I've been searching for places high & low who can do my hair in the city when I'm visiting from college... I've seen this name pop up on reddit and yelp. I'm not disappointed, i'm absolutely satisfied and happy that i found a new place to spend all my money to feel better . Fritz is amazing, as well as the staff, service, and the ambiance. You brighten my confidence. Thanks and i'll see you again :) read more

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Long-time client since 2018, generally happy with the work. Lately I've had an issue with billing transparency: I have fine curly hair and ask for a blow dry and straighten after cuts (to check the cut line), not an updo. On my last two visits, I was charged for an "updo" I never requested -- once explained as an extra fee for my hair texture, but it wasn't disclosed beforehand or itemized correctly on the receipt. If there's a texture-based surcharge, it should be communicated clearly before the service, not added to the bill afterward. For context, that's my hair length and texture. I was charged $175 for my cut due to updo. I asked what would be the normal charge if i left my hair curly she stated i was lucky that i was being charged that price and normally my service should of been $230. read more

Hair Play - Hair. - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Francisco, California

This summer, I asked for caramels and blondes, and Fritz absolutely nailed it, he gave me the most beautiful blend of warm, sun-kissed tones that look natural, vibrant, and full of dimension. The service was excellent from start to finish. I also got a trim, and my hair feels lighter, healthier, and perfectly shaped. Fritz truly is a master of his craft, he knows exactly what your hair needs and takes the time to make sure it looks and feels its best. If you have hair goals, let him know! He'll help you work towards them with genuine care and expertise. My curls have never looked better, soft, bouncy, and full of life. I use Set 2 and Set 3, and they're hands-down the best products for keeping my hair soft, defined, and frizz-free. Every curl looks healthy and shiny. I can't wait to go back for my fall-inspired colors: rich reds and browns! If you want beautiful color, healthy curls, and someone who really listens and delivers, go see Fritz at HairPlay! read more

Hair Play - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Francisco, California

I'm not one for reviews but there is no way I could skip on this one. I went to a salon in the Castro for a haircut and left completely upset. The photo I had showed the professional was not even close to the cut she gave me. Once leaving the first saloon, I decided to immediately drive to another to at least have my bangs fixed. THANK GOD my gps sent me to Fritz at Hair Play. I walked in a complete disaster after crying so much on the short drive, and even though he had a customer and was going to close after that customer he still told me he would help me! I told him I just needed to at least fix the bangs and he ended up doing a whole new cut (which I didn't even know was possible). He made it look so much better and was so nice! I would 100% recommend him to anyone looking for a cut. I'm sure women can understand the frustration of a terrible cut right before a trip on New Year's Eve after relocating and having to adjust to new professionals. Fritz was honestly a breath of fresh air. Understanding beyond his job role. Thank you Fritz and team! read more

It took me a few days to write this review, as I wanted to reflect carefully and provide an honest account of my experience. The day after my appointment, I contacted the stylist to request a full refund due to my dissatisfaction. While she declined to issue a full refund, I did receive a partial refund for the haircut. The day before my scheduled appointment, I visited the salon to show the stylist a reference photo and explained that I wanted to achieve a platinum blonde color. She confirmed that it was possible, and I scheduled my appointment for the following day at 1:45 PM. Upon arrival, I was informed she was running behind and still finishing up with another client. Once in her chair, I showed her the photo again for reference. Without much discussion, she began by dry-cutting my hair, followed by washing and bleaching it. During the wash, she was quite rough and accidentally knocked out a newly done piercing in my left ear and did not apologize. Unfortunately, the final result did not resemble the color or style I had requested. I left the salon feeling extremely disappointed, with visibly damaged hair. Which I did have to go somewhere else for a bigger chop. I was very unhappy about that. The overall atmosphere was okay, though there was a noticeable amount of gossip. The stylist also appeared visibly upset or frustrated throughout the appointment, which contributed to the discomfort of the experience. I have to wait a few weeks before I can achieve my goal at a difference salon. $380 down the drain minus the 95 I got back. I went to a different salon for them to fix it and they had to cut off most of my hair because it was overprocessed. They expressed surprise. read more

