Saw a good deal on Groupon for a couples massage- had good reviews online. We can discuss the pros, the staff was friendly, the location had good parking, they booked us the same day, and we got a glass of wine after- which was tasty, I recommend the white wine. For the cons- the massages were extremely weak, definitely did not receive a Swedish massage by any means- felt like someone learning how to just massage with oil. Even after putting that my preferred pressure was medium/deep. The massage bed felt like a piece of plywood- there was no cushion to it at all. The room was dirty upon walking in, there was a used towel on the floor and my fiancé's face pillow had hair on it- there was also a stain AND it didn't screw in properly so we didn't even put his face on it. TBH it smelled like the room was recently used- like that oil smell, and it wasn't cleaned thoroughly after. Overall- we just got off a plane so we looked for something quick but we would likely not return due to the quality of the massage. read more

Kevin was great, kind and informative. Here on vacation...wish I could go to him more. Great Massage. read more

Essentials Massage & Facials Carrollwood - After my massage & facial. Feeling fabulous - Massage Near Me - Tampa, Florida

I don't write negative reviews -- this is my first, but the lack of response from the owner has prompted me to share this experience. I booked a 1-hour massage and 1-hour facial for 11:00 AM and arrived early, but was brought back for my massage at approximately 11:15. After intake and additional waiting, my massage did not begin until around 11:30 and I was back in the waiting area by about 12:00. I received approximately 30 minutes of hands-on massage, limited to my back, the back of one leg, and a small amount of neck work--not a full hour. I have visited this spa before and had positive experiences, which made this particularly frustrating. For the facial, there was a 15-minute wait, followed by extended upselling, before I could get on the table at approximately 12:30. I left at exactly 1:00 PM, which again was not a full one-hour service. Both providers were kind and the front desk receptionist was excellent, but I paid for two one-hour services and did not receive the time booked for either. I left a few messages for the owner requesting to discuss this directly. She was present when I was brought back 15 minutes late and aware I still had to answer the masseuse's questions and get ready for the massage, yet she never returned my calls. This gives the impression that the owner does not prioritize addressing customer concerns or retaining return clients. I did not request or want any additional services or upgrades -- I simply wanted the two full hours of treatment that were booked and paid for. Due to excessive waiting, shortened services, and lack of follow-through, I cannot recommend this spa. read more

i'm here now for my facial. I've been coming here years trying to get my daughter to use her Mother's Day gift card that she hasn't used yet but you know she's a busy mom with two young children. I'm gonna take before picture. I love my facialist yes they don't stay long but they do get good ones and when they're here I try to keep the ones that I like so here's the before picture. read more

Essentials Massage & Facials Carrollwood - Before facial - Massage Near Me - Tampa, Florida

This place is a no for me. The place is outdated (smells moldy) didn't feel relaxing at all. The massage chair was so hard like a rock. Not to mention my masseuse was so weird (in many ways) and I will NEVER return again nor would ever recommend this to anyone. I felt like I barely got a massage but got a body rub read more

Essentials massage has been our go-to for massages for a few years now and we are never disappointed. Our visit today was a couple massage with hot stones and aromatherapy, I feel amazing after! read more

Essentials Massage & Facials Carrollwood - Outside - Massage Near Me - Tampa, Florida

I received a email deal for a relaxation massage for the day at only $57. I jumped on the deal and asked for the next appointment which was 45 mins later. Needless to say my Friday work day ended abruptly and I was able to get there a little past my time so I lost about 10 mins on my massage but it's ok. I was totally relaxed and fell asleep because when I woke up the imprint of the hole for the head was on me well into a bougie lunch. That's the only downside that the padding on that face part was sort of lacking which lead to my face being marked by the hole. I'll be back again for a facial massage duo soon. read more

Got a couples massage here. Our massage therapists were fantastic! I'm sorry I wish I remembered there names. But make sure you come 10mins prior to your appointment we were a little late to our appointment so our hour massage was more like 45mins. The atmosphere is so relaxing and I can't wait to book another appointment! read more

