Surfaces, The Spa

I have just moved here from L.A. and after visiting all the various types of spas. in L.A....this is it. They know what they are doing and very knowledgeable about their fields of expertise. The service is great. You are pampered from the moment you step in the door. I can get everything I need done from Massages to extended eyelashes (I have yet to try). I feel confident in the staff here and their policies. For me...this is it!

Posted 01/21/09

I found this spa to be about more than skin care, although the staff is refreshing in their approach. During my facial, I was questioned about a mole on my face . She questioned the shape and color. I noticed it about 4 months ago. I was urged to check it out with a skin specialist. My doctor found I had a probelm that was hopefully deteched in time. I would never have checked it on my own. I really appreciated the knowledge, information and service this special spa offeres. I felt thoroughly cared for. Not to mention the facial was spectacular. I trust this spa and that is important to me.

Pros: knowledgeable, caring, good service

Cons: none

Posted 01/06/09

I heard on the radio about the "BAY AREA BODY WRAPS" and I decided to treat myself since I am a mother of 2. I called and made my appointment the lady asked for my credit card to reserve my spot. She let me know of her policy and said to cancel we need 48hrs, we have a fee for "no show" and so forth. The day of my appointment I was running late and when I got there the owner of the spa said she couldn't see me anymore. I understood and tried to reschedule but she told me she was STILL GOING TO CHARGE ME THE FULL AMOUNT OF THE SERVICE ($149.00) even thought I didn't get a body wrap. I was so confused! over the phone she had told me $40 for a no show. I asked why and she responded by saying that SHE WASN'T GOING TO LOSE OUT ON MONEY SHE WAS SUPPOST TO MAKE, and it was my fault for not showing up on time. After arguing with her about it, she said she had my card and was still going to charge me $149.00 I was so frustrated I LEFT IN TEARS!!!!!
BEWARE OF THIS SPA THEY WILL RIP YOU OFF!!!! SHE DOESN'T CARE ABOUT HER CLIENTS!!

I HAVE 2 KIDS AND I WAS GIVING MYSELF A TREAT BUT IT TURNED OUT THAT I GOT RIPPED OFF AND I DIDN'T RECIEVE ANYTHING IN EXCHANGE.

Pros: NONE WHAT SO EVER!!!

Cons: BAD SERVICE, RUDE, THEY LIE TO YOU OVER THE PHONE, AND NO VALUES

Posted 09/29/08

This place is beautiful, the decor is out of this world, and it smells so inviting. i had a great massage today and i left feeling like i was on top of the world. i will surely be returning back for yet another message. WAY TO GO FOR GOOD SERVICES!!!!

Pros: EVERYTHING!!

Cons: HAVEN'T SEEN IT YET.

Posted 06/06/08

I wont make this too long because not much needs to be said. I had a GREAT time at Surfaces. The salon itself is probably the most beautifully decorated on Solano avenue. I thought I was in a five star hotel spa in Beverly Hills or something. Service was excellent, music was relaxing and it was a very comfortable atmosphere. I am going to be a loyal customer but, I might suggest that they get a very handsome male massage therapist hehe. Other than that, flawless.

Pros: Facials

Cons: Alittle tough for me to find

Posted 06/02/08

Great service and wonderful results!!! I've been coming to the Surfaces Spa since I discovered it 1 year ago. They offer great facial and wraps. I've experienced both. Wraps really work and you can see results right away. It is amazing! The facials done by Val are doing wonders. My skin is really improving with each session. I would strongly recommend this place to everyone.

Pros: Great service and Val

Cons: None

Posted 05/23/08

There is no way this place should even have the name "spa" in it - it was awful! The service was terrible on both the wrap and facial, including but not limited to the rude demeanor and lack of professionalism by the staff, the remodeling going on in the same room as the treatments, and the fact that I left with irraited and raw skin that lasted for days right before my wedding. I have been to a number of spas, and this by far is the worst. The treatments seemed like they were performed by folks who have never had any training, and the sessions were consistently interrupted by construction folks walking through the rooms. I was very disappointed and expected much more from a spa on Solano Avenue. Stay away!

Pros: None

Cons: Service, treatments, staff professionalism

Posted 05/18/08

I'm totally impressed with Surfaces. The service is excellent and the facials have been showing me that I can actually use less products and get better results. When I go to this spa I can leave everything behind and just relax and enjoy being treated like a queen. I can't wait for my next facial there.

