Great stylist. Walked away with a lovely cut. Great vibe. Great service. Would definitely recommend!

I recently visited Rare Salon in Castro Valley, and Melissa is truly incredible! I received the new client Rare Diamond service, and from start to finish, the experience was nothing short of amazing. You get it allllll! Lol What sets Melissa apart is her attention to detail and genuine care for her clients. Before taking you on, she requires a mandatory consultation to thoroughly understand your hair goals and ensure you're both on the same page. This level of professionalism is so rare and makes a huge difference--it eliminates any gray areas and ensures you feel completely confident going into your appointment. During my visit, Melissa made me feel so comfortable and cared for. She works 1on1 with her clients, so I had her undivided attention in her clean, cute, and secure space. The service itself was incredible: detoxifying shampoo, deep conditioning, detangling, steam treatment, blow-dry, flat iron, trim, and curtain bangs--all done with such care and precision. I was initially hesitant about getting bangs but at the same time I hella wanted to try something different lol but Melissa reassured me and delivered exactly what I wanted and envisioned. My hair looks and feels so healthy! What I also appreciated was her approach--she doesn't push you to cut more than you're comfortable with and truly listens to what you want. It's clear that hair is her passion, and she genuinely cares about her clients and their hair goals. Plus, the easygoing and fun conversation during the session made the experience even better. I must add that I've gone through several stylists for a silk press, and Melissa is by far the best I've had since moving to the Hayward area 5 years ago! If you're looking for a stylist or feeling hesitant, I cannot recommend Melissa enough. She also offers bridal services and knows someone who can do makeup--so brides, definitely check her out! I've officially found my new hairstylist--thank you so much, Melissa! read more

You will feel so taken care of in Melissa's chair! She is professional AND personable, giving you a top notch experience every visit. Whether I'm in for a simple wash & press or receiving hydrating conditioner with a steam treatment, my scalp always feels amazing! With a labor intensive career, I'm still able to maintain my press in between appointments and the health of my hair is sustainable. Do yourself a favor and book now! read more

Rare Salon - Press & trim - Hair Salons Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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Melissa is such a wonderful person and stylist! I thoroughly enjoyed chatting with her as she detangled my very tangled hair! She took her time on my head and I was so pleased with the outcome. Thanks Melissa!! See you next time :) read more

I am so glad I found Melissa. Before this recent visit, I had only been to Melissa one time.I immediately could tell she knew AND loved what she does. She is very personable and the shop is very cozy and well decorated. My sister was visiting for her 60th birthday and I wanted to treat her to some pampering for her head full of natural, thick, salt and pepper hair. What we thought would take about 2 hrs ended up being closer to 5 hours! Melissa was so patient as she worked thru the years of damage and volume of hair. I felt bad that it took so long because unfortunately it ran into other scheduled appointments and delayed them, and I know that is not Melissa's goal. Melissa stayed focused and never made us feel bad about how long it was taking. She is the best, all around, and I would highly recommend her! Remember to tip your stylist! Thank you Melissa!! read more

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Melissa is amazing. She is kind, knowledgeable, and experienced. She did an amazing job with my hair and my daughter's hair. Also, the shop is big, bright, and clean. I highly recommend. read more

Ladies, take a seat...I HAVE to tell you about my experience with RARE SALON, and more importantly, the owner Ms. Melissa. I first was looking to get a silk press, first time. I looked thru Yelp, saw Rare Salon, noticed the 5 star rating (you DONT SEE THAT VERY OFTEN), so because i deserve the best, and very leery about letting another female in my hair, (horrible experiences) i made an appt, which she got me in before the concert I was going to. When I got there, to my surprise, I was the ONLY one there! I asked if I was the last, she told me, "No, you're my ONLY...i prefer to have one-on-one with my clients!" WOW!!...AND LET ME TELL YOU, THIS LADY RIGHT HERE, The things we talked about, life, business, womanhood, I was TOTALLY EMPOWERED by the time I left her chair. This woman is GOLDEN! Leaving there, hair slayed, self-esteam, PUMPED-UP, and "priceless gems" she gave me to get my biz off the ground...BUT, if you think that was something...TODAY I hit a milestone in my life, it was a BIG day for me, a day of reflection on life, family, grandchildren...I had made an appointment to get my hair cut this time. On this very heavy day, as we talk (about what was heavy on her heart, and mine) as Im watching the locks and hair come of, and from a mere photo that was shown to her, I watch it come together, and all I could do was cry. Literally crying in her chair, it was like a weight had lifted , and this woman ACTUALLY LISTENED TO ME, FROM ONE LOOK AT THE PIC, AND SHE BROUGHT IT ALL TOGEHTER. MELLISA IS THE MOST SPECAL PERSON I HAVE MET IN A VERY LONG TIME. Not only did she stop to hold n console me, but UNDERSTOOD what/why I was sobbing like a child. Her talent, skills, heart, and soul, are a "RARE" find, hence her namesake of a salon. Ladies, If your looking for excellence, professionalism, empowerment in women, and unexpected nuggets n gems, RARE SALON is your 1-Stop Shop. I thank you, Melissa, from the bottom of my heart, for what you have done for me. Love you, gurl I wish i could post the pics, but having technical difficulties...i will keep tryin. read more