The place is quiet, relaxing and clean, however, I did not really enjoy my massage as much. The therapist was nice and polite however I asked her to apply more pressure and she didn't. I felt like I was being petted more than massaged. I was there on time my massage time was from 5-6z I was brought back 5 minutes after my massage supposed to start, not to mention the time it took to undress and get the massage started. She also finished at 5:53 so that means I definitely did not get my 60 minute massage I paid for. I payed 75 for the massage plus I did give her a 20 dollar tip. So I felt like i did not get what I payed for. I will not be returning unfortunately read more

Found this on Groupon and I guess never again. You call and they barely answer the phone. your appointment is cut short. you pay for 50 minute massage and you get 40 minutes. I am not the biggest fan. I didnt feel very welcomed. My massage was okay. I definitely have had better than this! read more

Facial with Stephanie was 5 STARs, she was awesome and definitely will go back to see her. Massage with Daria was a 0 STAR, in over 30 years of getting massages, this way by far the worst. She rubbed my back for 90% of the time, barely touched the rest of my body and when she did there was almost no pressure. Her hair needs to be pulled back, it kept touching me and her nails were scratching me. I will go back, I will just make sure I have a different masseuse. read more

I was traveling out of state and booked a same day facial at the Carrollwood location. The business was clean and comfortable. Naromi was amazing!! I will definitely be going back the next time I"m in the area. read more

Kevin is a fantastic massage therapist he really cares about his clients. Also Queenie she's a hairstylist and she also does waxing I got a Brazilian wax there and I have to say the only place I ever used to go with European Wax Center but I would have to say she's more gentle than they are five stars all the way read more

Essentials Massage & Facials Carrollwood - Massage Near Me - Tampa, Florida

Truthfully my expectations of this place were very, very high. It was recommended to me by family who had a wonderful experience with Kevin and May through a Groupon couples massage. I immediately purchased the same coupon and booked an appointment specifically asking for Kevin. They verified that I'd get Kevin and Allen when I booked, which I was ok with. When I arrived it turns out we were getting Allen and Michael, no big deal, I was still excited for the experience. Well, let me just say: Michael was probably one of the least experienced (or least caring) masseurs I've ever had. He was attentive in asking questions about pressure, however his technique was so lackluster and strange. I could have had a better massage at home, or I could have asked a kid to step on my back! He put so much lotion on me, it's actually hard to hold my phone while I type this! His "deep tissue" technique was to press his forearm on my back and lean his body weight on me in for fifteen seconds. He didn't even touch my entire left side! I mentioned that my neck has some tightness, again he had a "special technique," in which he jabbed his thumbs into the side of my neck like Frankensteins monster. It was not satisfying at all, and he didn't even trim his fingernails- there are still marks in my neck like I was gouged at by a beast. The hot stone bit, now that was actually relaxing, but it was more like a "luke-warm stone," and I think it was only relaxing because the man finally took his nails out of my skin. The foot scrub tickled, and normally I would laugh or ask to be a bit more delicate, but instead this experience had me so tilted that all I could think was "please be over already." To top things off, he used one hand to massage my calves (normally my favorite spot), but he just caressed it like a cat and moved on. No pressure at all, it was just leaving oils and lotion on me. There was no hot or damp towel offered afterwards to clean myself off, either. Instead we had to find one ourselves in their supply station in the room. I could go on, like the soundtrack playing was just Americas Top 40 as saxophone covers (not relaxing at all- instead it was a frustrating game of "name that tune."), or the wine that was offered afterward which might as well have been Welch's grape juice (trust me, I went to get a hard drink after this was over to try and erase the memory). My partner had an amazing time with Allen, though. He made sure to massage every part of their body with care. He did not have to ask one question because he seemed to be an experienced massage therapist who knew proper technique. Highly recommend Allen. Essentials massage, please reevaluate or retrain Michael, and tell him to trim his nails. read more

I got a massage from Michael and a facial with Lisa and there are no words on how I feel right now. Everything was fabulous and they are both terrific. Michael made sure all my pressure and tension was gone and my face was glowing and smooth as butter after Lisa took care of me. Both really made me comfortable and I'm making this place my go to massage and facial spot! Thank you! read more

