Ms. Pamela is incredible and I can't recommend her enough as a stylist for us curly folks. Great skill, salon, and bedside manner. After my first curly haircut I know I'll be her client for life. Run don't walk to book your appointment. read more

Maurice is a terrific barber for curly hair. He is talented, professional, always on time, and fun to chat with.

I have been getting Ouidad haircuts for years, or rather, I have been paying for Ouidad haircuts for years. This afternoon Erin gave me the first cut worthy of the name. My hair looks the way I've wanted it to look since I stopped straightening it. Erin will take her time with you, actively listen to your concerns, ask the right questions, and ultimately, leave you completely satisfied. I am thrilled with her work, and expect to use her services indefinitely! read more

This year I decided to start going to the salon to get my hair trimmed once a quarter. I had been doing it myself for the last few years and decided to start "splurging." Anyhow, I found Ringlets Salon and Ms. Pamela and was excited to have a stylist that I thought would understand my natural hair considering she's natural herself. That wasn't quite the case. I went to her a total of 3 times. The first time was fine, but she pressed me about "semi-permanent" dying my hair to add shine to it since it was "dull" and "the cuticles sit up". This is kinda the definition of natural (unprocessed) black hair. I left it alone, however. My next appointment, the press out after my trim didn't last a day. It's Oakland. There's like negative humidity. The fact that it didn't last a day is beyond me. I get that your hair needs to be heat trained (I only press it after my trims - so 4 times a year), but a day? My third visit is what I actually came to write about. I've been working on growing out my hair and had been very excited about its progress. Despite Ms. Pam commenting on its dullness and pushing for me to dye it each appointment, my hair was flourishing. I came in for my usual "trim and press." That's what's I told her. "Trim and press." At the end of the appointment, as she's telling me the price, she tells me "I had to cut it to get it into a bob shape." I was in a rush to get to a meeting so I kinda shrugged the words off. It wasn't until a week later, during wash day, that I realized she meant she cut 4 inches from the bottom layer of my hair. I was livid. You know how your run your fingers through your hair and you're expecting it to go a certain distance but there isn't any more hair. Yea, that's how I found out. (I left with my hair in pin-curls that day.) So I texted Ms. Pam to tell her that I was disappointed about the fact that she would take such drastic measures (yes, drastic. To grow that back will take at least 6 months and I'll have to reshape my hair back to layers - how I originally had it and how I wanted it) without my consent and she brushed my concerns aside. She told me that I'd learn to like it once I learned to style it. I wear my hair in natural styles and a bob doesn't work with my hair in its natural state. There's no learning to style it. Aside from that, what does that have to do with the fact that my hair was cut without consent? She refused to ever acknowledge what she did and that's why I refuse to go back to her shop. I can't trust a stylist that will cut your hair and tell you after the fact. read more

This may be a great place for established clients.. But for new clients, ask more questions of Pamela & make sure that her answers are not rushed and are audible before sitting with her. Huge disappointment and a five hour wait!? Waist of time and money.. . read more

I only allow one person in my hair and that's NICOLE!!! She just joined this salon from another location and they have yet to see her work her magic. I came to Nicole with severely damaged hair that eventually had to be cut off and I was in tears about it until I found her. She has nursed my hair back to life and after about a year I finally got it lightly straightened and my gosh my hair is down my back honey! read more

Pamela is the best! She knows exactly what my hair needs and she took my general notion and created a style I love! I have had so many complements! It's amazing. Highly recommend. read more

Pamela and her team are amazing! They were kind enough to see my 6 year old daughter last minute late on a Thursday night and the results were amazing (I posted a picture here of my daughter's super curly brown hair). This was my daughter's first trip to the salon and Pamela and her team made sure that it was comfortable and, even enjoyable, for my little one. Pamela also taught me a few tricks about how to handle my daughter's super curly hair, while engaging us in great conversation as well. 5 stars for sure...Ringlets has earned a repeat customer in me! read more

Ringlets Salon - Natural curls following a wash, comb and condition session... - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

Pamela did an amazing cut on my hair a year ago, and I say this because when my hair grew back my hair grew with layers making it easy for me to wear my hair down with no worries. My hair is half the length it was before I cut my hair. Not only have my weird pattern developed more curls after visiting and having a professional look at my hair and share her ideas/thoughts with me to better my hair to were it once was. I need to schedule an appointment soon, I'm wayyy over due! read more

