Marilyn Jaeger Skincare Studio

4.5 star rating
155 reviews Rating Details

Categories: Skin Care, Massage, Hair Removal  [Edit]

3384 Sacramento St
(between Presidio Ave & Walnut St)
San Francisco, CA 94118
Neighbourhood: Laurel Heights
(415) 751-0647
Price Range:
$$
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Accepts Insurance:
No
By Appointment Only:
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible:
No
About This Business:

Save $30 when you mention YELP.  Awarded "Best Massage" - 7x7 magazine!  First time client receive a 90 minute massage for the price of a 60.Located in…   read more »

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155 reviews in English

  • Review from Ann H.

    • 10 friends
    • 15 reviews

    Oakland, CA

    5.0 star rating
    3/15/2012

    I'm giving this place 5 stars because even though it doesn't have full spa amenities like showers/lockers, it has great feng shui and great masseuses too.  The location is convenient since I live in Laurel Heights; easy to access and street parking is fine.

    I had Bill last week and my boyfriend had a woman who's name I can't remember but Bill was excellent and knows more about anatomy than some physical therapists I've gone to!  He'll not only give you a great massage but he'll tell you how to loosen really tight areas at home, too.  Hope you have a great massage experience here.

  • Review from Shirleyanne Z.

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    1/21/2012 1 Check-in Here

    A really great friend of mine took me here for my 30th birthday. We both had our facials done at the same time so we went during a weekday. That was one of the most generous presents I have ever gotten in my life!  We should have a Yelp for friends because she definitely gets FIVE stars! The studio looked really lovely and it smelled really good. They even offered wine while we waited for our appointment.  I have to say this though: if you're going to offer wine, make sure your pour is generous. Don't get me wrong, I don't gulp my wine. I actually like to sip and enjoy it, but man that pour was WEAK!  I took three sips and it was gone. My friend doesn't really drink and even she agreed that the pour was so small. Also the receptionists were aloof.  We have been to several spa places already and we have never encountered snooty receptionists.  People who work the front should have a BIG smile on their face. Didn't they learn that a smile puts people at ease?  Isn't that what a spa is supposed to do? To make people feel happy and comfortable.  My friend and I felt like we were an incovenience to their day. This is why they got a minus star.

    Other than the cold receptionists and their wine stinginess, I liked my experience at Marilyn Jaeger's studio. My facial went really well.  It was a bit painful but it was well worth it. Even though some parts kind of hurt, my aesthetician made me feel so comfortable that I fell asleep during my treatment. She obliterated all my blackheads. My friend's face looked really healthy after her treatment and she had a really beautiful glow.  After our appointment, we decided to compare notes to see if we both were happy about our treatment.  During my facial, I got a massage.  My aesthetician massaged my arms, shoulders, hands,  calves and my feet.  My friend got the same except she didn't get a foot rub which she was bummed about.  I also noticed that my friend's aesthetician was really pushy.  She was really trying hard at selling a bunch of expensive products to which my friend politely declined.  I don't like it when spas try to really push their products at you.  Thankfully my aesthetician didn't push product at me at all. It's just a bummer that my friend didn't have as great of an experience as I had. If my friend Yelped them, based on her experience, they probably would have gotten three stars.

  • Review from Angelica J.

    • 81 friends
    • 28 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    11/12/2011

    Waxing haiku:

    Advil, Chardonnay
    Rip hair out, rip hair some more
    Waxing pain away!

    Seriously though, bikini waxes here are about as pleasant as they can get...considering that the basic concept of ripping hair out of their follicles in one's nether-regions is pretty UN-pleasant. The ambiance here is great: girly with just the slightest hint of goth to give it character.

    I'd learned a little while ago that 600 mg of ibuprofen does wonders to help ease the pain. The last time I came in to Marilyn's, one of the ladies at the front desk asked me if I wanted a glass of wine to which I happily said yes. I've since discovered that advil + wine makes a great waxing cocktail...

  • Review from Sari S.

    • 1 friend
    • 2 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    9/9/2011

    Love this place!  The ambiance is amazing and I had the best massage from Sara!  They are very nice and calming.

    I would recommend a massage here for sure!!

  • Review from brandie y.

    • 96 friends
    • 45 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 3/9/2011

    UPDATE - 5 stars for follow up and utilizing social media to provide fantastic customer service!!!

    I just got a call from Jenny at the salon, who very nicely apologized.  They, in fact, did not charge my card.

    AND, she offered the service (brow wax) free so I can have a "true" experience of their salon.  Wow.  That's very generous.

    Bravo.  That's the way you win customers.

    Listed in: Random Services

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    • 1.0 star rating
      3/3/2011

      I can't rate them on capabilities as I had to cancel my appointment.  I will rate them on their… Read more »

  • Review from yvette l.

