Walked-in to enquire about a haircut, and was rudely turned down. Waited a month and decided to make an online appointment via their lengthy interrogation of an application and didn't hear back from them. For a salon to be touting to be inclusive (I had included my intersectional background in their crazy online application), they certainly are discriminatory, racist, xenophobic, and then some. Super disappointed in this supposedly open-minded lgbtq+ establishment. Highly do not recommend. read more

Salon Benders is such a welcoming place with such authentic people. It just feels like home! I've been in a few times now to see Jack and they are magic! They give me their honest feedback about what will/won't work for my hair and it feels like a truly collaborative process. Last time I was in, I requested something new and I loved how they were able to consult with Garden to come up with a plan that would work for my hair. The end result was amazing and I feel more like myself every time I walk out! This salon is just an overall welcoming place with staff who clearly enjoys each other and their work. It feels like a real community and not just your run of the mill salon. Unlike other salons where I used to dread going in...I look forward to my appointments here. Also, super grateful for the Covid protocols! read more

Salon Benders - New cut, color and (not shown) undercut by Jack! - Hair Stylists Near Me - Long Beach, California

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Very cute and cozy salon and I love that there is an outdoor cut and style option on their spacious back patio. Unfortunately I was not happy with my cut (similar experience to Joanne P.) and my stylist was no longer available to finish styling my hair. I was upset about that because I wanted to walk out with hair ready to go and manageable for care outside of the salon. The owner Jessie somehow came by and swooped in and gave me a quick wash and condition and comped my entire service for the day. I was a bit surprised because I did not mention my dissatisfaction at all, however Jessie apologized for the unavailable stylist and the time I had to wait and not receive the service I came down for. My haircut is cute and looks nice today, unfortunately it's not something I will be able to successfully recreate on a daily basis so the cut wasn't what I was looking for. I don't know that I would go again for anything hair related, but Jessie's care and concern would bring me back...maybe a reiki session? read more

So I hesitate posting this for a couple of reasons but I can't help but express how devastated I am. I want to start off by saying that the space here is incredibly peaceful and serene and the staff is super sweet, this is nothing against them. I went in for a haircut on Friday 8/13 and I haven't had a haircut in 2 1/2 years besides trimming it at home every so often. I told the hair stylist that I needed to get my hair freshened up a little bit because it was feeling a bit dry and tangly and I could notice some damage and explained to them that I was getting married in two months and had been growing my hair out in anticipation. I explained that I had been trimming it myself at home but wanted to get it professionally done before the wedding. I explained that I just wanted my hair to feel healthier but wanted to keep the length for my wedding, so I was okay with cutting a couple of inches off. I was very explicit about the fact that I had been growing my hair out for my wedding and yet I was shocked once they started blow drying my hair at how short it was. Speechless in fact, I couldn't even say anything. I went home as soon as I could after seeing all the 4-5 inch pieces of hair on the ground and I haven't stopped crying since. I'm sorry I didn't say anything while I was there, I was in shock. And again the person who attended to me was very sweet and the haircut itself was very well done, but I still can't believe I lost so much hair length two months before my wedding. This has honestly been so incredibly upsetting, especially for one of the biggest days of my life. I can't reiterate enough how I emphasized I'd been growing my hair for my special day, and how I feel like my words weren't taken into consideration. Now I feel absolutely helpless. My hair is not where I wanted it to be for my wedding which is only two months away, and I can't stop crying about it. I hope you guys understand. read more

Salon Benders - Definitely more than a couple of Inches... and not nearly the same length - Hair Stylists Near Me - Long Beach, California

I haven't had my haircut in 2 years and had the pleasure of having Jessie cut my hair yesterday. I walked away from that cut feeling wonderful, which is something I have never felt before after a cut. I'm so happy I found this place. Jessie was so warm and I felt at ease with her, which made my nervousness fade away. Everyone at the salon seemed warm and welcoming but Frieda was the absolute friendliest . read more