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I've lived in the Bay Area since 2000 and spent years driving from San Leandro to Oakland to San Jose, searching for a stylist who truly understood my hair. While there are many talented professionals in the area, I could never find the right fit -- my hair wasn't maintained or styled the way I wanted, and the results were often inconsistent. It became stressful and discouraging. Then I found Fritz, owner of Hair Play, and he was a complete godsend. I still remember my first visit -- a rainy October day when I arrived rushing and nervous (after spilling gasoline on my skirt!). Fritz immediately put me at ease. He listened patiently as I explained my "hair journey," took time to understand my texture, and asked thoughtful questions. When he relaxed, cut, and styled my hair, his attention to detail was extraordinary. The result was healthy, flowing, beautiful hair -- and the next day, I received so many compliments. Everyone wanted to touch it! Fast-forward 21 years, and Fritz is still the only person I trust with my hair. I now wear it natural, and once again, he's helped me feel confident and radiant. His eye for color, texture, and balance is unmatched. Whether it's the first or last appointment of his day, Fritz always gives his best -- never rushed, always meticulous. He also gets me. The salon's vibe -- the music, the conversation (or peaceful silence when I need it) -- makes Hair Play so much more than a salon. It's my safe haven. A place to relax, renew, and walk out feeling beautiful every single time. If you're looking for someone who listens, cares, and truly knows hair -- Fritz is the one. read more

Marty is a wizard with wavy/curly hair! Booked a consultation and then an appointment with him after a terrible cut at another salon. Marty did an amazing job fixing the cut (definitely not easy!) and bringing out my texture. Throughout the process Marty was so calming and nice, as was everyone else I encountered there. So glad to have a new favorite stylist! Highly recommend! read more

Fritz Clay has always provided a professional and welcoming atmosphere in his salon while also giving a beautiful, cut, color or style experience. Thank you! read more

I am always so happy, feel beautiful and more confident after leaving Fritz's chair at Hairplay. He listens to what you want and asks questions to get a better idea of your lifestyle. Fritz understands hair, hair health and has created proprietary products that you can use daily. His recommendations are on point. Fritz and His staff are professionals, courteous and FUN. I highly recommend visiting Hairplay in San Francisco. read more

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I've been going to Fritz and Hairplay for cut and color of my curly hair for more than 24 years. I've happily followed him through multiple moves even when the new location wasn't ideal for me. I'm grateful to have found a stylist and friend whom I completely trust. I'm happy to sit in his chair and let Fritz work his magic, knowing the results will be fabulous. Fritz works hard to make his salon welcoming and warm with a relaxing and friendly vibe. Generous and kind, I always enjoy our conversations and Fritz's thoughtful insights. Never in a rush, Fritz genuinely wants you to be thrilled with your look - regardless of which stylist you work with. I always leave confident that my hair looks terrific, feeling great, with a smile on my face. I highly recommend Fritz and Hairplay! read more

Had an amazing haircut from Marty. He is a great stylist. Extremely detail oriented I appreciate the way he takes time to understand the client's expectations. The rest of the staff is kind and attentive. The atmosphere is comfortable and welcoming. I highly recommend Hair Play, they have an experienced fun collection of stylists (: read more

I wanted to love this place I went for a curly cut and it was a miss for me what I asked for wasn't the result this was back in early August I just haven't had time to write the review the vibe maybe was off and it happens but I just wasn't feeling it I normally vibe with the person doing my hair but I didn't this time and that's ok maybe it was a day I went maybe it was an off day for my hairstylist we just didn't connect and like I said sometimes that happens maybe someone else had a better experience and I would hope so read more