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I was so happy to find Pamela because I've had the hardest time finding a stylist that I love and trust after my last stylist moved out of state. Pamela cut my hair twice and each time loved the final results. I also love that the Ringlet Salon is not filled with other clients which allows for such an intimate salon experience. It has given me the opportunity to get to know Pamela and enjoy my salon visit. I'll be back in two months for my follow up trim. read more

Ringlets Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

My hair was long and over processed from years of flatirons and keratin treatments. I couldn't get my natural curls to come in, no matter how much product I used. After consulting with Pamela, we went with the big chop and I'm so glad to throw my headbands in the drawer. Pamela knows her craft, she works efficiently AND served us a glass of wine! I'm so happy with the results! read more

Ringlets Salon - So grateful to have found Pamela @ Ringlets Salon! We decided to chop the overprocessed hair and I'm elated with the return of the curls! - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

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I am a no frills, no thrills, no hair kinda woman-it was out of character for me to decide to go "Harlem Blue" just before my last get away but something in my spirit felt very AfroPunk. I spoke with Pamela about my color vision, booked my appt and she delivered the color to my roots as though we were of one mind. If I had any insecurities about my AP look, which I didn't I knew I was looking fabulous as soon as I walked out the door, the comments and admirations dispelled that. But here are some of the comments I rec'd: SFO-some random w/man "your hair looks so good! Don't you hear people commenting on how great it looks!?" NY-sistah in the bathroom staring, almost rudely finally ask "Do you live in NY? Me: No. Did you get your hair done in NY? Me: No Damn! That color is HOT! -:-) Accra-Greeted by my distant nephew "Oooooo, Aunty! Your hair is beautiful! Joburg-Checking into hotel, (LITERALLY) first thing the sistah checking us in says "Did you bring me some of that hair color!? These are just a few that stand out but I got so many positive comments from all over - Oakland Emerald Green next time Pamela! I will post pic soon read more

I first went to Pamela at Ringlets 5 years ago and now, I won't let anyone else cut my hair! Pamela is friendly, will listen and help you figure out what kind of cut you want, and will also give really helpful advice on styling and hair care. If you're looking for a dry cut for curly hair, Pamela is the best there is. The salon itself is also a really beautiful space. read more

This is a personal Christmas note to the amazingly kind Pamela, whom I believe is the owner of this salon. Thank you Pamela for your kindness today in going all the way to Kaiser Hospital on the afternoon of Christmas Eve to cut my sisters hair. She has been very recently diagnosed with a rare form of advanced leukemia and was so uncomfortable as her hair had gotten too long. You were able to fit her in on a very busy day, find her hospital room, wash her hair and give her a stylish hair cut that made her feel so much better. You are one in ten million and I hope to stop by your shop and thank you in person. And to think I was able to make all these arrangements from my home in SoCal! If you need your hair cut...see Pamela as she's the kindest hair stylist in all the world right now! #KindnessByPamela read more

I have had my natural curlies for over 10 plus years. At my age,I needed a change. So I decided to get my hair straightened and cut... short! Pamela asked all the right questions and came up with a plan that worked well for us both. Loved the organized and cleanliness of the salon . I came out with an awesome new do,and a follow up with Pamela in a few weeks. read more

I've been to this salon 3 times already! And Pamela is wonderful... She really knows what she is talking about.... I came to her and my hair was completely damage. So me and her made a decision that my hair needed to be cut... It was hard at first but I soon got over it. Since then my hair has been really healthy. And it has grown a little since then. Pamela is my go to stylist very down to earth.... and did i mention that she is funny to? She is very professional her shop is small but very clean.... I love the fact that u dont have to worry about the rude females that always be in the shop mugging you or looking you up and down. Love this place and location.... I am officially a forever client.... So if you are thinking about going natural, or have damage hair,or just are looking for a stylist.... Try this salon you wont regret it... BTW there is another stylist that works there(I kno her name I just can't spell it) She did my hair once before to and it came out beautiful.... Thanks a lot Ladies read more

My first visit to the salon. Being a natural I'm very cautious with trusting others with my curls. I went for a deep condition and trim and left with conditioning, trim, and a new color for the winter. Lonzella was wonderful. She was friendly, patient, gave some tips, did an awesome job with my color, and the best shampoo/scalp massage. I've found a stylist. You can't go wrong with her or Pamela. read more

Ringlets Salon - Lonzella trimmed and shaped my red fro. Gave it some life with intense moisture and turned it purple. Love it! - Hair Salons Near Me - Oakland, California

