I want to be fair and detailed in this review, because my experience changed dramatically between…read moremy first and second appointments with Chakay Smith, owner and artist of The Aesthetic Bar. During my first appointment, Chakay Smith was warm, professional, and communicative. The mapping and shape of my eyebrows were done well, and I was included throughout the process. I was shown the design, asked for my input, and felt comfortable and heard. However, once the procedure was complete and I saw the final result, I was immediately alarmed by the color choice, which did not match what I requested or the reference photos we discussed. When I expressed concern, I was reassured that it could be corrected after the six-week healing period and was told, "It's better to correct something that's too light than too dark." While my trust was shaken at that moment, I gave the benefit of the doubt that the correction would be handled willingly. Later, I was informed that a $100 correction fee would apply. I explained that this was not a change of preference, but a color error. I was told customer satisfaction was the goal, and the fee was reluctantly waived. From the moment I arrived for the second appointment, Chakay Smith's demeanor was noticeably different. There was no warm greeting as before. Instead of being taken to the treatment room, I was instructed to remain in the front lobby while numbing cream was applied and told to wait 15 minutes. I waited closer to 30 minutes, while she disappeared into the back. When I was finally taken to the room, communication was minimal. There was no conversation, no check-ins, no mirror offered, and no engagement -- a stark contrast to the first appointment. She left the room multiple times during the procedure, and the overall atmosphere felt tense and unwelcoming. I felt as though my presence was unwanted. When the correction was finished, I was relieved and satisfied with the final color. Wanting to end on a positive note, I asked if I could hug her, and she agreed. Immediately afterward, she sternly pointed at me and the table and stated that any future corrections would require payment for her time, with no exceptions. That moment confirmed what I had felt throughout the entire second appointment -- a complete shift in demeanor from warm and professional to cold and punitive. This review is not about perfection or even the final result, which I am satisfied with. It is about how a client is treated when an issue arises, especially in a service where trust, comfort, and professionalism are critical. The contrast between the two appointments was significant and unsettling. I waited before posting publicly to allow the opportunity for this to be handled privately. I hope future clients receive not only skilled work, but also consistent professionalism and respectful treatment when corrections are needed.

I simply can't say enough wonderful things about Chakay. I'm 45 years old, female-bodied, and have…read morebeen experiencing significant hair thinning. I've been deeply self-conscious about it, and discouraged by the ineffectiveness of serums and other options. I just saw Chakay for my first SMP appointment and I walked out feeling thrilled and grateful. Even after just one sitting, my thinning areas look completely gone, the color matching is incredible, my hair looks totally natural and consistent on my whole head, and my hair line looks improved and natural. Aside from her incredible talent, Chakay is also so warm and kind, and I felt immediately at ease.

This establishment is absolutely fabulous! I had an appointment today and I'm still in awe. This is…read morethe first time I have ever done anything like this, but I had been longing to do it for over five years. The salon is gorgeous! Very clean, elegant, and professional! Top notch, service! I highly recommend coming here. My aesthetician was polite, courteous, friendly, knowledgeable, and very easy to talk to. With this being my first time, I had lots of questions and not once even while she was performing my service did she seem bothered or irritated for me asking questions. I had a phenomenal time! So phenomenal my aunt was sold and she lives in Southern California however, she is coming up here to get her eyebrows done!

I love my lashes, Mica does an amazing job! I like to get a natural look because it just keeps me…read morejust a little more polished and cute on a day-to-day basis. I often get compliments on my lashes, even at the end of 3 weeks right before my refill appointment! So you know the quality is excellent! And the space is really pretty and so relaxing.

