This was the first facial I've ever had and it was an amazing experience. Michelle really took the time to understand my skin care routine and understand my concern. I initially wanted to get my milia removed only but I had to get the new client package. It was def worth it and worth every penny. When you first walk in, it is very calm and relaxing. Michelle is so welcoming and friendly. She explains what she's doing to you and how it works on your skin. She gave great advice and has now stuck with me ever since. If you want a luxurious facial, please come here! Oh! And the bed you lay on is heated as well (I almost fell asleep btw). If that doesn't interest you then you're missing out! read more

I have been going here for about 2 and a half years now, & I always have a great experience every time I come. Jen has the best hands & knowledge. I usually never break out, not sure what happened but a couple years ago, I had a huge purge of acne. Nothing worked. I tried switching up to a better diet, I tried all the viral TikTok skin care products, nothing helped. My sister recommended me to see Jen & I couldn't be happier with my results! It took a lot of consistency & making sure I follow her directions to get here. My skin stopped breaking out a few months after seeing her once a month. I get compliments on my skin & it has really helped my confidence. The place is extremely clean & I love the ambiance. When I step in that room, I'm in spa mode & ready to relax. She gives the best facials & massages. I fall asleep almost every time, even when I'm not tired. She carries the best skin care products which I never can go a day without. 10/10! read more

For years, I have put off giving my face love and attention that it deserves and needs. I am absolutely thrilled by meeting Michelle and having my face being treated by her. Initially, I went in for my MILA's, I was so happy that she works on the whole entire face. my 60 minute session went by so quickly. She has such a warm, caring and gentle approach. Really was amazed it was Painless. Her facility is so soothing, relaxing, and calm. It smells so lovely. It's like entering into a magical beauty land. I fell at total ease and comfort. No joke my face has literally never felt so smooth and soft. I came home glowing literally! Michelle is a godsend, my face is just loving the care that she gave. I am so thrilled to have my teenage daughter go to her for her preteen acne. She is so gentle with her treatments. see you again next month, Michelle.. soo excited. read more

I have been seeing Michelle off & on for years, as finances allow. In periods where I have seen her every month, I notified an incredible & significant impact on my skin. I work as an ocean lifeguard. My skin takes a beating between the sun, sunscreen, & salt water. Even harder, I have struggled with acne my whole life, now even into my 30s. Before Michelle, I had tried countless dermatologists with oral & topical acne treatments. I tried numerous products, often with little to no improvement when I was lucky. I tried various estheticians who would always comment on how tricky my skin was, and the "normal" steps would tend to backfire. Michelle patiently worked with me as she figured out a routine that would be best for my skin. I saw some estheticians for a year with no improvement. Within 6 months, she had it all figured out. Even when my skin has had the rare changes after an appointment (where maybe my skin didn't peel as normal or I have a lot of acne pop up to heavily purge), Michelle has worked with me to assist in the matter. As an owner, you can see how much she cares about her business and clientele. As an esthetician, you can see how much passion and talent she has for her work. She's painstakingly formulated products where she's noticed areas of improvement that could be done concerning products in other brands. If you have an issue upon purchasing one that doesn't have the intended results, she works with you. She also does not push products where it feels uncomfortable and works with you to develop a plan to get the best success with your skin with the budget you have. Due to how difficult my skin has been, I have always been grateful to be her client. She's also a sweet, empathetic, and caring woman that makes the experience of working with her top rate. If you're hesitant because you feel you have tried everything with little success, give her a chance. She is constantly learning new techniques & technology in her related fields. I love how she will explain her ideas for my skin care and how I can also improve it with the things I do. She never makes me feel stupid for asking questions & I enjoy learning from her. read more

Amazing facial. The care and attention as well as all the "work" done to clean and rejuvenate my face was outstanding. It has been a week since my facial and I can still see a big difference in my skins health. I have had facials in the past where all they do is wash steam and rub lotion on your face. This was different. This was worth it. You will not regret going to see Michelle. read more

