I came in for a keratin treatment and ended up meeting the director, Mr. J -- he's amazing! He really makes sure his students do a great job and runs this place so well. He's knowledgeable, professional, and takes the time to explain everything clearly. I can't wait to come back for a balayage treatment! read more

I was reminiscing today about my prior time in LA and remembered needing to review this place because it's actually GREAT. This little beauty academy located in little Tokyo is where I used to go to get my Japanese straightening treatments done! I had waist length 3c curly hair so the first time they did the Japanese straightening it took 4 hours and two hair stylists - one of whom was Yasuko. I'm sure she's long gone having graduated but she was fabulous and so sweet! She and her co-stylist took really good care of me that day. And because it's a styling school the prices are lower: my Japanese treatment had only cost $100. I attached a pic of the result -- QUITE successful! I went back 2-3 more times after to get my roots done as they grew out curly of course, but after about 2 years of rocking pin straight hair I decided to stop treatments. I now have super short curly hair because the Japanese straightening treatments are permanent of course - the only way to get back to curly is to cut it off once the treatment has been done~ but that is what I wanted at the time! The one thing I do want to comment on is accessibility of this place: it's about as far east in LA as you can get. I lived near UCLA on the west side and didn't have a car, so I used to take the bus to get here and the ride was almost an hour, and lands you in a not-so-nice spot in East LA which is a short walk from the beauty school. Just be mindful of that if you're in a similar situation... I used to always plan the hair treatments early on Saturdays so it was light out both coming and going from the salon. While the outside area isn't very nice though, inside the salon is quite modern! It did strike me as a school though, there were lots of hair tools/products all over. But nevertheless, everything was clean. Overall absolutely recommend getting your hair done here, the staff/students do a really good job and you can get treatments cheaper than at an established salon! read more

KC Beauty Academy - My result! I had 3C type SUPER curly hair that when dry was just past my shoulders because it shrank so much. This is after treatment + cut - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I truly couldn't have chosen a better school. I started this journey as an esthetician student during a very difficult time in my personal life, and KC Beauty Academy became more than just a place to learn -- it became a safe space for me. I felt supported, encouraged, and genuinely cared for every single day. The school has a kind and peaceful environment that is also filled with joy and laughter. I grew not only as an esthetician, but as a person. I will always cherish the lessons, the growth, and every moment of my education here. I also met incredible people who became friends for life, which made this experience even more special. A very special thank you to my teacher Julia. I was so lucky to have you as my teacher. You are beautiful inside and out, and your positive energy made our days brighter and made us look forward to each new day at school. Your patience, encouragement, and belief in me meant more than you will ever know. You truly inspired me not just to become a great esthetician, but to grow in confidence and strength as a person. Thank you to Rino for always being there to help with anything and everything from the very beginning. Your kindness and willingness to assist made such a difference in my experience. And to Mr. J and Ms. Jenny -- thank you for your warmth and positivity. Your presence added so much to the atmosphere of the school, and I truly appreciate you both. I will be forever grateful for my time at KC Beauty Academy. It will always hold a special place in my heart. I miss you all read more

I came across this hidden gem and I am SO glad that I did. I had a more difficult request of a blowout with hair extensions and everything went so well. The instructor is very helpful and extremely knowledgeable, which leads to students thriving in their environment. All of the students were amazing! I highly recommend and will be back any chance I get for services. Thanks KC Beauty Academy! I will note that you cannot tip on cards- bring cash for student tips!! They are so deserving! read more

KC Beauty Academy - Excellent blowout and straight styling with extensions! - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I almost don't want to post this and give away my secret spot. It's be been getting facials here for a few months through classpass. Every time has been great, the students are all so sweet and go over the details with you before the service. For the price, it's totally worth it. read more

I recently decided it was time for a glow-up and stumbled upon this little magical spot. I booked a microdermabrasion and got paired with Sunny, one of the students about to graduate this month and her name says it all. She was a total ray of sunshine: knowledgeable, thorough, and clearly loves what she does. By the end, my face was so glowing I half expected it to start charging people for selfies. 10/10 would float out on a cloud of glowiness again. read more

