Loved my experience at Essence Salon. Mary is fantastic and my hair cut is beautiful. I am coming back for hi-lights. I definitely recommend Essence Salon! read more

After having the General Manager reach out to me about my dissatisfaction, I can now say this Salon really does care about their customers!! They will make sure you are happy in the end. read more

I got a haircut from Grace and I couldn't be happier. I got curtain bangs for the first time and she did such a good job. She was very meticulous about everything and took her time to make sure it shaped my face well. She was also very patient with me when we were discussing what I wanted and she made sure to keep checking in with me throughout the process to see if she needed to make minor changes. I absolutely love my new hair and its length and would very much recommend Grace's expertise. She knows what she's doing :) read more

This review is for NATASHA! She is just amazing, I have been coming here since May. I had stuck to my favorite salon for years and only was looking for another one since my stylist moved out of the bay area. I was looking to get a balayage and had researched alot of places in and around PA, Menlo and MV, I am so happy that I picked Essence salon and Natasha, she was very patient while I was explaining what I wanted and gave me correct advice keeping my type of hair and my monthly root touch ups in mind. I loved my balayage and still loving it, she gave me perfect length as I decided to go shorter. While talking to her I could sense she is knowledgeable and understands the color and how to match it with skin tone and type of hair. Every-time I come here she is very pleasant to talk to and very modest. read more

Got my hair cut and toned with Mary again and I'm so happy with the results! I always go to her and she always makes sure I feel comfortable and heard, I feel very confident in expressing the changes I want done she's very easy to talk to. Got exactly what I wanted and more would highly recommend her!! read more

The hair dresser and front desk assistant were very nice and welcoming, so I appreciate the environment a lot. However, the hair dresser didn't seem to know how to cut either the style I asked for or just in general. I asked for longer, subtle front bangs and layers. The bangs were not blended into the rest of the hair cut at all and the overall cut was done with straight across cuts - no layers. I asked separately again for layering but ultimately left the salon with no layers. After leaving, I had fix the haircut at home because the left and right sides were visibly misaligned in length. read more

Jennifer gave me the best haircut I've ever had. I've flown to the Bay Area to get my hair cut by her. With hardly any direction she was able to come up with a style that looked great on me. I'm confident that if anyone came in with a more concrete idea of what they were looking for she'd be able to execute it flawlessly. I can't recommend her highly enough. read more

I love getting my hair cut and color with Grace. She always does an amazing job. I never have to worry the cut being too short. Highly recommend Grace read more

Got a hair today for the first time since Covid, my hair was terribly broken in between, damaged and covered in split ends and tangled and I have really long hair. My stylist Grace did an amazing job transforming the mess into a much cleaner and layered look, she even curled and styled my hair after the cut to show me styling tips and really bring out the texture and layers that she put into the haircut. She was absolutely lovely to chat and talk to and took my every comment and opinion into consideration and managed to give me a new fresh look without taking my length away. read more

Essence Salon - Hair Woman's Cut - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California

Everyone was super nice and welcoming! I got highlights for the first time at my usual salon but I didn't like how it came out. Too bright for my skin tone, I got a toner and a root melt here which helped me feel a lot more like myself again. Super kind staff and very professional! I'll definitely be going here again :) read more

I have been seeing Grace for two years. I came to her after having my hair nearly destroyed by another stylist with whatever she was doing in my color process. Grace rehabilitated my hair within a few months. She always listens to me and comes through with whatever new color or style I want to experiment with. I frequently get compliments, especially on my hair color. She is so kind and attentive, and I always enjoy my hair appointments. read more

This place is a gem. I found essence on yelp. After reading all the great reviews on hair color corrections- I had to try out this place. My hair was so damaged from my last hair salon visit (2 weeks ago) at Dollhouse. I don't recommend AnnaRosa. When I called the salon, one of the receptionists who helped me was so sweet and helpful. When I explained to her my hair horror story, she was emphatic and comforting; she quickly recommended Brandon. I'm glad she did! He's a skilled stylist who understands hair and top quality. He transformed my hair from frail, fried, and damaged to smooth, shiny, curly-hair. I'm so happy I finally found a great stylist! read more

Essence Salon - Before (left) and after (right) pics. Brandon saved my hair! - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California

I went to essence to get a hair cut based on a recommendation from a friend. I loved the hair cut I got from Tricia. She really listened to what I wanted and managed to give the exactly that. This made me want to go back, and I went in for full highlights with Mary and she was just as delightful. Really listened to my requests, helped me pick a color based on my current hair texture and I love it! Would recommend:) read more

