I don't want to sound too dramatic.... but this was honestly one of the best haircuts I've ever had. I have very long wavy hair and was at least 6 months over due for a cut. Cat was super nice and communicative. She listened to what I wanted, but also provided input when I asked for it. I came away with my hair at the exact length I requested, with some lovely long layers, and some very doable easy advice to keep the frizz away. Highly recommend Cat and the Sweet Asylum for your salon needs. Ps the salon itself is very clean, well decorated, and clearly cared for. read more

Cat Halloran completes great cuts and color. Super fun to talk too. Worth waiting for the appointment!! I booked on vagaro.com which was super easy. read more

Two thumbs up to Thomas Klann, a top hairstylist with extreme skills to give you the precise cut, I have been with Thomas for about 7 years and I do follow him when he settles in a new place. I went Saturday to Sweet Asylum to have my monthly haircut with Thomas, the Salon is spotless, well designed, good vibes! Love it! read more

As everyone has said, Holly is an amazing colorist. I live in Texas, but whenever I get a chance to visit friends I schedule a hair appointment! (with styleseat.com) When I first came I didn't really know what I didn't like about my current hair situation, but then we talked it out and she nailed it. Great company for the 2+ hours it takes to get my hair done : ) read more

Sweet Asylum - Don't mind the hair twirler. Thanks, Holly!! - Hair Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

I was referred to Cat Halloran from one of her colleagues as I scrambled to find a stylist just before the holidays and just before going into ankle surgery - gotta look cute for crutches! Cat bent over backwards to make it work, seeing me as a first-time client at a time any stylist worth their weight in hair products was booked well into January. My hair was going through a not-so-cute color transition after my previous stylist moved out of state and the interim stylist left me looking (and feeling) not so great. Cat fixed all that with beautiful highlights and toner, and I feel like myself again. She did my highlights just over four weeks ago and the grow-out is terrific. That's talent! read more

Gina Leigh is my girl! When I needed a serious change and chop at the beginning of the year, she was my saving grace. Loved the cut so much, that I just went back Sunday night :) I am someone who has always maintained long hair and get pretty nervous at the thought of trusting anyone with cutting my asian pin-straight hair-- but she was able to ease my nerves and maintain the length. She always takes the time to walk me through the process and really understand what type of look I wanted. She is so sweet and I always have the best convos with Gina. I never write reviews, but I'm so in love with my cut that I had to give a shout-out! Book with Gina, you and your hair won't regret it :) read more

Sweet Asylum - Hair Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

Got a great cut by Gina Leigh this past Friday! My hair was pretty long and I had an idea of what I wanted. When I met Gina she asked what I was looking for as well as my hair's history, gave me her expert opinion, and we decided on the "lob" look. From the start, she was very thorough in explaining what she was doing. I know it can be uneasy getting a lot of hair chopped off so I appreciated her letting me know the different steps she was taking. She was very knowledgeable and kept great conversation the entire time! The salon is super clean, cute, and small which is nice because it isn't crazy loud and crowded. It's also in a great area! I've received all AMAZING feedback about my hair and I'm completely obsessed. Would 100% refer Gina and Sweet Asylum to a friend or stranger! read more

Sweet Asylum - Thanks Gina! - Hair Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

So I do this tradition where I chop off my hair before my birthday. That said, I went to my usual salon and got my hair cut. However, it wasn't exactly how I wanted it. The lady gave me a lob and layers which I didn't really want. Long story short, I wasn't happy or willing to drive another 30 minutes to fix it. Then I came across Sweet Asylum (which conveniently was two blocks away from my apartment). Looked through the pictures and decided to book an appointment with Gina. Oh. My. God. She was amazing!! I texted her pretty late at night and luckily she texted back that same night. When I showed up, I told her what happened and without even having to show her reference pictures, she somehow knew EXACTLY what I was trying to go for. She washed my hair with yummy smelling products and proceeded to cut away. By the end of it, she did the most she could to fix my previous cut but man, it still turned out way better than I expected. Her and I both got super excited about the final product! Gina is so meticulous in her work, it's wonderful. She also taught me a lot about maintaining hair that I didn't know before. Fun person to talk to and just such a sweet lady! Would highly recommend her to anyone and everyone. I know I'll be back soon :) P.S. - when your hair stylist ends up being your hype girl by the end of your appointment, you know she's a keeper read more

