Don’t ever save anything for a special occasion. Being alive is the special occasion.

-Author unknown

 

   Karina Kara is an experienced     esthetician (facialist), certified Reiki practitioner and massage therapist. She is a graduate of Western Beauty College (LA), The Institute of Psycho-Structural Balancing (LA) and the American Reiki Academy.

By incorporating body and energy work, pressure point massage and aromatherapy, hot stone therapy and soothing music, the facial experience transcends the typical and becomes a restorative meditation. Skin, body, mind and spirit all receive special treatment in Karina’s expert and compassionate hands.

Karina’s commitment to creating an experience that nourishes the skin as well as the soul brings a depth and harmony to her facials that is as unique as it is essential.  These qualities have made Karina an integral part of the LA yoga community.  She provides services to students and teachers from Silver Lake Yoga, Yoga House in Pasadena, City Yoga, Glendale Yoga, Liberation Yoga and Yoga Works Larchmont.

For my first review ever, I wanted to write about my first facial ever!
Karina gave me a facial two weeks ago, and I kid you not, my face is still glowing! There's nothing better than people telling you how great your skin looks when you are not wearing makeup.
Other points:
--She is honest! She wasn't trying to get me to come in for a facial every month. She told me her recommendations and how I can maintain healthy skin whether or not I come back to her (but... I will go back!).
--She wasn't trying to up-sell any of her products. But they were inexpensive, so I bought it anyway. The face wash and mask she recommended have my skin looking and feeling great.
--Karina was so pleasant and friendly.
--Home-setting is warm, but also professional.
--She even followed up with me to ask how I was feeling after my lasik surgery I had the next day.

Dani M.                             07/2011

I highly recommend Karina's services and her products.  My forehead had been breaking out in a new and discouraging way for a while.  I went to a dermatologist as well as tried every homeopathic remedy I could find online.  I finally just went to get a facial and now, two weeks after and two new products purchased from Karina's line, my skin is smooth and plump and lovely again.  I'm going back for a peel in a couple weeks.  Karina is someone you can trust with your delicate skin.  She'll fix you right up for a very reasonable price.

Julie H.                            07/2011

Karina is simply WONDERFUL!!! After reading reviews here on yelp and trying countless other facialists, I decided to give Karina a try...and I cannot tell you how happy I am!

My skin was going crazy with breakouts and after trying countless products and facialists nothing seemed to work...I just visited karina once and I don't know what she did but my breakouts have stopped immensley! My skin looks a lot better than it did and it's all thanks to Karina! I love the fact that she's very honest and doesnt give you any false expectations, but is very willing to go over different methods to work with you to improve your skin.

Her products work great and are reasonably priced as well! I cannot wait till my next visit with her and am happy to say that I have finally found a true experienced facialist! She's a wonderful lady and I'd highly recommend her to everyone! Her hands work like magic :)!

Fara S.                                  07/2011

I have had skin problems on and off since college and now Karina is helping me to make my skin perfect. She is very up front and honest and lets you know off the bat that beautiful skin takes time. I do have to warn you though that her facials do involve a level of pain when it comes to the extractions, but it's totally worth it when you see the results.  And sticking to her instructions for at home product usage is a must.  The products she recommends for me really work and aren't overly expensive. Karina's house is a soothing environment, she's a delightful person to spend time talking with, and her prices are very reasonable, particularly considering the care, attention, and quality products that she uses.

For healthy glowing skin, go with Karina!!! She's the best.

Tiffany  L.                              06/11

I don't write many reviews, but I feel that Karina deserves some major props.  I've been seeing Karina on a monthly basis for about half a year now, and she has changed my life.  I have been dealing with acne on my face since I was in middle school and after the second facial with Karina, there were huge improvements with my complexion.  I now have hope that clear skin may be in my future.  Karina structures customized facials each time I see her, changing the routine depending on my needs.  But, she always charges the same affordable price, which is really nice because I don't have to worry about add-on costs.  The products she recommends for me really work and aren't overly expensive.
So if you're dealing with acne, I think Karina is just the person to help.  I do have to warn you though that her facials do involve a level of pain when it comes to the extractions, but it's totally worth it when you see the results.  And sticking to her instructions for at home product usage is a must, otherwise - as Karina would tell say "you're just wasting your money".  =)

