This is hands down the best aesthetician in Southern California. Since coming here, my friends and family constantly compliment my skin.I use the Spa's line of products and they are true game changers. The products are all natural, effective, and keep me looking young. I credit coming here as the reason why I have not needed botox, fillers, or laser at the age of 51. Irina's products beat anything sold on the market read more

By happy accident last week I had a chance to get a facial at Spa ViolaSole in Brentwood and what an incredible place it is! My esthetician was Rada and she was amazing! I immediately felt she had a lot of experience and was very passionate about her work, but I also learned she had extensive 4 months training with owner Irina, and it definitely shows. I got Signature Plus and it was absolutely fabulous with thorough extractions, Hydrafacial (which I LOVE), Oxygen, LED and foot and arm/hand massage. This Facial is literally under priced for what you get and the level of skill they have, and most places in LA will charge you nearly double for half of things. Rada also recommended their SPF which I bought and I must say I have never used anything better. Facility is simply beautiful - modern, clean, with bright inviting colors; they have nice lounge area with water and snacks and everything in spa smells delicious. This place is truly a gem and I will definitely be a regular! read more

Kathryn is amazing. She made my skin glowing and looks healthier. Can't wait for my next visit.

Got the signature facial with Lexandra and it was an hour of pure bliss! I've received treatments from Burke William's in the past which is great for their wide range of services and amenities but Illume Spa DEFINITELY knows what they're doing! Lexandra and Kathryn are both expert estheticians and demonstrate extensive knowledge in skin care and even made their own skin care product line which they sell at the spa. I have eczema and highly sensitive skin so I was skeptical on how my face would react but Lexandra discussed the procedure and was very cautious to accommodate my needs. The service was fabulous with arms, hands and feet massage and left my skin complexion smooth, clear of redness and supple. They truly care about the customer's experience and it is definitely quality over quantity. read more

Spa ViolaSole - Front desk - Skin Care Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Ecstatic I found Spa ViolaSole and Irina. I have a tricky oily skin with a lot of issues and it's always a challenge to find a spa that will actually do necessary extractions. Got great skincare recommendations which I highly appreciated because I still don't know what works well for my skin. Looking forward to continuing my skin journey with Irina. Great pricing, beautiful saloon etc etc read more

This review has been longgggg overdue. I'm been coming here for over a year! One of the best places to get a facial on the west side in Los Angeles. I've been seeing both Katherine and Irina for facials, and they have been fantastic. My skin has gotten so much better, almost no breakouts ever since I started coming there. Now I just maintain it by getting facial every 6 weeks. All of my skin care products are from this spa. I switched from using high end brands such as Channel, etc, etc to products made by this company and couldn't be any happier. They use no preservatives, and leave my skin clean, clear and happy. What I also love about them is that they are not pushy with their products AT ALL. But I will say that they are so great, you'll be coming back for more. I use their retinol, sulphate mask, light moisturizer, and cleansing gel. The spa itself is so spotless, clean, and relaxing. I'm really glad I have found this place, and you will be too! :) read more

Like others on here, I too followed Kathryn from bliss over here to Illume, and I am pleased that I did. Not only are some of the treatments a little easier on my bank account, but I feel the service is a little more personalized here as opposed to a larger, chain company such as bliss or Burke Williams. The various shades of purple invite a relaxing spa atmosphere and the receptionist always has a smile. Kathryn is my number one when it comes to skincare, whether it be waxing or facials, and I feel she knows my skin well from the past years that I have singled her out as my go-to esthetician. The only reason I didn't rate 5-stars is for some reason, my skin tends to break out a little more than it did from prior experiences from bliss due to the wax or other formulas I have used previously. I guess I'm a little more sensitive than I had thought, but I don't plan on cancelling out on Illume; I'm just hoping my skin will adapt over the course of time with their treatments. I highly recommend Illume Spa for your skin and waxing needs. read more