Had the best experience with Carol, if you book with her you will not be disappointed. I went in with really long dark brown hair and asked for a honey blonde baylayage. Before the appointment she was honest about what she thought was capable with my dark hair, and upon seeing my hair in person she was able to achieve exactly what I asked for! Great service and I couldn't be more satisfied with how my hair turned out, will definitely return :) read more

Essence Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California

Everyone is super nice. Tricia is amazing! Would recommend this place in a heart beat

First timer- needed a root touch up for more than 1 inch long greys. Had a consultation appointment befor the actual treatment. Jimmy is a good listener and he understood what I wanted to do. I had done Brazilian blowout before 3 months so wanted him to use products that will not be too harsh on my chemically treated hair. My hair was used to L'Oréal majirel before but he did a color match with Schwarzkopf. Today was the actual treatment day and I can't be more happy with how it went. I reached 15 mins before time thinking that I can wait but I didn't have to as Jimmy was right there to attend me. He patiently applied the decided the color. After the wash he did ask if I want to just blow dry or would like to try curls. I was happy with the offer and then he actually did beach waves for my hair. It turned out so well. My look was completely changed and I was looking more younger. Thank so much for the wonderful first time experience. I would definitely recommend this salon and Jimmy both. Definitely coming back. read more

Essence Salon - Full grey hair coverage with beach wave styled - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California

Natasha is a MIRACLE WORKER! I am SO happy I found her! Long story below: I called Essence Salon on a Sunday, desperate for a color correction from a horrible highlight job I had gotten the night before at a different salon (super uneven, chunky yellow/orange tones, rather than the cool, icy blonde I asked for--see pics). The receptionist was so sweet and understanding, and she had me come right in for a consultation with Natasha. Out of the goodness of her heart, she took me in later that day. Natasha was careful to explain to me that she didn't want to damage my hair any further and would do what she could that day, but I would need to come back in a few weeks for more work on it. Even so, I left that day with amazing hair! I couldn't believe what she was able to do. And when I came back a few weeks later, I was once again amazed at how she was able to turn the pictures I showed her into reality. Natasha is a great listener and will work with you to come up with a plan to give you what you want done to your hair. She really cares about the integrity and health of your hair, and she has a strong understanding of the chemistry and science behind all things hair. She does a great job of explaining it to you, too. I won't trust my hair with anyone else now that I have found her! On top of her expertise, Natasha is truly one of the sweetest people I have ever met. She is kind, caring, funny, super trendy, and a true professional. I cannot recommend her highly enough. The salon itself is beautiful, comfortable, and everyone there has been so kind. I am now a loyal customer! read more

Essence Salon - Color correction by Natasha. She is a miracle worker and I won't trust anyone else with my hair now! - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California

I got my hair done by Jennifer. She did a wonderful job with my hair and layered in perfectly. I've gone to many salons in the past years and have never liked the layered cut as much as Jennifer's. She definitely takes her time and pays attention to detail, would recommend highly ! read more

Newly moved to mountain view and was looking for a salon/ stylist who can work with short hair. It is a little on the pricey side but the best salon I have been to. Take a chance if it is your first time. You won't be disappointed. read more

MARY EXCEEDED MY EXPECTATIONS! GO TO MARY IF YOU NEED COLORING AND/OR HAVE CURLY HAIR! Mary spent 3+ hours fixing a balayage that had gone wrong. She picked out every clump and did a reverse balayage and fixed my hair perfectly. She precisely selected thin and even portions of my hair and made it look amazing. She was so professional and reassuring. She even fixed my haircut! She knew exactly how to work with curly hair, and her attention it detail was phenomenal. I highly recommend Mary for coloring services and haircuts, and if you have curly hair she is amazing. I am highly looking forward to my next visit with Mary and give 5 stars for her expertise. read more

This review is for Laura. My stylists moved a bit far from where I lived so I was shopping around Mountain View for a new stylist until a friend recommend Laura. Laura recommended more layering which I wasn't used to but I went with it. After the first wash & air dry, I honestly didn't love it neither do I hate it. My hair was naturally frizzy and wavy so bits of hair stuck out at odd places. The next wash, I decided to blow it out semi dry, which took me less than 5 min and I'm so glad I did because the cut looked totally different, with soft layers at all the right places! I LOVE IT! Even though it isn't a wash & air dry cut the super lazy me was used to. It is still a very low maintenance style which I absolutely love. read more