Jen is the BEST!!! I live in LA but drive all the way down to San Diego to get a facial from her because it's worth it. I tried everything to help my acne - topical, prescribed acne medicine, you name it, but I saw the biggest results and improvements after going to Jen. After one facial I was blown away by the results and my skin keeps getting better. She is so nice and responsive, she's so helpful whenever I text her questions and you can tell she genuinely cares about helping your skin improve. She is worth every penny and worth the drive down! I will definitely keep coming back. read more

This place deserves more than 5 stars....a million if I would let it! I mean this place just sloughs off your dead skin and voila- a new vibrant and healthy one appears! Been coming to this place for a few years now (thank you Groupon for sucking me in!). I don't get facials as often as I should because simply because facials are costly.... but you get what you pay for and they are a special treat! And here, after paying for my facial..I couldn't be happier with the result! No regrets forking over that plastic! The place is tucked away in a quiet little neighborhood with mini businesses in Del Mar. I've always had great results from my facials, and it keeps me simply coming back for more. I have also never experienced any breakouts after the facial. Yes more vibrant, young, fresh looking healthy skin! First of all, they truly assess your skin and give you their input on what things need to be done to fix that skin up! I don't mean products they are trying to sell...I simply mean things like asking you what your habits are, what foods you eat, and what products you use. I had been using this expensive cream for years thinking it was helping me but in fact, it was making me break out more because it is so heavy. Since I stopped using it, and used a very inexpensive one in fact..my skin is much more clearer. They never have once asked me to buy any of their products they sell, but I often am curious so I do ask about some of their display items from time to time. I find that more comfortable because there is no pressure to sell. They have different package options, and from time to time they will send great newsletters on how to improve your skin, and also some offers in the email too. They have also called me every now and then to see how my skin is doing too...awesome! They must be on the 10 news A list winner for many years in a row for some reason right?? Everyone there is super nice, friendly, professional, and truly want to help take care of your skin. read more

I am happy to give an update to my original review. I sent an email to the aesthetician that did my facial and got a response right away. She invited me to come in for a follow-up appointment and meet the owner of the salon. I met with Michelle today and she assessed my skin and offered me a free appointment as a follow-up service to my original facial! She did another chemical peel today free of charge and I was made to feel very comfortable. The customer service is excellent at this salon and I will definitely return in the future! They stand behind the services they provide and they want their customers to be happy. read more

I see Michelle at Surface Esthetics. She really knows what she is doing and has helped me get my skin back on a healthy track. I have less breakouts and irritations now after only seeing her 3-4 times. read more

I was referred to Jennifer at Surface Esthetics from my friend who comes to Jennifer for a facial every month and whose skin looks amazing! Today I had my new client consultation where Jennifer and I talked about everything skin related and specific to my facial skin, the condition of it, and how it reacts to different products. After discussing, Jennifer then came up with a customized facial that would be best for me based upon my skin type and my goals. Jennifer was extremely nice, knowledgeable, and explained everything I had questions about. I left my first session today feeling rejuvenated and glowing! Jennifer is the best esthetician I have been to thus far. I enjoyed my facial with her so much so that I scheduled my next facial with her today (she did not pressure me to do so like many estheticians do! She also did not pressure me into buying any products!) For all that you get during your customized facial, the price is extremely reasonable At the end of my facial she made recommendations and advised me on how to change my current facial skin care regimen to be the most beneficial based upon the current condition of my facial skin and my goals. I will be returning for a facial with Jennifer once a month from here on out and I can't wait to see the results that will come from it long term! read more

Simply outstanding!!! Someone recommended I try Surface Esthetics, and after having been to a bunch of random spas, I didn't see what could be different. I was MISSING OUT! Jennifer did my new client facial today and I'm completely hooked. Instead of giving you a one size fits all drive-by facial, they take time to understand your lifestyle and routine and then create a custom plan for that day. I was then in bliss for approximately 60 minutes while she gently fixed me up. She explained what she was doing and made great observations and recommendations for easy ways to keep up my skin routine. I walked out educated and with better skin than I've had in *years*! Seriously - I'd post a picture if it didn't feel insanely vain to do. Before I drove away I sat in my car sending ecstatic messages to friends about my new discovery, and now I'm sharing it with you Yelpers! Bonus: they don't product push. I'm telling you, this place is a miracle!!!! read more

