Spa ViolaSole

I have been one of Lex’s clients since 2007. Like many others, I first met her at Bliss and happily followed her when she opened her own spa. She is great at what she does, and she provides a more personal, individualized approach to skin care. Booking an appointment is never an issue despite how busy she is. I also appreciate that no one there is every pushy about products and add on services.
I recently decided to try the facial with LED light therapy instead of a basic facial and I’m kicking myself for not doing it sooner. My face was softer and smoother than it has been in ages and the feeling lasted for weeks after.
I just relocated out of LA and I’m honestly going to miss Lex more than some of my friends.

I am extremely picky about who touches my skin and Kathryn is one of the rare few (two). I have been seeing her for over a year now even though skin looks great I maintain it by seeing her every month or two. She is gentle yet effective. She doesn’t try to sell you anything you don’t need or even do need. She has a passion for skin care and skin education. My skin is «of color» so is sensitive to scarring. The hydrafacial machine she uses is great for that.

I’m so happy I’ve found Kathryn and her crew formerly of Bliss Westwood. I used to see Kathryn several years ago and so thrilled a friend mentioned she opened her own spa. This small private day spa is all about the client and individual needs.
The hydrafacial is fantastic and I have seen improved results in my skin (less redness and dryness) over time. There is hardly any wait time for your appointment. The waiting area is cute/​clean with water, tea, and snacks. Front office staff are friendly and professional.
Park in the lower garage to valet with entrance just after the front of the plaza. With validation from the spa, parking is about $ 2 (cash/​credit). Metered parking available on San Vicente. Spa is on the third floor next to Taiko sushi.

I had neglected my skin for a few years and after asking my friend with amazing skin who does her facials, I tried Illume. Kathryn was amazing, she was gentle and took her time answering my questions. The span itself was super clean and quiet. My skin looks fabulous and will definitely be visiting more regularly. I also really liked that they did not try to upsell me or make me buy a bunch of stuff that would sit on my vanity.

Lex (Irina) has been my aesthetician since 2007? 2008? so long I don’t remember. She is the only person I trust to do waxing and facials. I started going to see her at Bliss in Westwood [redacted horrible comments about Bliss’ and their treatment of customers].
Lex has travelled all over the world training Bliss staff… she’s the real deal. Very knowledgable about anything to do with beauty/​skincare.
We spent years chatting about the importance of doing our own thing, being entrepreneurs and running a business on our own terms. In the 7+ years we’ve known each other we’ve both made the leap from comfortable employment to scary self-​employment so to me this makes it all the more worthwhile to support her business. Lex and Kathryn have carefully assessed the needs of their clients and tailored her business goals to support them. Oh and Kathryn is amazing too, I’ve had her do a body scrub and wax occasionally.
I travel 20+ miles across LA (sometimes in traffic) to see Lex once or twice per month. Super excited she’s expanding to nail services as it’s realllllly convenient to get things done at the same time.
Love the Hydrafacials BTW. My skin is absolutely fantastic after every visit. Can’t say enough great things.
Visit this spa, not the others.

Im not sure where to start so I will just say that if you are reading this and considering where your money will be best spent on a facial — it will definitely be in illume spa.
I have been battling acne-​prone skin and at the same time dealing with aging issues, and only because of IRINA (aka LEXANDRA) everything is under control now! Her endless knowledge, dedication and patience has changed my skin. Her most thorough extractions, Hydra Facial and light therapy did much more than my ex– doctor’s medications. Her extractions barely hurt by the way, and her massage is the BEST! She is definitely an expert and truly passionate about her work and she is also REALLY funny person!
Spa itself is so beautiful, cozy, super! and, I would say «spic n span» — clean ALWAYS! Any time I come, there is not dust or any spots anywhere; Athena at front desk is always amazing and remembers everyone name.