Essence Salon - Cut is versatile. Side parting. - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California

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I love my haircut that was done by Sachie. She's so knowledgeable and so gentle with my hair. After the haircut, I decided to treat my hair better because she really inspired me to do so. Now I can't wait for my hair to grow longer again so I can get another haircut from her. Thanks, Sachie! :) read more

Just had my hair washed/massaged, cut, dried and styled by Kayla. My experience with her was amazing. Very well seasoned hairstylist who knew a lot about Different hair texture and different hairstyles. Probably one of the best hairstylist I had my hair cut from in the Bay Area. Kayla made me feel right at home with her warm personality. Speaking to her was like picking up right where I left off with an old friend. Her head massages are phenomenal and she really listened to my idea and vision for my haircut / hair color style. This hair salon is not like your ordinary hair salon. This hair salon is meant for people who know exactly what they want and expect a well rounded, well seasoned hairstylist to completely deliver their vision to life. Their prices are not obnoxious either. This place is a Goldmine for those who are looking for good quality in downtown Mountain View. #goldspot #mylittlesecret read more

I found this place on google and some fine reviews so I give a try and I was surprised loved the hairstyle Jennifer did a great job she is so professional and very friendly she listens to you and gives a beautiful haircut of your desire.one who looking for a best haircut I would definitely recommend her. read more

Updated review: Although I still stand by what I wrote in the original review, I do appreciate the manager reaching out to me by phone to try to remedy the situation. He showed dedication to both his customers and his business, and I was impressed by that. ------ Do not see Sachie if you have super-straight hair. I have incredibly straight hair, and she told me at the end of the haircut that it was incredibly difficult to cut my hair because it was so straight, and that it was "one of her hardest haircuts ever." Based on the results, it is clear that she struggled with cutting my hair. The layers are not blended, everything looks choppy. I had to go back to my old salon to get it fixed, and they told me the layers were so butchered that it would take a second fix-it haircut in a few months to fully remedy what happened. Very disapponge read more

I called and booked an appointment the day before and everyone here was so nice! Shakayla was super professional and gave me what I asked for and she helped me touch up my color. I'd had a horrible week and she made me feel so much better! Lindsay at the front desk was so nice too! Happy to have found a salon I can trust. Great vibes. read more

Jennifer and her team continue to get better and better with every visit. After jumping from salon to salon over a decade ago I happened to walk into this small owner/operator salon on and my then girlfriend approved of her haircut. It was only 2 chairs, and maybe 1/3 of the size that it is today. Over the years I've watched Jennifer grow her team, renovate/update the salon, then expand into the unit next door, moved her entire operation across Castro to a temporary salon while serious renovations were happening. They did not cut any corners and invested in top of the line salon equipment such as leather-wrapped adjustable shampoo stations, Dyson hair driers, and most importantly the lighting in the space had to be neutral but bright to show true color. Today, Essence is buzzing with activity and every time I walk in I'm greeted with smiles. The ownership and team here ensure everyone who walks through their door receives a five-star experience, and I am excited to see what this team does in the coming 10 years. read more

Jimmy did an awesome job! The salon is a little small/cramped but worth it. Offered me some water as soon as I came in and Jimmy was right on time. Will definitely go back!! read more

Essence Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California

I've been coming to Essence Salon for a little over a year now and the service is exceptional! I now see Grace for my haircuts and color. When I came to her with a unique request of red highlights, she was thrilled and worked her magic on my hair! This is by far my favorite color I've ever had! Grace is a perfectionist and she always leaves me feeling refreshed and more like myself. Thank you Grace and Essence Salon! read more

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Awesome job by Jennifer. great attention to detail. My go to place for hair cut. Really worth it. I love getting my haircut here. Highly recommend it. read more

I had a great experience at Essence when I went in for my haircut. Yessenia listened carefully to my request, made really good suggestions and was very friendly. She explained each step to me as we went along and checked in to see if things looks good so far! Absolutely love my new hair! Will come back here the next time read more

Laura was very nice and did exactly what I asked for. She was super friendly aexplaining to me what she was doing by every step. I'll be going back UPDATE - I'm going down to three stars. Called in to a new appointment and discovered Laura was no longer working there. I accepted the recommendation and scheduled with Sachie. She was very nice and everything, but the haircut just didn't work for me, my hair turn out a big mess. read more

I got my hair highlighted for the first time and it turned out beautifully. I didn't really know how to describe what I wanted so I just sent in a picture and it turned out exactly like it! The people were super nice and it looks beautiful. read more