The first facial I've ever gotten in my life was from Michelle at the end of last year. I've been seeing her every 3 months since in preparation for my upcoming wedding and I LOVE our appointments!! I plan on continuing our sessions even after the wedding because the appointments themselves feel like I'm at a spa and I love how my skin looks afterward (starting from about 2 days later). I let her know during our first appointment that I have very sensitive skin and I also let her know which skincare products I currently use so she had an idea of my current skincare regimen. The products she used on me weren't harsh and she gave me great suggestions of things I could do between sessions to take better care of my skin. My skin looks so much healthier and glows after each session now so I know that something she is doing is working! Michelle is super sweet and kind. She has a beautiful, calming energy and I would recommend her to anyone interested in getting a facial! read more

I had a facial & wax with Jolie Budau. She is a detail-oriented, meticulous waxer. How many times have you had a wax, only to have to come home & finish the job? No stray hair goes unpunished with Ms. Budau! Her facial was informative and thoroughly relaxing. You know how when you leave facials you have to worry about a red face for a little while? Well, after my facial there was no redness! I have rosacea & very sensitive skin, and it was a pain free app. for me (I've never had a pain-free app. before seeing Jolie)! My appointment started out with the waxing, by the end of the facial my face wasn't red or sensitive-feeling at all! My skin looked radiant & well nourished. I have to add that every product that was used on me smelled wonderful! Plus, the arm, leg & shoulder massage was divine. The location is great, too. Near enough to the freeway to be easy to get to. read more

I really enjoyed my facial with Jolie. I have had facials in lots of spas and found hers to be one of the best I have ever had. She's incredibly thorough, explains what she is doing and why she is doing it, answers your questions and no smug attitude that you get at a lot of estheticians. She incorporates massage into her facials too so your limbs get a rub down while you wait for your masque to dry. Win. She also recommended a skin care regimen that has really been working for me. No product push and and recommended a range of products I could use from very cheap to expensive. I am definitely going back to her. read more

Visit Date: Been going every 6-8 weeks since March 2013 I've always wanted to try a "peel" and decided to take advantage of a LivingSocial promotion Surface Esthetics ran to make it a bit more affordable. I saw that the promotion was close to its expiration date when all of a sudden I had a horrible acne breakout (and I'm not prone to breakouts except for a few pimples at that time of the month). I called and spoke with the receptionist trying to figure out what to do - I didn't want to lose the value of the promotion, but I didn't think it was a good time to come in with my skin being so ultra-sensitive to something. She encouraged me to come in, saying it was best for the esthetician to see my skin in its stressed state so she could assess my situation and suggest a treatment plan. I loved that they were open on Sunday afternoons - very convenient! The office has a spa feel to it with the quiet atmosphere, low lighting, candles burning, soft instrumental music playing and soothing aroma. My appointment was with Amanda - talk about beautiful skin! I wanted my skin to look just like hers (seriously, look at her picture on their website - she looks like a porcelain doll). She was very gentle and patient in examining my broken out skin. She told me she hadn't seen a breakout like mine and was quite worried, as she thought my body was reacting to something internally and this is how it was exhibiting itself externally. She recommended I see a doctor and stated she'd give me a gentler version of the facial and start me on some cleansing products for delicate skin to help in the recovery process. She said most likely my doctor would give me a prescription for antibiotics to fight what was going on inside my body, but that they'd also prescribe Benzyl Peroxide and Retina-A as treatments for the external problem. She warned that these really could cause more problems with the sensitive state of my skin. Sure enough - that's EXACTLY what the doctor ordered. I did use the Benzyl Peroxide for a few days since the doctor explained it was important to stop the infection from spreading, but I never used the Retina-A. Amanda was happy to see the improvement when I returned so she could now move into deeper treatments with me. She's having me get off my old cleansing products (Proactiv), explaining that my skin is becoming more delicate with age and she has me on a new regime using a gentler line of products. I'm looking forward to more treatments from Amanda, as not only is she good at what she does, but also because she educates you on what she's doing and why. I definitely have to dig deeply into the wallet for the treatments and products, but I have been able to justify the expenditure when I think of the old L'oreal slogan, "Because I'm worth it!" read more