Salon Benders - From drab to fab. Thank you Jessie - Hair Stylists Near Me - Long Beach, California

Andrea is AMAZING. The salon community is a safe space, very welcoming and honestly such a cute place. Andrea captured exactly what I envisioned and her creativity knows no bounds. I am so grateful for this salon community and Andrea. I'm looking forward to the next time I'm in her chair. Definitely take advantage of the outdoor hair cuts, they're so serene! Also little Freida is the cutest pup on earth and such a cute presence in the salon read more

Salon Benders - Outside hair cut! - Hair Stylists Near Me - Long Beach, California

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So far I've gotten the my hair cut/styled by Andrea, Garden, and Rachel. I can't express enough how impressed I've been with all of their knowledge in how to approach my wavy/curly 2B hair. At this point I've had like 5-6 appointments with them because it feels like a guarantee that I will walk out with a freshh haircut! They are a very collaborative group and always make an effort to make everyone's experience a good one. I highly recommend Salon Benders. read more

I have a probably not uncommon fear of going to hair salons, and Salon Benders has completely changed that for me. The environment and the wonderful people were incredibly welcoming, and I felt safe enough to express all of my needs (even though my anxiety usually makes that really difficult for me). The owner clearly has a radical vision for the future of hair salons, and I think every shop should look to Salon Benders for tips on how to be more inclusive and accommodating. Garden was incredibly patient with me and super accommodating to my needs! I left the salon feeling seen, heard, and valued in ways I have never experienced at a salon before. My haircut came out even better than I imagined, thanks to Garden's collaboration with my ideas for what I wanted my hair to look like. My haircut has instantly made me feel more at home in my body!! read more

I've always had a love/hate relationship with going and getting a haircut at a salon. First of all, I have thin wavy hair but a lot of it. It's been called all sorts of things by many stylists before being straightened to oblivion or being told I needed to buy all sorts of product to tame my 'unruly' hair. Secondly, I'm a queer woman and have often felt awkward and out of place when mentioning that fact or mentioning my partner. Salon Benders is the first salon where I've felt truly comfortable and able to show up as myself. I've had my hair cut by Andrea twice. Sitting down in her chair for the first time, she carefully assessed the state of my quarantine hair (dead AF ends, v overgrown layers) and noted that my hair was wavy. She was so meticulous in her cut and really brought my waves back to life, teaching me how to use the Loma curvy creme to style my hair along with a diffuser attachment for the hair dryer. When she was done, I nearly cried because for the first time, I looked like ME after getting my hair done. I've been back once since that first cut and I can safely say my hair has never been happier or healthier. Aside from the cut, Salon Benders is such a lovely space. Walking in, I immediately felt welcomed and a sense of belonging. While I have never utilized it, the outdoor salon space is stunning. I also really appreciate the option to book a 'quiet' service for times when the social battery is low. I gladly drive from north OC to get my hair done at Salon Benders because I truly believe it is worth it. If you're considering booking your next haircut there, I highly recommend! read more

Not sure if this on the regular menu @ salon benders, however, they were supporting a mental health event that I attended today by offering healing techniques including reiki, sound baths, and tarot. I had the fortune to meet one of the stylists, Fig, who emanates a nurturing and loving energy. Fig is quite insightful and intuitive, did a tarot reading which was very healing for me. I believe people in the service industries, such as hair, often serve as healers in our communities...they can be great listeners; not to mention I always feel cared for and comforted when I get my hair washed by another person. Looking forward to coming to salon benders for future human hair connections. read more

What an adorable and welcoming space in Long Beach a little off of retro row near seabirds kitchen. I followed my stylist to this salon and she had amazing things to say about the whole environment, and she as right. The owners were so welcoming and immediately introduced themselves to me, and were very eager to introduce their new stylist to the regulars / colleagues / friends. I don't think I've ever seen a salon do that. They also have capes that keep your preferred pronoun: how cute is that? It's a nice touch to say "you're seen." Of course, the salon and beauty world has (generally speaking) been a haven for LGBTQ+ and allies, but it's refreshing to see it on broadcast. Well done creating a chic, fun, and welcoming environment. If you are into razor cuts, shags, mullets, and generally amazing throwback vibes, see Mandy! She kicks ass with her razor cuts! PS: Cal made me an incredible cup of coffee. What a treat! read more

