I absolutely loved my experience here! Ashley was super sweet and knowledgeable. She made me feel relaxed. The spa itself is really clean and updated. I truly felt I was pampering myself! It was my first facial in my life (lol) so Ashley explained everything to me before proceeding with the facial. I enjoyed everything she did and loved the little massage! I did have a couple of pimples surface they following days after my facial, which I saw is normal. My skin looks amazing now (: I'll definitely come back. read more

Ashley was very personable. I appreciated the recommendations and absolutely loved the facial. My skin never glowed this much after other facials. I really love the way my skin felt and looked afterwards. Highly recommend Ashley. read more

JEM got a 5 star bump. Why? Because Jessica is awesome, that's why. I have been going to her on a monthly basis since August and my skin has improved many times over. I love the fact that she kindly diagnoses your skin issues WITHOUT pushing products on you. I hate when other salons do that. She is gently and firm with her hands and GREAT on extractions. She takes her time and my skin feels like new after every appointment. Her prices are reasonable which is superb, especially during these economic times. She also sends out a newsletter from time to time with specials. Great person, great service, and great place. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. read more

I've loved Ashley for years. Since 2004 actually, when I started seeing her for waxing. Over time, I've started doing hand treatments (so luxurious, healing, and keep those age spots at bay), I've incorporated several of her products into my regimen, and I've learned that there's no one better at waxing. Last year, I started waxing my brows - such a difference. Wish I'd started sooner. And, best of all, I recently became a member of her facial program - again, why did I not do this sooner? I've been lucky to have experienced some high-end facials because of my job, so can absolutely say that there's no better quality facial than at Olive Branch. Ashley perfectly mixes relaxation and luxury with results. Neale's Hollow is perfect - parking, location, trees, and did I say parking! The spa is so warm and welcoming. I love visiting. The treatment bed - if you try it, you'll be like me and never want to leave. read more

I got a massage here with Michelle before the bar exam, and it was just what I needed in order to start out the weekend with some relaxation. The location is a bit difficult to find. It is on the same side of the street as Rose International Market, but is located in a unit behind Big Basin Cafe. Even the front door is very discreet: It has a sign that say "visits by appointment only." Well it was a good thing I had an appointment! The interior is very soothing, painted in light pastels with the blinds slightly drawn. I filled out a little bit of paperwork to indicate what I wanted out of my massage and was asked if I wanted any water and directed to a secluded waiting area with armchairs and cushions. She also showed me where the restroom was located. The actual massage itself was quite divine. The lighting is dim, the table is super comfy, and the music is just audible enough to put you into a trance. Michelle, the masseur, was very professional. If I weren't a starving student, I would definitely get regular massages. If I have the chance to return, I am tempted to try their facials, as it looks like the reviews of their treatments are glowing. read more

Update: Jessica even does facials! I got waxing service done from Jessica a couple days ago. She was very friendly and sweet. It was my first time with her, and she made me feel pretty comfortable. I really liked how quick but thorough it was. Lols. I'd defenitely go back again. read more

Some small (but loud) part of me doesn't want to write this review. Because she's already very busy (although she just moved to her own location!). Right. Nothing to do with the fact that I'd be the only guy writing her a review. Hmm. Anyway. She's fantastic. I had been constantly trying different places but stopped as soon as I found her. She finishes my waxing incredibly quickly, the pain is about as low as it gets, and I have the least irritation I've ever had. Oh, and her prices are completely reasonable. What more could you ask for? read more

I went to get a customized facial ($80) done. It was my first time at Elements Beauty Essentials, and I was about 15 minutes late. (If you decide to go, El Paseo De Saratogo is a plaza and not a street.) Jessica was very understanding when I called to ask for further directions. She is such a calm and serene person that I immediately relaxed. The facial was soothing and felt wonderful. She also has a very light touch when it comes to extractions which is RARE! I also appreciated being asked whether I prefer a light or heavy massage since everyone always give me a super heavy massage which ends up hurting!! I walked out of there feeling amazingly refreshed, and my skin felt so much better. I ended up giving her a much larger tip than usual just to say thanks for being so accomodating since I was late. She didn't even cut my appointment short though that might be because I went in on a weekday afternoon so maybe it was a slow day?? Unlike other places, Jessica also did not try to sell me any of her products and only recommended one when I asked her to. read more

