Sassoon Academy

Leave it to Nhi to give you the haircut you didn’t know you even wanted! Thank you Vidal Sassoon Academy :) I loved being an observer to the creative process behind what makes a top quality haircut. Nhi’s knowledge and skill are second to none. There’s a lot of time invested into the appointment, so just keep that in mind.
Much love,
Callie J.

I got a beautiful hair cut from Nhi yesterday as a model for a class. It was fascinating to hear her explain the details about how to fit a hairstyle to a specific face shape, and sure enough, I love the cut! Everyone at the academy was professional and super friendly! I recommend visiting Vidal Sassoon and a cut by Nhi highly!

First of all I didn’t even manage to get a haircut.
I tried to book my appointment through the student on craigslist.
What happened when I arrived was that the student double booked because, their response, «I didn’t email them back». If they knew anything about customer service, you never blame the customer. In my defense, the student should have emailed me for confirmation of the appointment.
I didn’t respond to their email because I didn’t know how to. They tried to decide the cut without seeing my hair in person. An image is good for length and hair type but you can’t tell the thickness or thinness of the hair.
In the end, the other person took the appointment (fine with me, it isn’t their fault) and the student apologized saying they’d email me back.
The reason for this review? They never emailed me back.

I got my haircut at Sassoon Salon about a month ago by apprentice Mia and absolutely loved it. Yes, the wait time was long (about 1 ½ hours) but honestly, it’s a hair academy and I only paid 20 bucks, so I really didn’t mind.
Mia was nothing but courteous, friendly and professional, she really took the time to listen to what I wanted and then just made it happen.
When I read the reviews here & the salon description I was a little worried about the term «modern haircut» in combination with all the pictures of very geometrical cuts — I am a teacher and didn’t feel like this style would suit me. But Mia cut my hair to a lovely mid-​length bob with sideswept bangs that has a wonderful flow to it and I couldn’t be happier! Even now, a month later it looks great, so don’t be afraid: they do classic cuts too ;)
In conclusion: if you have a busy schedule this might not be the place for you, but the price and service are unbeaten — especially in a city as expensive as SF, where you could easily spend about 200 bucks for the same cut.

I usually go to my regular barber/​salon and they do a decent job for a decent price, but it’s always the same haircut with no fluff. I called Vidal (is that still their name? I’m confused) because I went to their model classes years ago and wondered if they still did it. They do and luckily I was offered to be cut by the instructor and have the class watch instead of the other way around in their Sassoon Academy. Um, a $ 125.00 haircut for free?! Duh. Her name is Nhi! (pronounced like the knee on your body). Honestly, I would not be able to afford her, but I highly recommend if you spend that much on a haircut or if you are looking for a change. Worth the money! I have difficult hair (like everyone says) and I said do what ever, but I’m sure if you had strict restraints she would listen because she is a perfectionist and understands YOUR hair.

I have had great experiences here! Nhi is amazing at what she does and her courses are truly the best! My latest cut is a variation of the bob, a graduated bob! It’s perfect, I totally recommend Vidal!

The lovely Nhi cut my hair today… Aside from the fact that I want to hug her whenever I see her, I truly appreciate this woman’s expertise, professionalism, and kindness. She turned my mop into a masterpiece!

First off I’d like to state I will only review places that I feel deserve 5 stars. Second off, I posted this under the wrong section, so um. here is a copy and paste! Below is a direct review that I left on the Sassoon page.
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This was also my first experience as a hair model for their academy and I wasn’t quite sure what to expected.
I called at around 10:30 am on the day of the hair cut to see if they were open. I was welcomed to a lovely voice who introduced herself as Katelyn. As soon as I mentioned interest in the hair model role, she ecstatically provided my opinions in which I expressed my interest to come in on the day that I called. She quickly set that up and even, upon request, sent me an email confirmation of the location and time.
Once I arrived the staff was extremely friendly and explained the entire process to me. As I wait, they offered me a beverage and felt such a warm/​welcoming aura from the environment.
As the hair models made their way into the class, the students had a choice of selection between us. After the selection, there was a short discussion between the hairs models, students and the instructor, Nih. I felt extremely comfortable as I was looking for a new style and they descriptive with my options.
The process did take 3 hours, but it was one of the most relaxing experiences for me. I have to admit that it unexpected pleasant. It felt like a mediation session. My stylist adjusted her tone and mood based on mine. In fact, I went from extremely talkative to a subtle, softer tone. Time flew by as my stylist continued to work. She would occasionally go off to watch the Nih work and explain different techniques on the other hair models. I completely understood as it is a learning experience. Also, my stylist only spent 5 minutes tops away from my chair. Nih would stop by occasionally to assess the process to comment and to demonstrate her techniques.
As soon as the session was done, the stylist asked for a photo which I happy obliged. The staff remained as positive as usual as the first moment I met them.
I will totally recommend this place to my friends.
TL;DR
Great staff that is willing to answer any questions. Long process, but I felt completely comfortable and understand that quality takes time. They will ask to take a picture afterwards. I had a great time and would recommend this place to everyone I know.