For the last 15 years or so, I have followed Lex wherever she goes for my facials. Even if it means I have to travel across town from Hanock Park to Brentwood, fighting traffic. Lex is 1000% is worth it. Her supreme and meticulous attention to her craft is unparalleled. And what she does is truly a craft - not just a service - at an incredible value. Lex carefully considers every aspect of your skins needs and curates the perfect treatment each time. Her approach is not in and out like a conveyor belt. Lex is honest and considerate; never pushing unnecessary products or services. The spa is quiet and easy to park so you can get in and out without hassle or a wait. Over the years she has also proved an excellent source of referrals for all things beauty. My skin from my early 30's to now 49 has aged like a fine wine thanks to Lex. She's truly the best! read more

I just had a baby, my skin was dry, dull, and full of pimples. After researching for a place to have a facial, I found Spa ViolaSole on Yelp. I called and spoke with Athena, she was very helpful and patient, she explain the different services and recommended I have their Signature Facial. I booked it. When I arrived I was taken into a waiting area where they served snacks and infused water. I was given a rope and taken into my room. They also offer slippers. My esthetician was Catherine, she was phenomenal. I had so many extractions I was worried about my face, but I had zero marks not even red marks. My skin was back! Catherine called the next day to make sure I was happy with my facial. I am very happy I found this place. I highly recommend it. read more

Lex (Irina) has been my aesthetician since 2007? 2008? so long I don't remember. She is the only person I trust to do waxing and facials. I started going to see her at Bliss in Westwood [redacted horrible comments about Bliss' and their treatment of customers]. Lex has travelled all over the world training Bliss staff... she's the real deal. Very knowledgable about anything to do with beauty/skincare. We spent years chatting about the importance of doing our own thing, being entrepreneurs and running a business on our own terms. In the 7+ years we've known each other we've both made the leap from comfortable employment to scary self-employment so to me this makes it all the more worthwhile to support her business. Lex and Kathryn have carefully assessed the needs of their clients and tailored her business goals to support them. Oh and Kathryn is amazing too, I've had her do a body scrub and wax occasionally. I travel 20+ miles across LA (sometimes in traffic) to see Lex once or twice per month. Super excited she's expanding to nail services as it's realllllly convenient to get things done at the same time. Love the Hydrafacials BTW. My skin is absolutely fantastic after every visit. Can't say enough great things. Visit this spa, not the others. read more

I am SO excited to get a facial from the amazing Lexandra again. I have missed her terribly since she left Bliss - I have been getting facials for 20 years and she is hands-down the BEST esthetician I have ever experienced, anywhere. I would imagine that her partner is equally skilled. This spa should be AMAZING ... I already booked an appointment for opening day. My skin has never looked as good as under the care & treatment of Lexandra. FOLLOW UP: I went on opening day, April 5th, and I was NOT disappointed. The facility is relaxing and lovely - there is definitely some Bliss influence in the layout (snacks in the lounge, a changing room with lockers ... keys are provided, so no need to worry there) and rich colors. Oh, and before I forget, parking was a breeze - there is a valet lot underneath the building. I missed it the first time, but driving back around the block, I easily spotted the entrance the second time and was pleasantly surprised by the easy underground valet service, with an escalator right up into the shopping center, Brentwood Gardens. I got the Epic Facial and it was worth every penny. The Hydrofacial machine (I hope I'm getting the name right) is a fabulous water-based microdermabrasion machine that ALSO infuses serums into the skin; it's magic. I have never come across one before and I know I'll be back for more with this treatment option. It's now a week later and my skin looks GREAT. I would have to say that the facial I had with Lexandra here is LESS expensive and MORE fabulous than the ones I used to get at Bliss. They have an extensive product line (but no hard-sell tactics ... Lexandra knows my skin, knows what I like and need, and what I don't ...) and also carry HydroPeptide. I have absolute faith in Lexanrda & Kathryn's knowledge of products and ingredients, so I know that whatever they formulated, it's good. I bought the vitmain C serum (again - great product and LESS expensive that its SkinCeuticals counterpart ....) and a stem cell serum. This is probably the best place in LA to get a facial now .... (also, GREAT waxing services. 'nuff said there, right ?) There is a Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf right across the street, also a Chipotle, and some good looking restaurants right in Brentwood Gardens, so this could EASILY be a full day. Oh, and a Drybar right on the ground floor. This is a TOTAL win. read more

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For a great pedicure while you multitask . In a private setting that's clean, inviting and a very detailed service illume Spa is by far my favorite location in LA. read more