Essence Salon - here is how it turned out! - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California

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Highly recommend! I normally get anxious when getting a haircut but Jennifer made the entire process enjoyable. I really appreciate how she paid great attention and care to my hair and throughout the entire time she would check to ensure the cut matches what I want. Aside from cutting my hair to how I wanted it, she also gave good suggestions and considered how I would normally style it on a daily basis. Jennifer is very professional and really knows her stuff very well! Will definitely come back again! read more

I came to Essence Salon for hair cut with Grace for years since after pandemic. Every time, Grace listens patiently about what I would like and does a wonderful job cutting and layering my hair and style it just the way I want it. Both of my daughters come here for haircut as well, and they both love it. Thanks! read more

I went to Essence for the first time today. Natasha did a GREAT job on my color. She made sure I understood the whole process and was okay with what the outcome would likely be. I was comfortable and excited the whole time. Natasha is fantastic at what she does and I will go back to her (and likely bring my daughter as well). This salon is deserving of more than 5 stars. They are friendly and made sure I was comfortable throughout my whole time there. The experience you get at Essence is unmatched. You will not be disappointed if you go there. read more

Review for visit 9/2014: It had been a year and a half since I last cut my hair. It went all the way down to my belly button, and I really needed a change. I called the salon on Thursday asking if I could book an appointment for Saturday. At first I thought it was too late of a notice since the salon seems to be popular. However, the lady on the phone said they had some openings, which was a relief. She asked who I wanted as my stylist, and I honestly didn't care who I got because I wasn't really strict on what I actually wanted done with my hair. She gladly accepted that answer and had me down for 11:00am. Since Essence was undergoing a renovation, they had to temporary relocate their office. After I made my appointment, the lady on the phone texted me a confirmation of my booking and also gave me straight forward directions to their relocation. That was very nice. Saturday came and I walked in. I was immediately greeted at the door and brought to the back, seated, and was told Mike would be taking care of me today. Mike was everything I needed in a stylist. He greeted me with enthusiasm, asked about my hair's current condition, and what I wanted. All I said was that I wanted bangs, and I think he got excited because he had free creative reign with tons of hair. He examined my hair and face shape again and explained in many details what he can do and what he was actually going to do. He even asked me if I was okay with his plans, just so we're all on the same page. I really appreciated his energy and care! The whole hair cutting process was great. He was gentle and I could see the concentration in his face in getting everything just right. We did a fair bit of small talk, but honestly, sometimes I just like sitting there quietly in the chair, and he was fine with that too. It never felt awkward either, so that was great. It took 1.5 hours to wash, cut, dry, and style my hair. I definitely recommend Mike if you're looking for someone personable, who knows hair, and is there to make you feel good about it. Review for visit 12/2014: I revisited Essence after their remodel. The place is a lot bigger, roomier, and very nicely lit! I went in to have my hair dyed with a balayage ombre. It was the first time I was going to get it done professionally in a salon, and with a style that can leave a lot of room for mistakes, so I was a bit unsure of what my experience was going to be like. Luckily, my experience was awesome because Brandon took great care of me. He was enthusiastic, very gentle with my hair, and took his time explaining to me what he was doing, what products he was putting in my hair, and gave me expectations of what I should see after a couple of days. The process took close to 3 hours, but it was well worth the time. My hair came out a beautiful color. He even took the time to put in some curls so I could see all the layers of colors he had added. read more

Essence Salon - Balayage ombre (by Brandon) - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California

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Violet is a miracle worker! My hair is SO soft and shiny after every appointment and it keeps on getting better with every visit. I do Olaplex and Fusio-Dose treatments with my trims. read more

Essence Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California

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A summer staple is short hair! That's why I come again!! Carol is such a sweetheart, who was the stylist for me this time. It took around 45mins and everything goes well. She gave me a lot of suggestions for the haircut and how to take good care of my hair in daily life. I love my new haircut and surely recommend this sweet stylist read more

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I traveled from Hayward to see if this place was worth it and I have to say it was completely worth it.!!!!!!! Jennifer cut my hair so beautifully that I just can't stop running my fingers through it now I recommend that you give them a try too and I know you will fall in love, no joke I have truly found my permanent hairstylist for life!!!!!!!! read more

Essence Salon - Jennifer Cut my hair it's amazing... I love it... I can't stop running my fingers through it!!!! - Hair Salons Near Me - Mountain View, California