Thanks to Yelp, I found the perfect eyebrow wax. I was bummed that she moved to Saratoga, only b/c I'm lazy and it's further for me to get there. But her new space is lovely and as a small business owner, I'm totally proud of her. She's great at what she does, and is totally reasonable. You really can't go wrong seeing her. read more

Jessica Moore (maybe Rom, she just got married...) was really nice when I got my bikini waxed for the first time. Very professional. Her workspace is lovely, very relaxing, comfortable and clean. She also permed my eyelashes, and when she wasn't entirely happy with the results she had me come back so she could fix them. Her services are very reasonably priced in my opinion. read more

Just had a wonderful experience here! Jessica provides the perfect private place for a Brazilian wax. She is professional, funny, cute, and you feel comfortable with her immediately. This was my first visit and it will definitely not be my last! Clean, (almost) pain free, quick, and thorough! Why settle for anything less? Her prices are comparable to other spas and there's plenty of parking in the plaza. Definitely give her a call before heading out in your bikini! read more

Such a sweet lady. I love when people remember you and stories you tell them last timeyou were there. I usually go for eyebrow waxes. she has a nice soothing super clean studio in Saratoga. the best part is that her brazilians are virtually painless! i got my first one here and she made me feel completely comfortable and at ease. Have yet to try her facials, but im sure they're just as amazing read more

Jessica has been doing my brow and lip waxing for almost 2 years now. She does a really great job, which is why I am a regular. She is also very sweet and caring and really takes an interest in her clients. I've also had facials and a bikini wax (which was fine but I hate getting them... long live boy shorts!). I really appreciate that she doesn't try to push any products. She's just there to pamper you. My husband goes to her for facials regularly (he's got bad skin). His face always looks amazing afterwards--super clean, smooth and glowing. He feels very comfortable around her... so much so that he always falls asleep during his treatments. read more

My new favorite place to get a facial and wax. I spent a day off from work with a friend at JEM and I wished the experience lasted longer. Jessica was awesome for my facial and eyebrow wax. I have had too many facials where they overdo the sales pitch without caring about your skin and what not. Jessica was great. We chatted for a few minutes about my morning routine and my skin never looked better. I especially loved the eyebrow wax prior. I had an hour massage following the facial with Iveta and she worked out all my knots. JEM is located in the heart of downtown Saratoga tucked away from the main street. It's a small and quiet place that is for a perfect for a spa day. I highly recommend Jessica for your facial and waxing needs. read more

I get massages frequently since I (unfortunately) stress out easily, and it manifests itself into really tight muscles all over my body. I have received many deep tissue, hot stone and Thai massages to help me relax and de-stress. I have even gone through a full Rolfing series to help my body loosen up. When I am on Yelp, I am always looking at various websites of days spas and massage places to see what massage services are offered. I came across the JEM Skincare and Massage website and found out that they offered massage cupping. I was intrigued by the description and thought I would try it. I scheduled my session for today. And I am so glad that I did. The massage and the therapist, Iveta Iofis, were both awesome! The relief I felt during my massage cupping was unlike my previous massage experiences. Believe it or not, there were times during my session where it felt more intense than some deep tissue massages I have received. After I was done, I felt relaxed, but what has surprised me is that I still feel totally loose and calm (it's been a few hours since my session). Iveta told me that massage cupping will not only loosen my muscles, but also it will detoxify my body. Perhaps I am feeling the effects of the detox part. In any case, I feel wonderful. If you have experienced many types of massage and are interested in other modalites, I highly recommend Iveta and her massage cupping treatment. I also found the treatment to be really affordable. There is one place in SF that I know offers massage cupping, and that place charges over $200 for 80 min. JEM's prices for its massage cupping sessions are much more reasonable. I will definitely schedule another session soon. Thank you so much, Iveta! read more