UPDATED REVIEW About a week or so ago I posted a "not so favorable" review because of my first experience at Hair Play. I immediately received a response from the Owner, Fritz asking if he could help me, inviting me to come back in and he would make it right.... And he DID! Fritz did the entire service over, cut, color, wash, blow drying, and curl in a most professional way. I can't thank Fritz enough for making himself personally responsible and giving his labor Gratis. I'm a customer for life! God bless you read more

I went to see Denise for a wash, flat iron and curl. First-time visit. Excellent work and I plan to go back to see her. Hair Play is the best spot in the city for all hair types. For all of my 'sistas looking for a great place to get their hair done, Hair Play is the spot! read more

Hair Play is a lovely shop with talented people. Fritz truly tunes in to what you are seeking for your hair - mine being that I live on a boat much of the year without access to hairdryers and most often need to dry and style my hair without one. He enhanced my waves in such a way that is helpful in managing my hair. read more

I have been going to Hairplay for over 25 years. I've worked with Marty, Denise and Fritz over the years- all of whom are still there today and all of them are experts at curly hair management:-) the past few years I've been going to see Fritz the owner. He is kind and professional and has given me hair cuts that look like I'm straight out of a magazine. Grateful for Hairplay- a San Francisco legacy. read more

Horrible experience. No one called to cancel my appointment when the stylist was away. I took an uber 40 mins to get there! sending my annoyance, Fritz, the lead stylist, reluctantly offered to help. I was thankful for that but uncomfortable with someone who'd never worked on my hair doing a chemical treatment. When he insisted, I foolishly gave in. I guess he sensed my discomfort because he became insulting, creepy and overly close to me as he treated & washed my hair. I'll never go back to this salon and nor should any young girl who respects herself. read more

Fritz has been cutting my curly hair for the past 8+ years. I wouldn't trust my head with anyone else. He's not afraid to do a buzz cut! It's always a pleasure to see Fritz and we manage to cover a number of topics, both personal and political, during my appointments. Above all, Fritz is the consummate professional. Hair Play is his salon and it is always clean and spotless and the music is just right. I always look forward to my appointments and talking to Fritz. I usually just sit in the chair and let Fritz create. He's patient, doesn't rush and takes great pride in his work. If you have curly hair and need a stylist who knows what to do with it, book an appointment with Fritz at Hair Play. If I could give him 10 stars, I would. read more

I've been serviced by Denise and Marty had a great experience with both of them! The salon has a classic old school feel; blowout smoke in the air, top tier playlist and a wash and condition included with the service. I enjoy every visit and leave with a smile! See you soon read more

Martina just did another amazing job with my hair color I sent her a picture and the final results came out better than the picture I am more than pleased with my results will definitely be going back to her again!! Can't wait for another haircut from her she's excellent with thick hair! read more

Service is friendly, professional and fun. It's like visiting family. Music is great you cannot help but tap your foot. Stacey, listens to what I want and verifies if what I want is good for my hair. My hair always looks healthy and nicely styled. Fritz, the owner makes sure everyone keeps the salon very clean and organized. Stacey has been doing my hair color, deep conditioning and styling for 14 years! read more

Hair Play - Haircut and Style by Stacey at Hair Play - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Francisco, California

I've gotten my hair cut numerous times by numerous stylists in Sf.. BUT NOTHING. compares even remotely to this fuckin movie star haircut by a stylist named Martina. She quite literally slayed the game. I had no idea my hair could ever look this good because I have a lot of thick hair that does whatever it wants. My hair is naturally curly and this cut allows for me to wear it blow dried (in the pic) or curly with very little effort. I'd spend a whole ass paycheck to look this good but luckily I only spent about a 5th. Worth. Every. Penny. read more

Hair Play - Best Haircut of your damn life??? - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Francisco, California

