Super clean, professional, and relaxing. My nails came out perfect and the tech paid great attention to detail

My regular hair dresser,Amanda, is on maternity leave so she gave me the names of 2 others in the salon for me to go to in her absence. Like an idiot, I did not come back to Yelp and check them out. Rather I called "the first on the list" - Millie. I normally do not like to write a bad review about anybody but this experience was downright dreadful. I honestly feel that others should be warned. First, she was rude on the phone when I made the appt and sounded like I was bothering her when I called. That should have tipped me off right there. But I have let my hair go a bit too long and decided to give the benefit of the doubt. Should have listened to my gut. Millie was rude, extremely rough and ran very late. So late in fact, that I only had her do the color and blow dry. I did not want to trust her with a pair of scissors. At one point, after shampooing my hair she put something on it and left me sitting with my head in the bowl for at least 10 minutes. Everyone knows how uncomfortable that is - you even get dizzy sitting like that after a while! When she styled my hair out, I thought she was going to burn me with the blow dryer or knock my head off with the brush. By this time, my head was hurting from being knocked around and I was fuming from the rude, mean way I was being treated. Paid for my services and got the heck out. Going to try GiGi tomorrow and am looking forward to it. Again, I'm sorry to write such a negative review. I just don't want others to have the same experience I did. read more

I followed my stylist, Kim V, here when she left Sasha Salon. Kim is awesome for really any services but she is a Goddess with extensions. I have had mine for 3+ years but she is the 3rd person I have seen. She is who I will see FOREVER! The salon itself is nice. Cute. Trendy but not stuffy (which Sasha's was), it is a comfortable place to get your hair done. Parking around the area can be tricky depending on the day but I have never struggled. A block away but free is fine by me! read more

Special FX Salon - Purple Tape-ins by Kim - Hair Salons Near Me - San Carlos, California

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Debbie was so kind and friendly. The salon was so clean and tidy. Both the staff and customers looked like they were having a blast being there read more

I have been fortunate to be a client of Debby C., the owner, for literally decades. No one cuts and colors my hair better than she does! Plus, being in her salon is always just a treat and now I'll come down from Nevada. I have sent everyone I know to her, including my husband and son! Deb--you are simply THE BEST! read more

First, I want to say that the salon itself is great! I wanted to get my haircut in the next week or two and the owner was able to arrange an appointment for the next day. She was sweet over the phone and got back to me promptly. TL/DR: Diana took off ~3 inches more than I wanted and it is impractically short for my daily life. I wanted a medium length cut with layers but got a nearly flat cut with a crooked part that doesn't quite touch my shoulders. Even worse, I am getting married in 4 months and my hair will be too short for the style I want. I am genuinely upset about the haircut I received from Diana Coyle. I had long hair and, initially, I said that I wanted to take a lot off. Diana asked if I wanted to donate my hair and I replied that I was unsure that I wanted to take enough off for a donation. I gestured to how long I wanted my hair and Diana assured me that it was long enough. While I appreciate that donating hair was her first instinct, this may have been where things began to go wrong. I mentioned that I had a picture of how I wanted my hair to look though she didn't ask to see it at that time. I understand that everyone cuts hair differently, and don't need a "perfect" cut, but she did not take the time to listen to me and make sure we were on the same page (or even ask to see the picture before starting to cut my hair). I want to emphasize that I did say that I wanted my hair "below my collar bone" and gestured to the length I wanted more than once. This discussion occurred before she washed my hair. After washing my hair, Diana sectioned it into fourths for the donation... and then made a cut. I wish she had double checked the length with me (by physically showing me, not just saying "collar bone length") before making the cut, but it was too late. It was only after she blow dried my hair that she asked to see the picture I mentioned. (Also, hair gets shorter once dried, and she cut my hair to the length she thought I wanted when it was wet.) Also, for most of the styling, Diana had me take off my glasses. (This usually is not a big deal, and totally makes sense when cutting hair, so I didn't think anything of it.) When she said she was done, I was allowed to put my glasses back on, and I saw that MY PART WAS NOT STRAIGHT. It wasn't off by too much and she straightened it when I asked, but rather than have her even it out, I just left. I did not want her to cut my hair anymore. (A miscommunication about length is one thing, disappointing, but it happens; this is a different ballpark altogether.) I wanted a medium-length hair cut with layering but ended up with a nearly flat cut that doesn't quite reach my shoulders. In the end, I asked for very little layering because I wanted to preserve the length. My wedding is in 4 months (I let her know that), and I wanted to try to save as much hair as possible with the hope that it would grow back quickly. I expressed concern that my hair wouldn't be long enough for the style (I showed her a picture of that hairdo later on) but Diana reassured me that it would be long enough. This really bothered me, because after leaving the salon, I realized that there's barely enough hair for me to get it out of my face in a low bun, let alone the more complicated style I wanted. Usually a haircut is no big deal to me (I get my haircut ~1 a year), but I am about to get married and I hate how short my hair is. Diana was very nice throughout the appointment but I didn't end up with anything close to what I wanted. It is also disappointing because I'll need to get my hair cut again (once my hair has grown out) in order to have the layers I wanted. For $85, the upper end of the range for a haircut at this salon, I really hoped to have something I liked. read more

