For the 1st time in my life I can FINALLY say I LOVE MY HAIR! Where do I even begin? Every morning I used to dread doing my hair, and this is truly the most life-changing thing I've ever done for myself. Gena is beyond talented--the transformation she gave me is unreal, I wake up ready to go and I've never felt more confident! Not only is the service amazing, but the entire experience is unmatched!! She hosts you to the MAX with alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages, snacks--she even feeds you. The salon itself feels like a luxury retreat with modern western, elevated rustic vibes, incredible energy, and perfectly curated music. It honestly feels like a vacation. Gena also took a lot of time to show me new hairstyles and teach me how to properly maintain my extensions so they last as long as possible and stay full and beautiful. That alone sets her apart. I will NEVER go back. Ladies, if you're even thinking about extensions--do it. I wake up every day ready to go and feel more confident in everything I do. It's honestly even improved my relationship. WORTH EVERY SINGLE PENNY read more

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I've been going to Gena for 23 years, and she continues to amaze me every single time. She's not only a master at coloring, but also incredible with hair extensions. I've gone from brunette to red, black, blonde, and everything in between--with highlights, lowlights, and every color variation imaginable--and Gena has always delivered flawless results. What makes her truly stand out is her dedication to her craft. She constantly takes courses, invests in her education, and stays on top of the latest trends so she can provide the absolute best for her clients. When I struggled with hair growth, she introduced me to invisible bead extensions (IBE) and made them look so natural that no one could tell I was wearing them. She even sells her own line of hair specifically for extensions, ensuring the perfect match and quality for her clients, which shows just how committed she is to giving her clients the best. Gena's skill, passion, and care make every visit a wonderful experience. I can't recommend her highly enough--she's simply the best! read more

BEST HAIR EXPERIENCE OF MY ENTIRE LIFE!!! If anyone is wondering exactly where to go or who to see about anything and everything "hair/extensions"... Look no further because you won't find anyone more skilled and insanely gifted as the beautiful Gena Watson!!! What a gift she truly is!!! I can not express my sincere gratitude enough for the complete transformation I had today while in her chair... And, her new salon is gorgeous also! I could go on and on forever about this amazing woman's talents but it still wouldn't be able to truly do her the justice she deserves. This woman is THEE BEST. Thank you so so much from the bottom of my heart Gena for making me feel pretty again... All thanks to you read more

Gena Watson - New hair!!! - Hair Extensions Near Me - San Diego, California

Gena always does great work! Been going to her for years and always more than satisfied with the results. read more

Gena Watson - Hair Extensions Near Me - San Diego, California

I saw Gena yesterday to replace my old extensions and get new ones. It was the best experience I have ever had getting my hair done. She began the appointment by educating me on the various types of extensions, and then explained to me the pros and cons of the different types of extensions. Years ago, nearly all of my hair fell out and I was left with bald patches and not a lot to work with. Gena took the time to do what was right for my hair and make me feel good. In addition to the extensions, she colored my hair to help hide the bald patches as well as brighten it up - I left looking younger than I did when I arrived. Gena was amazing because she did what would provide the best outcome for my hair long term - not just throw extensions in because I wanted them. Ultimately I left with one of her genius tape in wefts vs. sew ins (which was what I previously had that had left me with additional bald patches and damage to my hair), and it looks amazing. Not only was the experience getting my hair done amazing, she also provides a desk that you can use to work at. The studio was clean, the chair was comfortable, and I feel so fortunate to have found her. I would highly recommend her to anyone, not just if you are looking for extensions. read more

if I could give Gena 10 stars on this site, I would. I got a disaster haircut from an unrelated stylist and salon, and came to yelp for help and possible extensions. Gena responded promptly and was more than willing to help. She had me come in the following morning to her salon on her day off!! First of all her salon is one of the cutest Ive seen. Its very clean, roomy, and fashionable. When she saw my cut, she said I could easily take my money and give me extensions but just thought my haircut needed some work. She cut my hair on the spot and honestly its one of the best haircuts I ever had! She went above and beyond for me, in a very stressful time and I cant thank her enough. Also she was so easy to talk to and just a really cool person overall. I am so grateful to her, her honesty and her skill. read more

Gena is amazing! This was my first time getting extensions and I wasn't sure what to expect. She walked me through the different kinds of extensions educating me on what would work best for my hair type and texture. She gave tons of tips on styling, how to maintain my extensions and product recommendations. She also suggested a hair gloss which really enhanced my natural hair color. I absolutely love my results and feel so much more confident after working with Gena. My only regret is not doing it sooner! read more

