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Ooh La La Salon & skin Care
Categories: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Beauty and Spas Skin Care Beauty and Spas Tanning Hair Salons, Skin Care, Tanning [Edit]
2356 Van Ness AveSan Francisco, CA 94109
Neighbourhoods: Nob Hill, Russian Hill
(415) 346-1285
Announcement
50% off hair services for first time clients when you mention Yelp!
- Hours:
Wed-Sat 10 am - 8 pm
Sun 11 am - 8 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Validated
- Good for Kids:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
66 reviews for Ooh La La Salon & skin Care
66 reviews in English
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Review from Carley O.
San Francisco, CA
1/3/2012
I found Ooh La La through a Bloomspot deal, and I had a great experience. Wes was very flexible in changing my appointment date when my work schedule changed, which was especially impressive as it was right before the holidays. I was early and while I waited, he offered me a glass of wine and his sweet little dog kept me company. He obviously has a strong base of repeat clients which I think is a great indicator of quality, especially in a big city with plenty of salon options.
The color and haircut were both good -- nothing too crazy one way or another, but what made this a great experience was Wes himself. He's the kind of person you feel so comfortable around you end up talking about much more than general topics like weather, where do you work, etc. When I had to wait for my ride to pick me up, he insisted on waiting outside with me and chatting so I wouldn't be alone. To me, that's going above and beyond, and gestures like that are what will make me come back to a salon. Well done on the customer service front! -
Review from Sonia M.
Los Angeles, CA
4/25/2012
I went to this salon about a month ago for Keratin treatment. First of all, the guy who did my hair was horrible, he was complaining the whole time, and didn't know how to handle my hair. He was pulling on it so hard, it was so painful. Second off, besides the bad service, my hair looks EXACTLY the same. The treatment did NOTHING for my hair. I spent so much money and it all went to waste. I would highly recommend avoiding this place!!
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Review from Zoe H.
San Francisco, CA
3/23/2012
I rarely write bad reviews, and I rarely complain about bad service. That being said, here is my story:
I went in for a spray tan after my room mate went previously and came home with good reviews. Everything started out fine. He asked me how dark I wanted to be and I said "pretty dark". His exact words back to me were "Okay well we can start you at a 10 which is medium and if you want to go darker we can do a mix of the medium and darker one after." Pretty typical for spray tans.
I must say, he was efficient. However when finished he did not ask me to look and see what I thought or if I wanted to go darker. He immediately left the room and said I will meet you out front. I took a look in the mirror, (this was in a dark room, mind you) figured all was okay and went out to pay, giving him a $5 tip. I get home to realize it is definitely not as dark as I would have liked, and in fact it is barely noticeable at all.
I call them back not even 2 HOURS after I was in there asking if I could come back in with my room mate who was heading that way in order to get a bit darker seeing as I was not happy with the results. The owner proceeds to tell me that the guy who spray tanned me never said what I claimed he did and that if I came back in I would have to pay for a whole new tan. It is not like I am calling a week later looking for a free hand out. I am a paying customer who was not happy with the results, and ANY other place I have ever been would have gone over the tan again without a problem. Needless to say, I spent $40 (when their website said it was $30 for first timers- yet another complaint) and do not feel like I got my money's worth at all. It's called customer service, people. Seriously.Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 3/24/2012
Hi Zoe ,sorry about the bad experience you had in the salon… More » -
Review from Shari I.
San Francisco, CA
10/16/2011
Finding the right stylist to cut your hair is VERY important. No one knows this better than me, a curly, frizzy-haired girl who has struggled for all of my 27 years because, honestly, I freaking hate spending a lot of time on my hair.
Wes and Ooh La La have been the answers to my prayers.
I started out at Ooh La La with a keratin treatment to fix the frizz, and boy did it ever! My hair was revolutionized over night, as was my life in general because I no longer have to worry about how my hair looks.
More importantly, Wes is awesome. He's sweet and attentive and he really cares about how I'm feeling as he's working. And he gave me wine.
It's obvious that he truly understands different types of hair and different types of people - the cut he gave me was perfectly shaped to my face and highlighted my eyes - not an easy thing to do for a brown-and-brown girl.
Finally, last time I was there I was telling him about a costume party I was going to that evening, and he said "let me do your makeup!" and boy, did he ever. I got so many compliments that night, I looked like I'd gotten it done on a movie set.
I recommend Ooh La La and Wes for haircuts, for straightening, and for makeup, whether to find the perfect everyday look or for that scary/slutty Halloween costume you're planning...
