Saf Beauty Spa

Started July 2023 with the clearest skin of my life, which I worked years to achieve on my own. A close friend referred me to SAF to begin facials for anti-aging. As a black woman with highly sensitive combination skin and prone to hyperpigmentation, I was thorough with my initial questions, and asked if the owner knew Fitzpatrick/could work with my skin type, which she confirmed. I completed an intake form with extensive detail about my skin sensitivities, goals, current and previous struggles (hormonal cystic acne, hyperpigmentation) as well as my diet (GF/DF for years), had my first facial in August. PROS: Owner is friendly and easy-going. She creates an environment that makes you feel like you can sit back and trust the process. CONS: Unfortunately not someone I could trust with my skin, and I question her knowledge of Fitzpatrick The service was neither tailored to my skin type nor skincare needs. Treatments were irritating - when I informed her, her "solutions" caused even more damage: - Extractions immediately aggravated my hyperpigmentation, eventually she lightened up on them which didn't improve anything - Extractions resurfaced any latent cystic acne, so I went from no breakouts to severe breakouts - As my skin worsened, she had me swap my full skincare routine rather than reconsider any treatments: - She recommended I start using a toner (which I never use), my skin reacted almost immediately (I discontinued) - She recommended a brightening serum that only made my hyperpigmentation appear worse (I discontinued) - She said my cleanser + moisturizer (which had never been an issue) had "too many" ingredients, recommending a new cleanser and having me research a moisturizer for her to approve - I researched a few moisturizers and she approved one with the least ingredients, without evaluating its contents - my skin became very oily over time, and eventually I did a deeper dive to find that it was HIGHLY comedogenic and causing breakouts - The cleanser seemed ok at first, but over time I realized it was drying my skin out, triggering an excess of oil production - She said my diet was the culprit, claiming I should cut out bread and dairy (per my intake form I'd been gluten and dairy free for 7 years) TLDR: her recommended regime was to essentially strip the moisture from my skin then drown it in oils, which took a while for me to figure out, and was detrimental even after I discontinued facials. It only took 7-8 months to completely damage my skin barrier and revert back years of improvement. I wish I had trusted my gut earlier, but hoping this will encourage someone to research **extensively** before trusting just anyone to touch or make recommendations for your skin.

I came in here for a facial with Gigi through a recommendation from my hair specialist. Gigi was absolutely amazing. My skin was absolutely glowing when I was finished. I let her decide which facial based on my skin type and she recommended using the microcurrent. If you can endure the tingles it causes you will love the results. My face felt so tight and so much less droopy. I came back about a week later for a full leg wax with Vanessa and that was pain free and the results were absolutely amazing. I loved this place so much I brought my mom for her own facial and she has been begging me to take her back. I highly recommend GiGi and Vanessa. They are both very skilled and know what to look for in your skin. Once you’re with them you’ll know you’re in good hands.

I've been coming to SAF beauty for 2 years now and I've always left super happy as they do a fantastic job each time. I've been doing their sugaring hair removal with Gunel and the process is very smooth and quick, as she's a sugaring expert. It's also nearly painless, as she's quick and thorough. I recently went for a facial and eyelash lift and I'm super satisfied with my results. Vanessa did my facial for me and they create a personalized facial based on your skin type, skin needs and skin history. They helped to hydrate my face and also balance my skin tone. Vanessa also performed extractions and my face felt the most hydrated and radiant it has ever! My lash lift still looks great after almost 4 weeks. They pay so much attention to detail and really cater to your skincare and cosmetic needs. I can't wait to go back!

I've been going to this salon for Brazilian sugar waxing for close to a year now and really love it. I was so scared to start waxing but it totally changed the game for me. Gunel, the owner, does an incredible job getting it done quickly and spotlessly, while also remaining professional and SO kind. Prices are a bit higher than generic chain wax salons but you really get what you pay for here. Personal care for a very personal area, lol. I can't add photos on here or I'll be banned but trust that I leave this salon smooth as silk!

My favorite sugaring spot in SF! A serene spot even on a bustling street. Always feel like I’m well taken care of and Gunel is meticulous in her work and makes sure you leave feeling happy with the service. I definitely see and feel an improvement in my skin. Highly recommend.