I had my first ever waxing with Shannon a few months ago, and it went amazingly well! The pain isn't as bad as people hype it up to be; take an over the counter painkiller/anti-inflammatory beforehand, and you'll be fine. The experience was definitely worth the price! read more

I met with Shannon today and was impressed by her knowledge and lack of hard sell. Instead of scheduling a chemical peel, which would cost more, she instead suggested a few products that might help with my damaged skin. I'll be back in a month to check in and plan to add a fifth star at that point. Also, the space is gorgeous. I've never been inside the Berkeley City Club before and it's pretty awesome! read more

FINALLY I DON'T HAVE TO SEARCH ANYMORE! OK, so! I was coming in for my eyebrows and a Brazilian, eyebrows i have had done obviously most of us do wax them (they weren't always good, worst days ever!) and i decided to try this place based on the positive feedback here on Yelp First lets start with the brows.... WOW, talk about beautiful!! My eyebrows have never looked so amazing, my face looks completely different! I'm ready for my close-Up! Now, on to the scary stuff...BRAZILIAN!.... I was so nervous and i had never gotten a Brazilian before. Cue my savior Vanessa, she was so patient even thought i was squirming and probably being the most difficult person ever to grace her room. She helped keep me calm and was so fast that i didn't really have time to be in pain! Viola! Brazilian done and i survived it! all thanks to her. It was the first experience i had with this so thank goodness it was a positive one. I will continue to maintenance only with her because she made it so pleasant (i know how can that be pleasant) well it was! i suggest coming to her for fantastic brows and an almost painless Brazilian!! Thank you!! read more

shes got a cute place in the berkeley city club and gives good brazilians. i dont know what i was doing wasting my time with my other waxer when i could have been with shannon. its been over a week and i have 90% less ingrowns/bumps/redness/etc. plus she got (almost) all of my hair. youd think in the business of hair removal, removing hair would be #1 priority but for some its not. although there are times when she misses spots. i hate going home and having to tweeze and shave after spending 50 bucks on a wax. read more

I recently moved from Berkeley to Maryland. I just love love love berkeley, and I miss so many restaurants/stores. (Oh why are you not here Berkeley Bowl!) But if I am to take just one store/service with me to the east coast, it has to be Studio Abasi. Shannon is seriously the best thing that has ever happened to my skin. I am really reluctant to try to find a new facialist here, because I am sure that she/he will not come even close to Shannon. I get so many compliments on my skin all the time, and I am not born with a pretty skin. I hope yelpers won't even bother trying other salons in the area (I tried out a few salons before ending up at Studio Abasi, and it was such a waste of time and money...) I miss you Shannon! read more

Shannon Carter is an absolute godsend. I've had awful acne since I was 14. Since then (I'm 23 now) I've tried every skin product you can think of (Clinique, Dermologica, ProActiv, Sonya Dakar, Phytomer, and plenty of prescription meds from dermatologists....) and had only temporary relief, if any at all. By the time I found Shannon, I had seriously lost all hope of ever having clear skin. But Shannon made me a believer. After three months, I had clear skin. And the best part is that now, 8 months later, my skin is still clear!! This is why I love her, and you will too: She knows what she's doing. Within my first couple visits with Shannon I learned so much: why all the products I've used in the past didn't work, particular ingredients that exacerbate acne, what foods make acne worse, why her products DO work, etc. She's had a lot of training, and her knowledge and experience really comes through during the consults. She's straightforward. During my first visit, she said it would take at least three months to clear up my skin. That's exactly how long it took. Instead of offering a "miracle" treatment (think ProActiv commercials) that only works for a little while, Shannon gradually incorporates new products, letting your skin adapt so you can be sure it will continue to work in the long-run. Shannon's not about the "foo-foo" facials, as a previous aesthetician used to say. She wants to clear up your skin, and extractions and chemical peels are the most effective way to do that. She cares. She's not interested in ripping you off - all of her products and services are very reasonably priced compared to the other brands out there. And instead of waiting til your next appointment, she encourages clients to email her with their questions - I always received a response within 24 hours. She's invested in keeping your skin clear for the long-run and developing a personal relationship with you. Plus, she's an absolute sweetheart, very personable, down to earth, and fun to talk to. If you have troubled skin, acne or otherwise, I STRONGLY recommend paying Shannon a visit. I promise you won't be disappointed. We love you, Shannon. Keep it up!! read more