I went there today for the first time. I can say Kevin was the best massage therapist I've ever been to. He was attentive and incredibly good at his job. I was so relaxed it was hard to get up and go. I opted for a 90 min massage. I can't recommend this day spa enough. Book it. You won't regret it. Soooo happy I found this spa. read more

The facility was clean and staff was nice. They seemed to struggle with electronics and every room had no relaxation music. During the massage they played some piano, elevator music lol. Had an appointment at 6. Paperwork done at 605 waited in the lobby till 620. Was finally on the table at 630. Paid for an hour and got 30. 7pm they were like, have a good night. Your wine is in the party room. Don't you mean relaxation room, lol. Get to the party room and they said, well normally there is music playing but not today. Sitting in the chairs drinking wine and listening to the dance studio next door. Wasn't horrible but not that good either. read more

I had the most amazing facial/massage, and was able to take advantage of their $70 special for both!! After a couple of rough weeks, I walked out of the spa feeling/looking like a new person. Super clean, super friendly, and super fantastic! Going back soon and bringing friends with me! Nikki did my facial and Jose did the massage. This 60 yr old felt 45 walking out of there! read more

Essentials Massage & Facials Carrollwood - No make up- after a facial by Nikki and massage by Jose #blessedtobe60yrsold - Massage Near Me - Tampa, Florida

I have had a regular massage therapist for years to help manage chronic daily migraine. I was looking for someone to see when her schedule was full, or when I needed a little help in between sessions. I scheduled at Essentials, for a same day appointment! The young lady I spoke to was so sweet and helpful. I had the good fortune of being scheduled with Erin. I honestly was SO comfortable with this therapist. The pre-treatment consult allowed me to communicate a few limitations and preferences, and I was asked so kindly for feedback re: pressure. Erin is a gem and I will be scheduling again soon! Thank you, Erin! I felt 1000x better after my massage! read more

Love this place. My adjustments are great and CARLOS IS AMAZING. I've been going here for years and will never leave. I will be in pain and then see him for manual therapy and wake up feeling rejuvenated the next day. If I could afford to go every day I would. read more

After reading some of the reviews I was a little concerned but once I stepped inside, they all fell away. They have a beautiful lobby and Mimi at the front desk is just as sweet and caring as they get. The staff members that I interacted with were all very personable. My masseur was Chris and he was just amazing. He started off by asking if I had any trouble areas that I'd like him to work on and then he asked if there were any areas I'd like him to avoid. He started off gentle, he's a very tall man but as soon as I asked him to increase the pressure he adjusted right away. All I had to do was ask for deeper and he adjusted little by little immediately. I really appreciated that, in the past when I've asked for deeper they sometimes ramp it up so high I almost come off the table. Chris was perfect!! My massage included aromatherapy and exfoliation. Both were superb! I highly recommend Essentials Massage and Facials of Carrollwood. I will be returning soon. read more

I got a 1 hour full body massage. And it was amazing! The overall vibe of the place was soothing. Carlisha was my masseuse, and she did an amazing job! I left feeling brand new :) I will be going back again read more

I had my Hair transformed completely by Lisa! Went from brunette to a beautiful strawberry blonde! Lisa is absolutely wonderful to work with. She is determined to get you exactly what you want and will stop at nothing to make sure you are satisfied! I love my new hair read more

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I got a facial there two months ago and right after I had an infection in the spot where the esthetician did some extractions (under my nostrils).Two months battling this thing that I never had before in my life. The place like clean but due to this problem I had looks like they are not cleaning their tools correctly. I had to spend 169 dollars to see a dermatologist. I had to get a prescription cream, hydrocortisone and two rounds of antibiotics. Over 250 bucks later I still have some burn sensation in my nostrils. That's unfortunate bc I have been a customer for about 10 years. read more

I loved Lisa she was the best my hair is gorgeous a Thankyou so much I will be back again read more