Evangeline H.                        06/2011

Simply stated Karina is the best.  I found her through yelp and have been going to her every 5-6 weeks for the past year.  I've always had slightly sensitive, acne prone skin, and through Karina's patience, she has helped my skin look and feel soooo much better. At 2 different times, i had a monster zit on my chin and after seeing her, they were gone the next day.  She has also helped me take the time to be patient with my skin. She doesn't push products on you either.  I do use her products because i can see a difference in my skin.  
Karina is not only great for you skin, but also for your soul.  She has such a wonderful energy about her, and i always feel more balanced, calm, and happy when i leave.
p.s. Karina's prices are super reasonable for the facials and attention she gives.

Kat   M.                                      03/2011
 
My skin has been referred to as "beautiful", "porcelain" and "glowing". I had a woman the other day stop me at Macy's to ask what foundation I was wearing and I had to tell her I wasn't wearing makeup. Then it hit me...I'm out in public and I'm not wearing makeup. Thank you Karina!!!!
Don't you love it when wonderful friends share a great secret with you? That's how I met Karina. My friend met her through a friend and was blown away. She shared this nugget of wealth with her friends and now we are hooked! I visit Karina every 4 weeks to keep my skin in great shape. Her home is warm and inviting and I take my glowing skin and relaxation with me after I leave.
She is also waxing my eyebrows and keeps my skin and brows in check! I've switched my skincare completely around and use the products that she recommends and wow! My skin looks amazing!!!

Nadya H.                                     03/2011



For the past couple of years I have been promising/threatening to go home, join Yelp, and write a review every time an experience has been either really good or really bad. And yet, I never have...until Karina.
She's that good! Karina is a wonderful mix of skilled hands and warm, caring personality. I have extremely sensitive skin, which she carefully frets over, making it look better and better each time I visit. Along with facials, I've also had her take care of my unruly brows and she did a wonderful job with the shaping.
In the past I've had facials that were either clearly not tailored to the exact situation of my skin or performed simply for the purpose of pushing products and extra services. Karina is not like that at all. When I told her that I wanted to come back for another facial, she advised that I wait longer than the typical 4 weeks because my skin is so sensitive. She's recommended products but in a completely non-pushy way. And, she has tailored my facials even to the extent of using different products on different areas of my face. Hello!
Karina's house is a soothing environment, she's a delightful person to spend time talking with, and her prices are very reasonable, particularly considering the care, attention, and quality products that she uses.
You and your face will not be disappointed with Facials by Karina!

Grinda  A.                                    03/2011

Karina is awesome. She is a holistic facial guru! I don't know what I would have done without her. I really appreciate her holistic approach to skin care. Karina is very honest and realistic about how she can help you. I've been seeing her for 3 months now and the difference is very noticeable. Being a manly man, I never thought I would be the type to get a facial every month. Karina proved me wrong. I couldn't be happier with the results. Thank you Karina!

Rugged.B                                    02/2011

I found Karina from searching on Yelp and reading all of her fantastic reviews. I have always had problems with my combination skin and had tried everything (pills, topical, proactive, spa facials, face washes of all varieties) and nothing seemed to work.  After my first appointment, Karina assessed my skin and took a look at the products I was using.  She then gave me a weekly skin regimen to follow with new products. I just had my third appointment today and the progress my skin has made over the past two months is unbelievable. My cystic acne has disappeared and my skin is smooth and healthy.  Karina is fantastic at what she does and makes you feel very comfortable.  She is kind and honest and will help you get beautiful skin!

Betty. S                                        01/2011



I  have been going to Karina monthly for going on a year now. A friend recommended her to me, and I kept returning because I was seeing results. She is very reasonably priced, and works efficiently to produce your best-possible skin. Follow her orders, she knows what she's talking about!! I have fairly good skin, but break out around my mouth due to stress & hormones. Since going to her, these have reduced to the point that I rarely see breakouts. Not only do strangers compliment my skin, but even my friends see the difference and comment. :)

Unlike most places, she won't tack on to the price for every additional thing. I pay a flat rate monthly and she does what is needed to make my skin glow, which includes a peel, extractions, mask, etc. She also sells great private-label products that really work! They're between drugstore & spa pricing, but definitely high spa quality.