I was in a rush and had only about 30 minutes before my next appointment when I noticed in the car mirror how horrible my skin was looking. Why is skin so much easier to see in the car mirror? Anyway - should I pull over and buy some makeup or try to get a facial? Facial. I dashed into the salon on college. I was skeptical, but optimistic. Shannon was amazing. She identified with my adult acne and knew exactly what to do. She was calm under my stress and rush. She did a vitamin A peel and put some vitamin A directly on my face before I left. by the end of the day my skin was glowing. I had to rinse it off a little early for a dinner party, and I was worried about my skin being red and blotchy and I was without makeup. Instead my skin looked healthy and glowing. Shannon also used an ultra sound to loosen up my skin before doing extractions. That was a new technique to me, but it seemed to work. Shannon gave me many great skin care tips in our short visit. I will definitely be going back to see Shannon. For my short and intense visit, Shannon charged me $75, which I thought was high for such a short session, but totally worth it. read more

I very much respect Shannon, the owner of Studio Abasi because after a recent mishap with one of her employees, she promptly called me to apologize. She offered to repay me for the wax session and give another one free of charge herself. She was also clear that she was surprised yet glad to hear of my complaint because she was going to give further training to the employee. This, to me, showed her dedication to running an excellent business with high standards. It's the kind of integrity I like to interface with when I'm paying for services. read more

I really disliked the service provided by Priscilla. I walked away feeling cheated. I had the consult and acne treatment. The consult is really a scam bc it's extremely basic info about acne that everyone with acne already knows. For example, why someone may get acne and common irritations. The acne treatment is not a treatment. Your face gets wiped down and then they go straight into extractions. I didn't feel like my face was thoroughly cleaned prior to extractions and the lady was aggravating a pimple that was not ready to be extracted. She ended up causing major swelling and pain that lasted a couple of weeks. I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE. read more

This review is for Kia. She is a miracle worker. I had clear skin until my senior year of high school (I'm a sophomore in college) when I broke out all over my forehead, my nose, and the area around my mouth. Like everyone else that has reviewed, I tried a range of products (Neutrogena, L'Oreal, Kiehl's, Murad, etc.) and I've even tried extractions elsewhere, but nothing worked. Two weeks after my appointment with Kia my skin cleared up dramatically. The facial is pricey, but not as pricey as I expected (some that I've seen go up in the 100s). And the products that they sell are nowhere near as pricey as Sephora products (ranges from $11-35). Every time I get my paycheck I put it towards Studio Abasi because I see FAST and LONG LASTING results. read more

Seven:Thirty - Before and after. Thanks to Studio Abasi - Skin Care Near Me - Berkeley, California

I can't possibly thank Studio Abasi enough for changing my skin. I always struggled with acne and after a few months of particularly terrible breakouts, I went to see Shannon. Her facials, extractions, and great products have transformed my skin. She is so knowledgeable and really works with you to solve your specific skin concerns. I used to have constant, painful breakouts and now my skin is the best it's ever been. This place is everything read more

Shannon is awesome. She has tamed my unibrow on several occasions and cleared up my skin a bit for my wedding. She is also very knowledgeable, easily and comprehensively answering all of my skin-care trivia questions, and gave me a very helpful shaving tip that helped reduce bumps on my neck. Her best quality is the fact that she is cool, funny and personable - essential for things like facials, haircuts, shaves, etc. I was having so much fun talking with her that I don't want our sessions to end. Can't wait to go see her again! read more