Spa ViolaSole - Skin Care Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I've been Irina's client for the last two years. My skin is so much better now than the day I first walked in to see Irina. It's glowing! I keep getting compliments from my friends and even from strangers. I see Irina every month. Not only my skin is better, I feel so relaxed. She does amazing hand and foot massage! She is also a wonderful person. It's always so nice talking to her. She is like my personal therapist. :) Love, love, love you and your staff! read more

I've been using Yelp for years but never wrote a review -- partly because of laziness, partly because of motivation - until now. On the recommendation of my wife who has been here before, I got a facial from Kathryn and It. Was. AMAZING! The whole experience far exceeded my expectations. Kathryn was incredibly knowledgable and (at my request) walked me through everything she was doing, why she was doing it, what it was made from, how it helps. I had no idea there was that much to know about skin care. And who gives foot, neck, and shoulder massages while stuff is working on your face? I mean, really! I would have given 5 stars just for that, so relaxing. Definitely coming back here, love Illume! read more

I stopped by Illume yesterday after work. Their hours are very convenient for that! The front desk attendant was very polite and welcoming. She showed me the small, but efficient amenities all decorated in various shades of lavender. Amongst one long hallway, they have two bathrooms, one with a shower and changing room with lockers and robes. There are a few refreshments in the waiting room such as cheese, crackers and water. My wait was short and I was greeted by Lexandra with a thick Russian accent. She was very conversational and we discussed my concerns. I elected to have the Hydrafacial and used the $100 website promotion while it is normally $130. The Hydrafacial has been around for about 6 years and is the updated version of the diamond tip microdermabrasion. Expect the same scratchy vacuum feel with more liquid being applied to the surface of the skin. Afterward she showed me the flakes of skin that were removed (gross and interesting) and my face was slightly irritated, but very soft and hydrated. I do a lot of airbrush tanning (Bellezza Bronze) so this type of deep exfoliation is perfect for my skin! I will definitely return in a month and expect the same great results! Make sure to apply sunscreen after the treatment!! read more

I lost the hope to find a good place for the facials in this city but then I discovered illume spa. My mother in law presented their gift card on my bday and of course I immediately used it! My experience was great. I had my facials with Lexandra (aka Irina), she was phenomenal! I truly enjoyed the procedure. My skin never felt so pampered and relaxed. I have an adult acne problem and the things Lexandra did worked excellent on my skin. I loved the hydration procedure with the air stream filled with special hydrasolution gently blowing on the face (don't remember exact name of the procedure). I also bought special care regimen products which she recommended to me and I like them. The facility itself is very clean and stylish (everything is in accordance with their company color palette and company concept - professionalism). Receptionist gives you a tour when you come first time. The rooms are super clean and cozy. This spa is very well equipped with all the modern machines and this makes a huge difference with other salons in Brentwood. But the best thing here is their staff, Lexandra and Kathryn. After few minutes talking to them you realize that those ladies are very professional and you can trust them the most important part of your body, your face. They follow all the latest things in the beauty industry and apply modern methods in their work. In addition, they have long experience of working in the spa salons so they know how to make you look beautiful! Have recommended this place to all my girl friends. read more

Illume is now Spa Viola Sole. Name changed a while back, but same wonderful owners/aesthecians and amazing facials, massages, and other services. I just wanted to clarify my former review so as not to confuse Yelp readers. read more

For facials and waxes, Viola Sole is my go-to spa! After having treatments from Kathryn and Irina, how could I ever leave?! Both of these women are extremely knowledgeable in the world of skincare and it shows after your treatments. I'm always glowing after my facials! They take extra steps to show how much they care about their customers, from making follow up calls to check in on me and providing great advice on how I should be taking care of my skin. These ladies also created their own line which is amazing, such as the Vitamin C serum and their lotions smell great and have been hydrating my skin from this brutal winter. I definitely recommend Viola Sole. read more

This is my local spa. I love seeing Kathryn and Lexandra. It is almost like therapy but better because of the treatments. I've done waxing and facials and have been very satisfied every time. Even after the first time I ever waxed my legs, I felt there was still a little left and Lex had me come back in to go over them again - no charge. Kathryn and Lex also know their products really well because of their long careers in the industry so when they recommend a product I listen (mostly b/c its never in a pushy, slaeswomany way). They will even recommend products outside of their line but I have been very happy with the vitamin C serum and eye cream. Bottomline: Illume is clean and bright and always leaves me with a feeling of wanting to come back right away. read more