Thanks, Wes!Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 4/16/2012
PLease read our salon reviews on the bottom of this page… More » -
Review from Lev E.
San Francisco, CA
9/3/2011
Was excited to give this place a try since I'm in the area and got seduced by Groupon.
Let's begin with the positives:
1. Wes is a nice guy
2. Use of Pureology products
Now the negatives:
Came in for a simple all over color during the week when no one else was around - literally (not figuratively) just me and Wes at salon for 3 hours that afternoon. Wes was nice and chatty and did a nice blow out. I felt good when I left. However, when I got home, I realized that only the outside was colored properly. The layers underneath did not properly match. I was very disappointed and sad since I was hoping to make this a new regular.
Ah well, c'est la vie.Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 1/21/2012
PLease read our salon reviews on the bottom of this page… More » -
Review from Marilyn C.
San Francisco, CA
5/3/2012
I found Ohh La La salon and Wes through a bloomspot offer for a keratin treatment, and it is likely the best thing that has ever happened to my hair! I have very difficult hair, mind you. It has a terrible texture and there is TONS of it. Wes is a dream come true. I did a couple keratin treatments with him, and they were the best I have ever had. I do them religiously every 12 weeks and have been searching for someone to go to regularly. I had not found anyone to whom I wanted to return (and it's been a long search). After frequenting the salon for a while I decided to work on my color. I have had the same color hair my entire life so it was a frightening prospect. I approached Wes and asked for his opinion which he gave me. I was reluctant and scared to change the color, but I trusted Wes and threw caution to the wind.... I am in love with my color. He did a fantastic job with highlighting and lightening it. I could not be happier. I return every 4 weeks for the roots. He now cuts my hair as well. I spend a tremendous amount of money on my stupid hair - haircuts, color and keratin regularly, so I'd better like the person who I pay. I actually love Wes, and I feel transformed! I'm hooked.
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Review from Jessie G.
San Francisco, CA
3/17/2012
I am writing this review so this never happens to anyone else. I recently went to this salon to get "highlights" and showed the owner 3-5 different pictures of what I was looking for. After noticing that my whole head was in foils I starting getting a little nervous and asked why that was....only to hear "this is the process" for highlights. I have gone hundreds of times in my life to get highlights, and not once was my whole head in foils! But now that he started I figured I would let him continue .......BAD IDEA. After he washed my hair I picked my head up... my hair was BLEACHED BLONDE AND ORANGE!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now the owner said, no its ok it's just the beginning....now we add the toner to darken it! WRONG.......he kept adding toner and I was at this salon for 6 hours!!!!!!!! He ruined my hair and it's completely damaged. He knew I wasn't happy but I didn't want to make the situation worse as there were other customers there's I paid and left. Then I noticed he charged my credit card For MORE than I signed for!!!!!!! Not only did he RUIN my hair but he overcharged me, didn't offer anything and then I found out he lied to me telling me my friend went to see him and got her hair done and loved it.... When in reality she told me he ruined her hair too and we both had to go some place else to have it fixed!!!!!!
DO NOT TRUST this salon!!!!!!!Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 4/16/2012
Jessie if you were not happy with your hair you should have… More » -
Review from Runjini M.
San Francisco, CA
5/21/2011
Today I was thinking I should really get my hair trimmed and that I hadn't for a while. And then I remembered why. The last time I got my haircut was at Ooh La La, and it was such a horrific experience that it soured me on salons for over a year.
I don't like to be mean, but I think my experience here warrants the following: Wes was a jerk. And I think that's being nice. I should have known I was in for a disaster when he made me wait for about 20 minutes. Then I get in the chair, and he tells me how I need Rogaine. Then, he insulted the length of my hair. And finally, he hacked off about a foot of my hair, which was FAR more than I'd asked him to and we'd agreed upon. (This is my number one complaint about hairdressers in general -- do they get trained in wanting to cut off long tresses of ladies who like keeping their hair long? Some people don't look good with short hair. You are being paid to DEAL WITH IT.)
At any rate, I had an awful experience. My hair didn't even look good the day I was at the salon. That was a first for me; even if I end up not being wowed, I can take comfort in knowing I look good, at least for a day. Not so at Ooh La La.
Lesson of the day: Never trust a Groupon for a salon. There's a reason they need to slash their prices to get anyone in the door. -
Review from Cristina P.