I had my second visit with Shannon for another brazilian today. Is it possible that my experience was even better than the first time? Because it certainly felt like it. With her friendly demeanor and lively conversation, it was all over before I knew it. No painkillers or booze necessary. I swear, I lingered at her salon for a few extra minutes just because I wanted to hang out with her. She is just too awesome! Her prices have increased a little, but what with the recession and inflation, it's completely understandable. Shannon's services are worth every penny! You don't want to take a gamble when it comes to something as sensitive as a good brazilian wax! read more

Shannon is amazing and very fun to talk to! She has a great sense of humor and is VERY knowledgeable and good at her job. I love her facials and her products are very affordable and my acne has already cleared up! I am so glad I found her. read more

I have been going to Shannon ever since I moved to the bay area over a year and a half ago. She is spectacular at what she does,from brazilians, to facials,absolutely amazing. This review is for her as well as her new partner Valerie. I went to Valerie this weekend for a brazilian,mainly because she could fit me in at such short notice, and I figured any one trained under Shannon would be amazing too. I definitely was not disappointed. Valerie was efficient,sweet, and did a great job! Kudos to Shannon and Valerie for making me feel so comfortable and beautiful while getting my hair ripped out!! You two are a great beauty team. :) read more

This place is amazing!! The staff here really care about their clients. Not only do they want you to look good but they want you to FEEL good with healthy skin. They even have all their own products! Definitely have to try their moisturizing sunscreen it's awesome! read more

I can't believe that I can finally say that I have CLEAR SKIN. I've had acne since the 6th grade. The type of acne I had wasn't extremely noticeable to anyone but me. I didn't feel like my skin was mine, it had so many bumps underneath and these would flare up all the time. It was a constant battle on my face and I felt so helpless to do anything about it. I thought of resorting to laser treatments because the dermatologists that I went to didn't do extractions and couldn't help me control my acne. I found Shannon through yelp and seeing the 5 star ratings with over 100 reviews was really comforting and helped me take that first step to set up an appointment. She is a little pricey, but for finally clear skin and not wasting more money on products that actually hurt your skin, it is so worth it. She not only does acne facials to extract everything out (super painful, I take Aleve before I go and it still hurts so much), she coaches you on what products to avoid, what foods to avoid if you're acneic (no more seaweed :[ ) and provides you support to get through the treatment process. After about 4 months of going to her, I only have one more visit left and she says I don't have to ever come back unless I want to get a facial or need more products because I will be finally free. I can't thank her enough. If you're struggling with acne, go to Shannon. She will change your life, and as cheesy as that sounds, it really is the truth. read more

My overall experience with Studio Abasi had been wonderful! I was initially reluctant to give this place a shot but without a doubt, i made the right decision in making an appointment with Vanessa. She was so thorough and efficient in treating my acne situation. Its now been about 6 weeks and my face has cleared up almost completely! Would definitely recommend to anyone who wants a surefire treatment read more

I've been seeing Shannon for over 15 years! I drive all the way from the Outer Richmond in SF to visit the magical Shannon. When it comes to skincare, trust is everything. I'll admit, once or twice I've strayed (the commute). I always come back and have learned my lesson. I trust all her recommendations; she is extremely knowledgeable. She can be tough, but it's honest and for your own good (bye dairy & iodine rich foods ). The price is fair and the results cannot be replicated elsewhere. If you want a "spa day" go spend your money elsewhere. You want to maintain clear, supple, and young skin, see Shannon and her crew. read more

Shannon is wonderful at what she does. I would recommend her for anyone that needs waxing, a facial or massage. She is very gentle and uses only the best quality materials. Give her a try and you'll be hooked. read more

You don't want to miss out on this wonderful lady! Shannon just did the makeup for me and my bridal party and everyone looked fabulous. I'm so glad to have had airbrushed make-up; I didn't have to touch up anything all day. I've been going to her for sun damage and the treatments and products paid off - my skin looked fabulous for the wedding. Shannon is a wonderful person - sweet, knowledgeable, friendly. read more

