The Best 12 Hair Salons in Palo Alto, San Mateo (part 2)

Alice Lola Grace I had an AMAZING experience getting a facial from Eliana and then I came back the next day to get a hair cut from Loiy. I saw HUGE differences in my skin and the massage I received with the facial was so relaxing! I walked out with my previously dry and blemished skin looking soooo much more smooth and it has a glow I had not seen in my skin for years. If it is your first time you can get a 20% discount as well! Highly recommend As for my haircut, Loiy gave me the haircut I was dreaming of! I wanted a very particular short hair cut that is more masculine and previous salons I visited told me they couldn’t do a ‘barber cut’ on a woman… However, this was not the case at Vizavoo. When I told Loiy what I wanted, he completely understood and gave me EXACTLY what I was looking for (see photo) THANK YOU LOIY AND ELIANA

Meghana Nallapareddy I highly recommend Vizavoo salon. Not only do they provide excellent service, but everyone in the salon is super friendly. Hudy is a fantastic hairstylist. She is the only person I trust to cut and style my thick curly hair -- (naturally, blowout, straightened, she can do it all). She is also very accommodating. After my last haircut, I wasnt quite satisfied with the shape of my curls, and she offered to fix it for free. I found Vizavoo because they were the only place to have an appointment available during the holiday season, but because of their high quality service, I will now be returning as a regular customer.

Whitney Owens BEWARE LASH LADY. I am absolutely mortified by my eyelash experience. I kept being poked in the lash line over and over again. I asked her to put the end of the lash further away from my line. I don’t think she understood and kept poking me saying “this is the way I always do it, they are beautiful”. She gave me a mirror at the end and I can’t believe how bad they are. When I blink i can feel every lash poking my eye. Some are even stuck onto the lid itself. They are uneven, stuck, not even round. Not lifted. I don’t understand how she’s had any luck with this method? I just left crying! I have an event to go to and they are crooked and burn. I have been getting them done for years with full voluminous experience. It felt disorganized in her moving back and forth and didn’t even meticulously go through each lash. I am in pain and disbelief. In addition, the place smelled of burnt hair when I walked in. It was overwhelming and I asked if the eyelash room was somewhere else. Had to ask her to shut the door it smelled awful. I am so disappointed. I have never had such a terrible experience in my life. Stuff of my nightmares. You can’t mess around with your eyes. Do not go.

Audrey Gao Got a Brazilian Blow out with Loiy! He paid special attention to my roots to make sure my blowout still had volume. I walled in with frizzy, bleach damaged hair, and walked out with the softest, shiniest hair of my life . Highly, highly recommend Loiy!

Mallika Bhandari I cannot say more wonderful things about Vanessa and Alexis at S&W. Vanessa is a wonderful hair dresser, who listens to your needs & comes with clear + creative solutions. I’ve gone to her several time now, and particularly love the way her cuts grow out — I never feel icky in between appointments. Alexis: I’m specifically writing this review because I know you (reader)! You’re trying to find who you can trust with something that you keep on your face every single day. I haven’t colored my hair in years, and was a little unsure when I came to see Alexis. She thought about it, took her time, and created a wonderful color palette for me. I’m really grateful for the time, attention, and care both these ladies have given me, and highly encourage you to check them out!

Edson Jiménez Went in for a haircut and got a shorter cut than expected. With that said, 2 weeks of it growing out and me getting more used to it, its probably the best haircut Ive ever had! Theres a lot of layers and movement which help make the haircut look natural and organic. Ive got naturally wavy hair and this haircut really shows em off. Excited to see how this continues to grow out. Thank you!

Greta Mueller I recently visited Isabella and had an absolutely extraordinary experience!! She has such an impressive knowledge of hair coloring and effortlessly delivered exactly what I needed. She recommended the perfect shade and technique that suited me best, resulting in vibrant, glossy, and natural-looking hair.The overall experience was outstanding, and I highly recommend Isabella if youre looking for a highly skilled colorist who truly understands and cares about her clients needs. You wont be disappointed!

Annelies Gamble Ive been going to Kaycee for my color for 5+ years and I dont know where to even begin with how much I love her, and what shes done with my hair! My hair is the healthiest its ever been and yet I get highlights every few months. Kaycee knows exactly what to do. I dont need to give her any direction and she just does it. She changes it slightly every time, especially based on the seasons. It is so natural and doesnt require any upkeep. Whenever I meet someone who doesnt know me, they think Im naturally blonde. And if/when I tell them I get highlights, they always want to know where I get them done! KAYCEE IS THE BEST! And Spoke and Weal in general is amazing. I go there for my haircuts too and I just cant say enough good things. They pamper you. The scalp massage is amazing and their blow-outs are beautiful!!!