    • 2 friends
    • 84 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    3.0 star rating
    Updated - 1/26/2011

    I've been coming here, on and off, for 5 years for bikini/brazilian waxing.  Sharon was great, Liz is great and others are...NOT so great.  If you're interested in having either of these services done, request Liz, or else, speak with the receptionist and try to find someone who's a good fit for you.

    Recently, I wasn't too happy with a modified brazilian I had.  My aesthetician had difficulty pulling the strips from my skin, told me a few times that my hair was coarse, and made me wonder.  Isn't everyone's hair coarse down there?  If yours is, make sure you tell the receptionist this and make sure you're scheduled with the appropriate waxer to fit your needs.

    I was left with some markings afterwards and a higher than normal number of missed hairs.  The studio gave me a complimentary mini-massage before my appointment however, so I feel compelled to rate 3 stars (2 for the wax, 1 for the freebie).  

    Just be careful.

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    • 4.0 star rating
      6/3/2006

      Just went to Marilyn's today for my first ever waxing experience-a modified brazilian, with Sharon.… Read more »

  • Review from Nicole U.

    • 0 friends
    • 6 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    4/9/2011

    Fantastic customer service and - more importantly - amazing spa services.

    I've had a few facials and massages here over the last three years, and I also visit MJS every six weeks for a Brazilian wax. All of the girls are amazing, although I request Emily or Carla if they are available on a particular day.

    The facial is thorough and professional, and I couldn't be happier with the full treatment. The minifacial, the Tinkerbella, is so worth it though if you can only squeeze in a quick appointment. The massage was also a great experience, although I do not get these regularly so I am in no position to judge. With respect to the wax, I will not go anywhere else. Ever. The prices are really unbeatable for the quality of the service.

  • Review from Anne K.

    • 1 friend
    • 5 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    1/20/2011

    I've been going to Marilyn Jaeger for years and it's about time I finally yelped.  Went last night for the Royal Facial and requested a brow tint last minute which they happily accomodated even though it kept them past closing.

    I had a bad eyebrow wax (not here) more than a year ago and have been trying to grow them back in ever since.  Kimber (sp?) did an AMAZING job!  It was exactly what I wanted, but even better.  I look younger and can get away with much less eye make-up.

    The facials are always fantastic and I love everyone there.  A soft gentle touch and not too pushy on the products, often giving samples.  And I'll take a compliment on my skin any day of the week -- I've spent enough money on it.

  • Review from Lisa M.

    • 3 friends
    • 12 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 12/10/2011

    I have now been a loyal customer for over 6 years and.....Love love love this spa!!  Elizabeth is the greatest!!  If you want a great facial or waxing of any kind, call to make an appointment with her!!  She is the only one I trust with those jobs!!

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    • 5.0 star rating
      9/15/2010

      I have been going to MJ for about 5 years now.   I have seen Emily almost every time and she is… Read more »

  • Review from Ann H.

    • 28 friends
    • 66 reviews

    Daly City, CA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 12/13/2011 1 photo 2 Check-ins Here

    Still a happy customer after 5 years.

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    • 5.0 star rating
      3/26/2010

      The BEST Brazilian wax you can get, I swear. I have been going for 3 years to Karla, there is no one… Read more »

  • Review from Jen C.

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 9/7/2010

    Customer service here is amazing!!  They really care about everything.  I was overcharged yesterday because of a computer glitch and they called today to tell me about and fixed it right away.

    Got a bikini, eyebrow and lip wax from Emily yesteray and definitely coming back.  I like how she said she could "manipulate" my eyebrows to look thicker and she definitely did.

    Listed in: These little piggies like to…

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    • 3.0 star rating
      8/15/2010

      4 stars for Lily and the massage.
      2 stars for the back peel add-on.

      Lily is great.  She encourages you… Read more »

  • Review from Merrica H.

    • 0 friends
    • 11 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    1.0 star rating
    9/10/2011

    I am sorry, but I was shocked to see that this place got such high reviews. I found myself ignored, feeling not good enough to be in there and quite frankly uncomfortable all together. I thought Marilyn was rude and a bit superficial. My service left me with bright red bumpy skin (wax was too hot) and simply a bad taste in my mouth. Maybe they were having an off day? Or maybe the only people that yelp about this place are employees or friends of employees?!... but I will never go back. SF is way too full of people that think they are better than you and now I know to avoid this establishment for that reason.

  • Review from Rebecca C.

    • 52 friends
    • 60 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    9/22/2011

    Fantastic service. Both waxing and facial are great - attention to detail, eagerness to provide the best service. Great ambience and taste in interior design makes it an oasis.

