La Val Skin Studio

I had the best facial ever! Valerie was amazing and very gentle. My face litterely was glowing:)

Valorie is my savior, sent from the skin gods. I have been going to Valorie for over a year now. I have acne prone skin and even been to the dermatologist. She knows her stuff and never makes you feel uncomfortable. You know that feeling you get when someone looks at your skin?! Lol I’m not going to lie and say extractions are not painful but afterwards, your skin is soft, supple and de-​clogged. She never tries to up sell products and she answers all your questions. Don’t hesitate! Your skin will thank you for it!

I had a microdermabrasion treatment done a few months ago. I’ve had several facials and microderm treatments in the past and I was not totally happy with my service. Val is very friendly and very professional but I just didn’t get the type of treatment I was expecting. After the microderm I broke out ALL over my face for about a week. I kept telling myself that this happens sometimes and it will look much better in a week, but no it didn’t. I didn’t feel like she touched my face even that much to cleanse it after. Overall, this just wasn’t my cup of tea.

Val is soooo wonderful. Like everyone else said, this place is a little difficult to find. It’s inside of the ABC dental. Val must have seen me wandering around and came out to get me lol. I was blown by her skin and shocked when she shared her age with me.
I came with really congested skin, especially my nose and chin. I have eczema and reduce my visits to an esthetician because I don’t want to risk any allergic reactions. But my time was due and I HAD to see someone for my face. She was friendly, she asked me the basic questions, was very thorough and her place was clean. At the end, I did not come out like a lobster and my skin felt soooo soft. My skin of course is not as nice as Val’s but it’s better than it was coming to see her and I am HOOKED. She gave me tips and advised that if I had any questions to just shoot her a text. How awesome! I will come back and hopefully more frequent once the eczema irritation on my chin is gone!
Tips she shared with me:
–apply sunblock every day and reapply!!!
–hydrate
–eat clean, it shows on your face
–wash you face thoroughly even if you aren’t wearing a lot of make up (day and night)
It’s been two weeks since my appointment with her and I can safely say that my skin still feels smooth. My sister went too and she’s still smooth but I can’t speak for her as I can for myself.

Val is amazing. She is super nice and knowledgeable. Will definitely come back for facial.

Valerie gives one of the best facials in the east Bay Area. She is so kind and values her customer — makes you feel like your skin matters to her. I did both the acne facial and the microdermabrasion. I loved it! Will definitely be back!

Val is amazing. I’ve gotten so many facials before but she is by far the best. I came in for an acne facial because my skin has been breaking out like CRAZY. Val got a lot of the black/​white heads out in just an hour. She gave me some really good tips on how to change my lifestyle to have healthier skin. I love how she was just so real with it. She made me feel so comfortable and when I left, she gave me hope hat my skin would get better. I already made another appointment for another acne facial. I can’t wait to see how my skin turns out after this journey with Val.

Val is AMAZING!
I have come to her twice to have extractions done, and though as painful as they sound, I have never felt so relaxed. Val’s hands are like magic and as she works on your face with different tools/​creams/​masks you can’t help but doze off a bit.
She works from inside they same building as ABC dental so the first time I went it was a little tough for me to find. However, Val’s room in the building is extremely serene and has no noise besides the relaxing music that plays in the background.
I have struggled with severe blackheads on my nose my whole life, and Val has managed to make my skin look clearer than ever. I have been to a dermatologist who prescribed me medication that didn’t help me AT ALL, who knew all I needed was Val in my life! Turns out the retin-​a I was prescribed was too harsh from my skin, and Val advised me to stop using it immediately and I’m so happy she did.
She also texts so scheduling appointments is always easy, and she is always willing to answer any questions. I have had no problem contacting her whatsoever as she is very quick with responses.
It is also obvious that she knows her stuff and I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my skin besides her! I am definitely a loyal customer now and am so excited to book another appointment with her in a few weeks.
I would recommend Val to anyone!

Valerie was awesome!
I had a acne facial done because my face been suffering from breakouts and acne for some time now and she helped me tremendously!
She explained to me how bad I’m taking care of my skin and gave me tips on how to improve my skin! She was very professional and explained everything she was doing! I really appreciate how friendly she was! Definitely coming back