One of the nicest parts is the location; she works out of her home, which has a breezy, sunny room that is so relaxing! She is warm and accommodating, and feels like your best friend after one visit. Combine that with impressive results and it's perfection!!
    
Heather K.                                        9/2010



I've always had pretty acne prone skin from the time I was a teenager till now (almost) mid 20's. I constantly switched products, looking for the one cleanser/mask/exfoliator that I was destined to use, but to no avail =(

This all changed last February when  I decided to give myself a bday present by getting a facial! After doing a yelp search, I found Karina. Although she didn't have many reviews at the time, everyone seemed to love her so I decided to give her a try. From the moment I walked into her place, I felt at ease. Karina is warm, genuine, and down to earth. She understands that not everyone is rolling in dough, so she didn't try to pressure me into buying expensive products, though she did make recommendations.

Since I've started going to Karina once a month for a facial, and switched my skincare products to ones that she recommended (these new products were actually CHEAPER than the products I was using) my skin has transformed. Family, friends, and the boyfriend have commented on how clear and translucent my skin is! I can't even describe how much I owe to her expertise because now I don't need to wear ANY foundation, concealer, or powder, my skin is just THAT good.  I've been going to her for 5 months now, and I can honestly say this was the best beauty investment I have made in my life.  If you are looking for personable, talented facialist, I implore you to try Karina!


Deanna  L.                                           08/2010

I love Karina! I have been going to her for many years and I will continue to do so. She really knows her stuff and your face will show the results of her expertise. There have been times, usually between jobs, when I try to care for my skin on my own, but boy do I see a difference and always come back. In addition, Karina is the easiest person to talk to so the treatments go by in no time.

Cynthia G.                                            07/2010

In one word Karina is AMAZING!

She is so knowledgeable and obviously loves her craft. Karina is magical with her touch and caring in personality. There is something about having a facialist that is both personable and uses natural products that can make your skin glow. I have had skin problems on and off since college and now Karina is helping me to make my skin perfect. She is very up front and honest and lets you know off the bat that beautiful skin takes time. It is an investment in one's self. And let me tell you, a few appointments later and I am already looking and feeling better. I am now confident in my skin and complexion knowing that Karina is looking after it. I highly recommend her to you ladies and gentleman because she is wonderful!

Lauren  R.                                              06/2010

Have you ever  had an experience that left your touched and glowing inside and outside. Well, if you haven't  I urge you to  meet Karina.
Karina  left me informative, glowing and simply happier. She introduced  me to my first facial with ease, technique and experience.  Honestly, i don't know much about the human skin or facials. But i know your suppose to feel  brand new and beautiful after a facial, and that's how  I felt. I have some summer trips coming up and  I will be making more appointments with Karina. I want everyone to know about her but then again I want to keep her as my little beauty secret.

Joanna B.                                            05/2010                          

 Karina, thank you so much for my facial and massage! My skin looks and feels AMAZING! I was floating on air after the session. I am definitely spreading the word about you! THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

Brittany Wilkerson                              05/2010

Karina! Karina! Karina!  I can NOT stop singing her praises.

I've gotten a few facials in LA, but hadn't found a good fit, until now.  I am not a person that wants a facial to relax, I want a facial to improve my skin!

So, after a rough month of my fairly normal skin going crazy, I knew it needed some professional help, Now!  Karina didn't have many reviews, but the ones she has were great (apparently she was listed under several names on Yelp and lost many of her reviews).  I took my chances and gave her a call, and booked an appointment for the next day.

On my way, I got a little lost, but was able to Call Karina, who made sure I made it there and easily found parking.  I wasn't sure what to expect when I arrived at the large apartment building, but once
I walked up the stairs and entered her home, I was blown away!  Her home is so warm and calm, I immediately felt at ease.

I could tell that Karina was all about skin.  She accessed my skin and found my problems without me even having to tell her, then customized my facial to meet my needs.  This woman doesn't just want to pamper you for the moment, she wants to teach you how to improve and maintain your skin!  She lets you know what she's doing and what you need to do at home.

We went over my current regimen, and she said some of my current products were good but I should consider changing a few also.  Don't worry there is no hard sell.  She recommended about five products for me, almost afraid to ask the total (you know the feeling) I was pleasantly surprised by how affordable it all was (thank god it wasn't suggested for me to start a $400 dollar facial regimen).  I felt Karina was very honest and definitely didn't try to push some overpriced products on me like some of the spas i've been to.

