Makana Esthetics Wellness Academy

This place reminds me of why I just bought a facial steamer and do my own facials at home. Save the money its not worth it. Skin Institute International is way better.

Booked the monthly facial special they had at Makana. It was my first real facial, and it was amazing! I was so relaxed, and the ambiance was calming to where you could just fall asleep. I went to see Kelci, and she was the real deal. You would have never guessed she was a student. Very professional, kept asking me how was the pressure, and had magic hands. I wish I could go to her every month. If you go before the end of this month, go see her!

I booked services at Makana Academy. I never have a spa day, so I decided to treat myself. I received an under arm wax, Brazilian wax, leg wax, and ultimate facial. My esthetician was Kelci Flores, she was amazing. I would never guess that she is a student based on her skill set and technique. I have never gotten anything waxed before and the experience was incredible. Kelci made me feel very comfortable and I was surprised at how painless the procedure was. I really appreciate how Kelci took the time to explain in detail what the procedure entails, and she did a very thorough job explaining to me after care, as well as made recommendations for continued skin care. During the leg waxing, Kelci was assisted by another student named Paige, Paige was also very friendly, professional, and welcoming. Of course, nothing beats an ultimate facial at the end of your day to help relax. The ultimate facial was amazing. I was so sad when my time was up because I felt so relaxed and my face felt wonderful. I highly recommend the services at Makana Academy and to request Kelci Flores. If Kelci is not available, ask for Paige. I could not be happier with my results, I will definitely be back!!!

I had Kaitlyn and she was amazing. I got a back facial and a makana signature facial. She had amazing pressure and great communication and knowledge of what she was doing. Makana is amazing bc you get to be boujie on a budget. Love!!!

I attended Makana Academy in 2022 and would like to just say how much I enjoyed my time at school. I’m glad that I chose this school to begin my esthetics career. The instructors are very helpful and the curriculum helped me to prepare for this industry. Thank you to the director and all the Makana staff for providing this opportunity to everyone who want to work in this industry.

If you are looking at going into the Esthetics industry, Makana is the school to set you up for success. As an alumni, I’m glad I chose this school to attend because now I feel prepared to take on this new career path. The owner, staff and instructors are all there to help in any way they can. Would definitely recommend this school to anyone who is interested in esthetics. Thank you, Makana academy!

This was my first spa experience and I received the Makana Signature Facial, the back facial and the hydro-jelly mask and when I tell you that it was the most magical, most relaxing, perfect thing I’ve ever done—-well that’s just underselling it. Nani was so, so amazing (whoever she ends up working for is going to be so lucky!!) and the beauty school instructors are the most welcoming friendly people I’ve ever interacted with. 10/10 experience and I will definitely be back!! If you’re on the fence about whether to book, DO IT! you deserve it!!

I have been coming here for at least 10 years and have always been very pleased! As an educator, I believe in supporting students in their endeavors. As a client, you get a very good price for the services. I recommend everyone to experience a service at Makana Esthetics Academy. You wont regret it!

Thomas is da-bomb-dot-com! His expert facials are like magic. He greets you with professionalism and explains the procedure. I recommend the chemical peel, since it’ll give a glow like an angel. He also recommended products to maintain the results at home. The Vitamin C serum is my new elixir of youth. Makana is my new favorite spa, and they offer great skin packages! If you come back every two weeks, you get 50% off selected facials!

This was my first time visiting Makana Esthetics. Everyone was so professional and kind. I booked an ultimate facial with their student Thomas, and it was SO relaxing. Thomas was so knowledgeable and really took the time to find what would work best for my skin type. I left feeling refreshed and immediately booked another appointment with Thomas for the following week!

I am a 2014 graduate of Makana Esthetics and could not have asked for a better educational experience. Malia Sanchez along with her educators set me up with the foundational skills for a successful esthetic career. I have recommended and would recommend anyone aspiring to be in the esthetic field to attend Makana.

Iʻve been to Makana Esthetics three times in the past several weeks for facials with Thomas Bojorquez. Iʻve had the Pumpkin Enzyme Facial, Papaya Purifying Enzyme Facial and the Makana Signature Facial. All three treatments are wonderful and lasting. Iʻm still feeling the smoothness of my face two weeks after my last appointment. I also got the Back Facial which I thoroughly enjoyed. Each facial comes with its own set of extras, Since I work with my hands the hand massages were always a treat. Thomas creates a warm and welcoming environment, He was very attentive to my particular facial needs making recommendations how I can continue with my own daily skin care regimene. I highly recommend the services at Makana Esthetics Wellness Academy and if you can book an appointment with Thomas, do it!