I have been coming to Vidal for several years now, mainly doing the hair modeling demo classes, & recently came in this past week on March 25^th. It was my second time in a class taught by Nhi & I once again got an incredible hair cut. I highly recommend this class to any people considering getting their hair cut at Vidal Sassoon as its a great entry into their style of cutting. I’ve done both creative & classic courses, this one being a creative with a great stylist from Denver by the name of J Audrey. Every time i get a cut somewhere else & come back to Sassoon I feel like I’ve cheated on them, because they always can tell. Love it, no regrets!

I’ve been getting my hair cut both as a general model and demo model for three years now. Nhi (the instructor) usually cuts my hair and always does a fantastic job. I just had my hair cut two days ago and have gotten nothing but compliments. She always does something interesting and different and makes sure I am happy.
I’m not super picky about hair, so if you are, I’m not sure the Academy is the best place for you. I’m an artist so I prefer something more unusual, and what I’ve always gotten is something creative but also refined, with very precise technique (my time is worth all that scissor over comb any day!). I’m an instructor myself so I love watching Nhi’s style. She is easygoing, funny, kind, flexible, and professional, and it seems like it would be a joy to learn from her.
Totally worth the extra time for the value. As a demo model, you are getting a super high-​quality haircut from one of the best (FOR FREE), and as a general model, you’ll also be getting a great cut from a trained stylist (not someone who is just getting their license — I’ve even gotten a cut from a beauty school head who just wanted to brush up on technique), for basically free. I continually refer my friends and family to Sassoon Academy and they’ve all walked out as happy as I have!

Highly recommend a trainer cut, especially if Née is the instructor of the group. They can and are very willing to work with an assortment of hair (including Indian… yay!!) and have different classes associated to ‘how brave you are.’ For example, if you’re just looking for a quick trim (which includes a wash and blow dry), it can be done by asking to get booked on a ‘Classic’ day — for $ 20 + tip. Seriously.
The best part is is that nearly ever part of your cut is supervised by a head stylist so you’re essentially getting it done by a Vidal Sassoon pro.
Definitely recommend.

It’s hard to judge the overall success the Academy has just based off one personal experience. There’s so many different students with varying levels of ability.
My experience could have gone much better.
A bit of background:
My hair has been extremely damaged in the past 1.5 yrs due to over processing from a perm & some color. I needed a cut to eliminate the dry brittle, split-​ends.
I wanted something edgy yet subtle– an asymmetric mid-​length cut.
There were 8 trainees, 1 teacher (Nhi). This should have been my red flag. The ratio of student to teacher could’ve been more equal so that there is more individualized attention.
At first, I was fine with my stylist. I talked to her a bit to get a general idea of her experience without trying to ask too much without offending her thinking I don’t trust her b/​c she may be a noob. I would recommend prying and asking as much as you can. Afterall, this is your hair.
We consulted a lot since I’ve done hair shows in the past, so I picked up a few things. I was particular, yet open, although Nhi probably begs to differ. I told her I wanted to keep my hair long since I’m usually low maintenance with my hair and it’s usually up for yoga.
She responded with, «These students paid a lot of money to be here so I want them to walk away really learning something.» I get it. But it’s also my hair, so I have a huge say what someone does with it. And, I gave the receptionist a briefing on my hair history and what I wanted. She recommended going to a Creative class as opposed to a Classic class.
Nhi basically went around to each stylist to go over the cut for each model. I found that she basically told them what to do, and didn’t really explain concepts and why. My stylist has been doing hair since ’96 but had MAJOR brushing up to do on her skills. She also had an accent so I notice there seemed to have been misunderstandings and miscommunications which were flags and worried me during my cutting process. My stylist was confused a lot, especially b/​c she would outright say it. She didn’t quite understand technique to my particular cut very well and made 2 huge booboos:
1) She cute a section incorrectly which made the inside layer of my hair significantly shorter than the rest of the hair. I noticed when lengthy chunks were falling. It looked like my do was 3 – 4 inches shorter than I asked for. You could see the fear in my eyes but was too scared and unsure to say something. Thankfully, Nhi came by and caught her & stopped her, but not early enough.
Had she not had to walk around to evaluate and instruct 8 different stylists, she could have paid more personal attention and prevented the mistake. And a cut wouldn’t have take 3.5 hrs.
She scolded my stylist, «…You may not care that you never see her again, but I do. I want her to come back.» She rolled her eyes at her a couple times too.
Way to be harsh with your students. Your student is only as good as the teacher. If you’re not explaining things properly, how do you expect her to grasp the concepts? They paid $ to learn right? And why would you say that to scare the model? It’s embarrassing for the stylist and it’s worrisome for us.
2) My bangs received the same treatment. I don’t think my stylist learned her lesson. She acted without fully grasping concepts.
Also, my mistake was forgetting to speak up about which side I prefer the asymmetry until it was too late. I originally wanted the right to be longer since my part tends to split from the left. I didn’t think about it since I was trying so hard to explain what I did and didn’t want with other aspects of my hair. Nhi pretty much just decided for me. She should have asked.
Overall look: presentable. I lucked out because my hair is long enough to curl and hide imperfections.
Details: bad. The section just above the the one from my neck (where she messed up) is 3 inches shorter so it’s not cohesive and breaks. Good thing its an under layer so it is hidden.
My bangs were brought straight up to be cut and so when I brush it back, it creates a bowl cut type look. It’s also shorter than I wanted. I had specifically argued to do as little with my bangs since I like it long and prefer to avoid «bangs/​fringe» in the first place. So much for growing it out. I understand they need fixing but it’s like taking 2 steps forward, 1 back.
I should have went to a experienced stylist for my «complicated» cut and hair but things have been financially tough and this was a $ saver. You assume risk if you’re looking for anything outside basic trims and such.
Don’t be afraid to speak up! It’s your fault if you don’t communicate.