Amanda is amazing! She is very knowledgeable about skin and really explains what and why she does what she does to you each time you visit. I have been going to Surface Esthetics for about a year now and can confidently say that my skin has never looked/felt as great as it does today. The customer service is excellent and I appreciate the fact that she never pushes any products on me. Anyone I have referred to this salon has become a regular client of Amanda and are just as happy and impressed with her ability to understand your skin's immediate needs. Thanks again Amanda for making this experience a great one!! read more

Surface Esthetics is the perfect place to go for a relaxing and informative facial experience. I've been going to Surface Esthetics for three years and the service is phenomenal. Michelle is so knowledgeable about skin and really teaches you how to make the most of your treatment with her. She'll give you tips on how to maximize the wonderful effects of your facial with her so it will last until your next appointment. The spa is beautiful and relaxing. If you are looking for a treat or for help in solving a skin care problem, Michelle and Jolie at Surface Esthetics is where you want to go! read more

I've been going to Jolie for almost 4 years and she has never let me down. She's amazing at her job and knows how to connect with her clients to make everyone feel comfortable. She has a personality that will light up a room, which makes your facial/ waxing experience more enjoyable. I can always count on Jolie to make me feel confident and beautiful ;-) I've recently been thinking about moving to LA and I can honestly say that even if I move up there, I will continue to drive down to have Jolie do my waxings! read more

I came back last week for my last facial before I jet off to the wedding and I must say I still loved every moment of it (except that I had to pay full, not Groupon price this time ;-) I dream of that cozy bed in the room by the way, if I could have any bed in the world I think it might just be that one! Patti did a great job listening to my needs and coming up for the perfect bridal peel for my needs. She also told me on the way out that if anything "popped up" before leaving town to call her and they'd get me in and take care of it. She also had the perfect product that I asked her for to keep my skin hydrated on the looooooong plane ride to South Africa. Thanks again Patti - you rock! read more

Had my first facial with Jen over 4 years ago and I've been back every month since! Jen is the best. She transformed my skin! Her facials and the products she uses are amazing. Also, her chemical peels make me have clear and healthy skin! If I ever have a breakout she clears it right up! read more

Surface Esthetics is probably my favorite place to be for a relaxing end-of day pampering. The staff are incredibly warm and welcoming, and they are very knowledgeable. I've been to estheticians before, but I couldn't believe how amazing my skin looked after coming to SE! The location is great, lots of parking, and the interior is very relaxing and luxurious. I came here before my wedding also, and they made sure that my skin was perfect for all of the photos--so great! If you get a chance, definitely come to check them out! read more

Let me just start by saying, you need not look any farther than Surface Esthetics for the skin care experience you've been dreaming of. This place is extraordinary. I met with Jennifer for my new client consultation facial, and have been hooked ever since. I now consistently go every month, and am always left looking forward to my next service. She is amazing!! So sweet, knowledgeable, and teaches you how to take care of your skin even after you leave the spa. As my wedding date approaches, I wouldn't trust anyone but her to give me flawless skin on my big day :)...and everyday there-after. I'm hooked, what can I say? read more