I always wanted to experience that Cinderella moment of transformation. Pamela at Ringlets was the only hairdresser in my life who has provided that experience. Years had passed since I had my hair cut and styled. I was scared to say the least. Pamela and her assistant were kind,real and strong. They put me at ease because of the various troubling aspects of my hair I had been dealing with for the past year. I laughed and talked why the damage was reversed and by the end of the appointment I looked beautiful. I was so happy with my hair that I brought my daughter in later that day and Pamela was again able to work her magic. I have never gotten more compliments on my hair than I did after this appointment. Thank you Thank you Thank you Ringlets!!!!!! read more

After moving to the area, I looked for a stylist who would color and cut my hair. Pamela did a fantastic job from scheduling me (I was coming from south bay) to a fabulous new cut to recommending products (even if she didn't have them). She focuses on the maintenance of your hair and provided good suggestions on keeping it healthy. She seemed to ask all the right questions before working on my hair. She's not close by but is well worth the trip!! read more

Pamela made me a promise that she would whip my hair into shape. She did not disappoint. Not only is my hair healthy, I now have hair in places that had been void of hair for many moons. I am extremely pleased with her use of color and the quality of her products. When I need something special, Pamela is on point with a style that is fresh and attractive. I am grateful for her polish and talents. My hair looks wonderful. read more

I just moved to the East Bay from the East Coast and was v v anxious about finding someone capable of handling my textured and natural hair. But I shouldn't have worried -- Pamela is awesome. She herself has gorgeous natural hair (which always puts me at ease when I'm getting my hair cut) and she immediately understood what I wanted. She checked in with me frequently throughout the appointment and was super receptive to my questions and annoying requests to go incrementally shorter lol. Even though I walked in without an appointment, I was in and out in under an hour and a half. If you are tired of white ladies with bad highlights trying to relax your hair, what are you even doing??? It's 2018, go see Pamela!!! read more

WOW! This place is awesome! The experience starts as soon as you step foot inside the door. Pamela is amazing. It's been a long, long time since I have been stopped by strangers wanting to lavish me with compliments about my hair. I'm a new woman with a new attitude. Love this place and will continue allowing stylist Pamela to rock my hair. Shear Genius!!!!! Alfreda (new client) read more

Style, professional care, and proactive intervention -- that's what my hair consistently receives from Pamela each and every time! Ringlets is my happy hair place! When I first met Pamela 4 years ago my hair was weak and brittle without game and all that quickly changed. Equally important I have come to know the Ringlets clientele. A wonderful community of other professional and caring women who style in and out of the shop! Pamela Thompson owner of Ringlets is the Pied Piper of good looks who makes certain that each of us maintain healthy hair and individualized style. Thanks Pamela and thanks for your chic and cozy shop! read more

Perhaps they're amazing, because I just got rejected as a customer! I called to ask how much they charge for little kids' haircuts. The person who answered told me that it was the same as for big kids. I said, "Aha," and was about to ask what appointments they had when she asked, "Do you have a pen?" "A pen?" "Yes, a pen. I'm going to give you another hairdresser's number." She barely had the patience to tell me this person's name, as the phone cut in and out. I didn't bother to ask where they were located and why she wanted to send me there, especially since she knew nothing about me. I'll be looking for someone else to cut my curly girl's hair! read more

DEVASTATING! lets start with the fact that i chose to go to this salon because it has awesome reviews and i have a head full of ringlets. I thought it would be a god fit. I simply asked for a trim and anything more than and inch off the length of my hair was too much being that my hair grows so slow. The shop owner understood and she proceeded to "trim" my hair. She was very nice and pleasant to chat with. She cut my hair behind my shoulders so i couldn't see just how much she was hacking off. by the time she was done and showed me what she had done she had chopped off 5 inches!! I paid the lady, got to my car and cried! my long curly hair is now to my shoulders! I specifically asked for no more than an inch off the length. If you are looking for a subtle trim this is not the place. read more

The woman overbooked and was rushing to get everyone done. Out of her own frustration she got rude with me because she was stressed. I didn't feel relaxed or welcome. my appointment was at 1:00 and I didn't end up leaving the shop until 3:30 and all I got was a hair cut. read more

The experience was ok...I unfortunately did not have the pleasure of Pamela doing my hair,which is where this disaster began. I've been natural for most of my life and have NEVER had a bad press. The other stylist that works there really needs a class in time management as well as natural hair care. My hair blowout was fried and the press horrible! My hair changed the minute I walked out. Never mind her charging me over $100! my bday.. Ruined. Now I have one spot permanently straight bc of her "technique" ; a reminder why I don't have a perm now! Sweetheart lay off the straightening and learn how to use that stove properly. read more