Dena Smolek So happy I found Spoke & Weal. Kaycee and Lindsey are super-talented and I love spending time with them while getting my hair done. I’ve been going to them for a few years now. COLOR: Kaycee is such a good colorist. It’s an art and she does it so well. When I want to make a drastic color change or just brighten things up a bit, she’s game. CUT: Lindsey is so meticulous with her dry cut skills. Whether it’s a trim, touch-up in between cuts, or a major chop (I’ve done all of those with her), I am always psyched with the results. I love spending time here. It’s a beautiful bright space, light and airy, with super-high ceilings. Side note: The Fiddle Leaf Fig tree in the front is incredible. Highly recommend Kaycee, Lindsey and their team.

Koko Ko I had a great experience at La Belle hair salon. Oksana carefully listened to what I wanted and gave me the perfect haircut, the best i had in years! She is a super skillful professional and did an amazing job! The highlights are absolutely stunning—subtle yet vibrant, and they blend so naturally with my hair. I’ve received so many compliments already! The attention to detail and the care Oksana took to ensure I was happy with the results were exceptional. I’ll definitely be coming back.

Veronica Sandoval I have been coming to La Belle for many years to see Chuck for my deep tissue massage. The staff are always nice and helpful. The massage is always amazing and therapeutic for me. Highly recommend this spa overall. I have a facial here before and it was one of the best I have had.

Melissa LaBelle is the best spa on the peninsula. Always friendly and helpful staff and excellent service providers. Facials are excellent and it’s my go to nail place.

Noelle Ritter Had another great facial with Julie! Shes very thorough and kind. I will continue to recommend Julie and LaBelle to my friends and family. I wish LaBelle would add the Dazzle Dry nail care line so I could get my mani/pedis at LaBelle instead of the other high end spa that charges $130.

Alika Serrato Sean greeted us at the door and made sure every step of our spa experience was phenomenal. I had easily one of the best massages of my life thanks to Hana. She had incredible levels of strength and really got deep behind my shoulder blades and worked on some knots that have been traveling with me for a while. She was so thorough and went over every part of me. I absolutely feel like a new human. I will absolutely be back when in town. I also met Zara on the way out, so friendly and helpful. They absolutely treat you like family.

Tim Waymouth This place rocks!! Tracy was my hair stylist and she reminds me of my asian aunties (but nicer). As a man with mid length hair getting a good cut is a struggle and she nailed it. The amazing service combined with the competitive pricing truly makes this salon one of a kind. I will definitely be going back!!

Cole Lawson Got a cut and perm done by Julie and I couldn’t be happier. Everyone in the salon is so nice and accommodating and I felt very comfortable and taken care of. This is now going to be my only place to go to get my hair done, I showed her a picture of what I wanted and she did it perfectly even though my hair is difficult to work with. Cám ơn!!

Austin R Great place for a haircut in Palo Alto, with a variety of before or after work time options that make it very convenient for the busy/working person! Tracy has great attention to detail and always does a high quality job.

Nguyen Chuong Vo Both times I’ve come here, they ask me to show them pictures. The pictures was of a longer hairstyle and my hair was pretty long so they could have just trimmed it. They always ignored whatever the picture were and gave me a really short men haircut. Both times. Two different hairdressers. It’s the same hairstyle that could be achieved at a 15-20 dollar mom and pop shop that children and elderly Asian men go to. If that’s your style, go there and save the extra 30 bucks.

John Qiu Had a great haircut with Tracy - I was going from long to short hair and she stayed late and took extra time to make sure the new hairstyle looked good. Very reasonably priced and also enjoyed the shampoo with neck/shoulder massage.

Kaui DeMarzo Great place. Owner Dri is super talented and polite. Love this place. Loysl customer for over five years and counting! My husband switched from his stylist if 20+ years to Dri. My sons all go to him. He has cut my hair when it was long (down to the middle of my back) and short (clippers used). Hes an artist no doubt. I am so happy that I am his client. Never changing from Dri. Hes a neighborhood gem for sure. (Updated 8/2023)

Nisha Gopal Glory is the best hair stylist Ive ever gone to, attentive, caring, thoughtful and generous. She listens to what i want and need and understands my style. Ive always had a good experience, and when something didnt work for me she is also very generous and receptive to that too. Highly recommend!