Im not sure where to start so I will just say that if you are reading this and considering where your money will be best spent on a facial - it will definitely be in illume spa. I have been battling acne-prone skin and at the same time dealing with aging issues, and only because of IRINA (aka LEXANDRA) everything is under control now! Her endless knowledge, dedication and patience has changed my skin. Her most thorough extractions, Hydra Facial and light therapy did much more than my ex- doctor's medications. Her extractions barely hurt by the way, and her massage is the BEST! She is definitely an expert and truly passionate about her work and she is also REALLY funny person! Spa itself is so beautiful, cozy, super! and, I would say "spic n span" - clean ALWAYS! Any time I come, there is not dust or any spots anywhere; Athena at front desk is always amazing and remembers everyone name. read more

So my go to person from Bliss spa opened up her own place with a partner and can I say that she is worth every penny and more!! Not only does she address all your skin needs, she has butter fingers that work all over your face, neck arms, and feet. I LOVE KATHRYN!! They're far from where I live but she's worth the trek to Brentwood. If I had to walk 20mi in the snow barefoot, I prob would bc she's that good. Their location is on the top floor of the plaza. You'll be greeted by their friendly staff. The lounge is small and the lockers are whatever, but I heard they're expanding soon. :) Kathryn really knows her stuff. If you have skin probs or just want to pamper she'll help you out! You'll walk away a new you! My skin always looks and feels younger every time I go. Their skin care line is also great! They tried to make a natural skin care line without all the harsh chemicals and preservatives. They aren't pushy with products and are very knowledgeable about other lines. Book your appointment today!! read more

I had neglected my skin for a few years and after asking my friend with amazing skin who does her facials, I tried Illume. Kathryn was amazing, she was gentle and took her time answering my questions. The span itself was super clean and quiet. My skin looks fabulous and will definitely be visiting more regularly. I also really liked that they did not try to upsell me or make me buy a bunch of stuff that would sit on my vanity. read more

Amazing first visit for a classic facial! Facilities are clean, the atmosphere is super relaxing, and the staff is friendly & professional. Definitely coming back :) read more

Yay for Illume Spa! My place for Brazilian wax. Kathryn is amazing! This spa is welcoming, I love all the purple decor, the vibe is relaxing and the service is great. I definitely recommend this place. Love, love, love. read more

I absolutely love Illume Spa! Whether it's for a facial or waxing this is the place to go! I have been going to see Kathryn for years at Bliss and was very excited to hear she opened up her own spa (with business partner and esthetician Lexandra). Located in the very convenient Brentwood Gardens this spa features the perfect balance of quality wax and facial services along with a relaxing, welcoming and enjoyable environment. Everyone on staff is friendly and welcoming and it makes coming here all the way from Studio City more than worth the schlep! :) And yes, the fact that it's a purple heaven inside only makes it that much better! come and treat yourself to a wonderful treatment- you won't be regret it! Enjoy! read more

The Epic facial at Illume is simply amazing. I love getting facials, and with my acneic skin, I certainly have to keep up with them. Kathryn is my facialist, and she is nothing short of awesome. Not only is she great at what she does, but she also knows when to let her clients relax and just indulge in the treatment. There are so many steps to the facial, I can't really name them all. But suffice to say that all the machines, extractions, and massaging does wonders on my skin. One of my biggest pet peeves when getting facials is when the esthetician makes a lot of noise during the treatment. Kathryn is careful to not make too much sound when opening up her cabby, mixing the mask, and uncapping bottles/jars. It really creates a serene atmosphere - so much so that I always end up falling asleep, even during extractions! The spa itself is gorgeous. They did a great job weaving their signature color (purple) into the decor without making it look cheezy. There's a comfortable lounge to grab fruit-infused water and crackers & cheese before your appointment. You can even change into a robe if you'd like. Word on the street is they might be adding massage services. Can't wait to make it a full spa day! read more

