Each salon on this list has carved out its niche. Some excel in color, one stands out in wigs and hair-replacement, while another focuses entirely on skin care. Dive into the essentials, then explore the specifics.
7 Top Salons and How to Pick the Best Fit
- L Salon and Color Group: Downtown San Mateo’s gem for color, extensions, and smoothing, backed by a team of seasoned colorists and stylists.
- Nadia’s Salon: A cozy, owner-driven salon near 25th Avenue drawing loyal customers year after year with fair prices and personal care.
- Hair Designs by Kelly Dinger: A unique boutique on West 25th Avenue crafting custom wigs and hair systems using 100% human hair for all genders.
- Chicas Hair Salon: An unpretentious spot on Tilton Avenue for cuts, color, and styling, boasting long hours, including weekend service.
- Le Juin Beauty Spa: A sanctuary for skincare and body treatments, offering organic facials, lash extensions, waxing, and massages.
- Salon Sur La Rue: A welcoming salon near the Belmont border with friendly, independent stylists and easy parking.
- Top Image Salon: A private, single-chair studio on South El Camino Real, providing one-on-one stylist attention.
7 Top Salons and How to Pick the Best Fit
Ever sat nervously in a new salon chair, unsure of the outcome? Moving to the Peninsula, sporting the remnants of a bad haircut, or needing a stylist change brings that fear. Luckily, San Mateo is brimming with options, from chic downtown salons to quaint neighborhood spots helmed personally by their owners.
L Salon and Color Group
223 S San Mateo Dr, San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 342-6668
lsalon.com
L Salon and Color Group on South San Mateo Drive stands as a full-service hub. Offerings span cuts, coloring, extensions, perms, and luxurious treatments.
Their team is their strength. The staff includes a master colorist who doubles as an educator, ensuring new stylists are well-trained. Clients seeking extensions get personalized solutions with a vast selection of colors and lengths. No online booking means phones or emails are your go-to for appointments.
Nadia’s Salon
25 W 25th Ave #4, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 525-1001
Nadia’s Salon shuns grandeur for intimacy. Nestled on West 25th Avenue, it offers cuts, color, and treatments in a tranquil setting.
Clients commend it not for trends, but for value and consistency. A client from Palo Alto praises its reasonable prices and dependable service. The salon’s appeal lies in its low-pressure environment. Limited hours mean planning your visit is key.
Hair Designs by Kelly Dinger
167 W 25th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 212-2488
At Hair Designs by Kelly Dinger, it’s all about custom hair solutions. This studio specializes in wigs and hair systems for both men and women using natural hair for seamless blends.
For those facing hair loss or color mishaps, Kelly Dinger offers more than just styling—it’s a supportive experience. Free consultations, both in-person and virtual, underscore their commitment to accessibility.
Chicas Hair Salon
702 Tilton Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 642-7976
Chicas Hair Salon is practical and accessible. Located on Tilton Avenue, it handles haircuts, coloring, and styling, with payment flexibility.
The standout feature here is its schedule. Open late on weekdays and all weekend, it caters to those with busy lives. It’s a straightforward setting perfect for basic needs without the frills.
Le Juin Beauty Spa
155 E 5th Ave, San Mateo, CA 94401
(650) 293-2756
beauty.lejuin.com
Le Juin Beauty Spa is a haven for skin enthusiasts. Situated on East 5th Avenue, it offers organic skincare and lash extensions.
Facials aimed at specific skin challenges, massages, and waxing are all on the menu. Praise flows in for the quality of facials and lashes. Note the different entrance for massages to avoid confusion.
Salon Sur La Rue
11 41st Ave, San Mateo, CA 94403
(650) 578-1135
salonsurlarue.com
Salon Sur La Rue thrives on its independent stylist model. Located near the Belmont border, it’s both personal and professional.
Clients build strong bonds with their stylists, praised repeatedly for their skill and attention. The salon’s bright atmosphere and easy parking enhance the experience. Their expertise ranges from cuts to color and conditioning treatments.
Top Image Salon
4060 S El Camino Real, San Mateo, CA 94403
(415) 812-7773
salontopimage.com
Top Image Salon offers rare privacy on South El Camino Real. Opened in 2012, it provides exclusive, personalized services.
With one stylist handling every client, you get undivided attention. Services range from cuts to complex color work. Clients value the peaceful setting, free amenities, and a decade of loyalty to the stylist, Alvin Wen.