I just wanted to quickly update my review by saying over a year later (and having only seen Shannon a few times since my last review) my skin is still looking GORGEOUS solely because I follow her instructions and use the products she recommended. It was also really sweet that out of nowhere she happened to email me and check-in to make sure things were going well. I love Shannon and will continue to recommend her to all my friends especially since I don't even have to go that often to get amazing results. read more

Shannon has completely changed my skin! I had doubts that I would find someone in the East Bay to replace my amazing person in SF for facials. With two kids now, I couldn't make it there anymore, but I am more than happy now that I have found Studio Abasi. Ever since going to Shannon and using her amazing product line, I have had glowing skin. She really knows her stuff and aims for getting you the results you want. Her new space is beautiful. On top of that, she is the nicest person you'll meet. Her products are top quality and reasonably priced too. read more

OOOooh boy. La la la. Shannon will make you laugh while stripping away hair from the most sensitive and painful parts of your body. Then she sends you home with the best products! Better than any esthetician I've ever been to. I stopped going to my dermatologist because of her. Shannon Carter dearest girly of mine, will you marry me???? read more

Shannon is fantastic. I came in with a case of moderate adult acne, and she cleared me up in about 2 1/2 months. She worked with me as I needed to avoid certain ingredients that are found in many acne medications. She was unlike any other aesthetician I have ever seen, my initial visit with her was more like seeing a dermatologist. We discussed my regime, my concerns (I'm Asian and have very sensitive skin), and she actually researched each product I use online to make sure they weren't causing my breakouts. Her facials and products are very reasonably priced. I wasted so much money on over the counter and prescription meds until I found Shannon! I just moved to Portland and am very sorry I won't be able to see her anymore. However, she was gracious enough to refer me to an aesthetician up here to continue my facial treatments. read more

Shannon is amazing. I've tried out a couple of different places for a brazilian wax and no one has ever done as thorough, clean or great a job as her. Not only was it painless but Shannon's easygoing nature also made it completely comfortable. I don't think I can go to anyone else now for a Brazilian... it would just be preposterous! read more

Shannon is a great, super nice person and the best waxer I've had!! Go to her, she won't disappoint you. I've done a brazilian twice with her and now I'm totally becoming a regular. Minimal pain and she makes you feel totally comfortable. Her prices are totally reasonable! read more

I want to say that Shannon deserves 5 star, because she really does her job and always professional and passionate about her work. I had problems with my skin that made me feel uncomfortable most of the time. I had realy big pimples on my face and they were hurting so bad whenever i touch them. I didn't know what to do and where to go. But Yelp helped me to find that place and I'm very thankful for it! It took her 2 months to get rid of all my acnes and pimpels. Her products are magic, I really like them and still using! Now I feel so confident about my skin and still getting compliments from my friends! Thank you, Shannon, I'm really grateful for work you did! And I will come back soon to buy some of your products) read more

I wish I can give more than five stars to Shannon and Studio Abasi. For years, I have been struggling with deep and painful acne. Like many others, I've tried multiple different types of products and supplements with absolutely no improvement. I also did not want to take antibiotics regularly just to fight off acne. Thank goodness I found Studio Abasi on yelp. After the initial consultation, Shannon informed me that if I follow her exact plan, my acne will be gone in 3 to 6 months. I was a little skeptical at first but decided to give it a try. Shortly after, my skin began to improve; those huge breakouts were gone, only a few blackheads remained. Extractions get less painful every time, it was such a dramatic change compare to the first session. I am happy to report that I am now acne free thanks to Shannon. I highly recommend her to everyone!! read more

Very impressed with service. My first appointment was for a bikini wax, was very nervous due to a previous experience at another place. The service was great, made me feel very comfortable and made sure I was aware of her next steps. The wax and techniques performed were practically painless and prices are affordable. Definitely my go to places. read more