Pros: Service, facials and skin care

Cons: none

Posted 03/05/08

LOVE their products. Owner Vel actively promotes a "Less is best" attitude toward skincare. I was a skeptic at first, since I was using a 6-step, chemical-based line from the dermatologist. Now, just cleanser, "serum" and a little eyecream... easy! And my skin is surely healthier than ever. I recommend this line to everyone I know. Good for "problem" skin or just anybody!
Facial services feel sooooo good, Vel has magic hands. Very soothing. I like the results from photo-rejuventation too. Ambiance is contemporary and tranquil, spotlessly clean!
Scheduling can sometimes be a little confusing, but with some flexibility it always works out.
I'm a devoted client, I like the simplicity of her products and services.

Posted 02/06/08

I received a gift certificate and I left this spa in bliss. The facial and massage was fabulous. I learned a whole new way to care for my face and body. The place is beautiful and the staff is very knowledgeable and kind. Overall it was a very pleasant experience and the next time it will be my gift to myself and worth every cent.

Posted 01/30/08

I moved to this area about six months ago. I had so much skin care products and my skin was still not like I wanted. Still breaking out in my forties. After a few facials at this day spa, I finally feel like my skin is making progress. My friends are commenting on my skin. They really know their stuff!! The products are great and organic. Their concept on skin rehabilitation is what I've been looking for and didn't know it. Less products, better skin! I can't beat that. I thought the more you paid for products, the better. I was so wrong and glad to have found a place that makes it simple.

Pros: Beautiful spa

Posted 01/24/08

This place is a nightmare. I've purchased a gift certificate for Valentine's to my wife to the Surfaces, and it turned into a very unpleasant marathon of haggling with the rude owner of this shop. It started with them charging my credit card twice, to being completely unresponsive by phone and email, to not wanting to offer a weekend slot (because they already got the money for the certificate!), and finally messing up the schedule, so that when my wife showed up, they claimed her session was the previous week. during the whole time the lady had such an awful attitude that you wouldn't want to get relaxing massage there anyway...

Pros: ?

Cons: Terrible service, unresponsive

Posted 01/18/08

I passed by the new Surfaces, the Spa a week ago at night. It was so beautiful I was intrigued. So, I made an appointment. This is their new spa. The place is really gorgeous. What an eye for detail. I felt so special. Everywhere I turn, I was surrounded with a great ambiance. They are not quite thru yet, but I can jsee where they are going.

My facial was unbelieveable. I have never had a facial like this before. They were thorough and I felt like a million when I left there. I WILL BE BACK AGAIN AND AGAIN. Thanks for thinking of people like me when you planned your new location. It truly made me feel special. G.Matson

Posted 07/19/07

I had a great facial. It was truly the best I have ever had. You now have a new steady monthly customer. Thx Linda

Posted 05/06/07

I love Surfaces! I have received one of the best facials in my life! It left my skin glowing and healthy looking. I had none of the ussual red bloches you get from facialists. Trust me, Surfaces is the best place to get a facial in Berkley!

Posted 02/26/07

I have really been working hard lately. My body has reflected all the stress and tension. Saturday, I went in for a deep tissue massage. It was really great. The therapist was wonderful. She listened to everything I said and worked those problem areas well. I left there feeling like a new man. I love it so much, I going back in 2 weeks and this time, bringing my wife with me. Thanks Surfaces I really appreciate your service.
Mike L

Pros: Communication is great

Posted 02/26/07

To put it plainly, I received an excellent facial that left me feeling really clean. I received advise about my skin and well-being that no other salon has ever given me and it didn't include buying alot of products. I'm estatic over finding this gem of a salon.

Pros: Simple skin care

Posted 12/09/06

I want to tearfully let Vel know how thankful I am for her experience and knowledge. About a year ago, during a monthly scheduled facial, she detected a lump in my thyroid. I honestly couldn't see it, but she insisted I have it checked. She seems to do that quite a bit for her clients. Nevertheless, I put it off for quite a while, but she kept insisting. I went to the Doctor three months ago and was informed that I had cancer in my thyroid. Fortunately, it was operable. My doctor asked how was it that I knew I had a probelm with my thyroid because it was caught in time. I told him that I had a guardian angel. I'm recouperating now and will be forever grateful to Vel.