Groupon offers very cheap student service. I booked an appointment for keratin treatment & haircut. I showed them the pictures referring what I wanted. I permanently straightened my hair last October, I just needed to smooth the roots. Absolutely hate the haircut. I was laughing after leaving that place because I was in utter shock how ugly my hair is looking. Even since I got back home, I can't stop crying. I am contemplating whether I should shave my head. * They did not comprehend what I wanted based on the pictures I showed them. * The student did my hair, kept hitting my ears with the sharp brush. I came home with red ears. Now it's scabbing. She kept saying "sorry" then repeating the same thing. * It's too short for my taste but I was okey until the instructor started to do a 180 degree Guided cut. Before even I realized what he was doing, it was too late for me to say anything. * I felt like a guinea pig when they started to cut it section by section. * my appointment was at 10:30am, I got there by 10:23am and I didn't have to wait but the whole thing ended 2:15pm. I am so devastated and disgusted with the result. I might cover my hair until it grows back to certain lengths. I had a facial done in the past & the experience was extremely pleasant so I went back and regretting for the haircut I received. Front desk was really helpful But personally I would not recommend this place for hair. read more

See all

I went in for a 24k gold facial and I was very impressed. Samantha was my esthetician and she was a total professional. She explained every step of the service I was getting and she made sure I was comfortable with what she was doing. The salon is clean and sanitized and the only drawback is the parking. However, for the price, this is a minor inconvenience. I am glad I found a new place for my beauty routine. read more

As a former KC beauty student all I can say is that my time spend here was a pleasure. My instructor Ms. J was by far the BEST ! If you're not open minded and willing to learn then of course you're not going to learn anything or prosper. As a student one must be responsible and respectful and not only waste their own time but everyone else's. Ms. J made sure everyone was comfortable and encouraged everyone to take notes, take pictures, etc. Ms. J also made the theory part of the course as fun as possible! "Supinate" KC beauty is very welcoming. I hope everyone gets the privilege to work with Ms. Julia. read more

KC Beauty Academy - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Three months prior, I received a keratin treatment, color, and cut. I was pleased with the excellent service, the professional salon equipment, and the supervisor who attended to all my hair care needs. This week, I returned, as I was pleased with my first experience, and had my roots colored and blow-dried by Evelyn. I was again happy with my beautiful hairstyle. I am referring my husband and others for this excellent service. read more

This establishment is a school for aspiring estheticians and cosmetologists. I purchased a Groupon and booked a few services, but was immediately shocked by the lack of cleanliness, the use of cheap tools, (I seen the facial student open a condiment container to spread a "mask" on my face) and the unprofessional staff. Upon arrival, there was a woman with bright-colored hair who was very unhelpful. I assumed she was just a busy receptionist and shrugged it off. When my service began, I fully expected the teacher to be observing and guiding the students -- as that's the entire point of training. Instead, I was told to lie down on the facial table with no teacher introduction or input. The only staff member who might have been an instructor -- an older woman with heavy makeup -- spent the entire time glued to her phone. I finished my facial about 50 minutes later and she was still on her phone. I then used the restroom and was horrified. The walls had gunk on them, there were NO seat covers, the floor was sticky and dirty, and the mirrors were filthy. At that point, I immediately regretted my decision to receive services here. This facility is clearly unmaintained, and instead of properly training their students, they seem more focused on having them work to make money for owner of school read more

I couldn't be happier with the results! I showed them a few photos of what I was hoping for, and they matched the color and style perfectly! Sylvia did an amazing job blending the color to look natural and subtle, exactly as I envisioned. Mr. J was there supervising and offering guidance, and it was clear he's a fantastic instructor who genuinely cares about his students' success. I left feeling so confident and in love with my hair! I came in on a Saturday morning and it was quiet, but they had good music playing. read more

KC Beauty Academy - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I'd say more like a 3.5 but I understand, prices are more affordable especially with Groupon and students are practicing! They practice what they learn and are honing their vibe with clients. I've gone multiple times for facials and am usually satisfied. They use Dermalogica products. The walls for the facial rooms are pretty thin but kept dark for a bit more relaxed feel. Students are nice. The front desk staff and people at the end seem a bit stoic but that's fine. I am usually relaxed and feel refreshed! The last time I went the student kept using toner every few minutes and then would spray without covering my nose and I would be shocked when I breathed in some of the particles. I tried to give feedback but it wasn't well received. I wish they would offer a chance to give the feedback so the student could improve. read more