I went to hair play last week for a last minute appointment and was very grateful that hair play could squeeze me in for an appointment with Marty. Marty did a wonderful job and checked in with me frequently on how I would like my hair cut. He is wonderful. When I looked at the website, hairstyles are listed as $75+. Marty cut and blow dried my hair with a round brush which took about 1 hour. When I went to pay, I was told the hair cut was $160, not including tip. I asked if that was correct because I was anticipating closer to $100. I was told yes that is correct. I called a week later to ask how much a haircut is because I would like to have my haircut again by Marty but $160 is steep for a basic cut and blow dry. The woman on the phone told me $120 for all stylists. When I said I paid $160 last week she looked and said I was charged for a cut and hairstyling. She asked if I had my hair styled for a wedding or something, I said no. I said if I come back, will it be $120 or $160, she said I don't know. I would just caution you and suggest you ask how much will your service be beforehand, since it's not clearly stated. read more

Hair Play - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Francisco, California

I came to this place because they "specialize" in color correcting.. only to have to get color corrected somewhere else. Initially I went with Martina 2 times and after the second time of my hair being blotchy I asked her what she thought we could do about it.. she completely ignored me I never got a response. Marty then tried to blend in the roots and I left with this. I've paid almost upwards of $300 each time for my hair to have to get fixed somewhere else. read more

Hair Play - my attempt over a month ago to fix my balayage. Still hasn't answered me. - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I'm in awe with Fritz and his ability to tame my natural hair which I've been growing out over the past several years from relaxers and Brazilian blowouts. I haven't found a hair stylist that knows exactly what products to use on my natural hair. Fritz educated me on the correct products and way to properly apply them to my hair. Also how to style my hair after washing it on my own and how put my hair up at night. I'm still amazed! I also live with chronic pain so my hair was badly neglected these past few years. Fritz was professional and I was in and out quickly but he really worked a miracle on my hair! I've already received several compliments on it! Love the shape and it's truly amazing how it looks like a straw set without the long process! Thank you Fritz, you're a true hair whisperer!! An update to my previous review... my mom comes to see Fritz every week to get her hair done since 2017! He doesn't do unnecessary things like putting harsh chemicals on your hair. My mom has beautiful healthy hair for a woman over 70... It's soft and so healthy! read more

I had a HORRIFIC experience at HairPlay, primarily due to the owner, Fritz Clay. He screamed at me, demanding I write a review about my experience, and even insisted I include his name. Fritz disrespectfully yelled at me in his salon in front of all his clients without provocation His behavior was appalling and unprofessional, speaking to me in a demeaning manner. FYI: As of 6.15.24 The salon does not have a late policy on their site nor booking site. It is also not mentioned in the appointment confirmation! This salon does not abide by their own rules nor do they take accountability for their actions. I scheduled my first appointment with Denise for 10:45 AM on Saturday. Running late, I called the salon and informed the receptionist I would arrive 10 minutes past my scheduled time. She confirmed with Denise that this was acceptable and told me over the phone. I arrived at 10:55 AM, checked in, and waited. By 11:30 AM, I had not been addressed, so I asked the receptionist for an update. She said she would check with Denise but returned without any information. After another five minutes, I inquired again and was told Denise had taken another client despite confirming it was okay for me to arrive ten minutes late. The situation escalated when an unknown man, later identified as Fritz the owner, confronted me aggressively without knowing what was going on. He invaded my personal space, yelled at me, and used exaggerated hand movements towards me in front of all his clients. Despite my many attempts to explain the situation, he continually interrupted and declared he was "done with the conversation." When I asked about their late policy, he dismissed its importance, even though no such policy exists online. He then stormed off throwing his hands up in the air in the middle of me speaking, not hearing me out, and showing complete disregard for the situation at hand and the one he disgustingly created. Denise, the stylist eventually came to the front, explaining she took another client without apologizing, despite the approval of my late arrival. I left without receiving any service and will not return to this salon. Fritz's behavior was utterly unprofessional, and I have never been treated so poorly by a business owner. This experience was extremely disappointing and unacceptable. If I could leave this review with 0 stars I would, but I am obligated to put at least 1 star. read more

