TLDR: Michelle is incredible! She is the best thing that happened to my curls in decades! With her cut and techniques I consistently still have amazing curls from day 1 to day 5 (and that once included a day at an amusement park with rollercoasters on day 4)! I will definitely be going back and I cannot recommend her enough for anyone with curls whether you are new to being a curly girl or a longterm curly veteran! I guarantee you will learn something from her! Longer version: I've followed various curly girl methods for over 20 years and have been getting curly hair cuts for just as long. If there is a wash/style/refresh method of doing hair or a curly product I have probably tried it at some point. That said, new things come out and I love learning so every few years I'll try a different stylist just to see if they teach me new techniques I don't know. Michelle blew me away! Not only did she give me a phenomenal hair cut with great layers but she showed me her techniques and products. I had been introduced to Innersense before and wasn't really blown away but Michelle did a great job explaining the products and why they are cleaner/easier to use with less heavy oils than some other curly products. In the past, I have gotten good curl definition but usually have pretty significant frizz by day 3-4 but with Michelle's methods I have almost no frizz or halo at day 5, despite still having decent volume and amazing definition. Not only that but I had to do a wash/style day during a work trip and only needed half the amount of product I previously used which is HUGE for me since I almost always travel with only carry-ons. The products really are cleaner/easier to use than anything I have tried. I have also always struggled with refreshing my curls between wash days, but she went over her technique with me and I am now able to refresh my hair easily without it coming out stringy/greasy or wet enough that I felt like I should just do another wash day. Plus she pointed out a line of damage from where I was always ponytails/pinappling my curls and so now I am being more intentional about changing up my implements for putting my hair up. Her attention to detail is phenomenal, and I love that she still attends continuous education to constantly improve herself. She is definitely my new stylist for the foreseeable future and I am so incredibly glad I decided to try her! read more

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Repeat review, third appointment for my wavy curls and can't be happier. The cut brings out the best in my curls and my color. Highly recommend! read more

Salon Aficionado - After! - Hair Stylists Near Me - Lake Forest, California

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I can finally ditch the ponytail! Michelle is the GOAT. Finally, my hair looks healthy and shiny and it's actually easy to style. My "new"curls actually look different than the frizzy meh curls I have tried to maintain for years (decades?)... as a client of 'curly hair experts'. I am completely wowed by the cut, style, tips and recommendations I received at Salon Aficionado. The first visit may seem a bit pricey, but I thought it was an absolute bargain for what I got. I waited for 8 washes before writing this review to ensure that it was as good as I thought, and it is. Also, Michelle never even hinted for me to write a review, but I knew I had to share the good news with my fellow curly girls. And guys. read more

Jenn did a balayage on my dark hair and it came out beautifully. It's hard to get dark hair that light without losing curl and she somehow managed to keep my curls perfectly in tact. She was very knowledgeable and carefully selected which products and methods she knew would work best for my hair. Thank you ! read more

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I have been going to Jenn for a couple of years now. She is also a curly hair specialist and does wonderful hair color. I've never had someone who actually knows how to deal with curly hair and my hair has been its Best curl ever since I've been here. If you have curly hair no matter the curl style Jenn & Michelle have you covered! read more

Salon Aficionado - Curly hair with beautiful deep color - Hair Stylists Near Me - Lake Forest, California

Michelle is definitely an expert when it comes to curly hair. I currently drive to LA from OC for my cut and was researching places closer for future options. She was great in answering my questions and providing me valuable info with patience. She will definitely earn my business when I decide to stay local. Prices are higher for curly hair naturally, no pun intended, so if you're going to invest in anything, make it yourself. She's knows curls. read more

Michelle is AMAZING! I've never had a haircut that actually was for my curls and I was not let down. I wasn't worried once in the process and was absolutely blown away how she cut my hair and styled it. Who knew that these were my natural curls!? Thank you Michelle! If you are in need to love your curls again and let them come alive, go to Michelle! read more

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I was really looking forward to getting my hair cut at Salon Aficionado, however, I had a negative experience at my consultation back in June with Michelle. I came into the salon to speak with Michelle about ideas for my hair cut, and that day my hair was more curly at the top of my head and looser curls/wavy toward the mid to end sections of my hair. Right away she started making assumptions about why my hair was like that saying things like "do you have cancer?" "Were you pregnant?" "Did you have a baby?" "Usually with two curl patterns like this you see it in people with PCOS." All of which I told her was not true. I tried to explain how my hair is including how I style it but she insisted upon her assumptions of why my hair was like that. Rather than approach from a place of curiosity she automatically assumed and I felt judged. Michelle also mentioned to me she has a type A personality for whatever reason. Not sure if toward the end of our conversation she realized what she said and was trying to justify why she said those things. I wanted to give her the benefit of the doubt and made an appointment but I kept thinking about this negative experience and cancelled. read more