Gena was an absolute dream! I was referred to her by a different extension artist because I am a natural redhead looking to go more vibrant and for more volume. Gena has great knowledge of reds. Gena met with me twice prior to color and install day to make sure everything was perfect. She spent hours of her free time ensuring the color was exactly what I was going for. Gena explained the process and the maintenance to a "T". This is my first experience with extensions of any sort and they're so comfortable I don't even notice they're there. She brought my hair back to its former glory and I could not be more impressed. Thank you so so much Gena! You were right, SO many compliments!! read more

Gena Watson - Red hair, IBE extensions - Hair Extensions Near Me - San Diego, California

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I am not one to write reviews, but Gena deserves a shout out!! Gena is absolutely amazing!! I agree with other clients in saying she is perfect with blondes, low maintenance, natural, lived in color. I never knew I could love my hair this much. Gena is a perfectionist. As a perfectionist myself I appreciate how critical and thoughtful she is when working with clients. She doesn't just want you look good; she wants you to look PERFECT. She won't send you out onto the street without making sure you look your best. You will not get a cheap run of the mill hair care and extensions. Gena is someone who takes the time to listen to you, works with your hair and lifestyle and will create the perfect hair for you! You may need to book a few months in advance as she is VERY popular. Trust me...it's for all the right reasons! You won't be disappointed. read more

The best hair extensions in town!! My natural hair has been saved since going to her and her extension method is damage free. I was using clip ins for so long and now realize how painful they are. 10 stars read more

What was life even before extensions!? Gena installed my IBE Invisible Bead Extension hair extensions a week and a half ago and I'm in love . The color match and blend is perfect and not only have I gotten multiple compliments, but all of my friends are getting them done now too after seeing what an amazing job she did. I am IN LOVE with my new hair!! read more

Gena Watson - Look at that blend!! You can't even tell I have extensions - Hair Extensions Near Me - San Diego, California

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I've been going to Gena for Invisible Beaded Extensions for over two years now and I'm so incredibly happy with the results. She has perfected her technique and I trust her greatly with my hair. She takes the time to figure out the right hair for you and it's always a great match with texture and color. She's honest, has great work ethic, and is just easy to be around. I highly recommend her if you're looking for quality extensions. Also, if you're wondering about IBE, they feel great in. By far the best type of extension install I've ever had. read more

Gena Watson - Hair Extensions Near Me - San Diego, California

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Gena did such an amazing job with my hair and also made me feel comfortable and gave me some great advice since I also want to be an esthetician. I highly recommend her !! read more

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One of the only hair stylists I trust with my hair!!She's amazing with blondes, low-maintenance, natural, lived-in color. I love how my highlights turn out every time. She knows the exact look I'm going for. Her expertise is so helpful when it comes to products and styling! read more

I've been going to Gena for 5+ years and will not go to anyone else. I was on a hunt for a good hairstylist for years and finally found Gena. My color is perfect every time. She is a perfectionist and very professional. Her salon is really nice and very clean. I would highly recommend her. read more

This girl is AMAZING!!! I've been going to Gena for over 15 yrs after I had a horrible highlighting experience. I googled "best blonde highlights" in San Diego and am SO lucky to have found her! She is the BEST and I can't thank her enough. I'm always getting compliments on my hair! Highly, highly, highly recommend!!! read more

I've been going to Gena for over 10 years now! I can't imagine anyone else coloring my hair like she does. She's amazing. I get so many compliments on my color- and it's because her work stands out. Her color choices and her maticulous ability to balayage keeps me coming back. Her work is always evolving and on trend. She's the best!!! read more

Gena Watson - Hair Extensions Near Me - San Diego, California

I truly trust Gena with my hair! I have been a client for almost 2 years and am appreciative of Gena's attention to detail, her work ethic and professionalism, honesty and the effort she puts into giving her clients a great overall salon experience - her quaint salon space is just so fresh, clean and adorable too! Finally, I love that there is always ample parking at the salon! Since I went from long to medium length hair, I received many positive compliments, so thank you Gena because you followed the photo I brought in to a T! read more

Brooksy girl salon saved me from having to drive almost 2 hours back home to my stylist/ colorist. It was interesting where it's located but, once I walked in, it was calming, cool and the music was at a perfect volume, the color choices and furnishings were nice too, once I got to talking to Gena and explain what I wanted as she look at my hair I knew she got it, she actually understood me and did what I wanted to have done. I've been to other places and have left because of the perplexed look on their faces, I even went to reshape my "V" with someone who claims to have had 20 years of experience, well she chopped my hair o_O. I'm sooooo glad to have found someone here in SD who is experienced.. truly, in hair; color, cuts maintenance and even pleasant conversation. Everyone at work loved it, She's my new stylist! I'll recommend Gena to anyone who asks. Thanks Gena! ;) read more