If you're a guy with curly hair it's hard to recommend this place. They didn't have a good grasp of how to handle curls and went crazy with thinning shears, leaving my hair very dry and frizzy. I also showed multiple reference pictures with different angles and the final result wasn't really similar. The final haircut didn't end up looking bad but it's just not at all what I wanted and my hair doesn't really curl anymore because the thinning shears ruined the curl pattern. If I had straight or wavy hair this wouldn't been a pretty good cut, but for someone with curly hair who specifically wanted a curl specialist to get the most out of my curls, this wasn't the place. My appointment also had to be pushed back 30 minutes because the stylist was running behind schedule, but at least they left me know a couple hours beforehand. read more

Got a great cut and blow out from Denise today. She was friendly, detail oriented, and gave me exactly what I wanted. Very happy with my cut! read more

Hair Play - Dope haircut with lots of body and movement. - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Francisco, California

Was my first time going here and it was AMAZING! Fritz is super professional and took great care of me! I haven't had my hair done in a longgggg time and his knowledge about hair and professionalism made me feel super comfortable! I love my hair and new chocolate color he added in! Love this shop! read more

Hair Play - Color and silk press - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Francisco, California

I already wrote a google review sharing how I felt but after a few days of having the bad experience in salon I'm also seeing how terrible this haircut really is. Not only was Denise seemingly upset about something, and I can only imagine since it was late in the day that she was ready to go home, unfortunately I get off work late and this was the only appointment I could set. The only thing she said to me at all during the process of the haircut was how she was disappointed about election which happened the night before and I have to think that was a major factor into her attitude. I can say with certainty she knew she should've canceled the appointment because she was not in the mindset to cut hair. She beat my scalp up in a washing that left sore bumps on it and I know she pulled out a bunch of hair in the process. She not only didn't do what I wanted, she did a poor job that there's short and long pieces everywhere, & the part makes no sense. Ive cried about this twice now because this is ridiculous, I have no clue why she would do this to me, it is hard not to take what she did personally How the whole experience was, I don't imagine I'm the only person who has ever gotten this type of bad service from her. read more

This is my hair salon. Everyone there is funny. The stylists including you in their conversations. The vibe is chill,warm,friendly and the service is great. You don't wait long for your stylist. I always show my stylist a pic of the haircut I want and she nails it every time. I highly recommended it. read more

Was looking for a place in SF that did African American 4c hair. I could have just done a blowout, but i wanted a fresh cut. Got a few "concerned" looks when i said it has to go, but they were very accommodating. I haven't had a relaxer in 10 years, and my hair grew back very nice and long. But i was over it. First, they were pretty good to being on time. But the first stylist was honest and said there was a better stylist who should do the cut. I really appreciate the advice. Even if she wasn't getting paid for my service, my satisfaction was more important! So got the wash, got the cut, and im loving it!!!! I go back every couple of weeks for maintenance, but its actually pretty low maintenance. Its a good place for ethnic hair. read more

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Denise- amazing. Made my hair look exactly how I wanted it to. Will be back, thank you!!!

Hi, so I originally had an haircut appointment with Dinese. I'm natural with my hair so I decided to get it cut shorter .I've already had highlights in my head already plus heat damage. I was expecting her to cut off the heat damage as well in which she didn't. I later on decided I was going to go back in a couple days later for her to cut my hair shorter (get rid of all heat damage) and to get my hair colored. I showed her a pic of the haircut and color I wanted and she gave me the opposite which was similar to a Mohawk that I didn't ask for. The color was also not what I wanted and was completely two different colors. I really couldn't see it inside the shop because the lighting is dark. Overall I didn't love my hair and paid a lot of money for it to be done. She also charged me again additional when I had went back in for a shorter cut. I ended up calling saying I was unhappy with my coloring and the receptionist said the owner Fritz could Redo my coloring. I said okay great. I came after work and he did take care of me and my hair needs! He also recommended his hair products he makes to put in my hair which I do like using but not all the time. After a couple days and washes my color he did lightened up which I love. I was afraid at first my hair would fall out because I had my hair bleached so many times with Dinese and Fritz as well. My appointment with him went went and I also ended up cutting my own shorter since it was originally looking like a Mohawk that Dinese cut my hair into which I did not ask for. After me recutting my own hair and having it Recolored by Fritz I'm now officially happy with it! I will go back to Dinese for styling purposes but would continue to go to Fritz for coloring if I decide to change it up. The video of the salon is really cool btw. This is why I'm giving 4 stars. read more