  • Review from Melody M.

    • 29 friends
    • 4 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    10/1/2011 3 Check-ins Here

    The Tinkerbella is perfect for pampering on the go!  Rejuvenated mind and skin in 35min :)

  • Review from Stephanie B.

    • 40 friends
    • 77 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    1.0 star rating
    4/23/2008

    They CUT me! Down THERE!

    So there I was thinking to myself, "I dunno what a Brazilian bikini wax is, but it sounds kinky. Where do I sign up?"

    And someone was all, Marilyn Jaeger. And I'm all, sweeeeet.

    I call her up, make an appt, and am sent into a private room with a woman so tattooed and bleached out that I thought maybe she'd had the Sid & Nancy bikini wax.

    I lie down, she heats up the wax, and there was not any discussion of what the mysterious Brazilian bikini wax might be. My initial thought was that she'd accidentally dripped some wax on me because there was NO WAY in my mind that hot wax should go... THERE. You know?

    But then more wax came, and then the fearsome strip of cloth. No WAY. There had to be a mistake! And then...

    rrrrriiiiiiiiiiiippppp!!

    And the hair down THERE was gone. I wanted to run like hell; shoulda run like hell, but I understood the need for, er, symmetry, so I bravely, gamely stayed until the bitter end--plucked like a chicken for Sunday dinner. BALD, for god's sakes. PRE-PUBESCENT!

    Then my practitioner was all, 'lemme trim the hair down there.' And I'm thinking, WHAT hair? There ain't no more! But she went a-trimmin' the smidgen that constitutes a landing strip, and that's when the scissors CUT ME.

    Nicked me. A centimeter more and I would have sued for female genital mutilation. I screamed, she couldn't care less, and somehow, in my extreme state of shock, I was led to the counter where I then PAID for the service and was not even given a free certificate for like the whip-me-and-beat-me treatment or whatever other horrors are on offer there.

    After soaking in hydrogen peroxide and going for a tetanus shot, I can safely just say, thanks to much post-traumatic stress therapy, NO to Marilyn Jaeger. My genitalia heartily agrees.

  • Review from Tamara B.

    • 41 friends
    • 39 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/14/2006

    Drink to calm nerves. Gingerly step out of panties. Crack jokes to dispel awkwardness. HOLY SHIT it hurts. Leave happy and relieved.

    Seriously, add some Led Zeppelin and Meister Brau and this would be the story of losing my virginity.

    Instead, it's just a Brazilian wax. Getting your pubic hair ripped out en masse isn't really my idea of a great time, but if you're gonna go there, this is the place. They ply you with free sangria and/or red wine. They're crazy friendly and more importantly---lightening fast. You'll never know what hit ya.

    Elizabeth is particularly awesome. So is Marilyn, but she's nearly impossible to book.

    They also do great brows, facials and massages. Parking's a bitch, so come early.

  • Review from Stephanie W.

    • 696 friends
    • 678 reviews

    Oakland, CA

    1.0 star rating
    4/12/2006

    I had just moved into the city and was in need of a wax, so I came here after reading & hearing rave reviews from lots of happenin' SF residents.
    Lesson learned: don't trust EVERYTHING you read or hear.

    The wax was painful and not thorough which was disappointing given the cost.  The space was cool, had nice decor, but was definitely small and felt a bit cramped.  The front desk girl didn't even say hi to me when I walked in which was weird and uncomfortable.
     
    I made a follow-up appointment to give the place one more chance and had to cancel last minute (for very "personal" reasons) and was reprimanded by the owner and treated very rudely.  
    Her reaction was uncalled for in my opinion.  
    Bad customer service coupled with bad waxing...no thanks!  Won't be going here again.

  • Review from Angie C.

    Sacramento, CA

    5.0 star rating
    3/14/2007

    This is the best place in the city for waxing!  Marilyn does a fantastic brazillian.  Very professional, very fast.  As painless as possible, considering what you're having done.  On fridays, they have walkins where you can come, drink sangria and wait to see marilyn.  She books up far in advance, so it's a great way to get in there when you need some good waxing fast.  Make sure you call ahead to be sure they're doing walk-ins that day!

    I've never done brow waxing, so I can't comment on that.  But I wouldnt be surprised if she did a great job of brow waxing too.

    I have done underarms, arms, etc in addition to the brazillian, and it's always been great.

    I've had other girls in the studio do my waxing, and they've all been great.  I just personally like marilyn the best. She makes great conversation too and really makes you comfortable - a skill when you're getting waxed.  

    Also, buy her Spotless product for preventing ingrowns.  It really works!!!

  • Review from Hannah Q.