Posted 10/09/06

My wife schedule me to get a facial because of all the skin care problems that I have. I was really nervous. However, we I got there I was made to feel extremely comfortable and the best part I now have my skin care problems under control. I am actually looking forward to my next appointment. Thanks... Bill

Posted 09/08/06

All rants and raves aside. I seriously want to thank this staff for saving my skin. I had so many exfoliating procedures done that my skin was like tissue paper. I went here with this in mind and was educated on the damage I was doing and given an excellent alternative, that really works. The products here are "no nonsense" and simple to use. I've learned a totally different and healthy way to fight ageing. Armed with this new information, I'm at my best!

Pros: Experience, knowledge, cleaniness

Posted 09/08/06

I love what you guys did for me. I had given up! I thought I would never get rid of these dark spots on my skin. I have had them for a long time. Not only did I see a tremendous lighting after my first treatment, I didn't want to leave after the totally relaxing massage during the facial. For the first time I have hope that I can be free of these embarrassing spots. I even learned a few tricks I can do at home with pineapple. I love it!

Pros: Tremendous experience and knowlege

Posted 09/06/06

I have been so stress out lately with personal and business problems. I have seen Surfaces for years and finally, I walk in and had the more wonderful massage. My stress just magically left my body. It was so refreshing. They had just what I need, when I needed it. What a way to spend a Saturday afternoon. I am now a regular Surfaces's customer.

Posted 09/03/06

I had a wonderful experience today. I just had to write and convey my experience to anyone planning on going to Surfaces. I had a break-out on my skin. I went in for a facial today, and I now feel I have a handle on this problem. The experience was packed with information. It was great. My asesthecian was so knowledgeable and helpful. Plus, the product was great. It was just was I needed. Thanks Surfaces.

Posted 09/01/06

I want everyone to know that good things still come in small packages. I found this salon on city search. I have always gone to the larger, more luxurios spas, and have tired of paying for atmospere. This personal spa is right up my alley. I have been there four times already and I must say my skin has done things I have paid a lot of money for and haven't accomplished. It's amazing what changes my skin is finally making. It glows, it moisturizes itself, it's great. The staff knows what they are doing and they do it well. I didn't find them a minute too soon.

Pros: knowlegeable and experienced. Personable and courteous

Posted 08/29/06

I have been a customer of Surfaces for over 10 years. The reason I come every month for my facial is because I get excellent competent service. Some people go to salons for environment and relationship, but I go because I want my skin to look its very best. That's why I go and will continue to go to Surfaces. It's close to my home and I love the homey and welcome feeling I get every time I am greeted.

Posted 08/29/06

I found this great intimate day spa. Just like I like it. It has a great sense of neighborhood. The staff is wonderful and the massage therapist had hands of magic. The is what makes Berkeley...Berkeley. I had a wonder experience.

Bob

Posted 08/29/06

Time has not been good for me as the years have caught up. I decided to try and see if I could get some well needed help. Surfaces really came to my rescue. My skin has never looked as good as it does now. Great attention was given to my individual needs and I was made to feel right at home. I know it is hard to please everyone, but I was amazed at how thorough Surfaces really is. Thank you. I will see you next month.

Posted 02/01/06

I have been working stressful hours lately. My husband purchased a massage for me at Surfaces. It was just what I needed. The therapist we great. Communicated well with me and performed the services with great care. I loved it so much that I purchased a massage for my husband for a Valentines Day gift.

Thank you Surfaces,

CCBERG

Posted 02/01/06

I am new to the Berkeley scene. I went to Surfaces because of its locale. It was great. I love the staff friendliness and their thorough work. They did a great job on my skin and I will be back regularly.

Marge

Posted 02/01/06

I made an appontment for an hour and a hafe (10:30 am to 12pm) long deep tissue massage. I arived on time (10:25am). My massage theripest, who was nice as could be, arrived fifteen mins later (10:45). After setting up the room, my massage started at 10:55am. It was a good massage. We finished at 12pm as he had another client waiting. I then had my eyebrows waxed which was ok. I was surprised when I was asked to pay the full $125 for my massage. I felt unconfortable confronting the situation, though now, I wish I would have. I defenetly felt like I was charged too much and even though my massage was good, I would not go back because of this.

Pros: Freindly

Cons: Expencive

Posted 01/20/06

4 of my staff members went together for facials. We really got the treatment. First of all, the salon opened up just for us, and we had a blast. The staff was professional, helpful, and thorough. We got our skin treated and came away with an understanding how to keep our skin healthy. We all have become regular Surfaces customers. Thanks.