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Well for starters, I'm not sure what the fuss is about the customer service because I had an amazing experience yesterday at Hair Play! The lady with blonde short hair as receptionist (whose name I didn't get) was super sweet and helpful as I arrived. I made an appointment online prior about a few days out as my birthday is coming up. No, they don't "answer the phone" (which is more of a management/owner issue than the staff themselves) and I didn't hear a phone ring at all throughout my 4 hour transformation. However, there is a note option when booking online if you do have any specific concerns/preferences and the prices ARE listed. Peggy is NOT GETTING ENOUGH LOVE IN THESE REVIEWS!!! I literally haven't walked into a salon in years, my hair is super thick, it has been very dry, and I don't have much time to upkeep it. Peggy knew how to envision my dream hair while also reminding and teaching me simple ways to take care of it over time. She was extremely patient, honest about the pricing beforehand, and even checked in with me many times so we were both on the same page about the cut, color, and style I wanted so I was happy. And that I was (my hair is exactly what I wanted)! I believe both clients and stylists should have transparency before even starting a service, if you want your hair done and have a budget speak up for it! Likewise as a stylist, one should also go over what that person wants and confirm the amount since prices vary from stylist at Hair Play. Yes, Hair Play is on the more expensive side but I would rather pay for quality over a rushed, half done, inexpensive service. Peggy and I both communicated wonderfully and the end result is a product of that. I'll be back in March for my next haircut! Thank you Peggy and Hair Play (: read more

Hair Play - deep violet highlights by Peggy 3 - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Francisco, California

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Hair play wonderful location. Very nice inside some energetics hairstylist. You could feel the energy good and bad. The receptionist at the front was a beautiful person. Very nice. read more

A wonderful experience at Hair Play. Fritz tamed my out of control hair-it was down to the middle of my back, a frizzy mess. It's now collar length. I was a bit apprehensive but Fritz tamed my nerves as well of my hair. He is a true professional who know his way around curls. read more

My hair is really curly and frizzy so it takes a lot of tome to style. I have also bleached it a few times over the past few years leaving me with super damaged hair that was often breaking. I started to look into the Keratin process and I'm so happy I found Hair Play. Martina was able to fit me into her schedule over the weekend and walked me though everything she was doing and what to expect. I normally dislike my hair. After this treatment I actually can say I Love my hair. Thank you for the hair confidence. I'll continue to do my keratin process with Martina and use Hair play for all my other hair needs too in the future. So happy to find a salon that feels fright! read more

Hair Play - After Keratin with Martina! Highly recommend for us curly haired ladies. - Hair Stylists Near Me - San Francisco, California

I am super happy with my hair. I called same day and asked if they could take me! They had a spot for me within the hour for cut/ color. Very happy with the results- definitely worth the price ---- Update in August was my second time seeing Ciara and she took me from this--- to this! read more

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One of the worst customer service experiences I have ever had. My hair dresser did not talk to me at all. I felt as if I was an inconvenience to her. She did not even say 'thank you' or 'good-bye' at the end of the service. She just told the front desk how much to charge me and walked away. I felt I if I was not welcome so I will not be returning. I'm greatly disappointed as I was excited to go to a salon that claims to specialize in multi-ethnic hair types. Also the hair cut and styling of my hair was pretty bad. read more