Michelle is a true artist with hair.  She listens to each client's request and studies the nature of their hair. Then, she tailors the hair cut uniquely for that client.  I have tried numerous hair specialists in my life, but she is the only one who knows how to work with the natural texture of my hair. Despite driving hours to get to her salon, I will only get my hair cut from Michelle.  Michelle is a genius with hair! I have known Michelle for over 20 years.  I will follow Michelle wherever she goes.  Michelle has given me the best haircuts ever for 20 years!  Exactly what I wanted and never looked better!  Although Michelle specializes in curly hair, Michelle is a genius at cutting Asian hair.  I am Chinese.  I have very thick hair.  Michelle gives me a perfect cut every time.  All of my hair just falls into place and looks beautiful!  I would never consider going anywhere else! Michelle will make your hair fabulous and beautiful!  You won't be disappointed.  You will love it!!! Getting your hair cut with Michelle is a must, and not to be missed!! read more

Salon Aficionado - Hair by Michelle - Hair Stylists Near Me - Lake Forest, California

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Michelle works some serious curly hair magic! I've been wearing my hair curly for just over a year and I had one DevaCut at the beginning of my "curly journey". My hair had some wave/curl to it but it was very long, flat, and dry. I was wearing it up in a ponytail or bun most days because I didn't know how to deal with it. She explained everything she did from beginning to the end and she asked permission every time before taking off more length, which I really appreciated! After she cut my hair she washed and styled it, showing me exactly how to achieve the look every step of the way. In the end, I was totally shocked by how my hair turned out -- I had no idea my hair was capable of such curl! It was beautiful and truly the first time I've left a haircut confident with how my hair looks. I am a military spouse who moves quite frequently so it's always a challenge to find a new hairstylist in each new location. I am so grateful to have found such a wonderful stylist so quickly that I trust with my hair! read more

Salon Aficionado - Before Michelle cut my hair. - Hair Stylists Near Me - Lake Forest, California

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Got my first curly hair cut with education and lots of tips and tricks from Michelle. My hair looked amazing after. And she is amazing too! Kind and enthusiastic. But it's hard to reproduce the same result for myself. Probably I should spend more time styling But my curls definitely got better after the cut and after applying more moisture to my hair. let me just attach a picture, it speaks for itself. read more

Salon Aficionado - Hair Stylists Near Me - Lake Forest, California

I've been going to Michelle for a few years now and have never been disappointed. Hair cuts used to be maintenance or like a chore until I found her. Now I just wish my hair grew faster so I can have it styled more often! read more

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I met Michelle about a year or so ago at a curly hair event in San Diego and today I had the honor of getting my hair trimmed and shaped by her. Her love and respect for curly hair is obvious and her knowledge is top notch. I love that she took time to talk about my expectations, realities about my hair goals right at the beginning of the appointment. If you're in the area or not, take the trip and give your curly crown the love it needs/deserves from Michelle. You won't regret it. I highly recommend her talent and services. read more

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Michelle is amazing! I went to her in December for my first cut in 2.5 years and she did wonders for my hair. She truly knows curly hair and was able to shape my (very thick) curls in a way that looked beautiful and stylish. I recommend her to anyone looking for a curly hair expert--she's wonderful! read more

Michelle did a great job with my wavy hair. (You see me straight in my profile pic). It is a work in progress but the cut really helped shape my curls into something manageable. She made my hair look so amazing! Now, I just have to figure out how to do it myself. read more

Salon Aficionado - Hair Stylists Near Me - Lake Forest, California

This was my first curly haircut and I love it! Michelle was so knowledgeable and kind, I will definitely be back!

I've been going to Michelle every 5 weeks for almost a year now , she is an A class stylist . My hair has been perfect every time I leave her . Very knowledgeable about What she is doing and explains the whole process . Definitely recommend read more

Michelle was so nice! I just started on my CG journey and this was my first "Deva Cut" type cut. She took the time to teach me about my hair and explain each step of the process while making sure I understood. I also had long hair that was damaged. I knew I would have to chop off the damage but she let me err on the longer side, instead of a lot of stylists that "trim" and you end up with a pixie cut! I have gotten so many compliments on my new cut, the layers and style really compliment my naturally wavy hair. I recommend her highly! read more

Michelle has been my hair guru for over 10 years. She has seen me thru summers of non stop ocean and sun damage.. Always keeping my hair condition naturally beautiful. Her knowledge of natural organic hair products keep my hair super healthy! I have long hair and she keeps me in the know with the current trends. I am so grateful for her!! read more

Salon Aficionado - Hair by Michelle! - Hair Stylists Near Me - Lake Forest, California

This is hands down the best haircut I have ever received. Michelle is just amazing. I definitely recommend Salon Aficionado.