I went and got an acne facial on a whim from Shannon, as a treat for myself. Her acne facial was not the relaxing facial I had in mind! But, after getting four extraction facials from her, I can tell you they are worth the pain. Along with her products, my acne is drastically improving and clearing up. The facial and products are expensive (I'm on a student budget), but I think it is worth it. Follow her regimen and you won't be disappointed. I have spent lots of money on miscellaneous 'acne miracles' over the years, and I can honestly say only Shannon has been worth the money. She works with you, personalizes a regimen, and helps you get results. She's very nice, like the cool older sister you never had (who also helps clear up your skin, of course). If you have acne, save up your money and go see Shannon. She won't disappoint! read more

Valerie, is awesome! She is so sweet and funny, definitely recommend this place. It's hard to find a place where you feel comfortable getting waxed, but this place does the job with a great atmosphere. read more

Okay, so I have spent my entire life believing that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. And in almost every situation, this has been true. But Studio Abasi truly is the exception to the rule. I agree with Sarah T's review to the fullest - this place LITERALLY CHANGED MY LIFE. Valerie and Shannon are complete angels. First, Shannon Carter is some sort of miracle worker. Seriously. I don't know how else to explain it. I have spent, without a doubt, over $5,000 on every skin care product you can imagine. Over the counter disasters: Proactiv, Clearasil, Clinique, Philosophy. Dermatologist recommended medical-grade products and prescriptions: Obagi, Accutane, Epiduo, and more. You name it, I have tried it - but none of it ever worked for more than a few months. My acne got so severe that I didn't even want to leave the house and even as I was finishing college it was getting worse not better. Shannon changed my skin in a way that I didn't even think was possible. My skin is clear and dare I say near perfect. I am actually complimented on how nice my skin looks now, by complete strangers. I visited Shannon for 5 facials and they were painful but necessary. Yes, the extractions hurt - but she is getting all that deep-down blemish causing bacteria out from the depths of your skin. More importantly, her product line is unlike anything else and has kept my skin clear ever since. It is a little on the pricey side, but nothing compared to some of the things I've tried. All of the products Shannon recommended for me have been literal miracles in bottles - something I never thought possible. Secondly, Valerie is an absolute dream. She is not only friendly, but her waxing skills are the envy of every aesthetician. She is so talented and I have never left feeling anything less than beautiful. She always ensures that I am happy with my brows and really listens to me when I tell her what I want. Additionally, she makes me feel so comfortable and always remembers the small, insignificant details of our conversations - even months later! I am not joking when I say that my eyebrows are my pride and joy. I was reallllly attached to my aesthetician before I moved here and was terrified that I wouldn't be able to find someone as talented, well somehow I managed to find someone BETTER. As other reviewers have mentioned, Valerie only uses hard wax which is so important if you have sensitive skin like me and she is careful to make sure that you are never in any pain whatsoever. read more

I am really impressed with Shannon Carter. She gives outstanding brazilian waxes - a lot less painful than ones I have received in the past. She uses excellent wax from France - very good quality. She also took time after our appointment to discuss skin care - she was very informative, and I will definitely go back to her for a consultation. My skin is a wreck sometimes, but I would definitely trust her judgement for treatments. Best of all, she's extremely nice and great to chat with. read more

Shannon knows acne! I have never had an esthetician so educated on this subject. At my first consultation, I learned so much from Shannon, I was ready to start the treatment instantly. Each treatment is customized based on your skin type and acne, but mine cost about $300 up front and has lasted almost 2 months and I'm only half way through. You have to dedicate time to the system but the results are the best I have ever experienced. Very pleased with Studio Abasi and Shannon. Even if you elect not do to the treatment, you will certainly learn something about products and the formation of acne after meeting Shannon! read more