Salon Benders - Razor cut shag by Mandy. - Hair Stylists Near Me - Long Beach, California

So, I've been had my hair cut here twice. The first time was Jessie! She gave me a rad mullet. She such a brilliant hair stylist and conversationalist. We talked about hair, life, community, healing, and meditation. All the good stuff! I was definitely happy with my hair and experience. Today I went in with an exploratory heart and mind and left feeling so seen and heard. Kris gave me the hair cut I've been imagining for months now. Kris and I had such nice conversations about all kinds of things, and it didn't feel forced. Turns out we're both Libra babies! This place is just a breathe of fresh air. I come for the hair cuts but I could find a great stylist anywhere. I really keep coming back for the people that give this salon life. It's a space for folks to just be. Thanks for the love Benders crew. You ALL rock and I can't wait to show off my hair read more

Salon Benders is such a warm and inclusive space with such lovely and wonderful people that I couldn't help but feel so relaxed and comfortable right off the bat! The stylists and the employees are so friendly and always check in with you every step of the way to make sure you're loving your haircut as they do it! I originally came in wanting a color that I thought would be low-maintenance and bleach free, but as it turns out, it would be an intensive process requiring multiple sessions and a whole lot of bleaching. Jessie, the owner with 20 years experience, was very upfront about it, asking what I wanted out of this session in terms of hairstyle, color, maintenance, etc.. and she helped me to come up with a color alternative that perfectly matched what I wanted (but never would've come up with myself) in aesthetic and upkeep! I am so happy with the hair color Jessie and Rach picked out, and I'm even happier knowing that I can let it grow out beautifully and healthy too! Rach, my stylist for today, is such a kind and bright soul, and it was an absolute pleasure having my hair cut and colored by them just recently! They're so fun to talk to, and very attentive to detail, also making sure to check in with how I was doing and how I liked the cut every step of the way! I was so excited with the haircut they gave me that I completely forgot to ask them about pictures of their crochet frog after we were done! I will make sure to ask them about it when I come in again for a trim haha! read more

I've never been so happy with a haircut! I've got fine wavy hair that can be coaxed into curls when cut and styled right. Since I hadn't had a haircut in about 5 months my hair had a lot of weight and not much shape. Nata took great care of me! She asked me questions about my hair routine before we started and was really detailed-oriented during the cut. Her work enhanced my natural wavy curl and the little angle from front to back is just right. It came out perfect! In addition to the cut, the atmosphere was wonderful! Everyone I encountered was so warm and welcoming (thanks for the yummy tea!), and the conversation with Nata during the haircut was engaging and enjoyable! This is a great place with a beautiful mission! Thank you! I can't wait to come back :) read more

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I applied for the reduced cost cut. I was so impressed and soothed by how informed the whole process felt. I never felt like a charity case. In fact Rachel made me feel like a complete queen. The experience was top notch from start to finish. I was received with a welcoming energy. Rachel is meticulous, talented and sweet. They went above and beyond. They have such a comforting touch and energy. I will be back again! read more

Garden was awesome. They did a great job giving my son a great job giving him a haircut matching his gender identity. He's super nice and friendly and gives a great haircut! read more

Salon Benders strives to create a calm, welcoming and accepting environment- and boy do they deliver. I have loved every experience I have had there. My hair always looks fantastic and I always end up feeling great after my appointments. read more

Loved the welcoming vibe here-- other queer and trans people as employees and patrons. Amazing art and great products. Had trouble booking online and Finn helped me over the phone so easily. I followed Fig here; they've been styling my hair on and off for years and I love the attention they always pay to whatever hair project idea I have! Wonderful technically and personally! read more