This is a nice, upscale looking salon in downtown San Carlos, I've never had any hair services performed here, so I cannot comment on the stylists and their work for me, but I do stop in to purchase Bumble & Bumble haircare products when needed. They're competitively priced compared to the other salons I've purchased from. Each time I've stopped in, I've been treated politely, the salon is clean, I don't witness loud/unprofessional behavior and the stylists I've seen appear to do good work and be skilled w/cuts & color. I've heard great things from friends & acquaintances who've gone to Amanda Walker for services. If I were in the market for a new hairdresser, I'd definitely try her. However, for product purchases (not sure about the stylists) they only accept cash or check, no credit cards, so keep that in mind. read more

Laura is AWESOME! Let me count the ways. 1. She has the most accommodating hours. I went in at 6:30 pm for a cut and highlight, can you believe that? 2. She is super detailed. She didn't rush through things despite us starting so late. 3. She knows hair. I had a pretty bad/heavy cut and she was able to totally lighten it up without me losing any length. 4. She's informed. She goes to trade shows to keep on top of current hair styles. 5. She's sweet. We had lots to talk about. My hair turned out beautiful! And she wasn't overpriced! I can go on, but you get the picture. If you go, please tell her I say hi! read more

I had such a wonderful experience over the weekend; I called on Friday to get a haircut/color appointment with Lizette, who was referred to me by a friend. She was able to schedule me an appointment the next day which was so convenient. The salon is very clean and cozy. I have curly hair so it is very difficult to find someone who knows how to cut my hair, Lizette definitely did, I am so pleased with the haircut and color that she gave me, and she is such a sweetheart and very patient and friendly. I will definitely return to her from now on. read more

Based on the reviews I saw here, I went to Amanda to get my hair cut. She is great! She cut my hair exactly the way I wanted it, took good care to make sure it looked right once it was dry, lots of touching up and texturizing. And, Amanda was very sweet and friendly but not TOO chatty (you know what I mean...) Very reasonably priced for high quality service. I'm glad I consulted yelp - thanks!!! read more

I have had my hair cut 3 time by Laura and yesterday was the last time. I wanted a trim and she went with a full cut. I should not receive comments like " you really went short this time" when your friends see you when I ask for a trim. My hair is fine and thinning and she used the texture sheers on me for most of the cut, what was she thinking???? If i had thick hair that wasn't thinning I would understand. My hair looks thinner and finer than it should . She was late and rushed through the cut, 20 min. During the cut the client she was working on when I arrived sat next to me watching and waiting for Laura to finish my cut so that Laura could finish the color job or whatever is was she started. It was uncomfortable. I asked Laura not to do a couple thing and she did it anyway, a hair stylist should not go on autopilot. Every time I got home after a hair cut here I was disappointed. Some people like here it but for me the search contiues. Goodbye FX read more