5 Estrellas Mitchelle is the best. I have been going to her on a monthly basis for 2 years and counting. She takes the time to wax and does an amazing job. She is a perfectionist. She finishes my waxing incredibly quickly, the pain is about as low as it gets, and I don't have any irritation. I love the fact that she knows exactly what I want and makes me feel comfortable. Great person, great service, and great place. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. read more

FOUR stars for now because I haven't gone yet. But I can already tell she's a nice person. I called and got the voicemail. But I love how her voicemail message states which times she's available for that day and the upcoming days. I left a message asking for an appointment in 2 days. She called back to say she had time available. However, I did not call her back promptly so she gave away the appointment but we managed to schedule me for the next day. I asked for the express facial and she recommended the customized facial since it would be my first time there. I am excited. Will write back about how it was! *UPDATE 8/17/08 I realized I never updated my review. I still have been there only once but it was a great experience. I've been to other spas recently and none have compared to JEM! She is such a nice and talented aesthetician (speaking of which..why are there 2 different spellings now?? I've noticed this at spas..) Although she's raised her prices a bit, I've realized I need to go back!!! I tried making a last minute appointment the second time but did not succeed since she was booked so that's why I've been exploring new spas...Anyway, great environment and quality service! Over LaBella on Stevens Creek and Inspa and some other ones I can't recall..she's the best..especially at her prices! read more

Over due review from 6 years ago! First of all, I wasn't yelping at the time, and I also had never experienced a facial before Jessica. So when my aunt gave me a gift certificate for $200, I was initially stoked then, then bummed to learn that I had used most of my funds on a single visit :( At the time she was at Elements, I had no other experience to compare this to, other than knowing I loved what she did to my skin. Now as the years have gone by, I have had several other mediocre facials and service and now well into my 30's and can tell when my skin is thirsty has been mistreated and Jessica has by far been THE BEST! I love Jessica for her amazing facial, body scrubs and customer service. I highly recommend the pumpkin facial ahhhhhhhhhhhhh heaven! I hadn't been back in years because, I lost the pamphlet w/ the name of the place. Until a few days ago when I was cleaning out a 'junk drawer'. Now I'm saving my pennies to come back! read more

I have been going to Olive Branch Spa for a year now, and it is absolutely wonderful. I have just terrible acne, the kind of acne that really never wants to go away regardless of being put on antibiotic ointments and pills. However, there has been such progress made with Olive Branch because they work hard with you to help you skin. I come in every two weeks for extractions, and my cleansing regiment is always adjusted by the various aestheticians (who all know me and my wonderful skin) as I progress in my skin treatments. This acne journey is one that I do not have to do alone, because everyone at Olive Branch Spa is willing and excited to help me, and are all there to support me in every frustrating moment and crazy acne outbreak. This spa is clean, the environment is amazing, and honestly every aesthetician is so knowledgeable. I have seen Ness, Ashley, and Jessica, and I have never had a bad experience. The skincare products they use are all formulated by Jessica, and as a person who has a large number of allergies and very sensitive skin (i'm even allergic to sunscreen) her products, including the sunscreen, has never caused me to breakout or to have an allergic reaction. They are gentle enough for my skin, and strong enough for my acne, which is not a balance you can find very often, and so I cannot recommend this spa or these products enough. read more

Ashley at Olive Branch Spa is amazing! I had the most relaxing facial I have ever had yesterday. It was almost 2 hours long - she used the LED light therapy machine, micro current and ultrasonic machines. The massage portion was wonderful, and all of the products left my skin feeling fabulous. I highly recommend Ashley at the Olive Branch Spa in Saratoga. Easy to find, and parking is right out in front! read more