I have been going to Gena for five years now. My hair has never been healthier! She is so so so good with color, I get compliments all the time, as it always looks and feels so natural. She is so talented kind, thoughtful, and professional. She really takes her time to make you feel your best. Thank you Gena for making me feel so beautiful! I appreciate you! read more

Gena Watson - Hair Extensions Near Me - San Diego, California

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Holy moly, Gena is AMAZING!!!!!! I've had the same stylist for as long as I can remember and based on Gena's glowing recommendations, I decided to switch things up a bit and go see her. I've pretty much been sporting the same hairstyle for about 15 years and it was time for a change. Granted, my hair never looked bad but I had gotten so use to the same look. I showed Gena a single picture on my iPhone of the vague idea that I had in mind and she literally turned my hair into a MASTERPIECE! She spent so much time with me, making genuinely helpful and honest suggestions and ensuring that I was comfortable the entire time. What I loved the most is even though she was busy, she made sure not to rush through anything. To put the cherry on the cake, the salon is so clean, cozy, and well decorated. Her color skills are incredible and evolved. She's also very careful and meticulous about what she puts in your hair. What's more though is her ability to do magic with the scissors! I went in looking so run down and I walked out feeling like a million bucks. And a little side note: I went to the mall to pick something up directly after my haircut, before I headed home and I literally got two MAC employees and a shopper commenting on how great my hair looked at the MAC stand at Nordstrom - speaks for itself!!!! read more

Shortly after getting out onto the clinic floor in the beauty academy I was attending,Gena put in her two weeks, my only thoughts were,"deng, I'll miss her but.........................................shit, I need to get all the formulas out of her as quick as possible, take notes and juice her brains for her amazing color techniques." She is an amazing colorist, and an amazing instructor. I'm so glad she started her own education for stylist to better understand color and enhance haircuts with her color techniques. I definitely recommend anyone going to her because she will find an alternative way to get you to the beautiful color and maintain the health of your hair. And it's always a customized color so I always felt special that no one else will have the same color as meeee! And more of a plus, she's in Mission Valley! I hate going downtown to get my hair done!** read more

As a blonde, it's scary for me to try new colorists because a bad job can leave you bald! I just had my first cut and color with Gena Watson. She came highly recommended from another client (who has beautiful blonde hair), and I can see why. I was very impressed with her professionalism and the quality of her work (and I have heard from other hair dressers that I am a demanding client). She took the time to listen to what I liked and what I didn't like, and then made suggestions. She was so well-spoken that I went with her recommendation, and I am so glad I did. I LOVE the color and cut! The salon itself (Brooksy Girl) is gorgeous. The shampoo bowls are padded for the neck and there is a foot rest for comfort. You can tell a lot of thought went into making it right for the client, and I appreciate that. I will definitely be back and plan to refer people. Thanks Gena! read more

Yesterday, completely over my hair color and cut, I browsed yelp looking for a great colorist to return to blond from the sassy red locks I've been sporting for a couple of years. I like to change it up. After reading the reviews I made an appt with Gena and, if all the compliments I received today are any indication, it's a home run do. I love it! It's fun and flirty and I look ten years younger. Gena is punctual, thorough in her consultation, clear in her communication, gentle with your scalp (I'm a tender head) and clearly a color artist! She loves what she does and creates art with each client. I've got blond highlights and ginger low lights, for an effect that is smashing! Her cuts are also a work of art to her. She takes her time, again, communicates with you and is very precise. And on top of it all she is a delight! Terrific positive energy truly authentic and sweet. One more thing. She gives you your first cut free so out the door for under 150 and I'm thrilled. I'm not thrilled about spending that every 6 weeks to maintain but when I said that to my BF he looked at me, smiled and said "it's totally worth it honey!". I think I'll go back.... :) Thanks Gena! read more

I do not know what I would do without Gena!!!! She has been doing my hair for too many years that I want to admit :). I love walking into her studio and giving her full power over my hair. She has taken me through different colors and styles over the years and my hair has always been healthy and beautiful. She is an amazing colorist, stylist and now friend. I wouldn't trust my hair with anyone else! read more

Gena is the best! I wouldn't trust my hair to any other stylist. She is so skilled and also has the kindest heart. When I was diagnosed with cancer she was there for me every step up the way with complimentary hair cuts and is currently helping me through the regrowth process. I look forward to every appointment! Thank you Gena!! read more