For many women as we get older our eyebrows become sparser. The hairs just don't come back. I had…read moregreat eyebrows when I was younger. Then over the years they just became thinner and thinner, with a couple weird giant grandpa eyebrow hairs. I have wanted to tattoo my eyebrows for many years but I was reluctant because I had my eyeliner tattooed 25 years ago and it didn't come out perfect. It looked nice but not perfect. Tattoos are forever. I didn't want permanent eyebrows that weren't perfect. So I used pencils and powders and put my eyebrows on. I was at a restaurant one day and a lady sitting near me had beautiful eyebrows. I kept thinking I wish that my eyebrows looked like hers. Even my Mother loved her eyebrows. I told the lady that I loved her brows and she told me that she had them done at Harmony Spa in Pinole. I instantly had a good feeling because my Goddaughter had just had a babygirl named Harmony. I thought wow that's a good sign because I'm a believer of "signs". So I made a appointment for a consultation. When I arrived at Harmony Spa I instantly loved it. Frank greeted me with a smile and made me feel welcome. The spa is very beautiful. I am a retired esthetician myself so I expect spas and salons to be of a high caliber. Harmony Spa checks all the boxes. Then I met Lana. Again instantly I felt at ease with her. She took me into her room and we talked and she did my eyebrows with a pencil in the shape she thought they should be and they were perfect. Then I made an appointment to do it. When I came back to have them done Frank and Lana really make you feel at ease. Lanas spa furniture and equipment are very nice. I was very comfortable during the process. Also Lana uses high quality medical grade numbing medicine so you will not be in pain during the process. Lana makes everything wonderful so you feel very comfortable. When Lana was done I was so happy. My brows are lovely. I am so happy. In fact I was so happy that I made another appointment to have Lana fix my eyeliner and also tattoo my lips. They both came out lovely and perfect. Also my Mother who has no eyebrows got hers done and she also loves Lana and Frank. Every time I see her she says shes so happy to have eyebrows again. Also I have a lot of keratosis which is from sun damage. Lana did treatments on my keratosis and I am very pleased with the results. Now I finally have someone that I trust to take care of my skin. Yay!!! Lana has many beneficial skin treatments available. If you are looking for someone you can trust Lana is your answer. I am so grateful that I found Lana

I lived for decades with acne-prone skin, and for more years with blackheads and sun-damaged spots…read more So when I walked into Harmony Spa, I had no hope of transformation. My only intention was simple: to have my blackheads cleaned. I was welcomed by Frank, the spa manager, with genuine warmth and kindness, and then introduced to Lana, the aesthetician. Lana examined my face carefully and then spoke with quiet confidence and care. She assured me that over time, my skin would clear, its tone and texture would improve, and a natural, youthful glow would emerge. I listened, but I did not fully believe what she was offering. Each facial treatment felt like a gift. From Frank's consistent warmth and attentiveness to the rhythm and thoughtful way every step of the facial unfolded, I felt deeply cared for. Still, I never imagined what would come next. After ten treatments, I am amazed each morning when I look in the mirror. My skin has transformed. It is healthy, balanced, and alive with a beautiful glow. It looks like the face of someone at least thirty years younger than me. For the first time in decades, I no longer reach for foundation--it simply no longer feels necessary. Lana's hands carry decades of wisdom. Her years of working, teaching, and educating others are felt in every moment of care. She brings her passion, deep knowledge, discernment, and something that feels like magic to her work. She treats skin not as something to fix, but as something to understand and nurture. Lana's work is exceptional and truly unique. I am deeply grateful for the transformation she has made possible. Mona

Great place to get lash extensions. Reasonably priced services. Ambiance is very relaxing. Angelina…read moreis a wonderful technician.

I met Winnie back in 2018 and I loved going to her to get my eyebrow done, she's the only one I…read morealways trusted. When I saw people on TikTok talking about lamination and how their eyebrow was really bad done by other I was very scared but when I saw that she was doing eyebrow lamination and others stuff I was very curious and I trusted her! And I loved it! I never had an issue going to her and every time it's just amazing. Her team/students and her does an amazing job and I would only recommend her. She makes you feel very welcome & the vibes are amazing, she makes you feel beautiful after leaving her place.

I had in mind to get myself a bucket list present of a back of hand tattoo when I stumbled across…read moreMini P's "Tattoos By The Bay." Her artwork looked amazing, so I decided to book a consult with her at the Pinole Salon. She also has a salon in Walnut Creek. And by salon, I mean a beautiful, clean, comforting place to get a tattoo. Mini is the sweetest, kindest, most gentle tattoo artist I have ever met and her work is STUNNING. I decided to get a back of hand tattoo (see pictures). She was gentle, and kept me updated on what she was doing the entire time, always making sure I was comfortable. It came out absolutely incredible. I will soon be returning for another.