My skin is so happy. I have been getting regular facials for years, and have gotten lots of facials from lots of places. And lots of good facials elsewhere, but for me, nothing compares to working with Michelle. She is by far the most experienced and knowledgeable esthetician to touch my skin, leaving me hydrated and glowing. As a working mommy, I don't have a lot of time for dozens of different self-care appointments every month. Somehow, I feel like I get extra accomplished at Surface. The setting itself is serene and then Michelle wraps me up in her super comfy, toasty facial bed. Surrounds me with calming music and relaxing aromatherapy. Pampers my skin. Attends to ALL the details of my experience. Chats when I want to chat, but encourages me to just relax and be still. And, frankly, she gives some good massage. Michelle analyzes my skin with each visit and doesn't pull products to use on me until after she's thoroughly checked out what is going on. She uses amazing products and uses microderm on me every time and doesn't charge extra for it. I know my skin is safe with her as everything is completely customized for my skin that day and she is not just mindlessly slathering product on my face. Ok, and when I was having a bad day? She told me we could skip the extractions. Thank you, Surface! read more

This place is amazing! I go once a month to get a microderm abrasion and chemical peel from Jennifer and love it. I have been getting facials for over 10 years for my acne so I have been around the block a time or two. Jennifer is very knowledgable about skin and tailors each session to how my face is doing. Sometimes I get microdermabrasion abrasion and others a chemical peels but always an extraction. The bed has a relaxing heating pad, making it hard not to fall asleep during the facial. I now refuse to see anyone else except Jennifer, she is the best!! read more

Michelle has been my personal facialist. She is wonderful and thorough. I always feel so much better after seeing her. I have been seeing her for over 2.5 years. read more

Where do I start! This is easily is the best facial service I have ever received and yes I'm a guy! There is nothing like going into a facial knowing what it costs as well knowing your going to get all the premiums of needed at no extra cost. Again no up selling, this doesn't happen in the facial industry and I couldn't be happier. I have already had two visits, one peel and my skin is looking the best it's ever had. Please don't waste your time and money with other providers, this is where you get what you pay for and more! Thank you so much, see you again soon! read more

I found Michelle less than a year ago and it was after I'd moved to the east coast. But now I can't live without her. I can't even describe how amazing it is to find such a perfect esthetician who is so good at her job and truly cares about improving your skin. I have struggled with my skin for 15 years, whether it be acne or dryness or hyper pigmentation/sun damage. After this long you can imagine the toll it takes on a persons confidence constantly feeling embarrassed by your skin. Michelle has made so much progress with my skin and I am so happy I finally have products that work and make a difference! (Skinceuticals is amazing) She takes time and care and always leaves me feeling refreshed and improved. I fly out to San Diego just to get a facial from her because I have never found anyone as good. Do yourself a favor and go to Surface Esthetics!!! You won't be sorry. read more

I LOVE LOVE coming here... I had my first facial ever with Patti and I have to say it was AMAZING... so relaxing and my skin cannot thank her enough. Thank you Patti, you have done wonders!! Looking forward to my next appointment!! read more

I go to Michelle not only because she provides a fantastic facial, but because she knows exactly what products I should be using and educates me on how to take care of my skin when I'm not with her. I've seen a dramatic improvement in my skin tone and dryness since visiting Michelle. read more

This place is so cute and Michelle is an incredible business owner and Esthetician! I enjoyed my facial and my skin care consultation. I am very excited that they are now offering SkinCeutical retail and treatments!! read more

I wish I could give this place 10 stars. Truly a great find for facials and peels. I have not had the best luck with other places using the groupon deals for these types of services. (I thought the groupon deals were to be able to try the place out and hopefully bring the clients back) Surface Esthetics does just that. A wonderful, professional, FRIENDLY, office. Jenny did facial and peel. She is extremely knowledgable, and did a wonderful job. Please give this place a try, I know you will be very happy:) read more

My appointment with Patti was great. It was my first facial and she put me right at ease. She explained every part of the procedures (I had 90 mins) and I left feeling clean as a whistle. Thanks for the great experience and advice on how to better treat my acne-prone skin. read more

I had a great facial with Michele a few months back and intend on booking again soon. I have always jumped around from esthetician to esthetician, but love how Michele took the time to get to know me, my skin and my routine. She made some great suggestions and wasn't afraid to tell me what I was doing wrong and/or right. I can't wait to go back for a peel and start working on correcting the issues I'm having. read more

I couldn't be happier with Jennifer and her skills and gentle touch. Even with the tingly pumpkin enzyme masque and extractions her hands put you from unwinding to relaxed to almost asleep. I recommend her to everyone no matter what your skin type or condition. read more