I came here to get a quick cut because I didn't feel like making the hour trek to my regular hair stylist. I was pleasantly surprised with my cut. I saw Lizette who was very friendly and knowledgeable. She asked me a lot of questions and gave me the exact hair cut that i asked for. Overall, I'll give Lizette 5 stars. The only downfall was that the salon didn't accept credit cards. Next time, I'll prepare by having my cash or check (who uses checks nowadays) in hand. read more

So happy to be able to give a great 5 star review for a hair salon. Damn these places can be tricky! So many things can go wrong, what looked like would be great can turn out so-so, and the price can make or break it. I was recommended by a co-worker with fab hair to Amanda at this particular salon. Very excited to try a new place, as I love the gal that's been doing my hair, but her prices are just TOO high for my wallet. Amanda works three days a week, but we were able to find an appointment about a week out that worked for my schedule. Definite plus! I went in for a partial highlight and cut, and showed her a few pictures of my hair in the past - what I liked, what I didn't like. She instantly figured out what I wanted in terms of coloring, explained why, and off she went to mix. She is super cute, has awesome hair (always a good sign), and the salon was welcoming and clean. Parking was a cinch too (oh, and free - huge plus). We did the regular routine of chatting about life and stuff, which I don't mind, and she did not book in other people mid-way through my appt. I understand the need to do that now and then, but sometimes people get a bit crazy and I feel like I am being rushed through the appt - therefore not getting the best haircut, coloring, or styling I am paying for. So another huge plus for her. She fixed up my layers and gave me a nice trim to make my hair happy again. It had been six months, and long overdue. Then a good blow-dry (my hair takes forever to dry as I have a ton of it), and she then did the unthinkable. SHE ACTUALLY STYLED MY HAIR AND CURLED IT. WHAT?!?! I know. Honestly, most stylists dry my hair super fast and don't fully finish. Yes, I have a lot of hair, but that annoys me. So of course, a half hour later my hair starts getting frizzy and the style doesn't look the same. No surprise. But not Amanda! She dried it all the way through, then took a nice big barrel curling iron and fully styled my hair. SO happy! It didn't even take that long, which makes me wonder how in the world these other people have managed to skip this part over and over again. My coloring was perfect. My cut was perfect. My styling - perfect. Price - VERY reasonable. I will be going back, and she is my go-to hair stylist from this point forward! Love her! read more

If I could give 0 stars I would. I don't review on yelp unless I feel I need to warn others or provide well deserved credit. I had a hair appointment with Lizette for an updo for a formal event. Upon arrival I told her exactly what I wanted and showed her several photos which she said would be a classy simple to do. after 2 failed attempts and over an hour of trying she told me it was because my hair was wet/ too thick (have never had issues in the past) and that it was my fault for arriving 10 min late when she had an hour and a half for a simple updo. Strongly recommend against coming here. It is shocking the extremely poor quality and blaming of the customer. Most disappointing hair experience I have ever had on one of the most important celebrations in my life. Hoping I spare others this experience. read more

Alright, so I tried another salon. Though I had a good experience at the other salon I visited not too long ago, the thought of sitting in any more peninsula/south bay traffic than I needed to persuaded me to try out a salon closer to work. So, upon reading through all the great reviews about this salon, I thought I'd check it out. Pre-Appointment: Went in a couple days earlier to actually scope out the locale, get a feel of it, etc. As noted previously, nice hip decor (though most of the clientele around lunchtime were definitely not in my age group). Nobody at the front desk, so I just kind of waited around until one of the stylists finally asked me if I needed help. She was really nice, asked me what I was looking for, and helped me schedule an appointment with Laura. Day of Appointment: Laura called me a couple hours before to confirm that I was still coming. Showed up around 1pm for my appointment (street parking was easy). She did her thing, I was out in about 40-45 minutes. THE SALON. For the decor, maybe it was just the time of day, but I think I was the only customer under 40. I'm a big fan of visual and audio stimulation, so I was surprised that there wasn't even a hint of music in the background. Maybe they didn't want to upset the grandma that was leaving when I got there, who knows. THE CUT. Laura was nice, she asked me what I wanted, and had a solid technique. Anybody who's down to "scissor over comb" my sides instead of just sticking a no. 4 guard on a clipper and buzzing away is solid in my book. However, technique aside... I guess I wasn't as excited about the "style" of my cut. Having short, asian hair... you are basically a quarter inch (and a bit of texture) away from being stylish and being Jim Carrey's hair double on Me, Myself, and Irene. I wouldn't say I'd land the Carrey hair double role... but I don't think this cut would get me a gig as a B&B hair model either. Oh, and as far as texturing goes, I LOVE getting my hair razored out (I kind of like the feel of getting my hair pulled =/)... didn't happen here. MISC. This is more applicable I believe to the male clientele, but another thing that I think is SO vital (which I believe I mentioned in my other salon review), is the post-cut rinse. Though I wasn't itchin all over after I went back to work, there was definitely ample supply of hair while I was showering. So no, there was no post-cut rinse. OVERALL. I'm kinda iffy on this place. For the price, convenience & location, I can confidently give it a 4. I don't question Laura's talent or skills (remember: scissors over comb = solid), but perhaps I should try someplace/someone else with a closer level of hip to their hop. Also, no music and definite grandma presence. read more