    • 60 friends
    • 257 reviews

    Denver, CO

    4.0 star rating
    3/24/2007

    I was 26 when I realized that women "shape" their eyebrows by either waxing or tweezing them. Don't ask how I made it through 2 1/2 decades of life without this knowledge, but, there you have it.

    One I realized that my brows were woefully un-groomed, I started to feel naked as I walked the world, like the fact that my face didn't have eyebrows that reflected a permanent state of surprise (whee!) or anger (grr) was a beacon to the world declaring that I had no idea how to bathe, dress or do other essential grooming rituals.

    As luck would have it, around this time a friend bestowed upon me a gift certificate to Marilyn Jaeger's salon. Maybe my friend's gift was the equivalent of wrapping up a bar of Irish Spring and secret-santa-ing it to the guy in your neighboring cube who bikes to work every morning without the post-arrival shower. I'd heard, in my new education, that this was *the* place to get your brows shaped. Taking the hint (intentional or not) I took it upon myself to go forth and discover for myself exactly how eye-wateringly worth it a good eyebrow wax can be.

    The gift certificate was enough for me to get a lash & brow tint (wow, look at me throwing out fancy terms like that... back in the day, I mighta called it a "dye job"), plus the shaping. Let's just say I walked in with fairly un-noticable eyebrows, slightly pale, a little hard to notice, and walked out with "WOW!!! SHA-ZAM!!! Those are some DARK EYEBROWS!" The brows were very nicely shaped, but they'd gone, um... a little dark on the tint for my comfort level. Seeing as this was my first time, I didn't really realize that until after I'd gotten home and had a good, long glare at myself (grr... angry me! whee --- happy me!) in the mirror (I was testing out the new-found powers of expression I had with better-defined eyebrows).

    I decided I was really uncomfortable with exactly how dark the brows were. I'm a girl of subtlety. I rarely wear makeup and when I do, it's so light that, well, unless you're my husband and about to kiss me, you just don't even notice. So, I picked up the phone, called them and fessed up to not liking the color of my brows. This was SO difficult to do because I felt like I was pulling "supah diva manuva numbah 57" by complaining about my brows and wanting to up the shade a notch or so. They were totally cool about it and insisted that I come straight back in to adjust the brows to my liking. Totally cool not leaving a girl hanging like that, having to wait a day or two to get it fixed. Actually, fixed is the wrong word... the brows were perfect for a lass with greater sass, more prone to bolder tones of color expression, but you get the idea.

    Since that initial visit, I've been back a few more times for the same deal and now I know to tell them straight up that I want a very, very slight adjustment (darkening) of my brows in the tint. They always get it right. I'm not a brow-junkie, though. I'll let them get all normal and faded and grown in again and then, once every year or so, I'll get all fancy with the shaping action over at Marilyn's. It's fun because it's such a dramatic difference!

    The studio itself is wonderfully peaceful, very quiet, calm, professional... It's sort of a bastion of stillness in an all too busy world.

    Parking can be a real bear in this part of town, what with people trying to get a street spot to visit the hospital or the boutiques on Sacramento, so bring a ton of quarters for the meter and allow 20 minutes of cruising around time to find your magic parking space.

  • Review from Alison C.

    • 41 friends
    • 67 reviews

    San Jose, CA

    5.0 star rating
    3/6/2008

    I just had a Brazilian wax done by Marilyn. This was only my third Brazilian ever and I was terrified. My first two were done at a different day spa AND I used some numbing cream. And let me tell you, those two have NOTHING on Marilyn. She is so fast and likes to chat so it kind of takes your mind off the fact that you're having hair ripped out of really sensitive areas. Even without numbing cream, it was the least painful waxing job I have ever had. I was shocked how fast it took.

    Not only is Marilyn the best, but Marilyn Jaeger Skincare Studio is simply amazing. All the front desk girls are total sweethearts, and offer you water, tea or wine when you arrive. The whole vibe of the place, including the waiting room are so inviting and smell incredible. It really makes you feel relaxed before whatever service you have.

  • Review from Stephanie ..

    • 6 friends
    • 17 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    11/19/2005

    This morning I had a bikini and brow wax with Marilyn,  herself. I've  had the waxing treatment at other San Francisco spas and Marilyn's waxing is absolutely five star and dare I say, painless.  To finish off the waxing Marilyn applied an amazing new product that she developed called '" Spot On"  (it didn't sting like the product PFB Vanish which contains primarily alcohol and Salicylic, Glycolic AND Lactic acid). The Spot On product doesn't contain Alcohol, one of the first ingredients is Witch Hazel. Spot On also contains gentle and natural ingredients like green  tea and vitamin E. It was smooth and comforting. Post-waxing the skin in this area is not at all irritated and red, but I will continue to use the product for a few days to prevent ingrown hairs.