San Francisco, CA
3/2/2011
A word to the wise: Do NOT get your haircut here (I cannot attest to any other services here, however).
I've been wanting to get a haircut for a while. But new to SF, I wasn't sure where to go. So when I came across a GroupOn for this salon and looked up Yelp reviews, it seemed like a good place to try out. BIG MISTAKE.
What started out as a nice hairdresser and a *very* simple request for a basic haircut (about 5 inches off all around, maybe a few angled layers in the front - nothing else) turned into a 1.5 hr long disaster. The hairdresser seemed to totally zone out and go on a chopping spree of my hair (really not exaggerating), creating insanely short layers on my long hair. The end result is just horrible- *totally* uneven, way too short, not at all what I wanted or asked for (I even brought a picture to show exactly what I wanted). Seriously? Pretty sure I could've done a better job on myself.. perhaps I should have.
On top of the hell that was this haircut, the hairdresser proceeded to put pounds of products in my very straight hair, which only weighs it down and creates knots. This just didn't make sense at all. She seriously should not be cutting hair.
*I don't want to name names because I'd feel bad, but trust me when I say it's not a safe place to go for a haircut. If you do, you should ensure that you're going to the right stylist (hopefully not all are as bad...)*Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 9/5/2011
We terriblly sorry about your experience at Ooh la la and… More » -
Review from Saori E.
5/16/2011
Four stars for the quality of the haircuts I've gotten (from Wes and from another stylist-- I forget her name!) especially considering I've always gone in there not knowing exactly what I want, and I've always come out loving the cut. Wes is really nice and just has a great sense for hair.
But, I've also gotten the keratin treatment here, and it was way too expensive for me. It lasted a couple of months, but I got it for less than half the price (and 1/4 the time) at Head & Soul on Polk Street.
They seem to always have some kind of deal (through Groupon, Homerun, just on their own too) but it seems it's always for new clients only :(Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 9/18/2011
Please read our 130 filtered rewiews by yelp by clicking… More » -
Review from Katie Anne N.
San Francisco, CA
1/6/2011
NYE= must look hot in order to get a midnight kiss.
I needed a tan and searched yelp for spray tan that was close to my house and relatively inexpensive. I found Ooh la la and had no idea they did such thing. New client price is $30, which was awesome. So there I was, standing there, butt naked and Crystal sprayed me to perfection.
The only downside is when the tan fades. Right now I'm multicolored and it looks pretty bad. My feet are a weird color and my face is super white while the rest of my body is tanned. I've been trying to scrub it off but to no avail. It is good for what it is, a temporary tan.
Great service for a great price. Try Crystal. She is awesome! -
Review from Sayaha A.
San Francisco, CA
3/10/2011
It's just OK for me....
Like many others yelping, I went there after getting my Groupon. The facial itself was not bad, but I did not like the customer service.
1st... I went there 10 mins before the appointment time, but my facial did not start 20 mins after my appointment. I got facial and at the end I did get full-time service, but it's never a good feeling to start so late. If I was getting the service at 20 mins into the appointment time, I got there 15 mins after my appointment time...
The lady who did my facial was sweet so I liked her, but I did not see very much difference the next day, so it's not a salon I would like to go back again.Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 1/21/2012
PLease read our salon reviews on the bottom of this page… More » -
Review from Tiffany Y.
San Francisco, CA
4/10/2011 1 Check-in Here
My motto in life is Blonder is Better. If i'm not blonde, then I'm not having fun, that's why I came to Ooh La La Salon in hopes of bringing my goldilocks back to life!
I had an appointment with Allison and simply told her that my current hairstylist had not been getting my hair to the golden blonde that I love. She fixed that immediately! She highlighted my hair so beautifully but didn't overdo it so it still looked completely natural and very "me."
And God bless her, my hair can be deceiving because it is straight but I have a LOT of it. Most stylists really don't know what they're getting themselves into when it comes to coloring my hair. But she was very patient and it turned out gorgeous all around.
The cut she did was also flawless. I like keeping my hair long and she did just that, and basically got rid of my split ends and made my hair very voluminous.
The Salon itself is very cute and cozy. Only about 3 or 4 stations and everyone seems like they really enjoy working with eachother and has a very relaxed feel to it. My only complaint is the damn shampoo chair. Acutally, it's not a chair its more of a chair you lay on if that makes sense? Extremely uncomfortable and makes your back arch in a weird way. They need to get rid of that thing. But other than that, it's a great place!