I try to find top notch skincare due to my sensitive and acne prone skin and I am glad I did my research! I ended going to Valerie since I have had consultations at other places and they seemed to be dishonest especially with their before and after photos that I would actually find on the internet. It was super disappointing. Skincare places also like to use photoshop to trick their customers. Valerie did not have any fake photos and the reviews from her customers seemed reliable. Also when you meet her in person you can tell she is not wearing any foundation to hide imperfections… like others have said her skin is flawless! I have met other estheticians who wore foundation and have wondered why they would have to wear make up if they were good with skincare. Makes you feel skeptical but not with Valerie.
She was incredibly knowledgable and professional about proper skincare! I felt she truly cared about taking care of my skin because she was not trying to force expensive treatments or any of her products on me. She is kind and only advised about the most affordable treatments that would give me efficient results and how to maintain your skin afterwards. She also gives you her best advice on ways to prevent breakouts and decreasing acne marks which is an issue I have been dealing with.
I ended up deciding to have a facial for now to unclog my pores because they were extremely clogged from make up residue and oil which she suggested. The facial was relaxing and she had very gentle hands. She extracted my pores very well. My skin felt so fresh and clean which was needed to be done before I get a chemical peel. I was going to get a chemical peel that day which would decrease the appearance of my acne marks the fastest but I decided not to opt for that for now because you need at least a week for recover time. Due to all the peeling and staying away from the sun. So when I find extra time off from work that will be my next treatment.
I absolutely enjoyed my experience with Valerie. I actually ended up buying her products even though she did not force them on me. That is how trustworthy I felt from her. I got the sunscreen which has a SPF of 40 since it is very difficult to find a sunscreen of that amount that is mineral based and non greasy formula in the drugstores because trust me, I have searched for one with no luck! She actually sells it 5 bucks cheaper than online which I also researched.
Lastly, her studio is now in Union City and I live 3 min away so it is very convenient!

After reading all the positive reviews on Val, I decided to make an appointment. This was back in October 2014. Unfortunately, she was going out of the country for awhile so I wasn’t able to book an appointment until December 23, 2014.
From the moment I met her, she had such a warm and welcoming energy. Her skin is FLAWLESS! So definitely, the proof is in the pudding. She walked me through each step of the microdermabrasion process and even made me feel my face so I could feel the difference.
I have noticed a great improvement in my skin and have took to her advice of wearing sunscreen DAILY and reapplying every 3 hours with my powder sunscreen.
I am already planning what treatment I want to have done next!

HANDS DOWN, Valerie is an amazinggg woman who has perfected her craft. This review is definitely overdue, however, I wanted to ensure I can provide the best & most accurate information possible to my fellow Unilocalers. After having Valerie work on my face for about 4 months now, I can say it’s finally time to write her well needed review. =)
Here I am, trying to find a place that offers «Diamond Peel Microdermabrasion» through Groupon & after browsing through dozens of local spa/​facial services, I came across La Val Skin Studio because I noticed that Val’s Diamond Peel Microderm that usually goes for $ 100 per session, had a $ 60 discount (WHAA!) & was only $ 40 (+tip)! (thanks, Groupon!). I mean, why the heck not?! That’s such a good deal that I didn’t want to miss!
Of course, I had to check each spa/​facial service on Unilocal first to see if it was the best fit for me, & I noticed that La Val had a full 5 star rating! I was completely blown away. I also noticed that La Val had recently opened up, so OF COURSE I was skeptical. I don’t let anyone work on my face. I want someone who’s skilled, certified, & highly knowledgeable on their procedures & their products. Though as I read through the reviews, a fellow Unilocaler had mentioned that Val had been working on people’s skin for many years now, just now has she recently decided to open up her own venue.
LOCATION:
You can find her petite, 1 room office inside the ABC Dental office in Union City. You guessed it, I got lost & had to call her on my first consultation. Remember: once you walk inside the ABC Dental Office, continue to walk straight down the hallway and her room will be the last one on the left. She will have a sign out if she’s currently busy with a client. If so, just wait in the waiting room near the entrance, & she will come out to introduce herself. Valerie is absolutely gorgeous! It’s hard to tell that she once suffered from acne issues in her prior years because her skin is flawless & porcelain in complexion. Initially, you’d think she’s wearing airbrushed makeup, until she tells you that it’s her real skin & that all she wears is sunscreen. THESE ARE THE PEOPLE WHO YOU CAN TRUST YOUR FACE WITH, I’LL TELL YA!
PROCEDURE:
She begins the procedure by requesting you to lay on the spa bed (and go underneath the warm blanket if you’re cold), close your eyes, & relax. She then preps your skin by cleaning it & wiping off any excess oils/​makeup on your face. Once that’s done, she starts the microderm procedure, which is where a state-​of-​the-​art diamond cut handpiece will be used to gently remove the dead skin & debris on the outer layer of your skin, leaving smoother, cleaner, brighter skin. It’ll feel as if a micro vacuum is sucking your skin up, nothing too outrageous, though. The Diamond Peel microderm is safe, effective, gentle, clean, won’t leave any residue. After the procedure, Val will show you how much dead skin and debris was removed during the procedure! Lastly, she then applies a soothing mask to relax and hydrate your skin. You will leave her office looking and feeling refreshed, & you will immediately feel the difference, guaranteed!
BENEFITS:
The Diamond Peel is excellent for anyone whose skin is dull, flaky, dry, dirty, & anyone with clogged pores. The Diamond Peel can also help improve the appearance of brown spots & wrinkles, & can also help patients with mild to moderate acne by opening up the pores & allowing them to breathe.
MAINTENANCE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Val will recommend this procedure to be done every 4 – 6 weeks for best results. She will also ask if you apply Sunscreen on a daily basis, which is EXTREMELY important. If you don’t use sunscreen, she offers a variety of different sunscreens to best suit your skin. I currently use the TiZO3 Age Defying Fusion Facial Mineral Sunscreen by Solar Protection Formula. It’s sheer & recommended for those who have oily skin. I highly suggest you discuss with Val as to what’s the best sunscreen for you.
1ST TIME CLIENTS:
–Book an appointment with Valerie, by calling her directly at: (510) 282‑3400. 24 hours before your appointment, she typically sends you a text message confirming as to whether or not you can make your appointment.
–Valerie ONLY ACCEPTS CASH OR CHECK. She does NOT accept debit/​credit card.
–If your appointment is on the weekend, make sure to allow 5 – 10 mins additional for parking purposes. Parking can be a tad difficult as there’s Farmers Market beginning in the early A.M.
–Try to book your next appointment after your procedure. It’s easier to discuss available slots then so she can also plan ahead for her hundreds of other clients.
After the first session, I almost immediately received a ton of compliments. I don’t use foundation or concealer, yet people think I’m wearing makeup! I plan on trying even more of her procedures! Thanks, Valerie!!! =)