We coordinated facial for our staff in March and all of employees that participated enjoyed their facials. All of the students and staff were very professional. Many of our employee returned in 2-3 weeks to take advantage of the Makana Esthetics discount.

This is my first facial.I don’t know why it took me this long to get a facial because it was AMAZING. Thomas did an outstanding job. From start to finish it was flawless. He was very kind, and knowledgeable of what he was doing. I learned about my individual skin type and left feeling refreshed.He walked me through the process, and when it was time for the massage, he let me relax and i fell asleep.I highly recommend booking with Thomas. I will be back to see him very soon before he graduates!!

I got a Makana facial today. It felt amazing. Makana Esthetics is a very professional and relaxing environment. Their student Emily performed my facial and she was awesome. Not only was she knowledgeable about her products and after care but she had a delicate touch and professional charisma. Would highly recommend this school and esthetician. Great job Emily!

The girls at Makana are the best especially Althea my esthetician. I always have a great experience there! Shes very kind and knowledgeable about her craft. She gives great massages which is like an ultimate plus times infinity! My face is always glowing when I leave. I will be back for Althea. I highly recommend her!

I graduated from Makana all the way back in 2010, and I just wanted to come here and say that Makana changed my life. Going to Makana Academy not only gave me a career, but it gave me the ambition to be the best version of myself. Malia is so special to me, and not only was she the best mentor, but she has been a huge supporter of all my endeavors since I graduated from Makana almost 12 years ago. Malias desire for her students over all well being and growth is what makes Makana so special. She also goes above and beyond in ensuring her students leave with proper knowledge and protocols to go into the esthetics industry with confidence. Holding that level of high standards paired with the passion she has for her students success is what makes Makana exceptional. Going to Makana was the best decision I ever made. If you are looking for a school that will go beyond a certification, this is where you need to be!

I look forward to my services at Makana. The ambiance is beautiful. A calm and peaceful environment sets the tone for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. It’s doesn’t feel like you’re in school setting.Students are well trained. They’re knowledgeable and friendly. Every service I’ve received by a Makana student was professional and thorough. It’s hard to believe you’re being serviced by a student.My favorite service is the Ultimate Facial. LED light therapy is a must to maintain a youthful glow and the price at Makana is unbeatable. I highly recommend visiting Makana. I think you’ll be satisfied with your experience.

Makana Esthetics is my go-to spa whenever I need to pamper myself with a facial! My favorite is the pumpkin facial but I’ve recently had their signature Makana facial and back facial and they were amazing, too!! The aestheticians are always professional and friendly and the location is convenient with lots of free parking. I look forward to the monthly specials and always share them with friends. It’s also a fun thing to do with friends ❣️

I was a student at Makana in 2015, and it was the best decision I could have ever made for my career. I already had 1000 hrs of schooling from several yrs prior in another state, but wanted a refresher and a way to get to know the industry in HI. I loved every moment of my time there. The quality of the 600 hrs of education I received from Makana far exceeded the previous 1000 hrs from another state. I loved that it was a small school. It made my learning experience feel really individualized. The educators were outstanding and so passionate, which really helps to engage their students. The owner, Malia, was always so great about cheering us on and supporting us when we needed it. She was so helpful when it came time to start job hunting too. My experience at Makana not only helped me to grow as an esthetician, but so much personal growth occurred during my time there as well.

I highly Makana Wellness Academy as the place to go for your all of your esthetic needs. I just received my first laser hair removal session on my face and am very happy to say that I am already seeing extremly positive/dramatic results, after just one treatment!!! The treatment was pain-free, fast, and the cost of the service just cant be beat.I also purchased Makanas signature Hibiscus Daily Green Tea Cleanser which yielded immediate results in calming and clearing my daughters teenage skin/acne...which was the cherry on top of my visit to Makana.Overall I was very impressed with the staff, the beautiful atmosphere and the way in which I was educated about the treatment I was given...Makana has a new life long customer in me!

I had the pleasure of getting several treatments from Makana Academy.. And all my experiences has been amazing.. The professionalism of the Teachers down to the students shows how well the owner transcends their vision upon them.. Makana Academy has a calm and relaxing ambiance which sets the mood for an amazing experience!!! I have a really busy work schedule and Makana Academy always finds a way to fit me in.. Thank you Malia Sanchez and Makana Academy for always giving me an amazing experience every time I come in!! Aloha

My very first time receiving a facial and I must say it was highly relaxing. I received my facial from Althea and she was amazing! She made sure I was okay and gave me notions like when she is about to apply something. I didnt know massages came with facials! It was such a treat to receive. I am definitely come back to see Althea for another facial. She said she is there for a couple more weeks or less so be sure to ask for her.