Go to Allison if you want to look as pretty as me...well probably not as pretty, but damn close to it!Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 9/18/2011
Please read our 130reviews filtered by yelp in the bottom… More » -
Review from Romea M.
San Francisco, CA
10/5/2010
I really wanted to like this place, and bought the Groupon and saw Wes.
He made some recommendations but I had something else in mind and he tried to go with that, after a lengthy attempt to up-sell me for a Keratin treatment I had already had done 2 months prior. Anyway - I felt like he didn't even cut my hair. He is very nice, and very chatty (perhaps too chatty because I was there for 2.5 hours) and he barely snipped anything, and when he did, it just wasn't right. I wanted a "wee little trim" is what I asked for, and when my hair is flat ironed, you can tell it wasn't straight, it doesn't look good, I'm never cheating on my hairstylist again!
Another thing that put me off quite a bit is I have dark hair, dark eyes and a nice tan. I like my coloring, I even fake-bake to get it. Wes talked to me about lightening up all of my features and showed me a pic of what he used to look like before (dark like me?). He said we could do things like lighten my hair, I could lighten my skin with some facial they do there and wear contact lenses. I felt pretty offended! No thanks, I like what I've got going on. So strange, really how someone would even suggest that.
But back to the cut - my hairstylist Amie at Suite Five Salon downtown truly is the most amazing stylist ever. I'll never cheat on her again regardless of any convenient discount!Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 9/18/2011
Please read our 130 reviews filtered by yelp in the bottom… More » -
Review from Bonnie L.
Palmdale, CA
9/29/2010
Natalie and Carolynn are super cool, fun, and EXCELLENT at what they do. My entire experience here was enjoyable from beginning to end (I had FUN getting my hair done!), which makes me love my hair even more than I already do. :D
Walked in for a root touch-up, but secretly wanting to go lighter, knowing I'd be told it wasn't possible. Natalie worked with me and suggested a highlighting method called slicing (? Dang it, I already forgot the name =() that would give me the "lightened" effect without having to bleach my entire head and causing severe damage. I put my trust and my hair entirely in her hands - she talked to me about cool and warm tones, and how I can get the look I want in the right way and with the right tones so I don't look washed out or.. green (I have an olive complexion). She answered my 12094237 questions about hair and maintenance, and never once made me feel stupid. Good. I hate pretentious salons and snobby stylists, and I am glad to say that Ooh La La has neither of these.
Bibbity-bobbity, poof poof - Natalie worked her magic and 2 and a half hours later, I emerged with BEAUTIFUL hair! :O She gave me the most amazing highlights everrr, I finally got the lightened look I was told I could never have (at least, not safely), and to complete my look, Natalie tinted my brows so they matched better with my lightened hair. Perfect. I LOVE LOVE LOVE my new look!
P.S. Lots of Yelpers talked about a dog in the salon. There was no dog today. I only interacted with humans. And they were very cool and gave me awesome hair. Yay! -
Review from Elle F.
Oakland, CA
10/6/2010
My review is way overdue.
I suffer from very big, very frizzy hair. I'd kill to have naturally straight, shiny hair. After months of internal debate, I made an appointment to get the Brazilian Keratin Treatment at Ooh La La. Much to my delight, the salon was able to accommodate me on short notice and I was very excited since they were offering the treatment for a great deal.
The salon is small but super cute and very relaxing. My stylist (Rebecca, I believe) and Wes (the owner) were very nice and worked for HOURS on my hair! Wes is Egyptian (and I'm fascinated with Egypt and Egyptian Culture) so I really enjoyed talking with him.
My only complaint about the salon experience was that the dog I've read about wasn't there. :) Was it his/her day off?
I walked out of Ooh La La with the straightest, shiniest hair EVER! This treatment is not a miracle; I still have to use a flat iron to get my hair straight. But it's quicker than before and the results are FABULOUS. I can't believe the compliments I've received.
The only problem is, now I have to figure out a way to work this into my budget every 3 months. I'm not sure if I want to go back to my old hair! -
Review from Gloria Z.
San Francisco, CA
2/24/2011
I love this place! My friend and I got a discount from Groupon and decided to get our haircuts. Wes did an amazing job on both of us! The employees were friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere was so relaxing. Wes worked efficiently and gave me an adorable cut. Thank god he wasn't the type of hairstylist that cuts strand by strand!