    During the treatment I didn't find myself clenching my fists or doing a deep breathing exercise to bear the pain as is the case in a couple of other places I've been to in SF.  

    To sum  up, the entire experience is well worth the month-long wait, Marilyn is an inspirational business woman who is passionate about giving her clients the best service possible - everytime I leave I am inspired about my own business.  The staff is also friendly, the decor  lovely and serene. Upon checking out, I made sure to book my appointment for next month  as last minute appointments are hard to come by - and it's easy to understand why.

    Thank you Marilyn and your fabulous staff!

  • Review from Heather P.

    • 31 friends
    • 47 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/30/2008

    *THE BROW REVIEW:  5 STARS

    Okay, Marilyn Jaeger won me back BIG TIME!

    I first tried brow waxing/tinting here a couple years ago and loved the gorgeous surroundings, delicious blueberry antioxidant tea and expert brow shaping, but was put off by how much I ended up spending every month at $30 a pop, so I opted for some cheaper spots.  Cheaper looking brows is what I got, though.

    A couple weeks ago, a very nice email popped up in my inbox-- a complimentary $25 voucher in honor of my birthday from Marilyn Jaeger Skincare, saying "We want you back!" ..."Alright, why not" I thought & booked a brow wax appointment with Jennifer.

    Today, my eyebrows look model-like & exactly how I requested them (not too thick, not too thin) and I did not experience any discomfort or redness, thanks to the 'zapper' Jennifer used after my wax and shape was completed.  It's absolutely worth the cost.

    The topper came while I was waiting for my appointment.  I was treated to a FREE NECK & SHOULDER MASSAGE!  Hello, fabulous client services-- MAMA IS BACK!

  • Review from imelda j.

    • 87 friends
    • 198 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    1/31/2008

    Where are the massage reviews??  Lucky you, I'm giving you two, yes TWO separate massage reviews!!

    I got a gift certificate for Christmas for an hour long massage ($65 for first timers) and just cashed it in on Sunday.  I kept trying to find reviews for massages here, but I couldn't find any.  How sad!!

    I had scheduled my massage a few days before which involved some phone tag with the studio, but either way, I got my appointment for Sunday morning.

    I arrived as they were finishing setting up for the day.  I checked in at the front and they gave me a cup of tea while I filled out their paper work.  One of their front desk people then gave me a quick tour of the space and then let me usr the restroom before I met my masseuse.  Note: Nice freakin' bathroom!  I LOVE the sink!!

    I met with Andrea who gave me a great massage.  Deep tissue I believe.  She asked if there was anything I wanted her to focus on and I mentioned my feet, calves and my super tight shoulders and neck.  I got undressed and laid on the table before she came in.  Plush freakin' tables, by the way.  No wonder people fall asleep during massages!  She came in and chatted with me for a few minutes and then the rest of the time, I relaxed as she worked on me.  She didn't force me to chat which is always a plus.  She checked in 2-3 times to make sure the pressure was ok.  She was great and I felt SO much better after.  She greeted me after to check on how I was doing and thanked me for coming in.  I "heart" her.

    Then today, I got a call from the studio checking in on how I liked my massage and if I had any feedback for them.  Just my luck, I was still sore, well I had tight shoulders still and was thinking about getting another massage.  I rang them up and told them I really enjoyed my massage and wanted to have Andrea again.  Sadly, she was booked up and they asked if I wanted to come in today at 4:30.  I said sure!

    I arrived this afternoon and met with Jessica (I believe that's who it was!) and she asked what type of massage I was looking to have.  I told her I had a massage by Andrea on Sunday and when I came in, my shoulders were super tight.  They were better now, but were still tight and felt that another massage would get them back to normal.  I told her I wasn't looking for an intense massage, but something light to moderate as I think I just needed to get my muscles loosened up a little bit more.  

    She came in and we ended up chatting through most of the massage.  I can go either way with talking during a massage or not.  She totally didn't force me to chat, but I guess I just was in a chatty mood.  Granted she was doing a great job during the whole time.  We laughed when we realize how squeaky the bottle of oil was and then the floor started squeaking.  She apologized, but I told her not to worry about it as it was funny to me.  

    What I liked about her is she gives all her clients a foot scrub which felt nice!  And she also gave me suggestions on how to loosen up my shoulders so they don't become super tight again.  That was helpful.  I left so relaxed and happy.

    I really enjoyed both Andrea and Jessica.  Jessica said a lot of her clients come to her for deep tissue massages.  I think both her and Andrea do them both well.  Oh and when they massage your head ... oh my gosh it feels soooooo good.  Granted they were different types of massages and people, but totally FAB!  I feel fairly confident that anyone I get for a massage I'll like a lot as they listen to my needs and that's super important when you're being massaged by a stranger.