I'm so happy I've found Kathryn and her crew formerly of Bliss Westwood. I used to see Kathryn several years ago and so thrilled a friend mentioned she opened her own spa. This small private day spa is all about the client and individual needs. The hydrafacial is fantastic and I have seen improved results in my skin (less redness and dryness) over time. There is hardly any wait time for your appointment. The waiting area is cute/clean with water, tea, and snacks. Front office staff are friendly and professional. Park in the lower garage to valet with entrance just after the front of the plaza. With validation from the spa, parking is about $2 (cash/credit). Metered parking available on San Vicente. Spa is on the third floor next to Taiko sushi. read more

I've been to Illume Spa several times and received brazilian waxes from both Kathryn and Lexandra. I could tell from my first conversation with Kathryn that these spa owners know their stuff. I have very sensitive skin and I am extremely particular about products and services I receive on my skin as I have worked with dermatologists to finally get my skin to be clear. Kathryn listened to my skin care routine and asked me questions indicating she knew about the products and medications I use and special precautions necessary. I think I am ready to pull the plug and even get a facial soon (I haven't had one in years as my last one caused major breakouts). Also, I used to think I always needed a certain type of wax or a certain method for waxing, but now I realize that you just need people who are skilled and know what they are doing. Both Kathryn and Lexandra have done immaculate jobs with waxing and are so easy to talk to, which is good distraction from the discomfort of the wax! My hair has grown back slowly and evenly, demonstrating little breakage. Plus, its easy to get an appointment, they are open late so you can go after work, and the prices are SO reasonable for the quality of service. Bottom line: It is AMAZINGLY refreshing to get beauty services from people who are nice and damn good at their job at a fair price. read more

I have been getting facials from Kathryn for about a year now. I love my time with her - she lets me sleep when I need to or chats with me if I'm in the mood. But besides that, I always walk out of there glowing. She knows what my skin needs every time and I NEVER get that post facial breakout that's so annoying. The spa is spotless and quiet and everyone there is so nice. My boyfriend and I both use the Spa ViolaSole face wash and lotion as well. read more

I just moved back to CA from Arizona and the desert made a mess of my skin. I was nervous having to start over again looking for a good day spa but decided to try this one out due to the reviews on here. I'm so glad I did! I decided on the classic facial with Kathryn to stay on the more simple side and see how the products worked. I was greeted by both owners when entering and it was such a friendly and relaxing atmosphere. Kathryn was so personable and I can't recall ever talking to someone who knows and understands skin like she does. My skin is sensitive and I'm allergic to most scented products. I was thrilled to learn none of their products other than body wash and lotion was scented. Kathryn started with asking me about my skin, concerns and allergies. After talking to her, she got started and this is by far one of the best facials I've ever gotten. She explained each step and product to me throughout and the massages while masks were on were great. My skin the next day is still glowing and so smooth. I can see the difference and I have super sensitive skin. These ladies know what they are doing and offer excellent service with no pressure to buy products or upsell during the facials. I will be going back here for waxing services next as well as continue coming back to Kathryn to help take care of my skin. I absolutely recommend giving this spa a try. read more

I'm at the age where people are more likely to compliment my jewelry rather than my skin. "Skin complimenting" requires attentive observation on the part of the "complimenter" and it ranks low on compliment-hierarchy scale, well beneath less exacting ones, such as hair, outfits, shoes and asses. My skin had gotten so dry and dull and wrinkly that I had stopped daring to look too closely at my reflection in the mirror. Only now, after getting a facial or two at ViolaSole, have I started to get skin compliments, for which I have Irina and her colleagues to thank. I first came here more than a year and a half ago to get a straightforward facial, and have gradually moved-up to LED facials as well as back treatments. From the very first visit my skin drastically improved - fine lines, large pores and dryness were all visibly transformed so much that my boyfriend couldn't get over how much younger and fresh I looked from the minute I got home. When you get a facial here, you are also treated to hand and foot massages: I have gotten a lot of massages, from a lot of people, in a lot of cities, and these ladies' skills are far superior to anything I have ever experienced in my life. And as if this weren't enough, they are all extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic about sharing their mastery with you -- only if you ask, I should add, since they most certainly wouldn't engage in such vulgarities as product (or program) pushing. I have even taken their cue to see my dermatologist to fix a sebaceous gland that he had missed! So if you are considering a spa treatment and would like to be made gorgeous while pampered by a friendly, down-to-earth, knowledgeable and professional staff, this is the place. Did I forget to mention that it is also very reasonably priced? and it has easy, validated valet parking? When I emerge from one of these facials, back into the noisy hustle and bustle, I feel that same kind of disorientation associated with exiting a matinee at the movie theatre ... going for a facial at ViolaSole is not a grooming chore, rather a fugue from everything else in life that is such a huge pain in the ass. read more