The only thing that kept me from giving it a five-star review was that my friend and I made appointments online for 1:00 and 1:15. We caught phone calls the day before our appointments saying they've overbooked and our appointments are getting pushed back to 3:00 and 4:00. We arrived, but they were still running about 20 minutes late.
Otherwise, this place is awesome! -
Review from Patrice J.
San Francisco, CA
8/14/2011
I get my hair cut by Sasha and I just LOVE LOVE LOVE her creativity. She listens to what I want and AMAZES me each time. She even take the initiative to plan my future hair styles as I am often indecisive! Thanks Sasha for your PRECISION, STYLE, AND GRACE!!!!!!
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Review from Rani V.
San Francisco, CA
7/26/2010
I used my Groupon to get the Oxygen lightening facial. Upon entering the salon, I was greeted by loud, yappy dogs. I know it's San Francisco, but not everyone is a big dog lover, and I was a little annoyed that the owner didn't bother to get them off me and thought the whole thing was cute.
The facial itself was nice. Erika was professional and my skin definitely looked brighter at the end. Why 3 stars? Because there was nothing relaxing about the facial! I could hear the dogs and the LOUD conversations between the stylists and people getting their hair cuts the entire time. It was so loud that Erika apologized twice about this. For me, a facial isn't solely for cleaning out my pores -- it is also for a relaxing, escapist experience, and I unfortunately could not relax with all the loud noises outside the room.
Also, they had posted a 20% off discount for 1st time customers but would not honor that with my Groupon.
Bottom line: if you want a utilitarian, efficient facial, go to Ooh La La. if you are looking for a meditative, peaceful environment, you're barking up the wrong tree. -
Review from Jessica M.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 11/5/2011
Updating my review to a higher rating due to the proactive behavior of the owner, Wes, who has sincerely tried to make amends for my less than ideal experience at Ooh La La. You've gotta give credit to a business that listens to what it's customers are saying and takes action. I've moved to the East Bay in the past year, and since this location is no longer as convenient for me and my styling needs, I will probably not be returning. And I think this is a perfect example of how coupons (i.e. Groupon) can go wrong if a business is not careful. This salon definitely learned a lesson. However, you should give them a chance! I truly admire a business willing to make things right. Thanks, Wes!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/28/2010
Unfortunately I had a less than desirable experience with this salon, so I feel the need to be… Read more »
Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 1/21/2012
PLease read our salon reviews on the bottom of this page… More » -
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Review from Kristy M.
4/30/2010
I hate writing bad reviews but I feel that I would be doing a disservice to my fellow Yelpers if I didn't write the truth. The truth is Wes is an extremely fast and efficient hair stylist. That's it. I was completely disappointed in the lack of attention and skill that Wes possesses. Don't get me wrong, he's a nice guy and really tries to hear you out when you sit down with him for the first time. I guess I'm just used to the crème de la crème of hair stylists *cough* Vania @ Patrick Evans Salon *cough*....
But I digress....My hair never even saw scissors until he was done blow drying my hair and made a few snips here and there, mostly for show. The rest of the time he used this razor like device that my hair will take at least a year to recover from. I said I wanted layers, not a razor slicing through my hair taking pieces at random.
Being that the shop is only big enough for two stylists at one time I don't think they even have someone answering the phones which is why your only option is to book an appointment online. While this is very convenient the problem is they only offer 1 hour slots when you book a hair cut. That may be fine for most people but I have twice as much hair, no lie, than 95% of the female population. My appointment ran 50 minutes late and the girl who was scheduled after me was not too happy...and rightfully so!
To sum it up: if you're looking for an extremely simple hair trim, Wes is your man. However, if you require any kind of styling or extra attention then I'd recommend going elsewhere! (did I mention Vania @ Patrick Evans is a hair styling goddess?)Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 9/5/2011
It is very clear that you are advertizing about another… More » -
Review from Elinore E.
San Francisco, CA
3/18/2011
Like many, I was brought here by the Groupon. I recently moved to the city and was long past due on a haircut. I also had a couple years of playing with hair dye growing out that I wanted to go away.
I had an evening appointment with Wes and though I was about 10 minutes late, he was quite the host and greeted me with a good consultation, a glass of wine, and a smile.
I had never actually had my hair professionally dyed and was a little nervous but looking forward to going back to my natural color hopefully with a some added bonus points.