Holly is the best. I've been coming to her for years and she is meticulous and consistently delivers beautiful balayage for my dark asian hair. She can make the color ashier than anyone else and takes her time listening to your needs and then making sure you're happy with the results. Love her. Great place for coloring but especially asian brunette balayage. read more

I left the place with a huge grin on my face and feeling genuinely happy... That's when I knew that I've found it. My search is finally over and I can now rest easy knowing that my hair is going to be in GREAT hands. Holly, there could not be a colorist as amazing as you!! I'm excited to try other services as everyone seems to be excellent in what they do in this sweet, sweet asylum!! Nothing but love!! xx read more

Sweet Asylum - Hair Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

Love the vibe of this salon. I started coming here when my favorite hair stylist, Gina started here. This cozy salon has a very modern and funky style, with clean lines and beautiful gold accents. I can't write enough about Gina. She's given me all my favorite hair cuts, and styled my hair for fun events as well. I've moved to New York, but I always make an appointment with Gina when I'm in town. Seriously, when I've had other stylists cut my hair, they'll actually comment on what a good cut I had from Gina! She makes my long straight hair look amazing, taken me to shorter bobs, and has curly hair herself so I think she'd be great for curly hair as well. If you live nearby, you have to stop by! read more

Holly B. got my jet black roots fully bleached just in time for my 40th birthday party. She extended her schedule past 5pm to meet my busy 9-5pm working schedule. She was flexible, knowledgeable, and her expertise resulted in a great outcome. read more

Sweet Asylum - Fully bleached hair - Hair Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

After a lot of searching, I've finally found a highly qualified and top of the range hair stylist! Neil is an amazing hairdresser and did wonders with my cut and blowdry. I'm so excited to have my go to stylist who's above and beyond my standards of SF hairdressers. Do yourself a favor and look after your hair by only going to those who really know what they are doing! Not to mention, the actual salon is beautiful too! Very personalized and quirky, you feel greatly looked after and special, not just another client among 20 like in other salons! read more

Sweet Asylum - Quick selfie just after Neil did an amazing job cutting, styling and blowdrying! Thank you :) - Hair Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

I went in an appointment with Gina Leigh. She was very nice, sweet and friendly. Exchanged text messages off the bat about the upcoming visit was very thorough. I ubered to the location and although it looks small it is not hard to find. The shop itself is very cute and homey. Gina welcomed me and she even offered me tea and some goodies. We started the caramel balayage and she really worked hard to make my cut and color looked exactly the way we talked about, if not it was even better! I would go back again probably if I decided to go lighter. Thank you Gina! :) read more

Had my haircut by Gina the other night. I've had long, mid-back length layers for almost a straight decade. When I saw Gina I told her I wanted a shoulder length haircut. I was suuuper nervous because I hadn't had my hair that short since I can't even remember when. But 6-7 inches later and I am LOVING my new hair. The cut Gina did is very cute and I've received nothing but compliments since. She's super friendly, easy to talk to, and will give you some guidance in what would look old on you if you're not too sure. Highly recommend! read more

Sweet Asylum - After 6-7 inches were cut off! - Hair Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

BOOK A CUT WITH NEIL https://www.styleseat.com/neilbradleyyoung I wanted to try out this boutique salon as I have been looking for a salon experience that was comparable to the gem I had in NYC. I wanted a unique intimate warm boutique with friendly on-trend stylists. I always felt like NYC and London were ahead of the trend and when I learned Neil comes with years of experience in London, I knew I would be in good hands. After taking time to hear about my lifestyle and watching me pour through pictures on my phone of what I liked he suggested I get a Lob ( long bob ) PERFECT CHOICE! Its cute, flirty, and just in time for spring. He was fun to chat with, and gave me a great style afterward that garnered many compliments on the street. Book him now! A trendy, polite, kind stylist from London is hard to find in SF ! read more

See all

I just moved to the Bay Area from NYC and was SO terrified to get my haircut. But immediately, I know I was in good hands with Gina. I always get a medium-length asymmetrical bob, and sometimes stylists are very careless. Since the cut is above my shoulders, it reeeeally matters whether or not the sides are the same length...hence my nervousness! I can honestly say I've never had a hairstylist be MORE attentive to the length of each side, layers, and cut overall. Gina cut my bob with such a precision that she blew my former NYC hairstylist out of the water! Can't wait to visit her again. read more

maryyyy marryyyy maryyyyy!!! I wish I wouldve found you sooner! This salon is so cute and she was so professional, sweet, and detailed. Literally, this was the best Brazilian wax I've ever received. She is the bomb and is a true expert when it comes to skin and hair removal! read more