    The ambiance is cool too.  It's so nice and tranquil.  Makes me wish my bedroom looked like their massage rooms as they make you want to relax and sleep.  It's awesome.

    I totally recommend getting a massage here.  I've had 2 massages before them, both at another salon and this was almost better.  Everyone there is so nice and professional.  I really liked the follow up call to my first massage because I don't know of any other studio that would do that.  You can tell they really want to make you feel special and enjoy with your experience which is great as you are spending quite a bit of money there!!

    One thing I did note is that it's not wheelchair accessible as you walk up 2 flights of stairs to the studio.  It might be difficult if you have trouble walking or going up stairs.  

    Otherwise, 5 stars all the way!!  My shoulders don't hurt or feel sore anymore.  It's amazing how much a massage can make you feel not only mentally better, but physically!!!!  

    Oh man, I think I want to schedule another massage next month.

  • Review from Kristen W.

    • 170 friends
    • 69 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    6/6/2011 1 Check-in Here

    marilyn is a brow master!

    she's very meticulous about her work - turns out there's an art to brow shaping and turns out standing 1/2 an inch from your poorly lit bathroom mirror and trying to pluck them on your own is not it.

    the customer service here is impeccable and the venue is cozy.

  • Review from Rachel D.

    • 13 friends
    • 17 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    4/20/2008

    perfection. I got a gift certificate for a massage at Marilyn Jaeger, and it was fantastic.  The atmosphere is girly and fun without either of the two predominant decors of a day spa:
    1. Laura Ashley threw up all over the walls
    OR
    2. Stark coldness of what others describe as 'zen'  and I call 'Ikea meets sushi parlor on a bad day.'
    As I jumped into the car, I texted three of my best girls to relay the message that MJ Salon is THE iznit-shay.  I'm bringing friends, buying gift certificates, and definitely going again.
    Do yourself a favor, book an appointment.

  • Review from Drea L.

    • 40 friends
    • 159 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/26/2009

    OMG...I mean Oh My God.  That sums up the exceptional service and expertise in my hoo-hoo hair removal. Karla took my poor Innocent unwaxed self and carefully and gently guided me through this uh...shameless experience. She was quick, efficient and helped me relax enough to actually have an insightful conversation about Brazil.

    The spa itself is quite nice as well. I loved that they asked me what my favorite color was and then gave me my choice of bathrooms. The complimentary tea was tasty and the price wasn't all that bad considering. I would return for other services.

  • Review from Shane h.

    • 32 friends
    • 138 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    3/27/2007

    I go to school in NY but have a house in San Francisco and I never let anyone touch my eyebrows except for Marilyn Jaeger. She does an amazing brow-shaping and better yet - because I'm a guy - she does them so they look natural and not all Castro-gay boy like so many gay men who suffer from SES (Sharp Eyebrow Syndrome.)

    Marilyn is always totally professional and fun and her salon is amazing - warm and welcoming. I always look forward to coming back to SF and knowing I'm going to be making a trip to Marilyn's makes it all the better.

  • Review from Kathleen P.

    • 7 friends
    • 77 reviews

    Santa Clara, CA

    5.0 star rating
    1/5/2008

    Marilyn Jaeger and her staff are the best.  I go to her salon regularly for eyebrow waxes and gel peels, and am always so glad I did. Marilyn trains all of her aestheticians for a couple of months before they're allowed to work on clients on their own, so you know you're getting someone skilled when you book your appointment. Also, Marilyn is known as being one of the fastest waxers in the business, so if Brazilians are your thing, then you're going to get in and out of there pretty quickly, which I would think would be quite appealing to most women.

    Marilyn offers a wide range of services...massages, facials, back treatments, etc. She recommended gel peels for me prior to my wedding, as my face was breaking out from all the stressful planning. She said three treatments would do the trick, and she was right...after the third gel peel, my skin had completely cleared up. To me, that was a miracle.

    Lastly, I think her receptionist and front office staff are all extremely nice and professional. They're always very friendly and personable, and create a nice energy in the salon.

  • Review from Gina K.

    • 3 friends
    • 26 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    3/4/2008

    Just came back from having an Imperial Glycolic Facial with Karla and it was excellent.

    Karla has this fun, relaxed, warm and welcoming feeling to her that makes you feel so comfortable.  Outside of that, she's extremely thorough in her work.  What I mean is when it came down to "extraction time", she really got into finding every single imperfection on my skin and it was the first time I ever had someone perform extractions on my ears!  I know it sounds gross, and I do have light problem skin, but its not as bad as it sounds!  I just didn't know I had pimples there - its hardly noticeable unless you're really looking up close, as she was!  I guess another word I would use for her is meticulous.  