[ Okay, this is incredibly detailed, but I figured maybe someone would find this useful! ] Today's appointment at JEM was the first time I've ever gotten a facial (which is why I wanted to try out a higher quality establishment). Mainly, I wanted to have a specialist look at my skin, which has suffered from persistent light acne for the past two years. I decided to go with the New Client Welcome Facial ($120 for both a Signature Facial + phototherapy treament), and got an appointment with Michelle, who turned out to be very professional and courteous. She's not terribly talkative, which on the plus side means she's concentrating wholly on the process, but on the negative side feels a little standoffish. Overall, it lasted about 1.5 hours. Michelle started off with a brief explanation of what she was going to do: facial cleansing, extraction, phototherapy, hydration, and light head/shoulder/back massages in between. The room is very clean and private. (It was a little embarrassing on my part because it took me a while to figure out that the yellow robe laid out was, in fact, a robe and not some kind of skirt. It leaves your entire decolletage exposed for the purpose of massage.) The cleansing itself involved three separate mask-like products, which felt cool and refreshing. The third had a strong fruity smell, which didn't bother me, but if you're sensitive to that sort of thing you'll definitely want to bring it up ahead of time. Each product was gently wiped off by a warm towel, and the whole thing was followed by steaming, which came from a hose-like contraption that hovered above my face. Felt super nice! Prior to the actual extraction, Michelle brought out this electric skin scraper thing (I don't remember the actual name), which sounds scarier than it really is. What it does is use high vibration, which -- as it comes in contact with your skin -- brings all the dirty stuff trapped deep inside your pores to the surface. What I really appreciated was that Michelle not only did my face but also the areas beneath my chin/jaws and my decolletage. Extraction was the only unpleasant part. It basically felt like a long series of sharp needle-like pinches, but what is (eventual) beauty without pain? Phototherapy was done with something that sort of looked like a handheld roller massager. It applies both heat and light using a series of flashing pulses, one section of your face at a time. What it allegedly does is even out the pigmentation and promote collagen production. (I'm a little skeptical here, but I'm guessing repeat treatment is needed to actually see results.) The pulses become progressively warmer but never get too hot. Last was the hydration mask, the moisture from which is sent deep into your skin via ultrasonic (I think?) paddles. The entire treatment was then wrapped up with a final massage. Right away, I got up to look at my face in the mirror, and I was really happy to see a visible difference: pores cleared out, acne reddened from being extracted, and an overall brightness. The feel of my skin was beyond awesome -- I honestly don't think it's ever been cleaner or more taut than it was today. Definitely not a feeling you can replicate at home. Michelle pinpointed my main problem: severe skin dehydration, which may have been exacerbated by the products I use regularly (e.g. Clearasil). And she recommended ways that I can correct that. Also, she showed me the product line JEM sells and recommends (Image Skincare), but never tried to push it on me, which I thought was exemplary in terms of customer service. In her opinion, she doesn't want to force people to buy something new if they haven't used up their existing products yet. As a bonus, she gave me free samples of two of their cleansers (Clear Cell and Vital C), so I can decide for myself whether they're right for me. I asked Michelle how often clients tend to visit, and she did say that JEM typically recommends one visit a month, but doesn't want clients to come in when it's unnecessary. In my case, she said if I start hydrating my skin properly, I may not even need another appointment! Long story short: I highly recommend this place! It's awesome. read more

Michelle, a.k.a Lightning Hands, is the bomb. She has been waxing me since Plum Spa, and I'd follow her anywhere she goes. She's super fast, very thorough and precise (I always get complimented on my brows after a visit with her), and I couldn't recommend a better technician to anyone. My skin is very sensitive, and she's always gentle with it so I never break out or anything. JEM itself is a sweet little place too! It's really calm, easy to get to, and clean. Everyone I've met is very friendly and the prices for services are very reasonable... So five stars all around :) read more

when i move to a new area it takes me months and several attempts to find a place that im satisfied with for Brazilian waxing. Jessica AND Michelle are both amazing!Michelle does a really great job with eyebrows! im currently trying their depilar treatment for permeant hair removal and its working really well. It takes several sessions and time, but the results are really great and worth it!! read more