He did an excellent job on the color, and though my hair is quite thick, made sure to get every strand coated. He also did an excellent job on my haircut and I got compliments all the next day. We had great conversation for the two and a half hours I was there and I also had some time to myself to relax with a magazine. I am very attentive to detail and appreciate when someone takes the extra effort to get it right. He used a technique I had never seen before to give me nice, natural layers and I felt very taken care of. I am an artist and consider spa technicians, stylists, and manicurists artists as well and expect them to treat their work seriously while also treating me like a human being. Wes did a good job at balancing both.
The only reason I cannot give it 5 stars is because, well, it's a little funkier than I would like. I know it was the evening and I'm sure they were busy all day, but I still feel that the stylists should have done a better job cleaning their stations before they left. (It was just Wes an I there in the evening.) Like I said, I'm a stickler for detail and when I go to a salon (a place where you are dealing with hair and skin) I want it to be clean; I notice. Clutter and mess is not relaxing.
So, though the service and overall experience I received was excellent the setting brought it down a notch. -
Review from Eric M.
Long Beach, CA
5/20/2007
After the Barber incident of 2003, I don't do it anymore. I have "a guy" in Long Beach I see when I visit the folks. That isn't enough since my hair grows relatively fast. Oh La La is literally a thirty second walk from my apartment door so when I was getting a bit shaggy, I considered a salon (with the ongoing ban on barbers and all).
I'll be honest, when I'm usually asked what I want, I stare clueless-ly and sort of mutter, "Like this, but shorter."
"How much shorter?" Which is followed by more clueless-ness.
Wes is great and not just because he puts up with me. He chats me up, I chat him up. Since I live near by I'm always walking by when I'm heading off to work and he waves and I wave. The last time I went in, he assured me my girflriend would absolutely love my hair. And he was right. Oh so right.
Reasonable prices for men, and Wes is very friendly and talented at what he does. I now have a guy in San Francisco. -
Review from Nicole P.
San Francisco, CA
9/25/2011 1 Check-in Here
Went here because I got a deal for a spray tan. I made the appointment easily online. I really appreciate that they are open later in the evening, since it is hard to get to that area for me right after work. But it worked out well. Went in for the spray tan, in the room within a minute or two. Tan turned out good. Overall very nice & clean establishment and I would return.
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Review from Katie C.
ASTORIA, NY
3/7/2011
I have very long hair, and I sought out Ooh La La's Allison after months of going without a haircut, to the point where I looked like Mr. Ed's hot younger cousin (or, put another way, potentially Amish).
She did the BEST job on my hair, which was in dire need of styling assistance. She was also really careful not to cut off more than I asked for, which I appreciate, having walked out of previous haircuts in total shock. Plus, she's super cool and fun to talk to, which is nice when you're trapped in a chair with someone who's holding scissors so close to your face. So, I'm sure Ooh La La's other stylists are fine too, but I will definitely ask for Allison every time! -
Review from Liz B.
San Francisco, CA
5/4/2010
Ok. I know I should wait a few days to get used to my new haircut before I review, but I can't. It's terrible.
A few notes before I get to the bad...
Wes is super nice.
I used a Groupon, so the $85 haircut (really??) cost me the $35 groupon plus the $10 for the "difference" in price, plus the tip.
Fair warning that I didn't know exactly what I wanted when I went in. Just that I still wanted to be able to put it into a ponytail and my thick wavy/curly hair usually is dealt with by adding some layers.
Wes says his layers are "elegant." So what the heck, trust him.
These are the worst layers I have ever seen. I'm not sure if I fell out of the 80's with a pseudo mullet or he decided that the top of my hair should fro out in a perfect circle around my head with (sort of an upside down shelf) with the rest of my hair slowly tapering in to straggly things left to fall lonely down my back... WTF?!?!?!
Now I'm going to have to pay to go fix it somewhere else. I would go back to try to have them fix it but I definitely don't trust whatever he would do because he thought this one looked great.
Not for me, thanks.
If you go in, my words of warning... Know what you want.
(the one extra star is because they were real nice and I feel bad writing this review, but then I look in the mirror, and I must write.)
ps ~ really....?? $85 for a simple and quick cut that was a total botch job? I'll go to Edo Salon, see Becky, pay less, and be much happier.
Oh. And I have to go to a wedding with this haircut. Awesome. -
Review from Katherine B.
New York, NY
1/25/2009
I really, really wanted to love my cut. The reality? it is one of the worst I've had since I was little. Wes is a doll, so I feel really badly writing that I am beyond disappointed with the cut he gave me.