Although new students , the teacher Mr J was fabulous making sure they were supervised doing what they should be doing- I got a nice Keratin treatment for a good deal - their Keratin was non toxic and there was actually no chemical smell at all - thanks Charlene and Crystal for a great job well done! read more

*** Got a great deep cleanse facial by Vanessa ... *** I feel pretty Oh, so pretty I feel pretty, and witty, and bright And I pity Any girl who isn't me tonight I feel charming Oh, so charming It's alarming how charming I feel And so pretty That I hardly can believe I'm real It felt relaxing Oh, so relaxing I could have almost fallen asleep And KC Beauty Is so incredibly kind of cheap. *** Skin lookin' silky! Prkg near here is a struggle. *** read more

I've had my hair done 4 separate times in the student clinic, I'll always come back! Very skilled, detail-oriented students who preform at level higher even than some licensed people! You can't beat the prices and I love all the staff. read more

Found a great deal on groupon for a keratin and haircut combo. Read all the reviews and went ahead to schedule. First, I was looking for street metered parking and was driving around for half an hour. The spots were limited and even more so because of a food event nearby. Even the paid parking lot was full. I was finally able to find a spot only to have to pay $15 for 3 hours. When I finally got the the academy, my student stylist was nice but not good. It was crystal clear she needed more experience and guidance. After my shampoo, she still left bubbles/suds in my hair because I could hear the crunching noise while she was wrapping my hair with a towel. She then informed me that this was an express keratin treatment. Basically, it won't straighten but will get rid of frizz. If I had known this earlier, I would not have purchased this. This should be specifially listed as express since it's very misleading not to. She fumbled her way through my treatment and the supervisor not once came to look at my hair. He was just walking around chatting and only glancing my way occassionally. I did not get a haircut on this day because I didn't want to go over my parking time limit. Essentially, I learned my lesson. Go to a professional salon and pay the full amount with the detailed service your used to. Not to mention free parking in a lot. All this to save money, was totally not worth my time and stress for a unsatisfactory experience. I feel robbed instead of happy from getting a great deal. The instructors here should get the treatments offered on themselves first from the students who are taking in customers before having them work on paying clients. read more

Charlene was very gentle and got a great cut with layers! Staff very friendly as well

Ivanisha was my assigned cosmetologist; she was excellent! I highly recommend this beauty school. I'm a senior and couldn't do the QR code, but the hostess accommodated. They were so friendly and the young guy even offered me water....this is the place to be! read more

Great experience! Highly recommend the deep cleanse facial! Healing soothing vibes! Alondra was amazing!

I had a hair emergency and they fixed me up. J the instructor supervised and he did a great job & so did senior student. The color correction was awesome and hair cut style was also good. I would recommend this place to anyone who wants quality hair salon at a fair price. Just have a little extra time because of instruction during your style. read more

See all

I went in today to have a facial because my birthday is coming up and I wanted my face to look nice and smooth instead I ended up with three burn marks on my cheek. i'm guessing during the extraction I got burned from the tool. Didn't see it till I got home.. very very upset. I came out looking worse than I went in. I hope it heals and doesn't leave hyperpigmentation. feels like a rug burn on my face and it's swollen. either way it's not gonna be healed by my birthday idk,try this place at your own risk. read more

KC Beauty Academy - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I got a facial done by Christina and it was AMAZING!! It's felt soooo good and I left with gorgeous glowing skin! I will definitely be coming back to see her! Would highly recommend booking an appointment with her! read more

Such a great experience getting a keratin treatment with Ari and Diana. They were both so sweet including the instructor Wendy - she was also super helpful in giving me tips to take care of my hair. I can't wait to come back! read more

