Illuminata Skin Care

Cynthia Quan founded Illuminata Skin Care after leaving a corporate career to work in skin care. She is the owner and the esthetician who sees clients, so the studio is a single-person practice with one treatment room.

The studio takes a holistic view of caring for both mind and body and uses botanical-based products. It avoids harsh chemicals and camouflage products, and the business describes its method as results-oriented. Recommendations for products are given only when the studio knows a product works and how to use it, and it does not push sales.

A visit starts with an appointment booked online or by phone; calls are returned as soon as possible. Online bookings are confirmed only after the booking screens are completed and an email confirmation arrives. There is no receptionist or waiting room, and clients are asked not to arrive more than 5 minutes early. Makeup can be removed at the studio, though heavy makeup takes time from the treatment. Men can book facials; shaving beforehand is recommended and areas with thick facial hair are worked around.

The signature offerings are facials of several lengths. The Signature Facial is a 60-minute treatment customized to the client, with cleansing, enzyme exfoliation, extractions, a masque, hot and cold stone therapy, and massage of the hands, arms, neck, shoulders and face. The Purifying Facial and Extended Facial run 75 minutes, and the Back-to-Front Facial runs 90 minutes and begins with a back treatment that buffs and purges pores before the facial. The studio does not offer invasive peels or microdermabrasion.

Policies: cancellations need at least 24 hours' notice, and later cancellations and no-shows are charged the full price of the services booked. If a client arrives more than 10 minutes late, the treatment may be shortened to keep later appointments on time. Payment is by major credit card through Square, Venmo, personal check or cash. Unopened, unused products may be returned within 14 days of purchase, with the buyer paying return shipping. Gift cards are available through Square in set amounts or a custom amount, and printed gift certificates can be bought at the studio or requested by mail.

The studio is open Monday and Tuesday from 10 am to 8 pm and is closed Wednesdays and Saturdays, though Saturday openings are sometimes offered. The last facial begins between 1 and 1.5 hours before closing. Parking is limited: a garage is on 21st Street between Valencia and Mission, nearby street spots are limited to 1 or 2 hours for non-residents, and metered spots on the block have a 4-hour limit. The 24th Street BART and Muni station is within walking distance.

Takes a holistic approach to mind and body care with botanical-based products, avoids harsh chemicals and camouflage products, and recommends products only when it knows they work.