Gina is a new stylist, but she is very precise and spends a lot of time cutting hair which I LOVE. I got a lob and it was so cute! The prices are reasonable, parking slight sucks, but it was a good experience overall. The only thing is that my hair (which is frizzy and recalcitrant) didn't totally cooperate, but I'm used to that-I have frizzy, stubborn hair. I think Gina is the lob expert of the Marina. I highly recommend an appointment with her! read more

I fried my hair so bad with bleach at home in order to get to the bright pink I always wanted. My hair turned into a broken, frizzy, plastic-feeling fuzzball. So I scheduled a Cezanne smoothing treatment with Gina. WOW! My hair actually has weight and shine again. It feels smooth and moves naturally. I am so pleased. And the Cezanne treatment is free of harsh chemicals, no awful smells, and I was able to wash my hair and let it air dry the next day. My curl has straightened out a bit, but I still have some texture and it just feels so nice now. Gina did a great job, explained the process, kept me at ease, and the environment was very clean and safe. I would get the Cezanne treatment again! See before and after photos. read more

Sweet Asylum - Before Cezanne treatment - Hair Salons Near Me - San Francisco, California

See all

Julia is simply the best. She is exceptionally knowledgable about the world of skin care (i.e. just because it's expensive doesn't mean it's good for your skin!) and goes above and beyond to take care of her clients. On our first meeting, Julia had me walk through my existing skin care and make up products and we made adjustments from there. Julia makes it easy to take good care of your skin - she gives personalized recommendations based on your lifestyle, genetics and budget. I have definitely noticed a difference in my skin over the past few months, particularly the extractions and overall radiance in my skin. Above all, Julia truly listens to her clients and their needs. It is the highlight of my month when I get to stop in a see Julia! read more

I just left Sweet Asylum feeling incredible thanks to Holly. I came in for a full head highlight. She is extremely precise and didn't miss one single strand. My hair is completely even and bright and shiny! Holly has been in the game for a long time and is extremely professional. I would recommend her to anyone and everyone. Holly also has done an incredible job with my Brazilian blowouts. I recommend this service to people wanting smoother and healthier looking hair. I just had my sister and best friend book with her because of my incredible experience. She books out so make sure you book in advance read more

I started going to Sweet Asylum this year and love it! Cute salon, very chill and convenient location. Go see Holly Bromaghim for all your coloring needs and you won't regret it! She brought back my vibrant blonde and my hair looks and feels great. She also put some fun colors into before I went to a festival earlier this summer. Highly recommended!! read more

I am a RELIGIOUS Holy HOLLY B. fan (thank ya Jesus!) I am her religious follower from Blade runners, to Sorry I broke your Heart and now to Sweet Asylum...Like most things in life, when you find something good, never let go. Holly is that something good...because it's the little things that matter, like remembering my head is super sensitive so she triple checks the water temperature before putting it on my head...and doesn't spray water in my ears when I am in the bowl (and gives a pretty relaxing shampoo massage to boot) but then there's that amazing color that blasts through as she starts blowing drying your hair and smiles in the mirror 'yes yes yes!' If you are wondering what the B stands for it's BOMB! read more

I visited HOLLY today for a color, and there are not enough stars to give her!! I have long been putting off coloring my long brown hair for a while now even though I definitely have needed to cover up some grey. I finally decided I couldn't put it off any longer. One of my concerns was that I didn't want my hair to look colored or fake, and I didn't want it to be too different from my natural look. Holly was amazing. She listened to my concerns and wants, and she talked me through everything to make sure I would get exactly what I wanted. I could tell she definitely was invested in making sure I loved the finished product. And I do!! MY HAIR LOOKS INCREDIBLE! I can't believe I waited so long to do this. And I can't imagine not having Holly to maintain this amazingness. My friends are wow-ed by my hair as well, and one is already lining up an appointment with her. Besides being a gifted colorist, Holly is also just a really cool, nice chick. I am going to be a faithful Holly client for as long as I possibly can. And P.S. You can't beat the price!! I'm editing my review to also include AMBER. Amber cuts my hair and she is a genius. I know it sounds lame to say, but she truly knows hair! My hair was long and unhealthy, and she has cut it in such a way that I get to keep some length and she gave it body. It looks so much healthier. I also love the products she recommended. Overall, my hair has seriously improved since Amber started cutting it. I am married to Amber for my cuts now. And the fact that she is super nice and down to earth also makes it a pleasure to visit her. read more