Reiki InUnison This is my favorite salon. The owner is very attentive to the client’s needs, is well informed about styles and trends, offers a personalized treatment. The salon is in a wonderful location, surrounded by cafes, restaurants and small businesses making it great to have lunch or dinner after your appointment. I greatly recommend it!

Sunia Palejwala I typically never leave a review but I thought Dri and his salon deserved one. I’ve been searching for a colorist for six months since moving to the Bay Area from Miami and finally was recommended to casual chic salon. To say I’m picky about my hair color would be an understatement and Dri exceeded my expectation through his coloring knowledge and technique. He listened to exactly what I asked for to be corrected by my previous stylist and delivered phenomenally on what I asked for! Highly highly recommend going to him.

Sophie Ravel Best hairdresser I have in this country so far. Dri has done my hair for over 7 years

Mak KALBERER I have gone to many stylist over the years, found Ngoc almost by accident and so happy that I did. Just this year she was out for several months and I had to go to someone else who was highly recommended, but to be honest, she does a much better job than this expensive recommendation in the City. Maybe my hair is a little trickier because it’s kind of curly, but not extremely. Not the cheapest haircut but definitely after several weeks after the haircut growing out I’m always grateful that I went to Ngoc! and 18/8

Jason Moe Jessicas a pro. First time there, and she did a great job. I explained what I was looking for, and she got it right away. Good haircut, no messing around. She also gave me some tips on how to keep it looking good, which was helpful. Definitely recommend her.

Spenser Luau This is the best salon for haircuts. Ngoc is a super stylist and I am fortunate to have chosen her as my personal barber. Drinks are available for guests while waiting and everyone is treated well.

David Morales The friendliness and environment at this place was very welcoming. Vanessa cut my hair and she did a wonderful job, listening to how I wanted my hair cut, and doing exactly that while being nice and professional. Her experience as a barber/hairstylist shone through easily. I’ll be coming back in the future and recommending this place to others as well!

Mike Sandler Susan is an exceptional hairdresser! Her attention to detail, skill, and creativity make every visit a pleasure. She listens carefully to what you want and delivers flawless results, whether it’s a simple trim or a complete transformation. The atmosphere in her salon is welcoming, and she ensures you leave feeling confident and refreshed. Highly recommend Susan for anyone looking for a true professional who genuinely cares about her clients!

Sehej Johar Extremely good price for the area to accommodate local students - $30 for full face threading! I love how my eyebrows turned out and it was much less painful than what I usually experience. Thank you so much!

Nadim Kassymov Amazing and friendly staff! They were very kind, gentle, and quick. I really enjoyed my time here.

Stephanie Strozier Radhika Beauty Salon is truly a gem! They are experts at everything they do—whether its threading, henna application, or waxing, the team here always delivers superb service. Their threading technique is precise and gentle, giving me perfect brows every time. The henna application is beautiful and intricate, with stunning designs that last. And when it comes to waxing, they are thorough and make the process as comfortable as possible. The staff is friendly, professional, and always makes you feel welcome. I highly recommend Radhika Beauty Salon for all your beauty needs!

Teresa Heinen Took only half the time anticipated. Results were good but not perfect - great service for this price though

Nina Jhaveri Really appreciate everyone here for efficiency with services like waxing (a trademark approach in Indian beauty care - you’re meant to be in and out) but also quality relaxation with things like head massages!

True Crime Alert Worst experience in hair salon for root touch up. All they do is color so shouldnt be hard. Stylist put dark brown blotchy color on my auburn hair with blond highlights. She did not bring out color chart to match my hair or ask my opinion. I trusted her as all they do is color so shouldnt be rocket science. Now I have permanent dark blotchy brown on part of my hair looks ridiculous. To take off permanent color is damaging expensive. The salon does not answer phone. Warning stay away.

Jessica Alba Several years ago, I had to stop getting my hair dyed at hair salons because the chemicals turned my scalp itchy and bumpy. I was lucky to find Madison Reed at that time. Ive been a loyal customer ever since and love coming in every four weeks to cover my growing grays. Ive been a regular in SF, Campbell and Sunnyvale (slowly getting closer to my home) and was thrilled to learn that the Palo Alto salon had opened. I can now bike to my appointments and meet the wonderful staff in a lovely spot in the Stanford Shopping Center. See you in a couple of weeks, crew!