Great deals and kind students that are easy to talk to. Got the deep cleansing facial at $40 on groupon and a $25 wash, cut, and blow-dry! So worth. Also got lucky enough to get street parking on a Wednesday afternoon (free after 4PM) by Wurstkuche (~5min walk away). FACIAL: Koren was so nice - she walked me through step by step of what she was putting on my face; she also took into consideration of my sensitive skin by minimizing the heat applied and asking how the pressure she was applying felt. She also made sure my lips were hydrated with vaseline. It's about 7-8 steps involving pre-cleanse, cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, mask, sunscreen, etc. She also gave me post-care tips of ensuring I be careful of the sun and avoid alcohol for a few hours afterwards. My skin felt so dewy and hydrated for the rest of the day!! Overall it took about ~45 min. HAIRCUT: I appreciate Hazel for being so patient with discussing what I had in mind for my hair - I've had it one way for so long that it was difficult for me to envision a completely different one. She helped me re-trim the length of my hair as well as adjust my bangs so that I was content with it. The haircut itself took like ~2 hours, with the wash being ~15min, and blowdry ~20-30min which is a hefty amount of time. Something to consider as well is that at one point I did feel a bit achey from standing too long, uncomfortable from the high heat of blow drying, and iffy from the instructor wearing the same gloves before and after eating, albeit sanitizing the gloves.. Though I didn't mind, I will mention: this spot probably isn't the best if you're looking for an ambience with peace and quiet as it is bustling with chatter from students and instructors. Also, not the best spot for a quick haircut, if that's what you're looking for since students are practicing and instructors need to check over your hair as well. read more

I absolutely loove this place! I went in for a Keratin treatment and oh my! Emily Santos did an amazing job on my hair. She took her time and was very welcoming. She washed my hair so gently, great massage and made sure she washed it thoroughly. Will definitely be returning for another treatment and hair cut. Shout out to Emily and Ms. Jenny read more

Just recently graduated from here , the esthetician program. Let me start off by saying I am not a people person nor am I the fastest learner. Ms.Julia is THE BEST INSTRUCTOR YOU COULD POSSIBLY ASK FOR. She's just amazing. Words can't describe... you would just have to go sit in the classroom and listen to her. She's so passionate for with every students education there. She will help you from start to finish. Ms.j broke everything down to where I could understand everything more. And I mean everything!!!! Even the simplest things I felt so ridiculous asking. " Nothing is a stupid question " ( Ms.j voice) . This review is not only for the school itself but it's to show teacher appreciation! I love it here because of the wonderful atmosphere, and my instructor (ms.j). If you ever was thinking about coming here for the esthetician program please do! If you ever read this Ms.J thank you. You made me become better version of myself and a great future esthetician!!!!!! Thank you , Janaya read more

KC Beauty Academy - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Can't say enough good things about this school!! I graduated successfully and educated from the Esthetician program all thanks to my extremely knowledgeable teacher Ms Julia. The way that Ms Julia teaches is proactive and informative. She demonstrates, guides, and educates her students to successfully mastering a plethora of topics and skills. I have never been a great student but there's something about Ms Julia's hands on approach that really works. I'm beyond grateful for my experience at Kc Beauty Academy. read more

Thank you KC beauty academy for the amazing haircut! Exactly what I wanted and not too short. I will definitely tell everyone to come to this amazing salon! read more

KC Beauty Academy - A beautiful side part with 3 on the sides and a low fade - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Have been spending a lot of time in DTLA lately and my hair needed attention. Both my usual hair stylists in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood schedule is booked this week and my hair and I can't wait. After researching and reading countless reviews, I decided on KC Beauty Academy for my salon blonde hair. Was referred to a master stylist Masuko 'MK' who carefully worked on my hair. I wanted the blonde toned down, without the use of bleach, more natural process. Although her English speaking skill is limited, as she is from Japan, it very was frustrating communicating, to the point I almost left, but a nice and patient front desk (Rino) helped interpret. Again, all she had to do was use the toner, wash and blow out style. I was nervous and concerned but pleased with the final outcome. Because of the many side messages I have received on Yelp, for the record, Absolutely No, zero highlights were added to my hair here at KC, only toner and I was told it would wash out gradually. My partial highlights were done last April by Adriana at YUKA on Robertson/Melrose. And in July had toner by Lily at Lilygloss, surprisingly all documented on my Yelp history. This clean modern industrial looking salon is 2 blocks walking distance from the Geffen MOCA and/or Little Tokyo plaza. In my 4 inch Fendi mules, it's too uncomfortable to walk from the DTLA financial district, I took a Lyft, easy peasy. Will absolutely return and recommend. read more