I am in LOVE with my hair thanks to CHRISSY COLLINS - a gift to all curly haired girls - coiled, loose, wavy, spiral - she is a trained Devacurl stylist but more than that she is truly passionate about curly hair and all of its glory aka quarks! I have been to celebrity curl stylists in LA and Chrissy has them beat because not only is she super talented and down to earth, you can actually get an appointment without calling 6 months in advance and a down payment! She gave me a fantastic cut, color and I walked away with literally bouncy, shiny, delicious natural curls PLUS she gave me tips on how to maintain the effect at home! Book with her NOW because as soon as the thousands of other curly/wavy haired girls in the Bay Area get wind of her next level skills you may have a long wait! read more

Beautiful salon! I've been going to Holly for over a year, my hair has never been happier and healthier. She's a professional with color and everything she does! read more

Amber is AMAZING. I've been meaning to write this review for awhile. Amber is an expert at cut and color. She transitioned me gradually from a really dark brown to bright blonde. Every since, I've been going to her for her amazing natural color and great cuts. She truly cares about her work and her clients and deeply cares if they are happy. She always solicits feedback to see if I want to change anything from our last service. I can't say enough about Amber and her skills. If you want amazing, natural color that doesn't get brassy etc even after you are due for highlights, go to Amber. She's also really down to earth and funny. read more

Holly is an amazing colorist! I followed her over from SIBYH, and glad I did. She knows exactly how to handle my high maintenance ombre toning, and is the only one I trust here in the city to touch it! She also is fabulous at blowouts, so there's that! I'm super picky about my blowouts and hair in general, and I never have to worry if it's not going to come out just right. Plus, she's just a all around nice person and will always give you honest advice on your hair and how to get exactly what you want. read more

Holly, Holly, Holly! This woman, good god, does she know how to color hair. I have spent years and years looking for people to be loyal to in SF -- nails, hair, massage, OB/GYN. It's hard out there -- but I found her! She disseminates my ramblings and Pinterest shots and goes to town, with results always outstanding. My most recent visit was for a darker blonde ecaille look, and she nailed it. It's always nice to get a text from your husband after a selfie, when you DARKEN your hair, reading: SUPER HOT! read more

Truly a SWEET addition to the neighborhood!! For all you fashionistas out there looking for a stylist to take you to the next level, look no further, and book your next appointment with Dana. He'll take you from that D-List Marina girl to the Pacific Heights GLAMazon you were always meant to be. I followed him from another salon in the area, and can we say, upgrade?? Seriously. The space is SOOO cute, and not to mention, free snacks. #winning! His work is impeccable, and I always get compliments on my hair days after I leave Dana's chair. His fashion design degree + cosmetology license = a talent that goes down like a smooth martini. And believe me, you'll want to get drunk. He'll be able to cater your hair to your own personal style and liking. He also uses the most current and avant-garde styling products, so you know you're getting the best. Tres chic!! Give them a call or go online for hassle free booking! read more

Holly is amazing. My hair was grown out at least 6 months and she was able to bring it back to life. The first try, my overgrown hair was too yellow because I waited too long. She did not even want to accept payment because it was not perfect! I went in a week later and she made magic on my hair. Integrity is big at this establishment. As a huge plus, this place is highly affordable, $85 for a bleach and tone. Holly's demeanor is cool, professional, funny, and when needed, sarcastic and real. Very proud to have her as my first SF hairdresser! Highly recommend to anyone, but especially blondes who are new to town and/or scared of a new hairdresser. ;) read more

Highly recommend Holly for hair coloring, she is amazing!! Been going to her for a few years now for balayage and my hair always comes out exactly the way I want it. She is so sweet and funny- I have so much fun at our appointments. Sweet asylum also just recently had a mini face lift- the place is really cute! read more

Got a great cut from Gina today. Gina takes her time and really cares about doing an excellent job. I've had a lot of hairstylists rush and that just doesn't feel good. Not Gina! Five stars! read more