    I definitely felt terrific walking out of there tonight.  And to my pleasant surprise, I met Marilyn, the owner herself!  :)

    Definitely worth going back to.

  • Review from Michele K.

    • 213 friends
    • 189 reviews

    Oakland, CA

    5.0 star rating
    1/13/2009

    I love my monthly visits at Marylin Jaeger's salon. Marylin helped me grow my skimpy over-plucked brows into beautiful shapely ATTRACTIVE eyebrows!...I thought it was too late...but I was wrong ;-)
    Aside from being an expert waxer Marilyn has many other talents as well...this is a great place for any beauty treatment and the setting is in a relaxing "feel like home" cozy Victorian always look forward to my appointments, it is like visiting a good friend :-) Marilyn is awesome... But very difficult to get into due to her popularity so make your appointments in advance and you will be in good shape!...or at least your eyebrows will be~

  • Review from B C.

    • 1 friend
    • 63 reviews

    Boston, MA

    3.0 star rating
    8/5/2005

    I am reviewing this for the overall experience and brow waxing I got there, which was not with Marilyn.

    The Space/Ambiance: Cute. In a Victorian and done up like a home, so that made the first impression I got pretty welcoming, but that quickly changed. Once you enter the cold reception area you get the sense that you're not all that welcome because you're not the hottest spa in SF, they are. The sitting room was pleasant though, with comfy (albeit dusty) couches and magazines to read while waiting. I waited a little longer than I liked to. The place was definitely not tranquil. I think they  tried for "bright and welcoming" and I really think many people do get that experience, but sadly not me. There were ladies lunching and chatting pretty loudly next to treatment rooms when I was there.

    The waxing: Since they are known for their brow waxing, I had high expectations. Of course, when that happens, you're just setting yourself up for disappointment. Maybe I'll shell out the money and bear the wait for Marilyn next time, if I am up for giving this place a second chance. In the end, I left with lopsided brows, granted my brows are not even to begin with. I think the esthetician felt bad about that because she said she wanted to give me a compliementary tint, which made the brows look even worse. I had to quickly get home and correct the brows, but had to live with the too dark tint for several weeks.

    Price: Expensive for what I got. Prices definitely hiked up due to high demand.

    Overall an ok place. Don't highly desire to go back. Might go back just for curiosity's sake to see of Marilyn herself lives up to the hype.

  • Review from catherine g.

    • 21 friends
    • 85 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/16/2008

    I came in for my appointment yesterday.  They said they were running late by 15 minutes.  Was that ok?

    That was fine.  Honestly, I couldn't have thought of a better way to end my Friday.  I was sitting on their comfy couches overlooking Laurel Heights, reading fashion magazines, drinking wine!  

    45 minutes later I was seen for my Brazilian wax appointment, but I didn't even notice the time go by.  They apologized profusely.  Brazilians are always very painful for me.  The last woman I went to in Potrero Hill ripped three sections of skin off so I didn't want to risk it anymore.  I feel like Marilyn and her team are the ultimate professionals.  They're worth the extra money.

    When I finished and got ready to pay, they comped my services for having to wait.  Not only that, Marilyn felt so bad about me having to wait that she is offering me a glycolic peel on the house.  That is customer service!!!

    Marilyn Jaeger Studio has my highest recommendation.

  • Review from andrea s.

    • 0 friends
    • 11 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    6/7/2007

    I love Marilyn Jaeger Skincare! I have always had the most fantastic services there. Sharon has been doing my brows for a long time, and I get a million compliments on them. She also tints them the perfect color.

    I was scared of eyelash tinting after a traumatic incident, but she convinced me to try it again and I love it. No tears, no pain. I have always had perfect service with Sharon. I highly recommend Sharon; she keeps me looking great!

  • Review from Perry S.

    • 99 friends
    • 214 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    3.0 star rating
    7/7/2007

    I came to this place because of the gushing reviews about their brazilian wax. It was so so. One time I even found I had bruises down there. Yes, bruises. How is it possible? I don't know.

    Unfortunately, I don't remember my esthetician's name. I know for sure it's not Marilyn or Elizabeth. Maybe next time I will try to book an appointment with them though I know I will have to book it waaay ahead of time.

  • Review from Miss H.

    • 36 friends
    • 195 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    4/5/2010

    I love coming here - great service and friendly staff.  Also really well thought out and detailed design of the rooms and decor.  It's a bit on the dark in terms of art, but I like that it's not cheery and pink with roses and crap.  It's deep reds, greys, and beautiful dark artwork.  

    The best part is the bed, it's super super plush and hugs ever curve of your body like a glove.  You lay there and never want to leave.  Each and every time after I leave, I always think to myself, "I need to get one of those beds!"