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I have been going here for some time and have always found it adequate. I am giving 5 stars for my visit on Friday, 2/4/22. I had a 90 minute theraputic massage (my 1st 90 minute massage). Erin , my massage therapist was phenomenal. I cannot recommend her enough. Best massage I have EVER had. read more

Queenie is an excellent hair dresser. She did perfect partial highlights on me. She has a great personality and her prices are good. read more

Essentials Massage & Facials Carrollwood - Haircut partial highlights - Massage Near Me - Tampa, Florida

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Went here for haircut & highlights. Queenie was my awesome hairdresser. She did an absolute great job! Queenie is very personable & kind lady. With her many years experience in hairdressing, she is amazing. This is the first time I've enjoyed getting my hair done, talking with Queenie about general life & loving my hair results. Queenie will also work with hair proper for different face shapes, if needed. She does Chinese blowouts, eyebrow waxing, acrylic nails & manicures, Japanese blowouts as well as haircuts & highlights. Cuts for men too. This is my first Yelp review & I highly recommend trying out this professional hairdresser, Queenie! I will add my picture in the next day or so as well. Remember Essentials Massage & Hair salon in Carrollwood! read more

Spur of the moment appointment for mani pedi. Prices reasonable and entry to spa was upscale. Just what I was looking for... a relaxing, spa experience. What I found in the back was all together different. 2 hairdresser chairs, a ladder, along with hair lights, hair washing bowl and dryer, discarded tv screens, supplies for other areas in what was obviously their storage area. An afterthought for nail services. Nail tech was nice but terribly inexperienced in her craft (appointment time 2hrs 15min) - finished nails look sloppy/technique poor. Few nail color options. There will be no 2nd appointment. read more

One Star is too many but you can't post zero. We bought gift cards to help them out. Now that I want to use them, it has become a challenge. I made and appointment which they cancelled to give preference to someone paying cash. I asked for a refund because I don't do business like that. Now they refuse to give me a refund. Bad business. Don't ever go there and especially don't buy their worthless gift cards. read more

Essentials Massage & Facials Carrollwood - Massage Near Me - Tampa, Florida

This is my favorite place! Kevin is the BEST! Very relaxing and calm. I had a facial also, that was great. I definitely will return. read more

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We received a great deal using Groupon me and my boyfriend were truly satisfied. We both feel completely relaxed and rejuvenated. Will definitely be returning again. read more

Let me start off by saying I was excited to get a steal of $30 for a massage, but I guess you get what you pay for. Immediately when you walk in, the smell is terrible, I almost thought about leaving. We had scheduled a couples relaxation massage, but it was not one bit relaxing. In fact when we left we both felt worse!! When we got back to the room (which was freezing and they couldn't do anything about it), we tried to stay optimistic. As things got started, the music was SO loud (not at all peaceful), the two therapist kept chit chatting back and forth, and the massages itself were just them rubbing our body, no technique to it! The sheets on the table smelled so bad!! And my therapist was wearing a VERY exposed tank top..incredibly UNPROFESSIONAL! I have gotten many massages in my life and this is BY FAR THE WORST PLACE I HAVE BEEN! I asked my therapist to focus on my neck and back mostly, however I left with more tension in those areas than walking in. Worst of all, the check out process was so slow - one person working, long line, and the lady wouldn't accept my gift card because it was from their older location apparently. Rather than being polite and professional about it, she was incredibly rude and had no solution to the problem, of course making me pay out of pocket...it was not a relaxing process from start to finish. Will never go back here again!! I should've read the reviews beforehand because seems to be a common theme here. I would 100% recommend AGAINST THIS PLACE!! read more

I had a massage by Chris, and it was honestly the best massage I've had in a long time, then I got a facial by Stephanie, and she was the sweetest and gave a really good facial. I highly recommend both of them! I really enjoyed my experience. read more

I bought a combo Groupon for a 1hr facial and 1hr massage. The facial was absolutely amazing. The massage was great but left me wanting a bit more pressure. The "beds" aren't very comfortable which left my back hurting but are big enough for a larger person like myself to fit. All and all I'll be back :) read more