Wow, I had a great experience here yesterday!
Nih, the instructor, is as brilliant as others have said. Everyone should have a teacher like her sometime in their life — dedicated, demands perfection, and yet has a sense of humor. My stylist was a salon owner in Berkeley and did a great job on my hair. I wanted the archetypal Vidal Sassoon A-​line with bangs and figured this would be the place to get it.
Plan to be here for a while — my cut actually took 4 hours. But it is perfection and it only cost $ 20, so who can complain? Well, Unilocalers, obviously.
Give it a shot on a day you’re feeling adventurous!

I came here as a model to get my hair cut yesterday and Therese (student but a 10 yr professional stylist at Wanderlust Salon in SF) did an amazing job. I have thick curly hair and she did not disappoint. She kept my length, got rid of the split ends, and now it looks amazingly healthy! Big props to the EXCELLENT INSTRUCTOR who picked out the perfect stylist for me! Will definitely be coming here for my next cut!

The Sassoon Academy is one of the City’s best-​kept secrets (imho). Initially, I was skeptical because of the price (20 bucks) and because my hair was going to be cut by a «student.» I have always been under the impression that «you get what you pay for,» especially when it comes to haircuts. I was so wrong.
The Academy’s creative director, Nhi, is fabulous and teaches how to cut men’s hair «the Sassoon way.» I have always hated the use of clippers because when it grows out, my hair tends to stick straight out (rather than lay flat) on the sides and back. This does not happen anymore because they cut my hair using the «scissor over comb» technique. It’s awesome.

I’ve been cutting my haircut at Vidal, at both San Francisco and Santa Monica academies, for 5+ years and I’ve always been satisfied. If you expect to come into a course only wanting a trim or with a style that is obviously not of Vidal’s, YOU WILL BE DISAPPOINTED.
Come with an open-​mind and patience and you’ll walk out with a great cut guaranteed

This review is for the Model Haircuts only. *WARNING* Do not get your cut hair if you’re looking for a complicated cut.
I scheduled an appointment here in hopes of getting a budget haircut. More specifically an a=line haircut and a clean up on my bangs. What I got instead was an attempt at an a-​line haircut and a bowl-​cut style bangs. I had to walk out of the salon pretending that i loved the haircut just not to be rude. What i really wanted to do was cry in misery.
Don’t get me wrong, the student was nice and so was the instructor… But i came to get a specific haircut and took my risk at this model call. The most dreadful part was the bang cut. I only wanted side bangs, and it was my fault for not reminding them but before i knew it my bangs were cut straight across the forehead and it was too late to speak up.
I’m sorry to say this is by far the worst haircut i’ve ever received… but to be honest it was cheap and is probably only worth a visit if you’re just getting a trim. I saw other students and customers with smiles so it’s not a complete lost cause. Check it out for yourself, it’s really a hit or miss based on the student and type of haircut you’re looking for.

I Always return to get a tune up. Amazing, long lasting inspiration. Sassoon keeps things in perspective for me. will forever be a participant.

Nhi might be a great teacher but she did not listen to my needs. 3.19.2013
I asked not to have a round head and not short JUST A TRIM AND SHAPE. I came away with a complete short round head. This cut aged me 20 years. I would be glad to send a before and after picture. The Sassoon Academy is not a place for me. The training does not support the hairdressers ability to listen to the client. When my family saw me they said «Oh Mom, I am so sorry’! I look like a old bizzy body bother sort of annoying biddy with a bowl on my head and not a beautiful woman.
Not only did NHI not listen to my needs and desire, she allowed her student to make me ugly. The person who did cut my hair was so loud that after asking her kindly if she usually speaks so loud I pulled out ear plugs to protect both my ears and my nervous system. Finally she did say that she speaks LOUD! All I have to do is tell my friends where I got this haircut and they will stay away. Five years growth cut off in a short time. I look Terrible. Like Obama’s Dog!

I attended a 3 day Creative Cut course taught by Nhi at this Sassoon Academy. I have attended Sassoon courses several times before, in different locations, and I can say with certainty that Nhi is one of the best instructors that I have had, and a fantastic fantastic artist.
For anyone who has never invested in a Sassoon course before, novice or seasoned expert, this is a great location to do it in.