Best waxing experience hands down! I called at 7pm and was able to get a 7:15 appointment with Kathryn. She was amazing!! Hardly any pain and she was so nice! Did a great job and I will go again. read more

Finally Lexandra has opened her own place!! I've been going to Lexandra for years - the best facials and waxing hands down. I got the Illume Classic facial, which was amazing. The facials are customized to your skin type so you get the best treatment for your skin. My skin looked amazing after the facial - in fact, one of my coworkers asked me if I went to the beach over the weekend because I was glowing! Nope, just a killer facial. Her waxing skills are impeccable. Probably as painless as it gets. It's all about technique and Lexandra is the best. Prices are reasonable for this level of quality - you would pay double or triple the price at any of the other big name LA spas. Love! I will never go anywhere else. read more

Amazing facials! Kathryn is the best. She put a ton of time into customizing her facials and my skin is always clear and glowing when I leave. Also, super relaxing environment. read more

I have had facial's with both Lexandra and Kathryn over the last 6 months, and I'm never disappointed. They have helped with my skincare during my pregnancy and postnatal. With the hormonal imbalance, toxins from medications and the pigmentation issues on my face, they have had their work cut out for them. I have seen great progress in the recovery of my skin, it is feeling and looking fresh again. I highly recommend these trained, professional women to help guide you to unveil your best skin yet! Thanks Illume Spa! read more

Such a beautiful spa with a great atmosphere. And I had the best facial I've ever had by Jess! She curated the facial especially for me so that I'd get the exact results I wanted to achieve, hand selecting cleansers, creams and masks to my complexion and goals. I highly recommend Spa ViolaSole and definitely ask for Jess! read more

Illume Spa is AMAZING!!!! My sister followed Lexandra from Bliss, and she has gotten my whole family, and all of our/her friends hooked on the awesome treatments! The spa is beautiful and incredibly clean and the services are always enjoyable. Lexandra's waxes are as painless as can be and she does an amazing job at making sure I'm always comfortable. I recently tried a facial (and purchased some of their skin products) and I have to say, my skin has absolutely never looked better. Only one facial with Lexandra has left my skin looking more clear than 1 year working with a dermatologist. Absolutely go to Illume Spa! read more

Jess Gemple is amazing! I have been traveling a lot for work taking my skin to different climates and ultimately leaving me with clogged pores beyond belief and dry dead skin. Jess recommended the Hydra Facial, and when she was done I felt like a new person. I dont remember the last time my face felt so soft and clean and my skin was glowing. She is also a very sweet calm person with delicate hands, the experience was so relaxing. I highly recommend Spa ViolaSole and Jess Gemple!!!! read more

Irina is great! Very detailed, good hands, and very honest on what you need! My face feels and looks alive! Place is pleasant and clean. ViolaSole SPF 45 lotion is amazing read more

My favorite day spa in LA!! I've been going to Lexandra for years, for waxing and facials, and I only have the best things to say about her! She's absolutely fantastic! She's talented, professional, and a perfectionist, not to mention extremely knowledgable -- she gives great advice on how best to care for your skin, and I always leave her looking glowing and perfectly groomed. Plus, she's a terrific person, very kind and funny, which makes my appointments with her doubly enjoyable! The spa itself is lovely, neat and relaxing, and the front desk staff is always welcoming and accommodating. They also carry a great range of products, including their own line of carefully edited skincare and body care, which I highly recommend trying. Recently, they've added on nail services too, and Amy there is one of my go-tos for a great manicure and pedicure! I live nowhere near Brentwood, and yet I brave traffic just to go to Illume... that's how much I love it there!! read more