I love this salon! Pamela has knowledge about All types of hair, and she can just look at your hair and do an excellent analysis on its condition. I am African American, natural hair, and she takes great care of my hair. She uses sulfate free shampoos, which don't dry my hair. She also deep conditions it, and blow dries it. Then, curls it with a state of the art heat styling tool. She is patient and kind. Her prices are very reasonable. Shop is clean, with relaxing music. She also does really good color work. I totally recommend Ringlets. Pamela knows her stuff! read more

I love Ringlets! Pamela is the only person I trust to touch my hair. I always leave there feeling better (mind, body, and soul). It's a part of my self care routine. Before going to Ringlets I wore my hair in the "wet look" and it was very damaged. Now, with Pamela's help my hair is healthy, thick, and growing long. Pamela is very professional and takes pride in excellent customer service for her clients. She also uses top of the line hair products and is a joy to be around. I highly recommend Ringlets to someone looking for a professional and peaceful environment to get their hair needs met. read more

I called in and Pamela picked up right away with a welcoming voice, I spoke to her on what I was wanting and was recommended to come in. The place was not hard to find, and it was clean in a nice area. I allowed Pamela to see my hair, and from there we set up an two hour appointment. I felt comfortable with Pamela and just allowed her to do whatever she thought was necessary for my hair. I'm not sure of the pricing to say if it was too high or if it was a great pricing because this was my first experience at a salon, but I can say I do love my new cut. Thanks Pamela! read more

Pamela did an excellent job cutting my wild curly Afro and making me look polished and feminine again! She really listened to what I wanted and delivered. The premises are clean, cheerful, comfortable and conveniently located (4 C's?) Pamela and staff were friendly and helpful, even giving me recommendations for doctors since I'm new to Oakland. There was no waiting for my appointment and I was in and out quickly. It's so refreshing to find a salon and stylist who are respectful of their client's time and needs. I'll be back to keep my new cut looking as great as it does today! read more

I am a certified non-Saloner (apparently we are a type) with mixed curly-spirally hair. I spotted this salon a couple years back, and began fantasizing about the possibility of someone competent enough to create a new look for my tired old curls. Ultimately, I wrote it off as only a fantasy, assuming they were probably overpriced anyway, and continued to wear-out the only look my poor head had ever known. Fast forward to present day, when I braved the odds and made an appointment with Pamela. Not only was the experience affordable and fun, bonus: she made my dreams come true! SOMETIMES, trusting things to a trained professional can really pay off... I brought in a few pictures of the general silhouette I hoped to achieve, and I left thoroughly pleased, okay, overjoyed by the fresh look and feel she gave to my locks! I plan on returning for more curly-haired adventures, most definitely. read more

Pamela at Ringlets makes me and my hair happy. I get so many compliments on my hair cut and style and she is a master at color. When I need to look fabulous, Pamela helps me choose a style that will make a special occasion even more so. My friend from New York recommended Pamela, so she's known for her hair styles across the country. I truly appreciate her professionalism, energy and artistry. read more

After wearing my hair straight for over 30 years, I decided that it was time for a natural style. I asked a stranger with a beautiful, short 'fro who did her hair and was referred to Ringlets. I wanted to do this but was really, really hesitant about going natural and a new "look" . Pamela was very patient, explaining each step of the process and which products to use so my hair would always look alive and healthy. I've been wearing my new look for only a few days and I love it!! It's easy to care for and the compliments keep coming! Pamela's salon is warm and friendly and there was no waiting! Thank you, Pamela I've found a new home for hair care!!! read more

Lonzella is the only hair dresser I trust with my curls! She is talented! She has consistently given me the best haircuts I've eve gotten, gives great advice in taking care of your hair and did an amazing job when I wanted color. Definitely my go to spot for getting a hair cut for my curls. read more

I had my hair cut by Pamela at Ringlets today am very happy with my new hairstyle! I have curly hair and wanted an Afro hairstyle. I didn't think my hair could have enough body to go into an Afro, but Pamela worked magic with her scissors and creativity and really hooked a sister up! The vibe was friendly and mellow in the shop also. I look forward to my next haircut! read more