Amal M. Levin Mixed Experience Ive been a customer at Madison Reed at the Palo Alto location since they first opened, and my overall experience has been okay, though not without its issues. Hair Color: Initially, the color they recommended was too light, which didnt effectively cover my gray hair. It took several visits and requests for them to adjust the shade to something darker, finally matching the rest of my hair and covering the gray properly. However, Ive noticed that the darker colors tend to stain towels, sheets, and pillows, despite their explanation that its typical for dark colors to do so, which seems inconvenient. Hairstyling: I opted for a blow dry service, which was fantastic the first time I tried it. Unfortunately, subsequent visits have been disappointing as I often get hairstylists who seem inexperienced and untrained. It feels like my appointments are being used as training sessions, which wastes my time and money. Unless I can specifically book with the skilled assistant manager who originally styled my hair, I wont be using their hairstyling services again. Atmosphere: The salon atmosphere leaves something to be desired. It lacks a welcoming and positive vibe. The staff dont seem very enthusiastic or friendly, which impacts the overall experience negatively. Overall, while Madison Reed has its strengths in hair color customization and initial hairstyling experiences, the inconsistency in color recommendation, the issue with dark color staining, and the lackluster atmosphere make it difficult for me to wholeheartedly recommend them.

Diem Le I am a huge fan of Madison Reed Palo Alto ! Linda is the best! She helped me adjust my color to better fit my needs and I love my new look!! If youre looking for a color expert who listens and understands and delivers magoc, ask for Linda!

Marisa Peters Freddie was my colorist and he was excellent! Made suggestions for my hair type & coloring which were spot on. He’s also an avid reader of author Anne Rice as am I. Also had the very best head massage ever by the amazing hair washer. I love singing the Praises & logic of just going to Madison Reid , their excellent products & their employees can’t be beat!

Leslie I requested permanent straightening but was given Botox capilar without being informed. While the treatment was done well, it wasn’t what I wanted

Michelle Ayala This place was good they had multiple stuff like lashes and they give haircuts.

Johana Soto This was my go to salon, they did my eyebrows really well and I liked the workers, but one day I decided to go and as I was walking into the salon the door was locked so I knocked and they said they were closed, but it was 6:30??? and on google it says they close at 8:00. Anyways I went back inside my car and was going through social media when I look up and someone knocked on the door and they let them inside and a few other people too. I was so angry that I wanted to go and complain, but I decided not to. Never going to that place again. UGH.

Angela Juarez Love it there!!! They are very profesional, súper friendly you feel welcomed once you step in, the stylists are always busy but they do a very professional work, when planing on doing color on hair better to make an appointment. They also do make up they do it very well just take a photo of what type of make up you will like or what clothes you will be Wearing to help them see the best look for you. If you have a hair style you will like to have they will let you know if that particular style goes with you or not. So to make it simple is a very nice place super family friendly atmosphere. Just remember bring cash. If not they have an ATM inside.

rlarios02 I called and talked to jasmine to make an appointment with her, she told me she had an opening at 11am so I booked that time. I showed up at 10:55 am and she told me she a little behind if I could wait, since I saw she was almost done with the current haircut I said yes. 15 min later I looked inside and saw that she was giving another person a hair cut and just ignored me. Dont trust jasmines appointments as she doesnt respect them.

K.P. Phung I’ve been getting my hair cut by Peter at Midtown Hair Studio for over 10 years, and I can confidently say he’s the best in the business! Peter is a true artist who doesn’t just cut hair—he sculpts it to perfectly complement the shape of your head and your personal style. His attention to detail and ability to understand exactly what you’re looking for is unmatched. Every time I leave his chair, I feel confident and refreshed. Not only is Peter incredibly talented, but he’s also a genuinely kind and professional person who makes the entire experience enjoyable. If you’re looking for a stylist who will make you look and feel your absolute best, I highly recommend Peter. You won’t be disappointed!

Marton Jojarth I have been going to Dziem for my monthly hair cut for over 10 years. She also cuts the hair of my kids. Dziem is absolutely kind and wonderful person. Our entire family loves her and her work! My daughter especially likes the fancy braids she can make!

Ann Protter About ten years ago I stumbled across Midtown Hair Salon. On my first visit I noticed a man walking out with a haircut by Peter. I was so impressed that Ive been coming back ever since. My son got his hair cut by Peter too. Peter knows how to cut both women and mens hair. I love my Peter haircuts and love how convenient and easy it is to get here, and the prices are just right.