Gena is by far the best hair dresser that I have ever had and I am not a blonde! I never go see her with a plan because I trust her and feel confident that I will always walk out of the salon a happy client. Thank you Gena for being so amazing at what you do! read more

I had a color and cut over a year ago wasn't going to review but felt i had to. Haircut and color itself was very nice as was Gena . My issue was the finish. when Gena finished washing the color out ,there was about an inch thick black stain around my forehead and base of my ear . She Said Not To worry she had a liquid to remove it She tried to rub it off but was unable to remove the stain. She asked me if I had dry skin cause typically that happens to people who have dry skin . She said she would try to style my hair to cover up the stain but unfortunately it did not work. I was meeting clients after and could not be seen like this so when I got to my car I rubbed very hard to try and get the stains off that my skin bled. I was disappointed because dry skin Or not I feel she should be prepared for any situation to ensure something like this does not happen to her clients . read more

I discovered Gena back in 1999 and I am so glad I did! She is an EXPERT with color and is always able to make my vision for my hair a reality. Over the years, I've enjoyed playing with different colors and styles and Gena always delivers while paying close attention to the health of my hair as well. Two years ago I moved to Los Angeles and continued to drive to San Diego because Gena is that great. I made the mistake of trying various stylists in Los Angeles because I was lazy and it was a mess! Fortunately Gena was able to correct the mistakes that were made and now I realize the drive is worth it! What's really nice is the fact that I can show Gena photos of things I'd like to try and she is able to recreate the look I want. She cares very much about healthy hair while never pushing expensive products on me. I truly consider her a friend that just happens to be a true artist when it comes to hair. I can't say enough about great she is. I always feel like a new person when I leave her! Below are some photos of what I showed her as my vision for my most recent appointment, and what she was able to deliver. read more

Gena Watson - What she delivered. - Hair Extensions Near Me - San Diego, California

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3rd time's the charm! Gena saved me and not to mention my wedding from 2 botched color jobs. She let me send her pictures online/text for a quick pre-appt consultation for realistic, hair healthy options. What stood out the most was that she went ABOVE AND BEYOND by taking the time out of her busy schedule to see me even though she was fully booked in advance! THAT IS EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE! She was so sweet enough to take the extra time to fix my horrible razor cut bangs to compliment my face. Dena was SO gentle with my hair and made sure I was comfortable the entire time. Gena is definately a certified color expert, and did I mention she teaches professional hair color classes? Watching the way she foiled my hair(precise and not random!) and place her intricate hair weaves(as compared to my previous experiences), I knew I was in good hands. She is very knowledgeable in her field and reassured me while I asked her a million questions. My hair color is so amazing! It is natural looking and has so much depth. It was what I wanted but BETTER! I cannot stop looking at it in the mirror :) I am kicking myself for not going to her sooner! If I had gone to her in the first place I would have saved $200. However, it was worth it because I finally found my permanent colorist/stylist!! I will definately be back! Hopefully she won't be booked years in advance!! Thank you, Gena! read more

I recently moved to San Diego and I have been in the process of finding a new hair stylist. I have found one! Gena was amazing. I showed her a picture and told her what I wanted and it turned out PERFECT! I am a blonde, but I do not like to look fake. She made me much blonder than before (which I asked for), but it still looks natural and has different blondes throughout. It is exactly what I wanted and asked her to do. It is honestly some of the best highlights I have ever had. I HIGHLY recommend her! read more

Just went to Gena for the first time and plan to go back every 6 weeks. She is a highlighting queen!!! :)

I recently moved from Las Vegas and had to leave my professional hairstylist whom I loved and went to for years . Im sure anyone would understand that its very hard to start from scratch and find a new stylist. I heard about Gena from a friend of mine and since i could no longer afford the trips to vegas just for my hair, i decided to give it a try. She is so good that when she was cutting my hair she knew how my previous stylist did it and she honestly made my hair come alive. I went in just wanting to find a decent hairstylist to just not ruin my hair, and instead i found someone with incredible talent with color AND CUT. Usually thats hard to find because its usually one or the other. I would not recommend her if i didn't love her work. Thank you Gena!! read more