I had been needing a trim and layer shape-up for awhile and I thought this would be a great time to try Wes. When I told him what I was looking for he said it was kind of "meh.. what everybody has!" but said he would do it this time for me (so as to gain my confidence) ... we discussed a little "update" of adding bangs and then he explained to me he would really like to blend in a few shorter layers but that they would be so subtle that it would look fab!
I was reluctant but allowed him to do the bangs along with the slight layering I requested. As the cut progressed I got more and more uneasy, gone were INCHES of my hair that I had just wanted cleaned up. I bit my lip thinking, "he is a professional, yelp loves him, I am sure it will look fab in the end"... how wrong I was. It was a mess. Uneven, blunt layers that look as though they've been cut straight across. Not subtle blending at all... It is bad, really bad. It looks like I took scissors to my head drunk one night. And believe me, I am not overreacting (people agree it looks funky!)
After several days, I still cant find a style that makes it look halfway decent, so I end up cursing and just pulling it back. Urgh!!! I spent months growing it out! On top of which, I think I am going to have to go to a different stylist just to get it fixed, which will result in losing more length and shelling out more cash. A total bummer- not only did I pay $100 to have it cut, will have to spend at least that again to have it fixed.
My mantra these days, "hair grows back... hair grows back."
My advice: proceed with caution.
Two Stars because I think Wes is a lovely guy. -
Review from christi c.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 12/2/2010 1 Check-in Here
I went back to have my highlights done again today with Natalie.
AMAZING!!!!
my blond hilights are bright, natural looking and best of all i didnt walk out with a massive blowout ...aka "salon hair."
check this place out.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/29/2010
This review is for CAROLYNN! She is an amazing colorist and stylist. I ventured into Ooh la la on a… Read more »
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Review from Alisha W.
San Francisco, CA
6/24/2011
Hands down the best hair cut and dye job I've ever had. Wes took my vague creative direction (please make me look sexy and edgy) and took it to the next level. I look and feel like a sexy bitch. I will definitely be going back. I am usually not very happy when I leave a salon, but not this time. I can't wait to show all of my friends my new hair. So cute, mowh!
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Review from Suzanne C.
San Francisco, CA
1/20/2009
Wes has magic in his hands, I swear.
I got my hair cut back in OCTOBER, and it still looks fierce. I can wash and go with this cut, no extensive maintainence!
Wes, you are a god.
Next up at Oh La La will be a facial and a wax! -
Review from alley s.
Los Angeles, CA
6/27/2010
I needed to find a salon closer to my apartment, so I found Ooh La La on yelp!
I booked an appointment online with Carolynn, which was really convenient, for a cut and highlights.
Carolynn did an excellent job! She was friendly and easy to talk to, made sure I got what I wanted, and showed me a new way to blowdry my hair so I could get super volume. It was insane, it really looked like I was wearing a Bump-it when I walked out of there.
The best part may have actually been that I got to have a dog sit on my lap through my appointment. The owner's dog wanders around the salon during the day, but she's very well behaved, and if you don't like dogs she'll leave you alone.
I recommended this place to my sister, so she's going next week! -
Review from Karina R.
San Francisco, CA
1/29/2009
What can I say about Wes and Oh La La?? One word: FANTASTIC!
I've always been super picky about who cuts my hair, and Wes has earned the top spot. He is so talented and helpful and every person I've seen that has been touched by him always looks great.
I had my first haircut with Wes back in September; an A-line bob that got continuous praise from friends and randoms on the street, and looked great even last week, before I decided I needed a cut. This time, I decided to go for a shorter, sleeker bob, and what do you know? It was absolutely perfect! Wes is truly a talented hair DESIGNER. Go see him, not only will he make you look fabulous, he will crack you up while doing it. When you walk out of Oh La La, you will always feel like a million bucks! -
Review from Patrick E.
San Francisco, CA
8/23/2011
Great neighborhood saloon. My hair looked great after my last few haircuts with Wes. Quick and cool cut for a for a decent price - pretty straight forward - there's not much more I can ask for. If you want to be blown away get a facial with Crystal the Esthetician. She is amazing, I truly love her - best 1 1/2 hours of my week.
Comment from Wessam R. of Ooh La La Salon & skin Care 8/25/2011
Thank you Patrick, we will see you in a few weeks -Crystal More » -
Review from Jenn Z.
San Francisco, CA
5/14/2010
After purchasing the Groupon, I decided that this would be a great opportunity to try out YET ANOTHER salon to get what I wanted. So many times, I've gone to get my hair cut, explained to the stylist what I wanted and then left with a haircut that I felt lukewarm about.