Best stylist in the Bay hands down! I drive from Sacramento to get my hair done. Melissa takes her time, doesn't overbook, and ensures my hair is healthy! The salon is beautiful, clean, and the service is top notch. I've turned my mother on to her services and we both love her! Booking is easy and can be done online. read more

Melissa, owner of Rare Salon has been doing my hair for at least 15 years. I have natural hair and get a press and it's the best press you can get. Always silky and everyone assumes it's a perm. The hair care is excellent and the service is excellent. The shop is super clean and stylish and comfortable setting. Class shop very professional with sista vibes! read more

Melissa does the best work. And really takes care of her customers!! She makes me feel like family every time I see her!!

Melissa is an amazing stylist! She very skillled! It's always a good vibe when I'm In the chair.

Melissa has the magic touch with her pressing abilities. First let's talk about MY hair. It was so broken and dead on the ends when I first stepped into her shop. By the time I was done I had silky smooth hair that was SO shiny! I'm so used to leaving the salon looking great but the next day going back to the way it was. NOT with Melissa. My hair looked great for two weeks after it got done. I've also gotten a relaxer from Melissa that was great. BTW, she can flat iron your hair and it will feel like a perm, so I just stopped getting perms. What's the point when you can get the results without the damage? SO naturally I sent my sister there. My sister has ALWAYS had really unruly hair. No matter what salon she went to, her hair always ended up pretty stiff, or they left it greasy. Melissa is the first and only person who could get her hair silky smooth. My sister told me that she had never had her hair look so good. I have yet to find a salon that can do my hair this well. It's a very comfortable and stylish atmosphere where you'll feel right at home. read more

Last night was my first time at Rare Salon. It was lovely, but I would not have expected anything less from the owner Melissa. The decor is so nice. Love the color pallet, and the overall atmosphere is quit inviting. I have to say though, I have actually known Melissa since the late 90's. She is not only my stylist but someone I consider a friend. My hair has been through good and bad times. Melissa has always maintained or brought it back to life. The way I feel when I leave her shop is phenomenal. Nothing less than magnificent. My hair has its natural, flowy, healthy, shinny glow to it. I always rely on Melissa's advise on how to take care of my hair in between visits with her. If you follow her advise you will come on top every time. I have been to several other stylists in my time but by far, hands down, NO ONE is as good as Melissa. She will really take care of you. I am so happy and proud of my friend and her new shop. read more

Melissa has done my hair for many many years. I've followed her where ever she has gone and I've sent her some clients that always leave happy and come back for more. She is very honest and has always done exactly what I've wanted. Her salon is very nice, clean, and welcoming. Her work speaks for itself and she takes pride in that. Looking for someone experienced, honest, and passionate about what they do? look no further!!!! read more

Rare Salon - Steam condition, press & curl - Hair Salons Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Rare is just that a rare find. When I first started going to Melissa she was at another shop and my hair was a mess from braids. In the last year or so she has cared for my hair and it is now healthy and strong. Since I have been going to her I have had friends, family, and coworker compliment my hair. The environment of her new shop is great. If you are looking for a upscale environment with down to earth real people Rare is the place for you. She is not just a hairstyles but a good person that will be upfront with you about your hair and its needs. read more