Wow. I'm so very impressed! Do not be afraid to come here because it is students! The teacher assists with every aspect of your service. I got a cut color and blow dry and it was better than if i went to an expensive salon! I have extremely long hair and the total price for everything ended up being $85. Tawney did such an amazing job. I will absolutely be returning!! Before and after attached! read more

KC Beauty Academy - Before - Cosmetology Schools Near Me - Los Angeles, California

See all

Never in my life did I have a horrible facial as I got there. Never have I left after a facial, feeling more bad then before. Everything went wrong. There was absolute no knowledge. All she did was applying cream after cream after cream during the whole hour. She missed so many spots on my face. She kept the steamer only on the left side of my face. Left the right side.. I don't know why? I asked if she was going to take care of my black and white heads. She acted so insecure. Acting like she was checking out my face. Saying that I have no black or white heads. When I said I do have black and white heads, and pointed at my jawline. She acted like she took them out. No pressure, no pain.. too fast. After 5 seconds, she said: ok, there you go, all gone. ARE YOU JOKING ME??! Her supervisor or whatever she is, told her to give me her card so I could visit her actual spa. So she could give me a chemical peel!?? Wtf? I came there to clean my face, and I walked out being so mad and not satisfied! Got home pissed off! Took pictures of my cheeks, alll still with black and white heads. Never ever will I set a foot there or would I ever recommend this place. Not to talk about how filthy and dirty the place was. Everyone was so loud! I couldn't even relax. read more

Here for a woman's haircut, keratin treatment (straightening) and blow dry style. The keratin treatment keeps hair silky and straight for about three months. Artsy industrial environment they move you along from station to station (like the David Bowie song) with different artists working on you in stages, sometimes two at a time, until you're done. Been here before. We like it. They do a professional job at a reasonable price. Street parking - can be difficult to find. Paid parking next door. Appointments required - same day ones are available including on a Saturday. read more

I've been coming here for two years. There are two types of hair stylist ( junior and senior). The difference between the two is the junior stylists are still in the beginning part of their schooling and have a supervisor helping/ watching them cut hair. Having a junior hair stylist cut you hair will and extra hour due to them still learning. I always have a senior hair stylist cut my hair. Parking: There is only street parking. The metro stations are close as well. Appointments: Yes book an appointment ahead of time. If you call at least one day ahead you can possibly still get an appointment. read more

Had to come back for my $27 Groupon Microdermabrasion! Though Taylor did an excellent job, I did notice a difference between a spa microdermabrasion & a school vibe. Though a spa is much much better, you def get bang for your buck at KC... I mean $27 for a microdermabrasion is unheard of haha and Taylor was super sweet, professional, and relaxing throughout my service. read more

See all

THEY ARE THE BEST!!! I did a simple haircut, but they gave me a full service with shampoo and conditioner. They student was very professional and patient, and the teacher was consistently checking on the process to make sure things were done properly. Their deep conditioning is definitely worth to try. It really changed the texture of my hair!!! read more

I love this place! Great prices and great service. I love meeting the academy students and they all do such a good job at what they do. Definitely coming back. read more

Excellent experience!!!! The staff and agents are wonderful and friendly. I had a great facial and my skin is still glowing weeks after my visit. I'll definitely return. read more

My daughter and I recently had our haircuts and highlights at KC Beauty Academy. The hair stylists were absolutely fantastic, especially Lesliee. Unfortunately, she is graduating from the Academy soon, so that's a bummer. My daughter's stylist (I don't remember her name) gave my daughter the best haircut she's ever had - and my teenager is picky, picky, picky! All of the stylists receive consistent feedback throughout the session from an experienced teacher (Mr. J), so I can't imagine things going wrong with any of the stylists. I'm excited for my next appointment of partial root highlights and a haircut. This.Academy is a true gem! I highly recommend their services!!! read more

Ms.Julia omg where do I start she's literally the best Instructor ever!! Such a smart women literally helped me so much and made my experience as an esthetician student incredible!! Will definitely recommend going here she's going to be your esthi bestie read more