Mabel Yiu I’ve been going to Peter for several years, and he never disappoints! He’s incredibly skilled at styling, cutting, and dyeing hair, and I always leave feeling amazing. Peter truly listens to what I want and consistently delivers flawless results. I couldn’t recommend him enough for anyone looking for a talented and reliable hairstylist!

David K. Liu If youre a dude who gets haircuts every 2 - 4 weeks because you like a short and crispy fade then ask for Peter. I been to every reasonably price place around Palo Alto for the past 10 years and hes the one. Thank me later !

Erika Farmer I’ve been going here for haircuts for years. It took a little bit to find the best stylist for me, but Marie is amazing! She listens to what I want and makes super helpful suggestions, and she remembers my preferences. All of this good service and good haircuts plus the very reasonable prices keep me coming back.

P Z Alert! ⚠️ I want to share a troubling experience I had at a hair International salon located at Stanford shopping center. I took my 3-year-old for a haircut, and they used thinning scissors throughout the entire cut, which resulted in damage to his hair and scalp. When I addressed this issue with the manager, her rude response was completely unacceptable. To make matters worse, I noticed they added a tip without my consent after I had already paid. The following day, I reached out to the owner (Pam) via text to express my concerns, but instead of addressing the matter professionally, she threatened to call security on me if I entered the shopping center. It is astounding that such a business is allowed to operate in our community. As a doctor and a mother, I wholeheartedly believe in treating others with respect. I feel it is my duty to inform others about my experience to help prevent similar situations. We all deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. If you have had a similar experience, I strongly encourage you to report it to the police.

Nancy Perez Hair international did a professional and intricate job with my long hair. I went in for a trim and some styling. Renee knew exactly how to work with my wavy hair and added the right volume I wanted. I’m very happy with the results and would recommend to a friend.

TutorNita STEM I got Agave hair treatment done, the specialist Caroline Gibson is amazing. She was patient, gave me a few tips, did the treatment with extreme care and caution. I loved my the entire process and time. I recommend to see Caroline Gibson for any hair service, with the personality, priority for customer service and knowledge she has is truly exceptional. The reason I am so impressed with Caroline is before this I got the same treatment done with Maryam. Last year, Maryim was all the time on the phone, and ended up not doing well while charging very high amount. Please see Caroline and Hair International maintains good products.

Maria McLennan I have been going to Karla at Drybar for a couple years-first at the Santana Row location, now at Palo Alto. I purchased a Barfly membership because I go to Drybar twice a month. Karla always does an excellent job-strangers often stop me to compliment my hair and ask where I get it done. She is professional, personable and very capable as the manager too. I can’t recommend her and Drybar enough! On one occasion when Karla wasn’t available, Erika did my hair. She was very receptive to my specific instructions and requests, and I was very happy with the job she did too.

Emri F I came here over a month ago visiting the area with a friend before heading back to Chicago, and I had the greatest time. We both immediately were taken care of, and the gal who did my hair, Natalie, was one of the kindest people I have ever gotten the pleasure of meeting. She is unbelievably genuine and incredible at doing hair because it came out perfectly & I felt infinite after our interaction and seeing my hair. There was no better way to start my morning in such a beautiful city. I felt lucky. Anyway, I highly recommend her because her spirit was electric, and you’ll leave feeling super hot afterwards!

Rachel Lader Fun place to go! I went before a holiday party to treat myself. The only thing is I wish they used a bitttttt less product because I felt like my hair was weighed down a lot. It seemed like they weren’t really sure what to use given specific hair types and more had general heavy hairspray! I’m sure service varies person to person though and I’d definitely return with some girl friends!

aman gahotla Air conditioner wasnt working on a day when its 100 degrees?!! Also, i asked to add a braid to my hair, for a dry styling service my stylist kept saying we’ll see if we have time, she spent 15 minutes on my hair and then told me sorry i cant for a braid that would have taken just 5 minutes. I have been to many drybar locations this one was the worst!

Annie Worthington Alicia has been a one-of-a-kind stylist for me! I am constantly in awe in how all the stylists here listen to what I want and they deliver! Alicia is another stylist to add to the group of superb stylists here! The whole staff is attentive, customer-focused, and quite talented.. Also, a shoutout to Yuliana for always offering water, checking me in on time, and with a smile. Thank you Palo Alto Dry Bar team! Annie