Rare Salon has the whole package. Personalized care, has you in and out, very clean and relaxing. I've been in search of someone who takes car of my hair in a timely manner and Melissa is phenomenal. She takes her time, and does an amazing job! read more

I was referred to Melissa at Rare almost 4 months ago after searching and trying several stylist. After my first visit at Rare I knew my search was over. Not only did I enjoy my time at her salon which is professional and cozy but I really liked Melissa's attitude and spirit. Before Melissa starting doing my hair it was breaking and shedding a lot and I had very little bounce or shine. When I leave the salon now I'm looking for reasons to take pictures because my hair is always the BOMB! I have very little breakage and hardly any shedding. I love my hair again. Thank you Melissa. read more

If you are looking for a clean salon where you are not another WET person waiting to complete your appointment then head to Rare salon. Your appointment is your appointment schedule it at schedulicity....takes a click of a button and you will receive a email confirmation. You can even pay online if you like ..schedule for a month in advance or next day ..you can see her availability online. Your appointment is yours. The attention is strictly on you when you get in the chair! # beautiful # clean ..#sheisverytalented read more

Rare Salon - My hair is growing like weeds - Hair Salons Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Before I started going to Melissa I only knew what it was like to have my hair styled. I never knew what true hair care was that was six years ago and no one has touched my hair since. When I first came to Melissa my hair was about shoulder length and now my hair is past the middle of my. People compliment me on how healthy and pretty my hair is and often don't believe that it is all mine. But thanks to Melissa it's all mine and it's healthy. The new shop is great, it's a clean safe enviornment where women can come to not only look good but relax. All the clients are friendly and Melissa is geniunely good person. So if you want a relaxing enviornment with good people and beautiful hair "Rare" is the place to go. read more

After living abroad for roughly 9 years, I was in DESPERATE need of a cut and a style. Melissa took very good care of me. Not only is she professional, she is able to liaise and 'mingle' with clients from all walks of life. She is very much a 'people person'. She manages her appointments well, thus making the experience an enjoyable one. I didn't have to waste a whole day waiting for her to get to my hair. She was prompt and the constant professional. I will definitely be going back! read more

Melissa has done a great job with establishing the salon. I've been a client for a few years now and followed her from a previous salon in San Leandro. I'll have to say that I was a bit concerned when she said she was moving. But pleased when she shared that she was very much aware of the expectations of her clients. Melissa did an equally pleasing job with the décor and materials used to build-out the space at "Rare". Rare is a quaint place and located in a small but easily accessible strip mall, just at the end of Hwy 238 and occupied solely by the proprietor/stylist. I've not yet had a problem with parking in the attached lot. Melissa's customer service is superb; aside from one's press and curl skill, this is a major factor in choosing a stylist for me. I've spent a lot of time and money in caring for my hair and appreciate a stylist who shows an appreciation of my patronage by doing the simple things - connecting and building the relationship. The salon is in its first year and so the equipment is in good working and aesthetic condition. The area seems fairly safe, although I haven't had what would be my usual later evening appointment. The environment is modern, warm and pleasant - inviting enough for any age group. Melissa is patient, listens to your need and is quick to suggest what will be best for her as a professional and for you and your hair type as a client. I'm not sure if debit cards are accepted in this new location as I've grown accustomed to carrying cash. On the flip side of technology, I love being able to send my stylist a text message for scheduling my next appointment! Great job Melissa and I wish you much success! read more

Rare salon is great! The salon is quaint with nice decor. I have been coming here for years and always leave with my hair straight, bouncy, moisturized and healthy! Highly recommended! read more

I've been going to Melissa I think for about nine years now. I do not care where she goes I will follow my hair loves her. I've had healthy hair down my back and recently decided to cut it. I am super proud of our new home which see calls it "our salon" which is just like Melissa. I'm looking to relocate to Southern California and I will be flying home at least once a month for her to maintain my hair. There is no stylist on earth like her!!! I fully recommend the "RARE" experience. read more

Looking for a professional, inviting and comfortable salon? Well RARE is what you're looking for. I cannot stress enough how pleased I have been with the services that Melissa has provided over the past year that I've been going to her. Not only has she taken her time to listen to my concerns about my hair, but she has done a fantastic job in assisting me in meeting my hair goals. One thing that I love about Melissa is that she is very punctual. She is always on time to appointments and never has me waiting to be serviced for unreasonable periods of time. Additionally, she has a great personality and is very easy to talk to. I highly recommend this salon and stylist and I'm certain you'll love it just as much as I do. read more