I've been getting facials for three months now from Jolie at Surface Esthetics. I am always wowed by the experience and always thrilled with my results. I've had facials all over the world and this place is first class. Jolie always surprises me with how thorough she is. She loves what she does and it shows. Extremely professional and courteous. I would recommend this salon to the most discriminating people out there. I feel blessed to have found this place. read more

Not sure why it's taken me so long to write this review. The staff at surface esthetics is amazing! Beautiful setting - so welcoming. By far the most cozy bed I've ever laid in! Now - for the facial... Don't waste your time and money elsewhere. You get what you pay for and here, it's a lot of education and a glowing complexion. In fact, I don't come too often because they do such a great job and have taught me to take such great care of my skin. LOVE this place!! read more

Jennifer is the best esthetician I have ever been to! Her peels and facials are truely customized to your skin type and concerns. She will transform your skin (acne, melasma, discoloration, pores, whatever!) in just one treatment. She has extensive knowledge of products and comprehensive understanding of various skin problems to help address whatever needs you have. She has the most up to date products and tools to help whip your skin in shape. i went to her to get ready for a wedding I was attending in two weeks. It only took 1 peel to get looking 80% better! This place doesn't mess around silly foot creams and hand warmers. They focus on helping you see results in your skin so no time is wasted in your treatment. Prices are not cheap but you get the results you want very quickly with very few treatments. In addition, Jen is flexible with her schedule making it super easy to schedule treatments, even late into the evening via text. I have been to dozens of estheticians in San Diego and LA and none compare to the results you get with her! in addition, she has the most awesome personality:) I am hooked! Highly recommend, lifetime customer:) read more

Michelle is definitely a 5 star aesthetician. She is an honest professional who is respectful and kind, knowledgeable in skin care and products, and has a positive attitude and newsletter that makes me smile! I am in my 50s and have had my share of facials. Michelle is the aesthetician that has made the most difference to my skin. Between my regularly scheduled facials of every 6-8 weeks and my skin care regime at home my skin has never been healthier. No wonder my dermatologist recommended her. And unlike many other aestheticians I have had, Michelle's services are priced within my budget. Thank you Michelle! read more

I recently visited Jolie at Surface Esthetics after hearing that she was an amazing make up artist. My first visit I left very happy. Yes she is extremly good at make up and lashes. She has taken alot of advanced education and specializes in airbrush make up/ Not only was Jolie talented. She is fun, positive, uses the best products, techniques and is extemly quick, efficient, organized and clean.The atmoshpere was so warm and cozy and as it was raining outside and as soon as I came in she made me a nice warm cup of red tea! I soon returned for a custom facial that left me glowing and relaxed. The table here is absolutely heavenly and Surface esthetics pays attention to every fine detail. This type of intimate and personal service is a real treat. Jolie was happy to share her wide range of knowledge with me on a variety of subjects. I am so happy to have found this gem! read more

I have been seeing Jolie at Surface Esthetics for almost a year since I moved to Del Mar from Washington, DC and I have only the most positive things to say about her and the spa. Jolie is very knowledgable about skin and skin care and takes great care in making sure her treatments are customized for your needs on every visit. She explains the treatments and products so that you understand what she is doing and learn things you can do on your own in between treatments to keep your skin in good shape. The products she uses are wonderful and I always leave feeling relaxed and lovely. The spa is small, cozy, nicely decorated and very clean and I instantly feel right at home. I am super picky about who touches my face and I trust Jolie 100%. I recently had a skin care emergency and Jolie made time to fit me in for 3 days in a row for short soothing treatments to get me back to normal - above and beyond the call of duty. Michelle (the owner) also made time to check in on me when I was with Jolie and I thought that was amazing. I would highly recommend Jolie and Surface Esthetics to anyone who is looking for a great facial, excellent service, information on products and skincare and an all around wonderful experience. All this and Jolie is super nice and funny besides - I LOVE going to see her! read more