Okay, the service:
Making the appointment was easy, they took me in with a day's notice.
I met with Natalie and we talked about what I wanted.
Now, I'm not chit chatty AT ALL when I go to the salon. But for some reason, Natalie was so completely laid back and friendly and lovely that she made me feel comfortable enough to engage in conversation with her while she did my hair.
Wes is hilarious. I couldn't help overhearing his conversation with his client. His friend came in, everyone talked it up, everyone was laughing.
It was just a really good environment to be in. You can tell that the people are treated well, that people are happy to be there, it just felt GOOD to be in a place like that.
So that was the service.
The haircut: I love it. Natalie gave me EXACTLY what I wanted, which is so nice. For so long, I've felt like I've been speaking a foreign language when I describe to other stylist what I want. So either Natalie is on top of her game or we both speak some kind of dialect that only the both of us understand.
Point is, she's really good.
I think after 5 years of getting my hair done by every salon in this place, I've finally found a stylist I will stick with. -
Review from Smiley H.
Millbrae, CA
8/16/2010
Natalie was so great! she cut my hair just the way i liked. She blow dried it so nice that i wish she could do my hair everyday. She also gave me suggestions on what i should do with my bangs which i'm always sick of. I left the salon loving my new hair cut and style.
I did use my groupon here. And she gave me a good deal for if i'd like to return to her. Which i definitely would! -
Review from Madeline N.
Cambridge, MA
4/10/2010
I swung by Ooh La La this morning due to an excellent Groupon deal. Who knew there was such an adorable little salon on Van Ness?
I was greeted by Wes's two little dogs who promptly jumped onto my lap for a back rub. I don't know about you, but that's the start of a pretty good salon experience in my book.
Wes was helpful and very careful to listen to me as I walked through what I wanted. He ended up giving me a haircut that looks great!
Wes was very friendly but not super-chatty (which I like). It was a lovely experience and I'd recommend trying the salon out! -
Review from Christina G.
Seattle, WA
2/22/2011
love love love Natalie, she cuts my wavy hair to be straight sometimes and curly others. She's also just super fun, and very patient and flat irons my hair perfectly!
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Review from Anita J.
San Bruno, CA
5/31/2007 1 photo
Wes, the owner & stylist, is amazing.
he takes the time to get to know you, analyze your hair, and if you let him loose he'll be able to give you some options you might not have thought of before.
i had to get 10 inches cut and he got me relaxed as he verbally described his thought process as to what can and cannot work. why we won't go certain routes with the cut and after the hair has been redone, how to work with what i have from that point.
Wes is nice, colorful, confident and experienced. it has been 3 months since i needed a cut or a new stle. what he has given me is still working out.
thanks Wes, keep on with your hair dominating self. ^_^ -
Review from Marineh B.
San Francisco, CA
2/13/2009
Wes is an artist. As soon as you walk into his boutique, you are greeted by the most adorable tiny dog. Comfy and tasteful decor. Very cute european feel. I felt very welcomed. He spends as much one on one time with you as necessary to make you happy with your cut and color. He will sit with you for a while and educate you and give his honest opinions before he starts. He's also a very interesting person and keeps you laughing. He'll feel like a friend. Not just a random hair stylist.
I went to Wes for a cut, base color and highlights. Everything came out perfect! I mean.. perfect! I'm very happy with my hair cut, color and the service I was given. I will be going back to Oh la la for all my hair styling needs. I've already referred a couple people to him. Can't say enough positive things from my experience. -
Review from Sheila W.
San Francisco, CA
4/12/2008
Want a make over? Go see Wes!
I had very long, thick, curly and FRIZZY hair. I rarely wore my hair down and either tied it back or in a bun. I went to see Wes to cut my hair...I was thinking 2 inches but then Wes tempted me by saying, "Do you want to try something new?" I said, "Why? Did you get some great ideas while in London?" and he said, "Of course, and I have one for you." Because he had credibility from previous visits (introducing dramatic highlights), I went for it!
I LOVE my new look! It wasn't just a trim but a total makeover!!! My friends didn't recognize me (in a good way).
BTW - Brazilian Wax is recommended here...for those of us who don't enjoy pain, there is topical that is used to numb the sensitive area. ;-)
A little pricey but well worth it, Wes is also an expert with styling! Nobody has come close to his expertise.