I've been waiting over 7 years to be able to say I love my hair and my hair stylist. I get to say both of these things now that Gena is my hair stylist. I have had some bad experiences the past few hair stylists, and my hair just never looked the way I wanted ito to. I also think I am picky and very particular, so writing a 5 star review says a lot. So here it goes: 1. I told Gena what I wanted, what I didn't want, and showed her pictures of what I liked. She very clearly communicated with me what she would do, and what she wouldn't do to achieve the look I wanted. Good communication from both ends is crucial, and in the past I've been very unsuccessful having this with the person who styles my hair. This is not an issue with Gena. 2. The blonde highlights she gave me were awesome, and just what I wanted. My roots were about 6-8months long, and I was ready to be blonde again, but she explained to me that we'll achieve that blonde in 2 visits to maintain healthy hair, and the visual quality of the highlights. She could have chosen to bleach the heck out of my hair and send me on my way, simply because I told her I wanted to be blonde blonde again. Instead, she did what was best for me, knowing in the long run I want healthy and good looking hair. So, perfect! I am happy with the blonde highlights she recently gave me, and look forward to the next appointment. These were the best looking highlights I've had in almost a decade. 3. My hair was pretty long and I like it long. I also needed a really good healthy cut, so I told her to cut off whatever is needed. A good amount of hair was cut off, and my hair is shorter than it's been in a while. The cut is great, and it looks great, I don't even mind it being shorter than what I'm used to. She didn't cut it too short, she cut the perfect amount of hair off so that it's healthy, and she actually kept it as long as she could. 4. She told me to come back in 3 months, whereas some other hairstylists will say 4-8 weeks. Gena however, wants what's best for me and my hair, and that is a good amount of time in between highlights so my hair stays healthy. I really appreciate that honesty, it lets me know she cares about me as a client, and not just about money. 5. She is very personable, easy to talk to, and very focused on you during your appointment. I like knowing that she cares a lot about the quality of service she's giving her clients. 6. Great location, easy to get to, and always parking. Huge plus! 7. Easy to schedule appointments online, I love getting to see the available days on a calendar, and weighing out my different options for dates and times. So glad I met Gena, I'd recommend her to anyone! read more

I recently went to one my stylist of six years after a year in Vegas and moving back to SD. My stylist had pretty much screwed up my hair with a crappy and half- ass Carmel colored highlight or lowlight,( still not sure what she had been trying to achieve), and also a shoddy side bang cut that wrecked my short hair style. I found Gena on yelp, I checked out her instagram account, was impressed and booked an appointment. After today's appointment, She not only fixed and made my hair look amazing. She also gave me some great pointers on styling, product, and such. I went home, my not only did I love my hair, my guy told me to stick with Gena. She has a calm and welcoming vibe, and knows her craft! Check her out, she knows hair, and she is now going to be my only one go-to . read more

Gena is an incredible stylist. She is a color expert. She really has lots of experience and many of her clients are blonde. She does great cuts & blow outs. She is very confident & knows what to do with your hair. She listens to you & helps determine your best color & cut. Her prices are reasonable. I get lots of compliments on my hair. I will follow her wherever she goes. I love her new location in sola boutique next to TGI Fridays ( in the tall building). She has a shabby chic decor. I highly recommend Gena Watson. You wont be disappointed. read more

I have been going to Gena for about 6 years. She was recommended by a friend and I have been coming to her for color, cut and any hair advice I need since then. She is AMAZING!!! I mean that !! I have recommended her to friends and will continue to recommend to anyone who needs the best color specialist! I have been blonde and a brunette under her coloring skills and she has never steered me wrong. She understands color and gives you the best advice on what will look great on you!! I ALWAYS walk out happy and beautiful!!! read more

Gena is amazing!!!! She took my ugly hair and made me look young and vibrant again! I'm so happy to have found a Hair Stylist like her! She is quick, she worked with my limited time schedule, and the salon is nice quiet individual spaces! Everyone keeps commenting on how great my hair looks! You have to check her out:-) read more

Having recently relocated from the east coast and having spent the last 7 years in the salon business (salon manager), it was a pleasure to discover Gena Watson. Her professionalism and talent made me feel comfortable using her for the first time and in the future. I highly recommend Gena to anyone who is looking for a truly talented colorist and hairstylist. read more

First off I have never colored my hair before. So for my 26th birthday I was feeling like a change. A friend recommended Gena. So a made an appointment. When I first arived Gena was very welcoming. The salon was clean and stylishly decorated. I explained that I wanted highlights but never colored my hair before and was I little nervous. She said she understood what I wanted she also suggested l lighten the tips I am so glad I listened to her. She really took her time and explain what she was doing because it was a totally new experience for me. I'm so happy I took a chance with Gena. I absolutely love my hair! it's exactly what I wanted very natural looking. She even gave me a discount for being a new client and gave me tips on styling. I couldn't be happier. Highly recommended. Thanks Gena read more