I finally was able to have some time to get my hair done and changed my routine a bit of going to my regular hair stylist and went with Amanda at special fx. The salon is very nice. Spacious and organized, no hair on the floor (major pet peeve of mine at a salon) I was greeted right away by Amanda and we did a short consultation to determine what I wanted done with my hair. She's very intuitive with seeing your vision. I am more than pleased with my hair and was treated amazing by Amanda. She took her time with me and made sure that I was happy with my hair. Kudos! read more

I've been seeing Lisette Fontana for the past 4 years and am so happy with her work, her service, her personality, etc. she did a lovely job for me for my nuptials, and I highly recommend her and the salon Special F/X. Beautiful and friendly people! read more

Special FX Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - San Carlos, California

This is probably not a bad place to get a haircut, but just I needed a style for a very special occasion. This was the only place that could sneak me in since I put off making the appointment until the day before. I walked in and there was no receptionist to greet me. The salon was full of boys! Ewe! Seriously though, full of guys getting their hairs cut by pretty young things. *makes the I've-got-my-eyes-on-you hand gesture* I went to see Gigi (sp?). She was very friendly and told me that if she curled it up real tight, shellacked it with hairspray, and if I slept on my back that it would look lovely in the morning...Not so much. At no point was I happy with this hairstyle. I spent the afternoon feeling like an awkward, twenty-something Shirley Temple. And the next day everything had fallen out so much that I had to spend an hour to re-curl most of it. I might as well have just done it myself and saved my $60. I realize this is partially my fault for getting it done the night before. Though I wish at some point the more experienced party would have said "This might not stay. Do you want to go simpler?" I was a mess the next day. If I had gone with something straighter it probably would have kept better. Live and learn. read more

Lizette was absolutely incredible. I came in needing some color correction, highlights, and a cut. First, she knew exactly how to fix the color issue. Second, she was SO FAST!! Third, I love everything about what she did to my hair - exactly what I wanted. And fourth, so well priced. I've been to a ton of salons in Silicon Valley - this will be the first I go back to!! HIGHLY RECO read more

There are a lot of good reviews about Amanda but my experience was only average. She didn't take the time to trim after the blow dry so I can't add that to her credit. I appreciated that she didn't use a lot of product but right now, 2 weeks after my cut, my hair just looks ... meh. read more

After three visits with Milly we've really established an understanding for each other. I'm really open to new ideas and trends and it works for us because Milly is continually taking design classes from brand name salon schools ;e.g. Paul Mitchell, to add to her skillsets. What this means is that she has new techniques and inspirations to use for me. I've also only had complaints about my hair from previous stylists; "it's too thick" "it's too resilient and uncontrollable" thus for someone to tell me they enjoy cutting my hair because they know the result will be great is enough reason to have me coming back for a long time. read more