Have you ever received a massage and felt worse leaving then you did going in? This is the place! I get a deep tissue massage at 2pm. 05/21/2020. Woman at front desk tells me it's $45. The masseuse (Daria) doesn't come and get me til 225p. I don't get a deep tissue..it's more like a light rub. At 3p, she tells me "okay..we're all through." I ask "what time is it?" She tells me 3pm. I tell the 2 women at front desk the issue and she charges me $38 even after I complain about it. I even tipped because of the curtain pandemic and everyone is struggling. I get in my car and call them after I left because I didn't want to vent there and office manager (Luce) tells me "sorry..I'll give you 15% off your next visit" even after she asked me in person how the massage was!! There won't be a next time! read more

Do not go here. Had a good experience my first time and decided to come back and drove 45 minutes to do so to support a small new business. Booked an appointment for a couples massage at 1pm, and got in at 12:30. We were greeted kindly by Brittany, and she gave us papers to fill out followed by two dirty glasses of complimentary wine which automatically threw off the experience. Waiting, our massage therapist Becky grabbed us from the waiting lounge smelling like cigarettes 10 minutes PAST the appointment time therefore starting late. Did not even have our heated pads on until I asked them if they can turn it on. And they got done at 1:50. Basically we had a 40 minute massage (which was less time than my drive) and paid for an upgraded our services to an exfoliation/hot stone/aromatherapy/reflexology 60minute massage and did not even get the last two. Weird. Paying for a service you did not receive? Although she deducted our price. Very unprofessional and would not recommend this place. No wonder why they have so many specials. read more

Essentials Massage & Facials Carrollwood - Dirty glasses and a sip of free wine? - Massage Near Me - Tampa, Florida

THE worst massage experience I've ever had. The last month or two has been a nightmare for me, so I was really looking forward to using my Groupon that I purchased months ago for a massage. I left in more pain than I arrived, and was in a bad mood the rest of the day because of his horrible massage. I was very clear with Patricia that the focus should be my shoulders, lower back, hands, feet. Nothing else. That's all I wanted. I needed a relaxation massage, light to medium pressure. The ENTIRE time I had my hands clenched, I was flinching, squeezing my eyes shut and praying she'd stop. I can't tell you how many times I told her she was hurting me and she kept insisting she was using her light/medium pressure and I was just sensitive and had inflammation. She spent the whole hour just destroying my back. The last 3 minutes of my massage were spent on my hands and feet. The one thing I needed so bad because it's such a stress reliever, I got barely 30 seconds of on each hand and foot. At times I felt like I was at the chiropractor because it started to feel like an adjustment! So beyond disappointed. I was almost in tears because I needed this so bad and it just ruined the rest of my day. Now I just have spots of soreness where it feels like I have little fingerprint bruises. It's a shame because it's a beautiful spa, Patricia is very friendly and sweet but should have kept her personal problems to herself as well as turn off her phone which rang about 6 times. In all honesty I think the small $10 I left was still too much. As was the amount I spent for the Groupon. Awful, awful experience. To top it off, no one ever responded to my complaint. Horrible customer service to the horrible experience. read more

Came in for a massage and they did not disappoint. Prices are great so I did not complain when they started about 8 min late and finished about 10 min early. Hey, those minutes matter when you pay for an hour! But for the price, I would still come back. Expect a 45 min massage when you book an hour. Still worth it. read more

What was supposed to be a relaxing day turned out to be not relaxing at all! I would not recommend Essentials and Massage in Carrollwood to anyone. It was supposed to be a spa day experience with massage, facials, manicure and pedicure, along with snacks and drinks. We showed up early we were the first ones there, in for five people walked in after us. I was able to get my massage and my mom got her facial but my sister had to sit in the waiting room the entire time as more and more people walked in and went ahead of her. They said that their therapist didn't show up and that was the reason, I didn't have a back up plan, so we were unable to finish our services because they didn't have enough people, yet more more people kept walking in and going ahead of us. Never go to this Salon EVER!!! If I could give zero stars I would but Yelp only allows you to give one star is the lowest rating read more