I've been seeing Andrea for haircuts for a while. I recommend her work wholeheartedly. The shop is a sweet and supportive queer-friendly respite from the outside world. read more

Love this place so much and highly recommend coming here!! Salon Benders cares so much about us and our hair and does it in such a beautiful and ethical way. I've seen three stylists - Rachel, Garden and Liz - and each has been attentive, nurturing and helped give me the hair I wanted. Great at cuts and color and they even have an outdoor space to do services so those of us who are still timid. Thank you, Salon Benders! read more

This establishment is the kindest and most affirming salon I have ever experienced. I have gone to Garden twice now, and they have done a great job both times. They executed exactly what I wanted, if not better. I look forward to continuing to be a patron for these amazing humans. thank you, truly. read more

Salon Benders was a wonderful hair experience. You instantly feel welcomed. Everyone is kind and it's a beautiful location. Also, there's a cute fur baby who greets you. My stylist was Jess and I really liked her. Jess is such an amazing and passionate stylist. She really cares about you and your hair and helps you to figure out what's best for you. Not just that but she also is a fountain of knowledge regarding how to best treat your hair for life. Also, their Covid precautions make you feel very safe. They obviously care about their work, and your health. read more

I'm perfectly comfortable chopping off all of my hair - I've gone from long to short hair about seven times now...and getting my hair cut and styled at Salon Bender's was hands down the best experience and best style I've ever had. The salon is beautiful, and the people who work here are wonderful. read more

I love the inclusive environment salon benders creates Garden did a great job with my hair!

Where else can you get an honest opinion on your hair, a fantastic cut, advice on how to style based on your preferred level of maintenance, AND an all-inclusive atmosphere with respect to whoever you are and however you want to look? No where else that I've been! This place rocks! Jessie Santiago, the owner, did my cut, and I couldn't have gone home happier. I was totally unhappy with my current hair style from the last year, but she only needed to add a few upgrades and subtle details to my length and style to make my cut really work for me. My boyfriend also got a trim by Nata, and it was the first time he's ever left a salon happy and wasn't complaining days later. This place puts a big focus on helping members of the LGBTQ+ feel welcome and safe. When you check in, there's a super quick form they'll ask you to fill in that, among some basic questions, asks what your preferred pronouns are. Jessie and I spent our entire time in the salon talking about equality and being good humans, but you don't have to be LGBTQ+ to come here. (I'm a typical, mostly straight white girl, ha!) I also left with some affordable, new shampoo and conditioner that Jessie recommended to help with my fine hair and Long Beach's hard water. I'll definitely be back! read more

Everyone here is sooo sweet and welcoming, I really loved my time here! Andrea cut my hair and she did such an amazing job. As a trans woman, this is the perfect place for me and I would highly recommend this salon for anyone in the LGBT+ community!! Thanks so much Salon Benders! read more

MJ got my Hair Vision and was super kind about me previously cutting my own hair (didn't make me feel bad). This was my first time at Salon Benders and I felt right at home. Cal greeted me and was super friendly. I really liked the art and how the space was decorated... Light and colorful. And they gave me a little goodie bag when I left since it was my first time...I love that kind of customer service. Haha. Ok wow but really just so enthralled to have found someone to cut my hair how I like it. read more

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There is so much awesomeness about Jessie. Over the years of seeing Jessie, my hair has become stronger, healthier and longer. Not only is Jessie such an expert with hair she is a beautiful person inside and out. Her healing hands she uses are an added bonus to getting my hair done. Seriously, jessie is a powerful healer. Her Reiki Master hands along with being highly intuitive, make this experience beyond what a normal Time at the salon. Did I mention what a lovely person she is? Jessie is open, funny and joyful. It's the only time I've gone to the salon and wanted to stay longer just to hang with her. read more

Jessie, Cal and Joshua have created a sacred place where anyone can come in and get their hair done without judgment. I love that everyone can be their true self here. There is a loving energy and vibration within this space. Enough about the ambience you will be please with the service and treatment in their salon. You will not leave disappointed! read more