This is a long awaited review for Jessica. Even though where I work now is too far for me to go, I still wish I could return. Of course I had other facials at other places since then. Many times I lay in bed at the other places and my mind would drift over to how Jessica did the facials so much better. Other places get on my nerves because they ask too many personal questions and talk too much about their lives. Jessica is a true professional and focuses on the client's needs. I found out that she is no longer doing facials because of carpel tunnel. I am so sad to hear this. The review is based on her work prior. She is the best aesthetician ever. She is thorough in her extractions. I love her treatments and messages during facials. She provides a true relaxing spa environment. My skin always radiate for days afterwards. She is also a genuinely sweet person. I have been going to her for 4 years now. Even with the new staff doing the facials, I will try it. I trust Jessica to train the person to do it like her facials. She really has a passion for what she does. I will return this holiday when I am on vacation. read more

I've been going to Jessica for ages--even before JEM Skincare existed. Jessica is AMAZING! She is incredibly intelligent, professional, knowledgeable, takes time to listen to her clients and has hands of gold! Her location on Big Basin is in the heart of the Saratoga Village and is easy to get to from anywhere in the bay area. The actual front door is a little difficult to find because it is nestled behind the cafe and not visible from the street. Plan an extra 10 mins into your trip to find parking and the front door if this is your first visit. Inside the spa is inviting and tastefully decorated. The ambiance is truly reminiscent of the warm morning sunlight spent with a good cup of coffee--cozy, comfortable and oh so relaxing! The staff always makes sure I have everything I need. I've had facials from Jessica and Michelle. Jessica, unfortunately, set the bar so high it is truly impossible for anyone to compare. Michelle was good too but I was spoiled to Jessica's touch. My only complaint is Jessica is not doing massage with her facials for medical reasons. I totally get that but I miss them!! Talk about relaxation and a half! The girls are great with waxing too. If you are looking for a great spa where you are the focus and the services are all about relaxation, not a platform to up sell you products (as so many big named spas do), JEM Skincare is the place. All in all, 5 stars ladies! Keep up the good work! read more

Kind and Professional staff. Ashley is awesome and Jessica, the owner, is such a wonderful person. I can't wait to go in for a facial. :) read more

I've been going to her for years for my waxing, and she always does a great job. But the real reason for the update from 5 stars to another 5 stars: her skin products. I've been using it for the past several months, and my skin has NEVER looked this clear and radiant EVER! Jessica quickly scrutinized my face for 5 minutes and asked a few questions. made a recommendation to start me on a travel sized cleanser, mask, lotion etc. When i have time, i use all the products, when i don't I just cleanse and hydrate. I can tell when i've been lazy and haven't been cleansing because my face starts to break out right away. start back up again, 2 days later, i'm golden (again). I love my skin with her products. read more

I've struggled with breakouts for a long, long time. After a few sessions with Ashley, my skin is clear and looks fabulous! My husband told me my skin has never looked better! I love JEM Skincare!!! The staff is friendly, the service is impeccable! A+++ read more

Love Michele the service is outstanding- worth the visit and also bring a friend. I appreciate having the place clean, warm, inviting and served in a manner that is professional. I don't have to feel like I am a member of the Planet of the Apes -- hairy girl be gone... thanks to Michele's wonderful Brazilian waxing skills. Love it!!! Ask for her- she is very good. read more

I have been seeing Ashley for years. The experience at Olive Branch Spa is amazing. Ashley is warm, professional, welcoming and very accommodating with appointments. The place is very clean, hygenic and presentable. read more

I got a gift card for my dick-head ex from these people years ago. Can't cancel it for a refund, can't use it on myself. Well, ok. It's non refundable/nontransferable. I get it. That's fine. But I'm STILL trying to get off their spammy email list! It's been around three years and I've done the normal unsubscribe, the "reply with unsubscribe" option, emailing them directly at emails you're not even supposed to use to unsubscribe, etc. Just leave me alone! One day, maybe I'll successfully be removed. A girl can only dream. read more