Today was my first time to go to La Val. Valorie was so nice and friendly. She recommended getting the signature treatment for my face as it was dry. she was explaining every step and was always checking if I was comfortable.
She sounded so professional which is so important if you wanna get facial treatment.
After the treatment was done I was able to see a BIG difference. I love how my face looks and feels now. It’s clear and smooth .
I will definitely visit her again soon =)

Ive been coming to Valerie since April 2014. I get the microdermabrasion and love it! Valerie is gentle and very informative about the different types of skin types and remedies for problem skin. I hadn’t come to her for about 6 months due to working and boy did my skin let me know. I was breaking out and stressing about it. Valerie saved my skin once again and this time I ended up buying all the products used. Valerie is definitely worth giving a try!

I found Val through Unilocal.Everything others have said about her is true. She is a lovely person and gives a fantastic facial. No sales pitches. My skin was glowing after the moisturizing facial. Looked like I. had makeup on. Ask her for tips on caring for your skin. She is a walking advertisement… her skin is flawless. I like how she will. text you the day before your appointment to confirm. I’ve been twice and am going to continue. You won’t be disappointed.

Val is very professional and knowledgeable. During my visit another guest came in and thought it was her day for her appointment and my appointment was at the same time. She handled the situation very professorially. She lead me into the studio where I relaxed and she stepped out to talk to the lady that had thought her appointment was at the same day and time. She then came back and apologized for the inconvenience. You can tell she cares about her clients. She told me I needed an acne facial as well. I got my microdermabrasion done first which was then followed by an acne facial. I’m really happy I came here! I highly recommend Val!

I was introduced to Valorie by a friend a little two years ago. That being said, this review is long overdue!
Let me just start by saying that Valorie is absolutely good at what she does. Before coming to Valorie, my skin was a complete mess from working outdoors. I’ve gotten facials from others before Valorie however I never wanted to come back because I would breakout afterward or it would hurt so much that I wanted to cry out stop. Now with Valorie’s talent, my skin looks amazing. It is the smoothest and softest it ever been. I’ve even gotten compliments from others.
Valorie is really gentle yet gets the job done. She makes me feel really comfortable during the session. She makes me feel like I’m visiting my friend rather than my esthetician. Valorie is honest and wouldn’t sugar coat which I appreciate very much.
I highly recommend Valorie. She’s great, non-​pushy, talkative, yet will give you peace and quite if that’s what you desire. She’s very accommodating to my schedule which can be a challenge sometime. Her pricing is reasonable. I’ve been going to her over 2 years now and will continue to go to her for my facial. She’s simply the best! Oh, I think she has magic hands!

Another solid 5 stars for Valerie!
It was my first time coming here last weekend, and she was so nice to wait outside for new customers! She definitely explained everything she was doing (I got the microdermabrasion [first time] and facial), very friendly and not pushy at all. When it came to extractions, I was definitely in pain (close to tears!), but surprisingly, the redness wasn’t TOO bad afterwards.
And when I was completely done, my skin looked like it had foundation on … crazy! I’ve never had that experience before.
Will be coming back, thanks Val! To everyone else, book appointments early, weekends can get busy.

Love her! she is so charming apart from being so good at what she does! I just tried to set up an appointment on the same day and was a wknd she have a packed sched and said she cant take me on that day, it was a saturday, but i got a call fron her and said she can take me at 530 pm, she actually extended her hours so i can have my facial done! Super nice!!!
it was my first time going there and had a wonderful experience had the Ultrasonic lightening treatment and was very happy about it! Val definitely knows what shes doing! would definitely recommend to my friends!

I have been going to Valerie since ¹⁰⁄₁₃ when I moved to the East Bay. I found her on Groupon when her spa was in Fremont and thought she was really great. She does extractions very meticulously, which I love and focuses on your problem areas. She is professional, knowledgable and a sweet person to chat with. I usually get acne facials with her but more recently I have started getting more services like the whitening facial, eye treatment and microdermabrasion. As she has helped my skin clear up. I love going to Val to relax get a quality facial/​massage. I always leave happy and with clearer looking skin. I definitely recommend Val for anyone who enjoys any quality skin care service. Some people charge the same price for a sloppy service but Val always comes threw with her expert techniques.
Krystal M