From the owner: Tattoos by the Bay is a chic boutique tattoo studio led by Mini, a globally awarded tattoo artist…read morewith over 20 years of experience. Known for her precision and creativity, Mini has mastered diverse styles including fine line, realism, tribal, watercolor, blackwork, and custom lettering. Her work has earned international recognition for blending artistry with personal meaning, making each tattoo a unique reflection of the client’s story. The studio offers a refined, welcoming space where clients feel comfortable and inspired. Every design is approached with care, ensuring tattoos are timeless, personal, and executed to the highest professional standards. Whether it is a first tattoo, a large custom piece, or a cover up of an old design, Mini brings both artistry and expertise to every project. With global awards and a reputation built on dedication to her craft, Mini continues to redefine tattoo artistry while providing clients with a boutique experience that is both creative and unforgettable.

Highly recommended! I have been getting my eyebrows done for…read moremany years! This lady is the best and very lovely!!

5 stars isn't enough stars... StefanI-Nicole... the woman of all talents!…read more After years of looking into getting my eyebrows done as a cover up due to previous work many turned me away. I finally found Stefani-Nicole on Yelp and I still didn't call. I finally got the courage to call (afraid to be turned away) and we had a quick call. She's very responsive and makes sure she gives you her full attention. She gave me an appointment right away and she kept me distracted by chatting away. I will need a tofu up due to the previous work but well worth it and good prices.

If I could give a title to this review it would be "Pinole's BEST kept Secret." I almost didn't…read morewant to write a review because then it won't be a secret anymore! I've followed the owner on IG for about a year or two simply admiring her work. After visiting another nail salon, who I'll be kind enough not to name, I decided I needed to invest in a real nail technician who would produce quality work and share my vision. I won't lie, the pricing is not "typical" of the salons you're probably used to, but it's worth it! At Icy Haus of Slay time is money and quality is her top priority! I would suggest clearing your schedule for the day as you can not rush perfection. Unlike many other local salons, Ishara sculpts the nails which is a tedious process. The final product is well worth the wait. I was able to book a Ombré Full Set with 3D nail art after visiting her website. I found the website easy to navigate, with her policies and procedures well written and available to view before booking. The site only allows you to book for one appointment at a time to ensure you don't exceed the hours of operation. I was only able to book for my nails at the time however I did reach out to her to schedule a pedicure for the same day without any issues. I arrived on time for my scheduled services. It was refreshing to meet someone professional and timely. There was no wait and I was greeted and seen immediately. I found the owner to be friendly, well spoken and easy to talk to. The shop was beautiful, Covid compliant and CLEAN. Masks are required and worn throughout the entire visit by the customer and the nail tech. As I stated earlier, it is most definitely a lengthy visit but that's to be expected. Her work is STELLAR! I picked the shape and briefed her on what I wanted and she more than delivered. For the first time in a LONG TIME I was able to get exactly what I wanted and walk away pleased. Her pedicures are life changing in terms of how I left feeling. I'm not always partaking in "self care" and when I'm not my feet are usually the ones to be neglected. I walked in extremely embarrassed at the appearance of my feet and the shape they were in. Not only did she make me feel comfortable, she reassured me of what she was able to do regarding her work. I wish I would've taken a before and after because what she did was as nothing short of a miracle. All in all I would highly recommend ICY HAUS OF SLAY! As a matter of fact I already have recommended her anyone who will listen! Did I mention it's a Black Owned Small Business!?! I had such a pleasant experience and I'm so glad to have found such a wonderful, caring nail tech that is local with quality work. She's a one stop shop as she offers additional services such as lashes, micro links, makeup amongst a host of others. If you are interested in any of those services don't hesitate to check her out. Sincerely the happiest, newest soon to be returning customer! Thank you so much!

let's get into it! i've been going to icy haus of slay for about a year & half now and have not…read moreconsidered leaving! all service providers are talented and take their crafts very seriously. from the customer service to the final results, these ladies provide care, quality work, and an overall good time at the salon! i've gotten my full sets, pedicures, and hair done at the salon and have never left disappointed. besides the quality of work, these women are CREATIVE and will bring whatever vision/inspiration you have to life! if you're looking for a one-spot-shop with great service providers, quality work, and a great customer experience you are looking at the perfect place!

My first experience will definitely not be my last. I Set up a super last minute appointment to get…read moremy lashes done for a photo shoot. I got the hybrid which isn't too dramatic. It's been almost two weeks now, I need to make an appt for a fill but my lashes don't look bad at all. I brush them everyday so it still blends well.

I love how Courtney did my lashes i got the hybrid and im so in love with them. She made me feel…read moresuper comfortable being that im 8 months pregnant and laying down for long periods of time isnt easy. I definitely recommend her and ill be sure to go back so my lashes keep looking good.