I was very nervous upon going in for my facial, as I had never had one before and I have really good skin. I was worried something they would do might hurt it. From the minute I met Mary, she put me at ease. She has a very soothing quality about her. She told me I could just relax or ask any questions I wanted to about anything she was doing. She was very knowledgeable about the products, how they might make my skin feel, and what they would do for me. She even let me know that I have dry skin which was very helpful to find out so that now I can get the right products for my face. Mary has a great touch both on my face, and then when she gave me a wonderful scalp and shoulder massage, something I was totally unaware you even got with a facial! Had I not known she was a new addition to JEM, I would have never have guessed. She is just great! read more

I have been going to this spa since 2008! Ashley is the best. She carries excellent products and provides the best facials. She is very knowledgeable and will make your skin glow! :) read more

The products were excellent. And I felt like I was treated like a princess. It was a fabulous experience, and I intend to go back regularly. read more

I've been going to Jessica for over a year now and am still satisfied with the services I've received. The Express Facial w/extractions is an excellent value (45mins for $60)! She does such an awesome job that I continue to see her every 8 weeks. I've gotten waxed just about everywhere. She really does an excellent job of making you feel comfortable and relaxed. I recently got the Ultimate Body Treatment 90mins for $120 and although her space is small, she does an extremely good job of thoroughly exfoliating & moisturizing. I leave there each time feeling truly relaxed and rejuvenated! read more

i got eye brow wax, Brazilian, upper lip wax, facial, and the ultimate body treatment (body salt + seaweed detox wrap) with Jessica. i was amazed. her place is small, but very cozy. she doesn't have one of those shower heads for cleaning the mud off of you, but she does such an AWESOME job using heated towels wiping the wraps off of you and it feels so soothing. i already booked my next appt and will go back at least 1-2 times a month! oh and her prices are SO reasonable. _____ update (11/15) wanted to add that Jessica is just absolutely the BEST! her signature facial is just to die for! soooo relaxing + my skin was so smooth and clean afterwards! she really cares about how your skin turns out! she's the best! ____ update (11/26) Jessica raised her prices :( some of my most favorite items are now almost the same as a spa. though i still go to Jessica because she is really good @ what she does and she's just a great person. she does the best jobs on eyebrows + Brazilian~! and all her treatments are just so relaxing. and i must say... Jessica has some magical hands.... every time after seeing her, my skin becomes soooo refreshed and clean and my acne has improved so much. i've been looking for at least 10 months now since i've moved to Cupertino and i think that i've FINALLY found my facilist.! she just does wonders to my skin and i'm so happy i've found her! and oh yeah most importantly her place is very sanitary and clean. that's one of the top things i look for as well. read more

i got an eye brow wax and a brazilian. jessica was very friendly and made me feel totally comfortable. she did a great job on both waxes! my brows look amazing, but the only bummer was that a chunk of skin ripped off in the process :( i had a harry potter like scar for a week and then it went away. phew!! my wax was clean, quick, thorough, and well, the pain is painful as usual! haha. i really recommend her and will defintely go back! read more

Jessica is awesome! I've had bad experiences in the past with getting my eyebrows waxed, lots of pain and I'd always end up with blisters. With Jessica there is very little pain and they always look great. I also love her facials and I swear my skin has never looked better. She is super nice and I really appreciate that she never pressures me into buy products or pushes extra services on me. I would recommend her to all my friends. read more

It was my first time getting a facial and I have to say that I was very happy with the results. I got the express facial which was a pretty good value. During my mask and the steam she gave me a great shoulder and neck massage. She is worth checking out. read more

The Olive Branch Spa staff are professional, licensed estheticians. Moreover, they are easy to talk to, know when not to talk, and professional in every circumstance. The salon itself is spotless, airy, and has classy. Parking available on Big Basin Way as well as in two large lots behind the building. read more