Alchemy Skin Spa

When I was 16 years old my mom gifted me with my first facial at a very fancy place on 5th Ave in NYC. She told me that if I took care of my skin it would stay radiant for most of my life. My mom was right. Over 30 years later, after having experienced some wonderful (and horrible) facials and skin treatments, I can say, without reservation, that Alchemy is the best place I have gone to for skincare. It is not just the amazing skincare products that Francesca uses, high quality organic products with delicious smells, or the beauty of her space, nor her skillful soothing touch; there is something else, something that is mysteriously part of her love of this work which restores me to myself. Do you know what I mean? I leave not only feeling treated, pampered, and nourished but more myself. And then of course, there is the pure joy of receiving a hand massage with luscious cream comes with a simple eyelash tint appointment! A facial is a pure transcendent experience. Alchemy is where I would bring my mom for a facial if she could still travel here to see me. Needless to say I am a fan with beautiful skin thanks to my mom and Francesca. more

I just got back from the most AMAZING experience. As I'm sitting here on my bed, with my laptop, I decided I have to share this with everyone. It's just not fair to keep it to myself. I just had a facial with Francesca! It is the most relaxing and calming thing I've ever done. I loved it. I usually don't put any product on my face so she used extremely sensative & soothing products. She's very cautious of what her products are made of and that is very important to me. They also smell wonderful. Pros: All services A++, easy parking, relaxing atmosphere, on-line appointment option, wonderful products...I can go on. Cons: I really can't think of anything. more

though she's very sweet and doesnt put any pressure on you at all, i didnt enjoy it much. i got the facial which costs 90 dollars. its supposed to be 80 minutes or so but it really lasted 50 including the time she asked me to go to the rooom and wait for her. facial ws nice but i wish it was more rejuvenating. wouldnt go there again. more

I have suffered not being able to find someone who does an amazing facial considering I do them myself as an occupation. I too need to be treated with one every now and then. But Francesca is amazing. She makes facials relaxing yet deep pore cleansing. I thank her for taking the time to work on my skin and allowing that time to relax. Take my word as an aesthetician in the industry, I recommend my clients to go to her when I can?t see them and I would highly recommend everyone to experience one of her facials. They are unique and calming. A true definition of a facial. Pros: A true skin care professional with knowledge Cons: Booked out for months more

This is my first review of a business, but, I just had to write one. Francesca, the owner of this wonderful skin spa, has truly put all her energy and talent into making it a relaxing, warm and friendly place. Francesca is very kind, caring, intelligent, inquisitive, sensitive and a talented aesthetician. I've had my brows done at many places and no one has done them as beautifully as she has. She always has time to find out how I'm doing. She puts that personal touch on the spa and you can tell that she really loves her job. The prices are very reasonable. You'll need to make an appointment because she's booked solid. I believe she's very professional, but, at the same time, personal and caring. I'm truly happy with her service. more

A trip to Alchemy and time with Francesca is sure to be the highlight of your day. Alchemy's owner Francesca is an incredicably warm and nurturing woman, who makes everyone who walks through her doors feel special. She has an unusual eye for beauty and organization, and has created a welcoming, beautiful retreat space in the heart of Berkeley. Francesca is also a consummate professional, with flawless attention to every detail of her clients' experience. She is an artist. She focuses on top quality service, at the same time making sure you are happy and relaxed while in her space and when you walk out the door. She delivers consistently! And yes, she's so popular it helps to book ahead; and she's worth the wait. Pros: Fabulous Francesca, quality organic skincare products Cons: Can't think of any more

You'd never guess that this little shop could be such a retreat! Even eyebrow tweezing is relaxing with Francesca. (And yes, she'll tweeze instead of wax if you'd prefer, and my eyebrows are perfect every time.) I can't recommend Alchemy enough. Pros: Francesca! Organic products that work for my super-reactive skin. Cons: No waiting area -if you're early you have to wait outside, which is cold in the winter. more

Francesca is a true care taker and nurturer. Her healing hands and warm heart are sure to make your experience wonderful. She is consistent, knowledgeable and a lovely person. Pros: wholesome skin care products, beautiful space, straightforward service Cons: parking can be tricky sometimes, off Walnut is best more

If you want to treat yourself to the best pampering experience ever, call Francesca for a facial or any of her other spa services. All your cares will go right down the drain, and your complexion will glow! Pros: Pampering service, beautiful surroundings, excellent products. more

Francesca is such a kind person which made my first waxing experience totally un-terrifying. The whole spa is very calm and serene making me relax instantaneously. She obviously loves what she's doing because it definietly shows in how careful and considerate she is of her clients wishes and experience with spa treatments. When you're interested in treating yourself to a spa day, it is nice to have the person love doing the treatment because it makes the clients dying to come back!! She, by far, achieves this feeling! My only complain is the booking is sometimes far in advance but once you go, you'll get to better schedule the next appointments! Pros: How comfortable she made me feel, in a very personal situation Cons: My first appointment was about 3 weeks from the time I called more

Do yourself a favor: if you are looking for a facial to rave about, gorgeous eyebrow shaping, a perfect wax job, and more, book your next appointment at Alchemy. If you're like me, Francesca's sweet and highly personalized care will have you scheduling your next appointment a week or two early. The space is lovely and soothing, truly worthy of the title ""spa."" And online booking makes grabbing an appointment quick and super-convenient. With so much praise for Alchemy, the one caution I have is to book early and often -- Francesca's coveted time fills up fast! Pros: excellent service, fair prices, lovely ambiance Cons: parking can be a little tricky; appointments book well in advance more

Francesca Cavanugh calms me, invigorates me, and leaves my skin feeling like velvet! She's a miracle worker, not to be missed if you want the best in skin care. Her spa is beautiful, her product lines all natural and effective. Pros: Serenity, commitment to highest quality, knowledge Cons: None! more