Beauty & Spas in Laguna Niguel

As hair maestros overhaul scalps, April Michelle works hard putting the finishing touches on new looks with natural-looking eyelash extensions by Luscious Lashes. As she meticulously affixes the synthetic strands one by one to existing lashes, the rest of the salon bustles with the lively din of stylists, nail technicians, and aestheticians.

The salon itself is as vibrant and modish as its staff. It features an eye-grabbing blend of rustic and modern flourishes, including a chain-hung distressed metal sign, partially exposed brick-wall accents, chic light fixtures, and a refreshment station featuring coffee and wine.

At Royal Skin Therapy, owner and resident aesthetician Zianna incorporates relaxing aromatherapy and essential oils into all customized facials, which end with massages for scalps, feet, or upper backs. Other beautifying services available include tinting for brows and lashes, and waxing for men and women alike. Using pigments free of iron-oxide, Zianna can also apply permanent eyeliner, brow fills, and lip color that won't fade for at least 5 years and that far outlast earlier forms of permanent makeup, such as rose petals superglued to your cheeks.

From the moment clients are handed a frosty microbrew, it's clear that 18|8 Fine Men's Salons aren't average. Wielding stainless-steel tools, stylists trained specifically to tackle men's manes make guests feel at home while sharpening their looks. Executive cuts are finished with five-minute neck and shoulder massages and Bay Rum hot towels. Crisp, close shaves are accomplished with the same old-fashioned straight razors they used to use to groom zeppelins, and other services include man-friendly skincare and coloring treatments.

With more than 25 years of styling experience, Kelly has cut more hair than a low-hanging ceiling fan and can venture into endless hairstyling possibilities. During consultations, she whittles down those possibilities into a single option, based on the client’s facial shape, lifestyle, and personal taste. She then sets to work rinsing locks with Unite professional salon products, smoothing flyaways with keratin treatments, and adding pizzazz with highlights and color services.

18/8 Fine Men's Salon (formerly Converge Salon) offers a wide slate of barbering services for men. The executive barber cut—a classic way to get dapper and feel pampered—includes a neck and shoulder massage, a hot towel finish, and an optional sleeper hold from a retired wrestler. The grey blending treatments help conceal pesky grey hairs. Clients can enjoy complimentary beverages as they await their turn in the chair, too.

Kenneth Brown Salons feels as much like a spacious artist's loft as a salon, with super-high ceilings, low chandeliers, and modern hanging lights that look like downturned wine glasses. Amid these warm accents, skilled stylist Korrie Medina chisels out voluminous layers and decorates with custom color highlights. Clients may also solicit the salon for a swift brow wax or one-on-one makeup consultation.