Don't worry, this facial is still very relaxing.  Karina did some energy work and used hot stones.  It was a great experience!  I left feeling good and uplifted!

Kristina F.                                             2010
Kristen Terry                                   April 2010

I have been seeing Karina for over six years! She took wonderful care of my skin before my wedding and continues to keep my face nice and clean. She is wonderful facialist and human being. I promise you will love your experience:)

Ana Q.                                         03/2010

Dear Kara, your facials are truly holistic. Your energy is very joyful and healing. So glad to have found you and thank you for sharing so much information with us.

Anahit Cowe                                  03/2010

I have been seeing Karina for facials for about 8 years.  Before I came to her, my skin was in such poor condition that it was a detraction from my appearance.  The improvement began from the first treatment on and I started getting compliments after only the third treatment!  I have problem skin and plenty of stress, but no one would believe that anymore, looking at my skin now.  Yay Karina!  Because of her treatments, I can leave the house without makeup and still be confident in my appearance and attractive to others!

Marie Cassidy

I came to Karina with problem skin.  I needed help!  I had stopped seeing my dermatologist and started breaking out.  I found her through one of her clients--and am so happy that she is my facialist!   My skin looks AMAZING!  I get a ton of compliments, and am very happy with the present and future of my skin health.  I learned a lot about how what you do on the inside--what you eat, drink, etc.--impacts your skin health.  She is very experienced--the results prove it--and she knows so much about skin health from the inside out.  She taught me what foods to eat, what to avoid, and even what tea to drink to deal with digestive issues that show up on my skin.  Her gentle hands and knowledge about how to care for MY specific skin has hugely improved not only outer appearance, but also my inner health and well being.  I don't stress about my skin anymore.  Just going to see her makes me happy and feel at peace.  I HIGHLY recommend her--she will become not only your facialist, but skin advocate, health advocate, and great friend!

She is also the facialist to all the Yogis and Yoginis in Los Angeles!  Yoga students and teachers from Silverlake to the Westside.  You can  imagine what all that sweating does to your skin---and she makes them look beautiful!  She is also very complimentary to the holistic lifestyle--she uses products that are not only good for you, your skin, but also the planet.

She has some of the most reasonable prices for a facialist---and really takes her time with you.  I am so grateful for her!  You will be, too!

Book an appointment with her.  She's definitely a best kept secret I want to share

Wynne Renz
Writer                                                                              12/ 2009


Karina is amazing. I came to her for the first time this week and she did a personalized regiment for my skin and really helped me with my troubled skin after a week shoot in the desert and years of using the wrong products. I'm so glad I stumbled upon her page on Yelp, I will never go to another facialist again, I'm so happy!!

Christina C                                                             12/ 2009


Ever walk into a place and feel like you've been sent straight to sacred ground? Karina's place is IT - it's a secret, don't tell anybody, keep it just between us "in the know folks".  i was beat up - looked like a monster(it was halloween after all)from working 18+ hr days.I did the only thing that someone in my condition should do, which is call facials  by karina. karina's approach to skincare is one that is sensitive, smart, and more than that- i swear to god, this darling is somehow connected to the "be better gods". not only will you walk out with supremely better skin than when you walk in - you will also benefit from her holistically applied knowledge and healing energy. after a wonderful facial, Karina gave me a reiki session that sent me straight into a euphoric out of body state. after our session, I awoke lighter, more relaxed, and more connected to all that matters, and to top it all off -with really lovely, glowing skin. if you want to look younger, feel better, and be in the presence of a facial care sensei, check out facials by karina. she'll educate you, won't lie to you, won't try to sell you products you don't need, all the while, giving  you renewed self-confidence - what more could you ask for?

Ane Crabtree                                                        October 2009

TV Production

A facial by Karina is more than a facial.  It is a spiritual, soulful experience.  I am not exaggerating when I say that I feel refreshed and cleansed from deep within and that the fact that my face looks and feels 10 years younger must be not only because of what she does to my skin but the way her energy penetrates my entire being! The most amazing thing is that the effects of Karina last a long time!  I look and feel like a new person for weeks. She is world class, unique and masterful and her heart is as big as they come. 

Christine Burke
Owner/Director
Liberation Yoga