I can't speak highly enough about Deb(the salon owner)! She has been doing my cut and color for nearly a decade and is a expert in her field. I have seen a few other stylists and paid more and they did not compare to her talent! Many people have asked for her card based on how she does my highlights very naturally(as I ask for) so that I don't need constant touch ups. She takes the time to do consult with her clients needs, doesn't rush through appointments, and is a great conversationalist. Upon asking, Deb even took the extra time to show me blow dry, styling and curling techniques which has changed the daily appearance of my hair for the better! Deb is a true professional and celebrity stylist hands down. read more

I highly recommend Amanda. She always cuts my hair perfectly and styles it so it looks extra awesome. When I have an appt, I'm usually her last appt of the day, but that is not reflected in my haircut. She's very sweet and remembers a lot of silly details about me that I revealed in prior appts, which is really impressive considering she probably sees 10 different people every day. I have long straight, fine hair that usually lacks volume to get it to look really good, so if that's what you have too, get an appt with Amanda. $45 for wash, cut and style is a great price and I think she could totally get away with charging more. Thanks Amanda! Review of the salon: It looks cool inside and out. I would give it 4 stars, but it gets bumped up to 5 stars for the sign in front that says, (paraphrased) Hire a babysitter before you come, unless the child is the one receiving the service." Damn right! I don't want to listen to babies scream or watch them crawl around in hair while I'm paying to have fun. By the way, don't forget to bring cash or check because they don't take credit cards. read more

I have been going to Debbie Cruz for hair cuts and color for years. Deb is the owner Special F/X Salon. Deb is a pro 100%. Not only can she do the best cut on my hair, but she is one of the best colorists I have ever had. Her salon is top notch with stylists that are all wonderful. There is a nail specialist and the best of hair products. Debs prices are extremely reasonable which is welcome in this economy. The atmosphere is literally joyous! Everyone seems to be having fun. When time permits I enjoy taking my time at the salon just because it's so delightful! I can't say enough about how much I like this place and Debbie Cruz! Wendy Waller read more

This salon is great!! =) My sister and I are big fans of Laura. We first went there together last summer and had never been to this salon before.... I thought it would be fun to try something new and the reviews looked good on here. I'm glad we chose Laura! She knows how to cut hair the way you want it (even if you dont know) and works easily with different types of hair. I have short hair and my sis has long locks... She managed to give us two completely different looks that all our friends were raving about. Even though my sis lives across the country on the East Coast, she still gets her hair cut by Laura when she's in town. Living down south now, I plan my haircuts around my trips to the bay as well. Laura is really good at what she does yet soft-spoken and down-to-earth... and a perfectionist too... so you know you will leave with a hair style/cut that you adore! Haircuts with her usually last at least an hr... but she still only charges $45 - $50 for the cut/style/wash. Leaving you plenty to tip with!! =) If you aren't sure about a certain cut or need advice, she will give it and deliver... I went from no bangs to bangs and a bob... and the end-result was amazing! She gave me the guts to make a big change and i'm so happy she did! Thank you, Laura. =) read more

Everytime I come here I get amazed. Everyone sitting in the chairs walks away with amazing hair. I get my haircuts with Lizette. I always get compliments on my hair. She even came to my apartment to style my hair once. Bonus: Tutti Frutti frozen yogurt is on the same block :) read more

This Salon is an upscale and priced very well for the service you get. I have been going here since they opened. Deb cuts my hair and does a perfect job. Go to Deb or any of the girls they are all great hair dresser and nice looking. Frank read more

This is an update to my previous 1-star rating. The owner called me back right away and scheduled me with Diane to fix my cut. Diane was definitely more helpful as she walked me through everything she was doing and fixed my layers to the best of her ability. In terms of my side sweep bangs, the damage was already done by my first cut with Gigi, but Diane did fix them the best she could. I would give Diane 5-stars as her technique seemed in line with the products they were selling at the salon, but I am only giving an updated 3-star because my overall satisfaction with my haircut fell short. read more

Gigi all the way! She is the best hair stylist I've found in the area, and the only one I have gone back to more than once and plan to keep using. She is accommodating, friendly, reasonable in price, and does a fantastic job! She does what you ask her to do, and she does it perfectly! What more can you ask for? read more