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Andrea did such a beautiful job! I have a hard time finding stylists who know how to work with my curly hair & she reshaped a cut that had been growing into a truly awful triangle shape. She worked with me to talk through options & was an absolute pleasure to talk with & get to know. I also really appreciate the salon's covid precautions & the outdoor option as I myself & some family members are particularly vulnerable. Cannot recommend this salon highly enough, especially for queer folks. My partner & I both came for cuts (shout out to Garden for the fantastic cut they gave my partner) & felt so warmly welcomed & at home. read more

Got a haircut last weekend. This was my first haircut since February 2020, so it was a pretty big deal. Couldn't have asked for a better experience. After reading tons of reviews, I decided to try out this salon and I'm glad I did. Lizz was fantastic. I selected the outdoor haircut because I believe it's still important to take the proper precautions for everyone's safety. Love both the indoor and outdoor setup. Very clean. Very professional. Super friendly. Plan to be back to see Lizz again in a few months! read more

Jessie is MAGIC! I had always wanted a pixie cut, but I was convinced I didn't have the right face shape for it. Jessie helped me figure out the style of cut and color that made me feel my best and gave me the confidence to do the big chop! I had been out as a lesbian for a little over a year, but was just beginning to feel confident and proud. That cut from Jessie was a hair transformation that felt like a celebration of my identify. I love my short hair now and for several years have enjoyed trying out different cuts and colors with Jessie. Every time I go to her she has the perfect balance of finding out what I want (How femme do I want my hair? What looks have I been liking recently?) and suggesting what she can see will suit me (like helping me figure out the perfect shade of platinum for my complexion). She is just a really fantastic hairdresser--I felt "meh" about my hair my whole life until she helped me love it! read more

Salon Benders - my most recent cut - Hair Stylists Near Me - Long Beach, California

I came in right before my birthday and left feeling like a goddess! This place rocks. It's relaxing, uplifting, modern and cozy. Really great energy. And my hair looked amazing, for weeks. I even loved that the products they used and they are green friendly and really work. Can't wait to get the product my stylist had me sample. Thank you Salon Bender for giving me back my shine. Recommend staying for a cup of tea. read more

Jessie and her family of stylists are truly amazing. The space is bright and welcoming, as are the people. Jessie took time to talk with me to really understand what I wanted from my cut (and what I didn't) and she nailed it! read more

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Garden gave me one of my favorite cuts I've had in a long time, thank you! From the couple photos I brought he was able to understand the vibe of what I wanted and translate that to my hair type and current length. I loved it immediately but also waited a few weeks to see how it grew out and I'm still loving it. Also appreciated the styling tips that were easy and not time consuming to incorporate. read more

Garden gave me the first cut i've ever been happy with. Truly satisfied. they are very attentive and understood exactly what i was going for. thank you so much garden & salon benders. will definitely be coming back ! read more

Rachel cut & styled my child's hair and did a wonderful job. My child wants Rachel to cut their hair again.

Salon Benders is hands down the most caring salon I've ever been to! Jessie reached out to me on Instagram after I posted about a truly terrible haircut that I had gotten at a different salon and invited me to come in for a consult about how we could fix it as we waited for it to grow out... she was so generous with her time and genuinely wanted to help me gain back the confidence I had before this awful cut! She taught me about my hair texture and worked with me to find a cut that felt like ME... and then she cut and styled my hair in this adorable vintage short bob with bangs, and I feel so so happy now! It's the hollywood glam hair of my dreams! I'm never going anywhere else for my hair care read more

Wonderful, tranquil salon run by the nicest people. Mandy Hemminger is an incredibly talented stylist who is also a wonderful, warm, fun person. She designed a cut that is exactly right for me and my hair that I get compliments on pretty much every day. I can't recommend her enough! read more

Wonderful salon. Peaceful vibe with excellent stylists. My hair color by Amanda was well done and looks amazing!! Highly recommend the services here. read more