I recently went to Holly for a brazilian blowout, which I been thinking about for quite sometime. Not only did Holly do an amazing job but she also made me feel comfortable in the process and answered all the questions I had. I have really curly, nappy hair and now with the brazilian it is so easy to manage, once I blow dry it I can go out and it wont frizz up (which has always been a problem for me). I have tried other straightening treatments in the past and I have to say the brazilian has been the best for my crazy hair so far. Holly is also an awesome colorist and gave me really natural beautiful highlights which I get complimented on all the time. She has a great eye for what looks good on her clients and I will definitely be going back to her in the future! :-) read more

I walked by Sweet Asylum one afternoon and thought, "what a charming salon!" Decorated with picture frames and antique vanities, it not only looked nice, it looked like an open and friendly place. After reading the few but high reviews here on Yelp, I decided to book an appointment to see Amber. The instant I met Amber, I knew I was in the hands of an experienced stylist. She listened to me talk about my hair woes. The bottom part of my hair was brittle and damaged and I couldn't deal with it anymore and I wasn't happy about it. Her demeanor and responses exuded experience and confidence and I knew I went to the right salon. I'm not one who goes into a salon and lets a stylist do whatever she wants, but after talking with Amber, I was confident that she should make the call on what to do with my hair, which meant cutting off a lot of it. She did a fantastic job with my hair and it looks great and I feel so much better about it! The reviews here also mentioned that Amber is a talented colorist, so I'm going back in a few weeks to get a root touch-up. I'm really, really glad that I found a new stylist that I trust and one that I'll stick with for a very long time! read more

Holly is magic! I've gone to her for my color for at least 5 years and would never go to anyone else. Back then I wanted to take my dark brown hair with lots of grey to red and every colorist I went to couldn't get it right. Then one fateful day I saw a woman with the most gorgeous head of red hair, followed her around the store for awhile until I finally asked her who colored her hair. That's how I found Holly. Not only did she take me from brunette to a redhead but she always added the most perfect highlights all while making sure the condition of my hair was protected. These days I'm back to brunette with lots of blond/caramel balyage and I love it just as much. And Holly knows all the tricks and the optimal products to keep your hair in great shape. My hair is tricky as it soaks up much more pigment than is usual but Holly always works with it perfectly. Everyone's hair is different and sometimes it takes a try or two to get it right. Holly always makes sure you get what you wanted and will tweak your formula until you love it. And be prepared to leave her chair with the best blowout you've ever ever had....she puts DryBar and the rest to shame. One more perk...Holly sent me to a stylist who is a master hair cutter who gives me the best haircut I've had in years. I trust Holly's taste and judgement completely. Simply put, she is the best. read more

LOVE LOVE LOVE Holly at Sweet Asylum! She moved up the street from Lexington place and it's so much nicer and private. Holly is the girl for all your blonde needs! Plus she's the best and hilarious. Super affordable prices for expert services!! read more

I have been going to Amber for almost two years now and cannot imagine ever seeing another stylist. I followed her from her previous salon to Sweet Asylum and it just seems to get better each time I see her. I continue to go back to Amber time and time again. I have never walked away not loving my style, she makes sure you are completely satisfied. She is a fantastic colorist, and will walk you through the different options to ensure you pick the best and healthiest option for you and your hair. Amber has a commitment to the health of your hair, and it really shows. She always makes you feel welcome, and it is much more like visiting a friend than just getting a haircut. The space is so beautiful; Julia, Amber, and Dana have done such a fantastic job creating their vision. It's a treat to spend time there, literally there are candy machines and hot chocolates available. Amber and Dana are absolutely fabulous hosts. Whether you would like a cold glass of lemon water, a handful of grandma's hard candies, or a glass of wine they make you feel right at home. Definitely stop by Sweet Asylum. You won't be disappointed. read more

I have previously reviewed Amber (stylist) when she was at backstage salon but I wanted to update my review since she has relocated...She is amazing- a very consistent stylist. I am sad that I have moved and have to find her replacement! She is very knowledgable about hair types and flattering cuts. My hair has never received so many compliments! Everytime she cuts my hair it looks great. She cuts great bangs! I definitely recommend her for a cut! I never had her do color so I can't speak to her skills there but I am sure she is great at that too:) GO SEE HER! read more