Ive been to Makana many times as I accompany my wife when she gets a facial. I love going because I always feel so rested and rejuvenated after our session, not to mention that my skin feels so much better. I have nothing but positive remarks for Makana and I would recommend anyone to go and get a facial.

My wife and I love pampering ourselves at Makana Esthetics. The beautiful and calm environment provides the perfect getaway from the everyday hustle and bustle of life. The students and staff are friendly and very knowledgeable, and I must say every time I visit Makana their is no lack of consistency in the services provided which is very important to me. I love that I can expect an awesome experience every time.... 👍👍

It was my first time at Makana Academy and also my first facial ever! First thing you think about is, what would be good for my skin? Well, Royslen was very detailed, informative with products & made me feel comfortable to know that I was in good hands. I did the Chamomile facial with the pore purifying mask. Prior to my facial, my skin was very dull! no way to feel, right! well, after my service, I could walk around with no make up & not worry about my face looking dull! my skin was literally GLOWING! Thank you Royslen!

I got the Makana facial with Kim! It was very relaxing and she checked with me during the process so I was comfortable. Steaming, massaging and making sure my lashes are protected from the steam lol. Very clean looking and the other girls seemed nice also.

I received the Papaya Enzyme Facial from Alysia Dutton and it was amazing! She was very professional and informative throughout the entire service. It was hard to believe she was a student from her performance. I will DEFINITELY follow her wherever she goes. Thank you for making my skin look and feel beautiful, and thank you Makana Esthetics for being so amazing!

I had the pleasure of getting a facial treatment from the Makana Academy by Tatiana Heard today and my experience was great! Everything from the professionalism, the patience, and the vibe was spot on. I really recommend this place to many people. I have already made my second appointment to return for another great experience.

I initially Googled back facials and this place was on the list. I looked over their list of services and saw their 50 minute back facial for $50! I called to book and they had an opening 2 days later (the day I wanted). They called the day prior to confirm the appointment.I arrive 10 minutes prior, as instructed since this was my first time, to fill out paperwork.I was brought to my treatment room, and undressed from wait up and was provided a Velcro robe top.The back facial was so awesome that I fell asleep! Next thing I knew, it was over! I like getting services done by students because I feel like they really work hard and pay attention to detail/what they’re doing. I would definitely recommend their services and I’ll be back for more! Mahalo Carolyn!

THE BEST ESTHETICS SCHOOL in Hawaii!! I recently graduated from Makana Academy as a student and loved my whole experience! I researched esthetician schools for about a year in Hawaii and no other school compared to them. I chose them because they are a National Accredited school that’s very professional, welcoming and has such a clean pleasant atmosphere. I loved all of my instructors and learned so much! This was the best decision I ever made! If you are looking for an esthetics school this would be your best choice and you won’t be disappointed! Thank you Makana and to all of my instructors for helping me get one step closer to fulfilling my dream!💖💫

I came into Makana Academy for a facial, and I received a deep cleanse facial. Jadyn was my esthetician, and it was very relaxing and my face feels great. She did an excellent job! I would come back again and recommend her.

Makana Esthetics is truly, hands down, a fantastic place for all of your esthetic needs! I loved the signature Makana facial, as well as the hydra facial! The staff|students are so warm and welcoming, not surprising with the owner being the same way! I highly recommend Makana not only for esthetic needs, but also if you were ever wanting to pursue a career in the esthetic world! Thank you Makana Esthetics, I will be back soon:)

Makana is such a gem of a place! I have been there several times and every time, I get great service! The facials I get there are fabulous. My face feels rejuvenated every time. I love the products they use. I love taking all my friends there and everyone ends up loving their experience. Cant wait to go back next month! I would recommend this place to everyone for sure!

This was such a amazing experience for me. Haven’t had a facial in over 5 years and after having one from Christene I will definitely be a regular there. I also got a Synergie Detox treatment and this was also amazing and very relaxing. Christene explained both procedures in detail and how they would benefit me. I would definitely recommend Makana Academy to my friends and family. Thanks to Christene for your great service.

I had an excellent esthetician names Kimberly or Kim for short. She made sure I was comfortable and asked me about what my main concerns were and if I would like some tea water or coffee. She also made sure to ask if the pressure she was applying was too hard or too soft especially while doing extractions. I also had concerns about my skin peeling because my skin can be really sensitive especially because I’m in the sun a lot so she gave me a chamomile peel which would help with my sensitive skin but also cater to my needs and concerns. Definitely coming back to her in January!!!