    There is the one odd thing - you do have to be pretty comfortable just stripping down in front of someone since they don't leave the room.  I think for the sake of efficiency and hey they are going to see you naked in 5 min anyways right?  Just threw me off the first time, like "hey, can i have some privacy?"  Other than that, I love this place and would love to come weekly for some pampering.

    BTW - emily is awesome for waxing.  If you have qualms about waxing, tell her and she'll talk to you or teach you breathing techniques to lessen the pain - they really work!

  • Review from Veronica F.

    • 0 friends
    • 7 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    8/24/2011

    I took my mother here to get a facial while I got a massage.  The "Tinkerbella" facial got rid of her pre-menopausal acne and cleared up her blackheads. Her face was so dewy after her facial and she looked as though she was wearing makeup. My mother purchased a product for age-spots and cannot wait to show the results to her esthetician, Melissa once the discoloring goes away.
    I signed up for only a 45-minute massage so that we could arrive and leave at the same time and I got so much more out of the experience than I had anticipated!
    Symone lead me to a dark, beautiful room with what seemed like ambient belly dancing music. I fell asleep twice and was pleasantly surprised with the hot stone treatment. I had never had it done before and it felt REALLY good on my carpal tunnel ridden hands. Symone was very intuitive at finding my stressed areas and when it was all over, she was waiting outside the room with a glass of anti-oxidant water.
    My mother and I will definitely come back again. Thank you Marilyn Jaeger Skincare for a great mother-daughter day :)

  • Review from Sarah A.

    Cincinnati, OH

    5.0 star rating
    3/9/2007

    I have had a lot of bikini waxes in my lifetime and this place definitely has the best technique of all.  Relatively painless and they get you in and out of there.  I love Elizabeth.  She is super sweet and makes you feel like you have known her forever.  

    I love the decor too, it is very cozy and relaxing.

    I also recommend the "spotless" product they sell.  I tend to get ingrowns and think this works better than Tend Skin or No Bumps.

  • Review from Lacee K.

    Los Angeles, CA

    5.0 star rating
    5/15/2008

    Marilyn is phenomenal.  

    Picture this:  Young LA native moves to San Francisco, utterly confused and turned around by just about everything.  By referral I came to see Marilyn my second month in town.  Just then is when my world started to shift.. Marilyn was kind enough to not only open me into her salon but give me suggestions for fabulous bars, restaurants, even MD's!  Her warmth and openness continue to floor me.

    I actually just returned from seeing her and am kicking myself for not writing this earlier.  Apart from being the ultimate San Francisco resource (she has the BEST referrals in this city) her space is beautiful, inviting and her staff is consistently GREAT.  Consistently friendly, knowledgeable and all around pleasant.  I have had the best waxing experiences here to boot.  
    I am always offered a beverage when I walk in.  Marilyn has also turned on to The Balm products  and I just bought "Pure Inventions" green tea extract drops and am hooked already - I've only been home for 10 minutes mind you!
    I will never let go of these kick ass women.  Also- they always do their best to acomodate even the busiest schedule.

  • Review from Kiesha R.

    San Francisco, CA

    5.0 star rating
    Updated - 3/28/2009

    I'm inspired to update my review and grant Marilyn Jaeger 5 stars by my visit to the gorgeous new space today. If the former space was cozy and sweet, the new space is a luxe retreat that seamlessly blends sophistication and down-to-earth comfort.

    The entire staff is so friendly - I always feel welcome. And Carla is a doll - she is so friendly and makes you feel so comfortable - it makes me almost excited for something that is decidedly...not.

    Bravo, Marilyn!

    Listed in: My Neighborhood

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      7/27/2008

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  • Review from Carly P.

    Woodland Hills, CA

    5.0 star rating
    2/2/2010

    Marilyn is THE BEST for getting brazillian's and bikini waxes in the city!!!  They are a bit pricey but you get what you pay for - no bumps or ingrowns and the work is perfect!  I've been to other places in the city to get "a deal" but it's not worth it after they mess it up or cause you so much pain that you want to run out of the salon half-finished.

    I've been coming here for my waxes since 2005 and have seen several of their aesthetician's and they have all done a wonderful job!  Marilyn's waxes are the least painful I've ever had and the girls are quick too!  Marilyn also makes "Spotless" which is a special tonic to put on after your wax and it is truly the best as well (and I have bought tons of this type of products after 10 years of waxing) and is worth the price!

    The space is also truly amazing - a lovely boutique and you really feel like you're getting pampered.  They even offer you a glass of wine in the evening and always have a great selection of hot teas and cucumber water as well.  The girls at the front and super sweet - you just can't go wrong with Marilyn :)

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