feeling so much more confident with my hair ! Sooo happy I found him ! read more

I left my exceptional hairstylist to get cuts by Michael. Let me tell you, after 7 years that was a very huge leap of faith. I can honestly say that it was the best move I made. Michael is passionate about his cuts. I have thick, curly hair that WAS very difficult to style. Michael transformed the look and texture of my hair. I'm shocked at how healthy, full and fashion forward my hair is today thanks to Michael. He is patient and listens. He takes his time and treats each session like a work of art. I highly recommend Michael to everyone I know!! read more

Michael is amazing. I'm not just saying that I mean it. He can tell you what looks good on you if you ask and he is also capable of following through with what you tell him you like. Michael always cuts the exact amount I ask for never more or less. I used to visit him when he was working in LA and now commute from Santa Monica to Aliso Viejo just for him. To say I trust him with my hair is an understatement, I'd even trust him with my life. Keep doing you and being wonderful. read more

Thank you, Emily at The Parlor for referring me to Michael. He is nothing short of incredible. I've never had a haircut that I am obsessed with until I went to Michael. I love that he's a perfectionist and gets it done right. My hair is on the fine and thin side and he has managed to cut my hair so that it looks good long! Orange County is lucky to get this gem from LA. So talented and so kind. I look forward to my visits (which only have to happen about every 5 months because of the way he cuts). read more

I loved the experience. Very cosy place and Michael is an artist. I finally found THE hair salon I need. Many thanks !

Michael has been cutting my hair for over 10 years and there really isn't anyone else like him! I have short "difficult" hair, and no one before Michael has been able to cut my hair properly. He's a professional stylist and an all around cool person! Thanks Michael for doing what you do! read more

Michael is amazing! I have fine hair and after his cut and styling my hair looks incredible and full! My hair has never looked better and healthier. So glad you're in the OC now. Looking forward to seeing you soon! Thank you Emily at the Eyebrow Parlour for recommending you. read more

Michael did a wonderful job cutting my hair!!! I went in, he told me what he thought would look best, I agreed, and he cut! I'm very particular about my hair, and I didn't have to ask him to change a thing once I saw the final result. Just perfect! read more

I am so happy that I finally found someone who knows how to cut curly hair! I have naturally very curly hair but like wearing it straight and smooth, and Michael has allowed me to do just that. And I finally have 'long' hair! For some reason, every other stylist couldn't get my hair to grow past a certain point, and now with Michael, I have long, healthy hair. His haircuts are so amazing that I only have to go every 4-5 months. I have never received compliments on my hair until I started going to him. He clearly knows what he is doing, is very professional, and is the nicest guy you will ever meet. I can't say enough good things about him... you will never go anywhere else after you get a haircut from him. read more

This man is a hair God! I get stopped daily about my hair thanks to Michael! I have never been happier!! I will continue to refer everyone I know. I have been all over from la to Oc and everywhere in between for cuts and Michael is by far the best! Not to mention he has worked for the most famous hair dresser in the world. He knows his stuff! CALL HIM NOW! You will not be disappointed! read more

Michael is a true professional. He takes extreme pride in his craft and even takes the time to answer questions via text. I have always been so pleased with each result and his consistency is matched by his great personality, sense of humor, and love for family. He is a great guy with a differentiating skill set...I have no reason to look anywhere else. read more

Michael is amazing and talented. I haven't had a good hair cut in a really long time. He understood how my hair grows and gave me a fabulous cut that looks great as it grows out. He showed me how to style it and to keep it more of a natural look. I love the fact that I only need to see him a couple times a year because my hair still looks healthy and fantastic as it grows out. Thank you Michael for helping me to feel fabulous! read more

Michael really listens to you, gives you suggestions and educates you on how to take care of your hair. He is very friendly and professional. Before he shampood and conditioned my hair, he asked if I have a sensitive scalp. I really appreciated the care and time he takes with his clients. I also loved the fact that this salon has one chair. I know I am getting the best service possible.I recommended him to all my friends! read more

Michael is the most talented hair stylist out there. He's been cutting my hair for years and there's such an incredible trust there that I just sit in his chair and let him work his magic. I came to see Michael after getting a horrible haircut at a pricey LA salon and he was able to turn it around fast. He's the real deal and the added bonus is he's an awesome guy. Down to earth, honest, bad ass. I won't let anyone else touch my hair and will follow him until I'm bald. read more

Simply put - Michael is the BEST! Just like everyone else, my hair was always bleh to me. But now? I love my hair! He takes the time to listen to what you want and makes you look like a million bucks! Michael is very flexible and works with your schedule. You get your own personalized time. I'm very thankful my friend Sharon introduced me! read more