I have to admit that it's been years since I've been back... but only out of convenience. I used to go to FX when I lived in Belmont but now reside in Sunnyvale. I like Amanda... went to her for ages. She's sweet and careful with my hair. She's also cute too... which shouldn't matter, but I couldn't help but notice. When I get styling done, or if I am going shopping, I want to go to someone that shares the same aesthetics. She used to charge me $40 a cut, but I imagine her prices have gone up since then. read more

So - I don't even think Terri or Special F/X even needs another 5 star review, but I just have to do it because they are so amazing. I moved to SF 4 years ago, and I was in desperate need of color and a cut. Roots down to my earlobes- it was not pretty. A friend recommended Terri, and my life has never been the same. Not only did she work miracles with my hair and fixed my color, but she is one of the most fun people to talk to. The entire salon is great and everyone is so friendly. They are always prompt and so nice when I come in. I have now been going to her every 5 weeks for the past 4 years, and would recommend her, or any of the other stylists without question, If you are in San Bruno, or anywhere near by (I go there from the City), you have to go here. Great staff, great hair and a great price. Perfect storm of awesome :) read more

Stop looking for a stylist and just call them up already. Terri (great cuts/great highlights) and many of the other stylists are good listeners, experienced, and personable. read more

This review is specifically for Terry but everyone there seems very nice. Cute salon, clean, great locatjon. I loveeeee Terry! She cuts and colors my hair every 6 weeks. Keeps it looking super healthy. Such a sweet, fun woman and very reasonable prices. I let my 11 year old color her hair blue, teal or whatever crazy color she wants once a year as a gift. I take her to Terry too! She is a gem :):) read more

Amanda is the best! I started going to her more than 10 years ago through a referral. I still remember, when I walked in to my office next day after my very first hair cut by Amanda, everyone at work turned their head to me with a surprised look, and commented how nice my hair cut was. The talk in the office lasted the whole week! :-) Amanda is very professional, very fun and easy to work with. She is flexible on scheduling. And, she doesn't do unnecessary work, which I appreciate very much! One time I came in for a haircut, but she turned me away so I didn't "waste" money after she learned I was trying to grow my hair long. I love Amanda! read more

Very professional hairdressers, nice interior, and conveniently located in downtown San Carlos

I've never enjoyed getting my hair cut. Debbie is an artist and fun to chat with. I forgot where I was. Highest recommendation. I maybe over my haircut phobia. read more

This salon looks great, very modern and clean. Loved the feel of it. Unfortunately, I got a really awful hair cut here! I saw Laura. I got there just on time and had to wait for Laura to finish with another client. I got a bit nervous when I saw that client leave because I didn't like her hair cut. :( My turn... I got in the chair and told Laura what I wanted... long hair with layers. She cut and cut and cut. About 20 minutes into the cut, I wanted to scream "stop!!" She took off so much and not just at the ends. She "textured" my hair so much that I feel like one of those women who are prematurely balding. My thick, curly hair is now limp and THIN. I am sooooooo sad. Upon looking in the mirror at the end of the appointment, I realized my hair look A LOT like the client she cut before me. OMG. Maybe Laura knows only one way to cut hair?????? Needless to say, I am not going back. read more

Ask for Amanda. She is beautiful, and will will make you feel beautiful. She can make a woman look ten years younger. Reasonable prices, great San Carlos location across from Starbucks and around the corner from a bakery. Make your day...get a pastry, grab an iced latte and have Amanda give you a cut and color you will actually think you should have paid more for. read more

Laura is awesome! In my opinion, this place is a lot more affordable than the other salons in town and in Palo Alto. Laura can cut a perfect bob. I have very fussy Asian hair that is extremely difficult to cut straight, but she always delivers. read more

I just finished my appointment with Amanda who took my Ump Lumpa orange and green hair (unintentional of course!) and did amazing job to transform my crappy box job to the most stunning look, color, texture, and cut I have had in a million years. I don't think I will do the box blonde again! What was I thinking? She is friendly and helpful and is one of the best beauticians I have ever been to. I am going back for all my hair needs from now on. I highly recommend her and the adorable salon at which she works. Everyone there was friendly and I could tell the customers had all been there repeatedly. You wont be disappointed here. read more