Posted 12/05/05

I really loved this place. It was cozy, friendly, and my skin care services was wonderful. I really have trouble with dry skin and I really feel I finally have this under control thanks to the help that I received from Surfaces.

Posted 11/04/05

I looked up this salon and what a surprise. I receive the works today. It was great. The facial was thorough, relaxing, and informative. Issues I had with my skin was finally dealt with. The massage was unbelieveable. Every muscle was soothed. The nail services was great. When I got ready to leave, I couldn't hardly walk I was so relaxed. I will be sure to recommend this place to all of my friends.

Posted 11/04/05

My co-worker and I was given a gift certificate to Surfaces for facials and other services. I live in the area and had never paid any attention to this cozy spa. What wonderful services are provided. The staff is so friendly and easy to communicate with. I had the best facial I have ever had in my life. It was hands on and the neck massage was our of this world. I have found my little heaven right in my own neighborhood. Thanks Surfaces!

Posted 09/28/05

This was my first time going to a skin care salon. My wife schedule me for an appointment to try to get my skin under control. I was a little neverous about going to a "female" place. But Vel, immediately made me comfortable. She took her time and gave me a wonderful treatment. My skin has never looked so good. Infact, I can't wait until next month for my next treatment. Thank you for your help and great service.

Posted 09/28/05

I HAVE SKIN PROBLEMS. I have gone to different salon and Doctors trying to get my skin under control. It has been so depressing. My friend recommended I go to Surfaces and give it a try. I am so glad I did. The technical skill was great. My skin responded to treatment very well. They carry a lot of different products, but I was sold a bar of some kind of cleanser. I was relunctant to use it, but did. It is a miracle bar. It's great. I don't even look like the same person. My confidence level has never been so high. Thanks to my friend, I have found treatment at last.

Posted 09/28/05

My friend and I had facial apointment at the same time. We got there right ontime, but we had to sit and waited for 15 minutes plus. The lady brought my friend in first, and then directed me to enter a 3x7 little room to change and wait again. Appearently, she was doing both my friend and I at the same time, which I wasn't informed and expected at all. I was left for long period of gaps unattended and the facial is quite brief. During the facial, she kept advertizing the product tried to sell the facial soap- Not very comfortable. The facial last approx. 40 mins, for two people! The priced was high, and the qulity/service are disappointed. I feel riped off and pressured.

Posted 08/15/05

I just love this spa! The ambience is so peaceful, soothing, and actually just downright homey. Plus, this is the biggest little shop you'll ever find, just busting out of its seams with such a mind-boggling array of services that your only problem may be deciding which ones you don't want!
I was drawn to the shop because they're a Suddenly Slender-licensed body wrap provider, but had a hard time getting out the door after my wrap, because I then realized I just had to get a facelift facial and my eyebrows and eyelashes tinted! This place is a virtual woman's Disneyland!
Also, I just can't say enough about the owner (who also knows how to perform every one of the services her shop offers); she just couldn't be warmer or more personable, and her true caring for her clientele is readily apparent.

Posted 06/28/05

I just moved here from the East. Looking for a good spa was essential. After trying a few Solano Avenue Spas, I was totally dissatisfied. While taking my kids to the Dentist I saw Surfaces and stopped and chatted with Vel. Not only was she personable, she was knowledge, open and honest. I booked an appointment. After 3 treatments my skin is in wonderful condition. It like magic. I am totally satisfied. When my husband notices my skin, I know I must be doing something right. Thanks Surfaces.

Posted 03/16/05

I found the service to be detailed and professional. This is beyond general pampering. This is a place where skin care treatments are administered. Are they knowledgeable? Definitely yes! My skin has never looked so good. I'm not interested in fluff. I'm interested in results. Period.

Pros: experience, knowledge, professionalism

Posted 03/06/05

I have been going to surfaces for about 2 years now and I love the services. I reside in San Jose and travel to Berkeley because the atmosphere at Surfaces is so wonderful. It's not congested and you'll feel like the spa is all to yourself. What better way to relax! Keep up the good work.

Pros: quiet, good pricing

Posted 02/28/05

I have gone to lots of salons on Solano Ave and in Berkeley and I have finally a skin care business that has solved my acne problem. Their approach is so simple and effective. It is almost magic. Thanks Surfaces.

Pros: experience, teaching, welcomed men

Posted 02/24/05