When I first came to Melissa, my hair had been severely damaged by my previous hairdresser. It had been over-processed, and was breaking off steadily. Melissa suggested that we start fresh and begin with a new short cut. I protested at first, but when she told me that we could look through magazines and let me pick out what I wanted, that put me at ease. Here we are, almost 3 years later, and my hair has almost grown back to where it was before I came to Melissa. I never miss an appointment now! read more

I came to Melissa a couple of weeks ago based on the 3 yelp reviews she had at the time. I must say I was very pleased with my hair once I left the salon, my hair was light and bouncy - just the way I like it! I have natural unruly hair and Melissa definitely has some pressing comb skills. This salon is low key and nicely decorated. If you decide to stop by to see Melissa you will feel right at home. read more

I recently moved to CA, from FL. I was weary and reluctant to try a new salon, but based on reviews, I decided to try. I was greeted by Melissa who was so helpful. She managed to squeeze me in, despite my lack of scheduling the appointment for that correct day. (This was done online.) She has an awesome online booking program that she uses. I was pleased with the quick drying process, as I have thick hair and hate sitting under the dryer. She did a press and curl, which I was genuinely pleased with. read more

Melissa is absolutely the best! The salon is very comfy and beautiful! Melissa not only is a good stylist but she takes care of your hair to make sure you will have healthy thriving hair. I have been with her for a couple of years now and plan to stay with her until she retires! Way to go Melissa! read more

Melissa is AMAZING! I have natural hair and am usually reluctant to try new places because I'm either waiting forever or they put way too much heat on my hair. But I was very pleasantly surprised when I went to Rare. Melissa knows exactly what she's doing, she's really fast, and is an incredibly nice person. This salon truly is a rare find, especially for women with natural hair in the Bay Area. I highly recommend it! read more

People, I have discovered THE best hair stylist ever. Rare Salon is a cozy welcoming environment, Melissa took the time to style my hair and it looks fantastic. Gone is the limp lifeless hair, and in its place, I have nice bouncy hair, I'm very impressed. She's a keeper for sure. read more

This is my first time ever writing a review. My experience alone with Melissa was very positive. Let me first say that this review is way over due as I was in search of a new hair dresser last Mother's Day. I just had my first baby at the time and was feeling like I needed a pick me up. I called around and Melissa was very accomodating to my needs and schedule AND considering it was Mother's Day weekend, she was willing to fit me in-even with a late notice. I appreciated her willingness and flexability. Though the scheduling did not work out with her specifically, she was able to refer me to someone else. I still am keeping Melissa in mind for a time when I need a little pampering. I remember the service she extended even though I didn't get my hair done by her; I was very pleased to know that good service still does exist. read more

I have been going to Melissa for years. She is not only an excellent stylist, but she is also a great person. I have never been disappointed and always feel great after leaving her salon. Not only because my hair looks wonderful, but also because I really enjoy the time I spend at the salon with Melissa. I love the fact that Rare reflects Melissa's personality and impeccable taste. I highly recommend Rare to anyone looking for a great stylist and a lovely salon. read more

Let's see where do I start. I love Melissa she is a awsome hair stylist. I have been going to her for over 10 years now and will no let anyone else touch my hair. I have damaged my hair my self and she always brought my hair back to healthy status. She into keeping your hair healthy along with keeping it beautiful. If you want your hair long!! I say keep going to her and before you know it you hair is long a beautiful. The salon is not roudy at all! I dont like ghetto, roudy salons. Very clean and it always stay that way at all times. He decor for the shop is beautiful and make you feel comfortable while being there. Melissa has a wonderful and awsome personality and that is one of the reasons beside her keeping my hair up I go to her. I have had other stylist but Im good on goin back to any of them. OMG when she wash you hair she is scrubbing for dear life...lol to get your hair and scalp clean. I use to have one lady that just wash the hair not scrubb the scalp..big differance!! I welcome anyone to go to her you will be EXTREMLY pleased and will return back to her... I love her!!! read more