Loved my curly hair experience with Michelle! She understood my attachment to the length of my hair and made me feel so much more confident about my hair than I have in the past. It took me a few months to get an appointment but definitely worth the wait. read more

Michelle is incredible!!! Best curly hair stylist ever!!! She helped me learn to love my hair and the best way to work with my curls, rather than against them. She completely changed the way I treat my hair and the experience during my haircut was magical and so personal. During our first meeting, I already felt like I had known her for years. She was able to tell me things about my hair nobody has ever said before. Thank you so much Michelle for the transformation! read more

I absolutely love the one on one personal experience Michelle provides at her salon suite. She has been doing my color every four weeks for the last year. She is always punctual and professional. I get compliments on my blonde hair all the time...she alternates between base color and highlights. I love the consistency of my results, and my hair is in beautiful condition. read more

Michelle, owner of Salon Aficionado, is amazing. When I was looking for a curly specialist to cut my hair I found Michelle. She knows curly hair to the core. She's helped me learn so much about my curly hair, including how to wash and hydrate it and style it in my own way. I highly recommend Michelle if you are looking for a curly specialist who is not only an amazing person, but an amazing hair specialist. Love, love, lover her!!! read more

I had been relaxing my hair since I was a kid, and was very nervous for the upkeep of natural curls, but Michelle quickly made me feel at ease. Aside from the great cut, she showed me how to take care of my curls. It has been just over a month since Michelle gave me the big chop, and am loving it! read more

My experience here was so different than any other high or low end salon I've been to. Upon arriving Michelle welcomed me into her private salon (which was very clean!) and began asking me questions about my experience with my hair. She is truly a curl-specialist (deva curl and beyond) she understood my frustrations and always gave a reason why something doesn't or does work. She really spends the time to educate you about your curly hair and even encouraged me to reach out to her later on if I have any questions. She has so much knowledge about what she does and I really appreciate that and feel like I can trust her. Looking forward to my curl journey and next cut with Michelle! read more

What Michelle does is truly magical! I'm a 44 year old woman and I've spent my entire life trying to find the right cut, the right products and just figure out how to style my naturally curly hair, to no avail. I finally decided to spend the money to see a professional and it was the best money I've ever spent. Michelle listened while I explained my journey and issues. We talked about what was important to me and how I'd like to be able to style it. Throughout the entire process she patiently explained everything she was doing and showed me how to care for my hair, apply products and style it. She explained that the products I've been using have harmful ingredients. She transformed my hair into something I never thought I could have. I'm now armed with the knowledge to do this on my own and you can't put a price on that! read more

Michelle is so talented with specializing in curly hair! She helps style and teach you about your hair and listens to what you want!! She is so nice and fun to be around! She always supports people in their new journey of embracing their curly hair or continuing their path with new styles and tips! Her business and work is so beautiful! read more

I have wavy/curly hair and won't go anywhere else. My only issue is I can't plan ahead because I have a crazy schedule and Michelle is booked out months in advance. read more

This review is a couple weeks late but if you have curly hair and you've never had a cut by a curly-haired specialist - GO SEE MICHELLE!!! I had an wonderful one-on-one experience learning the proper way to care for my curls. Michelle gave me a great curly cut and she was very thorough explaining the process. Salon Aficionado is in a great location and it is easy to find. I'm actually excited about my hair again! read more

I had my first appointment with Michelle last night. She's a true artist and takes great care when cutting curly hair. She creates a personalized experience and gets to know you and your curls before picking up the scissors. I felt like my hair was her canvas (or her bonsai tree) and left feeling better than ever. read more

Michelle is a true professional and really cares that you understand the process of making the most of your natural curls. She spends so much time educating her clients because she's committed to making her clients happy. I highly recommend! read more

Michelle was great. She made me feel relaxed right from the start and we chatted for a while about my hair. She wanted the whole story, my curly journey in detail. She listened carefully and then talked to me about expectations and the reality of what type of hair I have. I loved this honest approach. She cut my hair, explaining all the time about what she was doing and why. I asked not to loose the length of my hair, and she listened! When my cut was finished she "shampooed" my hair with no poo original. Through each step of the process of cleansing, conditioning and styling my hair, Michelle patiently taught me what I needed to do to take care of my curly hair. When I washed my hair a few days later, I was able to re-create the look she gave me without difficulty. I would highly recommend Michelle. She is very busy, and books up way in advance, but let me tell you, my results were more than worth the wait. My favorite piece of advice from Michelle, "Treat your hair like a silk blouse!" read more

I have been seeing Michelle for YEARSS and would follow her whenever she goes. I have very difficult curly hair. She is the ONLY stylist that has ever been able to do my hair and she has made my hair look amazing year after year. I trust her implicitly. I have referred people who have difficulties controlling their curly hair and they have been so happy with her. I am planning on moving out of state but will make sure I plan to see her every 6 weeks as i have for years when i come for visits to see my family. read more

Definitely a hidden gem in Lake Forest at the Sola Salon suites. Michelle is very personable and has a great attention to detail. I would never consider getting my hair cut anywhere else! She goes above and beyond to take the traditional men's haircut to the next level. read more