Ringlets is a great salon and Pamela the proprietor is professional and hip. After passing by the salon for years I finally stopped in last Fall to book a touch up relaxer and cut and was pleasantly surprised by the entire experience. Not only did Pamela do a terrific job on my hair, but the atmosphere from her hand-selected background music to a smorgasbord of lovely magazines and pleasant conversation, all made for a relaxing, enjoyable time whilst my hair got the best of care and style. I recently paid Ringlets a second visit and can say the standard was consistent. We have a lot of choice when it comes to hairdressers; Ringlets is my pick for ethnic salons - and one that is professional, chic, and run by an experienced stylist with a lot of flair. read more

Poor customer service very short in conversation and rude. In the middle of asking the person who answered the phone questions she says she'll call me back takes my info. and doesn't call back! read more

I decided to try this salon once on impulse, as I was in the area, and I walked by and noticed that they did natural hair. More specifically, I wanted to try something different and get a press for my curly hair. I went in and spoke to the stylist Pam, who was nice at the time and booked me an appt. She assured me that she could work with my hair. Here is my breakdown of the experience. Pros: 1) Salon is local in Oakland. 2) Pam discouraged me from going to a salon regularly. I guess I should thank her. Her shabby service motivated me to do my hair myself...ALL THE TIME! 3) no longer impulsive in trying stylists. Cons: 1) When I booked my appt with Pam, I specifically asked for a day and a time when she was not busy. She booked me for a Saturday am appt (which I thought was odd that she would not be busy on a Saturday). She assured me that she was not busy. I told her about my bad experiences with waiting on unprofessional people. She said she understood and would never do that. I even called prior to coming in to make sure she wasn't busy. She said she wasn't....Fast forward to my appt. I roll in that Saturday morning...guess what? The salon is packed with a bunch of hens clucking about this and that. Guess what else? There are 2 women in front of me in Pam's chair! One of the women had long thick hair and was getting a press (just like me). The other woman got a rod curl set. Apparently, the woman was a senator or some type of government official because Pam went around the salon guffawing "Do you know who this is?" and snapping photos of the woman like she was paparazzi. 45 minutes later- she looks at me and says "I am running a little behind. I am willing to give you a huge discount." Being a sucker for cheap wash and press, I sit and wait like BooBoo the fool. 2) Pam has a snotty attitude. Apparently, when I responded "no" to not knowing who this senator or so called woman was in the chair, Pam took offense to these. She made it a point to address me and tell me that I "should be more involved in politics." What i do and who I know is my business, you can keep your opinions. 3) 2 hours later, I am in the chair. She looks at my hair and says "no way. Your hair is too long and too thick." She then proceeds to tell me my hair is too dry for a press. What??!!! Then she tells me it would be better if I had curly hairstyle and keep the chemicals out. Ok, whatever. I am just ready to get on with it now. She washed my hair and slapped some curly pudding on it and said "Voila." That's right she did the same crap that I do at home! She even gave the same style I came in with! Come on now. 4) The best part is her discounted price....$40 was what she charged me for a wash and to slap some curly pudding on it. 5) Style was the same one i wore in the place. Overall I wasn't impressed. Why would i pay money (inflated prices mind you) for something I can do myself? 6) She tried to push that crappy Moroccan Oil product.... Please it was a fad already. I have already wasted $40 and over 3.5 on you on a Saturday. Do you really think I want to throw away another $37 on that crap? Bottom Line: I would not recommend this salon or Pam to anyone. Totally unprofessional. Her hair styles are so so at best. Nothing to write home about. You can take a look at the "models" above and see that (nothing against you ladies, but honestly I can't sit here and say "oh wow I want my hair to look like that!) I am not one to sit around in some salon listening to a bunch of hens waiting to get an oke doke hairstyle with a snobby stylist who doesn't respect me or my time. But that is me! My recommendation is to save your money. Better yet, close your purse and go somewhere else. I went to another stylist in Oakland, and had my hair pressed the very next week! It looked fabulous (and still does). read more

I'm a stylist at a salon in the north bay and had to call Ringlets about a client who had a relaxer and lied about it while I was doing a service on her. Being very panicked about damaging the young girls hair I called around and was told to call Ringlets. Pamela picked up. Thank god for Pamela. Pamela in a very stern mother voice calmed me down (reprimanded me first for not knowing basics of relaxer..yea skipped that chapter in beauty school) talked me through it and told me how to handle it like a grown woman should, then she told me she had clients to worry about and had to get off. Pamela. Thank you so much for your kindness today. While I know you probably had a good laugh at our white salon stupidity on the basics of relaxer I want to thank you for your undeniable knowledge on this subject and taking the time out of your busy schedule to pick up the phone and make me see it's going to be ok. Big thank you from the Snowflakes at The Loft! read more