Amazing, totally has made my confidence boost up! I've always had acne problems since high school and I've tried proactive (LIARS) and other dermatologists to treat my acne but they would only make my skin worse or only heal it momentarily. In a desperate attempt for clear skin, I found studio abasi, starting off with Sharon and continuing with Kia and they're both amazing and sweet :) when I showed them the products I used before, they told me what was worsening my acne and gave me new products, some of them surprisingly lasting long despite the size. The extractions are a PAIN but that's how your skin heals faster, and the cost is a lot, especially for a starving college student haha but Kia recognized my financial situation and worked around it so I wouldn't have to come in often. Now I have clear skin and keep coming back for more :) read more

Shannon is absolutely amazing! One day I commented on my co-worker's beautiful skin and she told me about Shannon. I decided to take my 13 year old niece to Shannon beause she had lots of black heads and pimples on her forehead and nose (her cheeks were slowly starting to get pimples too). She was very insecure about her skin. Her first appt. was in September and by December, her face was completely clear! I truly understand why Shannon has 5-stars...she really does deserve top rating. Book your appointment now....I promise you will not be disappointed. She is worth every penny. read more

Shannon is absolutely amazing. I have been going to her for many years and even followed her when she moved (as did many of her other clients). Brazilian waxes are painful and it can be uncomfortable with your hoo-ha out in the open, but Shannon is gentle and quick (I'm in and out in less than 20 min.). She uses high quality wax and everything is very sanitary. While you're getting waxed, she talks to you like you're her girlfriend she's known for years. Even though she has tons of clients, she remembers details about your life and inquires about them when you come back. She also gives great waxing aftercare and make-up tips. I'd recommend Shannon to anybody! read more

I don't know why it's taken me so long to write this review. I knew right away Studio Abasi would get five stars. I'd give more if I could! I go to Shannon for facials. Specifically, I go to her for treatment of acne. I am 32 and have had trouble with my skin ever since I was a teenager. I have oily, sensitive, fair, blemished skin. Yuck. I have also been getting facials since I was a teenager. I've lived in California, Kansas and Georgia and seen more estheticians than I can count. I've been to dermatologists and nutritionists - you name it and I've tried it. Some things have worked and others haven't. BUT, I've never had an experience like seeing Shannon. Shannon is amazing. She approaches skin care in a very scientific manner. She makes you throw out the products that are aggravating your condition and then recommends the ones that will help solve it. And they work. Really well. AND she helps you every step of the way with thoughtful and organized emails and instructions. The facials are not pampered, massage-your-feet kind of facials. She gets down to business and gets the crap out. The products are very simple and definitely not too pricey. The results are amazing - at least they have been for me. We tried a basic skin care regimen after my first appointment with her and then altered it as she saw how my skin responded. When my skin got too flakey from a product, she told me what to do. When it seemed like I could use a higher strength/dose, she told me what to do - and every time, I got good results. If you follow her instructions exactly - you will be happy. I've seen Shannon for 3 months now and my skin is so much better than it's been in SUCH a long time. Even my nose - which is prone to horrible, zit-filled breakouts that last days and days - is calmed down and I haven't had a zit in weeks. Shannon is a delightful person to know as well as extremely knowledgeable and skillful in her field. I feel so lucky to have found her. Out of all of the 1,000,000 people I've seen for my acne, she is the best by far - no question! read more

If you suffer from terrible acne like I once did, look no further- Studio Abasi is a godsend. I have been seeing Shannon for the past eight years, and her facials and product recommendations have kept me virtually acne-free. Discovering Studio Abasi literally changed my life. I recently started using Studio Abasi's custom-blended mineral makeup, as it's formulated for acne-prone skin. I've always used Bare Minerals, but decided to give their's a try. WOW- their custom blended makeup is WAY superior to the Bare Minerals I've been using all these years! It compelled me to write this review! The color Shannon custom blended is perfect, the make-up's coverage is fantastic/better, and it's way more concentrated than the Bare Minerals product, so it lasts much longer. Plus it's better for my acne-prone skin- who know's what pore-clogging junk goes into Bare Minerals. Needless to say, I highly recommend Studio Abasi's mineral makeup, in addition to all their acne products and services. read more