Just had the pumpkin facial done and it was the most relaxing experience I have had. It smells great and feels fantastic. The customer service was great they are very polite and cheerful. They are very well knowledgeable on there products and treatments. For sure coming back here!! Thank you so much to Julia Busenbark such an amazing job

When scheduling my appointment, staff was very courteous and accommodating. They called the day before my appointment to remind me of my scheduled appointment, the services that I scheduled, and what time I should arrive. I did a ultimate facial and a synergie session with Christene Medeiros and it was AMAZING!! Christene made the whole experience worthwhile. She is very knowledgeable on the procedures she administered and was able to answer all my questions and concerns thoroughly. Definitely worth the time to drive there (considering I live in Kapolei) and time well spent getting pampered by Christene. Very professional!!

I would highly recommend this place to anyone whos either wanting to go to an esthetician school or making an appointment with any student attending Makana Academy. Right when I entered into the Academy, the receptionist greeted me with a smile and asked if I wanted water or tea while I waited for my esthetician. I just got an Ultimate Facial done by Elika Simmons. An Ultimate Facial includes Lymphatic Drainage, Light Therapy, and Microdermabrasion. She did very well by informing what each Facial does to your skin. Trust me when I say that it was very relaxing. There were a few times where I was falling asleep. After my Facial, she gave me a glass of water and informed me on some products that I may like that would help with my skin. Other than that, Ive had a great experience here at the Makana Academy!

This was my first spa experience. I did a papaya enzyme facial with Thomas. He was so good - soothing, gentle, and attentive. I enjoyed it so much, I booked a follow up.

Awesome!!! I asked Christene Medeiros for her recommendation as this was my first facial in 10 years. She recommended the Ultimate Facial/Manual Lymphatic Drainage/Microdermabrasion and LED Light Therapy. She was very professional, friendly and knowledgeable. Wow ~ I’m so happy with my result. My face felt soft and it was glowing.

I really wish I could write two reviews, one from the client’s perspective, and one from the spa owner’s perspective. Unfortunately I can’t, so I will have to roll both of these reviews into one.Let’s start with my opinion of this establishment as a loyal customer who received numerous facials and body treatments. I like how it is conveniently located right off Nimitz Highway. The front desk area is just beautiful and is better than most spas on the island. It definitely doesn’t have the feel of school. The front desk is usually manned by smiling and enthusiastic staff that makes you feel welcome the moment you pass through the door.This school has individual single client treatment rooms for the clinical / practical part unlike most of the esthetics school on the island or on th mainland. I actually felt comfortable undressing and getting ready for the spa treatment. They use high-end spa products such as Skinceuticals and other professional lines, unlike other schools which use the cheapest brands for students to practice on. The service was professional from the first “Aloha” as I walked through the door, the staff offering me the drink, walking me to the treatment room, soft music playing in the background and the estheticians explaining every step of the treatment. I enjoyed every service that I received there and I even bought two packages of full body treatments which I love. I just want to add that when I bought services there I would always go incognito, without letting anybody know that I am the owner of a spa in Honolulu.From the business perspective, as an owner of Honolulu Spa & Wellness I get really excited when I get to interview the students from Makana Esthetics Academy. The graduates of this school stand up during the interview process because they are more professional, nicer, and have better technique while demonstrating to me their facials during the practical part of the interview. I can honestly say that Makana Esthetics Wellness Academy really knows how to prepare its students for a real life positions in professional spa world.

Its the best place to get facials and with low costs. There is facial deals on every month.I recommend Cari-Ann. She always gives excellent service and has good knowledge in facials. Also, I get the body scrub and synergie cellulite. The synergy feels like getting massage

I got a Pumpkin Enzyme Facial a few weeks ago bye Althea and it was so soothing! I’ve gotten many facial but this was by far one of the best and made my skin feel amazing! I will definitely return again.

I had an amazing pumpkin facial and eyelash tint from Brooke Thibaudeau. She did such a great job, it was so relaxing and my skin was glowing when I was done. Highly recommend her services, very professional and kind!

Loved my pumpkin enzyme facial done by Emily Moriyama. Everything was very professional and relaxing. I loved how clean and glowing my face felt and looked after. I would definitely go back!

Alysia Dutton best esthetitian I have experienced, not only shes very knowledgable of what she is doing, she gave me so much pointer on how to take care of my skin. She provides great customer service and help me feel very relax throughout my facial. She recommended me a product that Ive been using for a week to help with my dark spot and I am happy she did because I am seeing a lot of improvement on my skin. Highly recommend her for any future appointments.

Went in for a makana facial and enjoyed the ambiance and services they provided. Will be back.

I was assisted by the wonderful, Althea. Althea recommended the, “Ultimate Facial” which is a 60 minute service that includes a microdermabrasion treatment followed with a Light Therapy device to heal my skin. My skin type is oily, acne-prone & the product selection from cleanser, serum & sunscreen felt phenomenal on my skin. Lightweight formulas that are gentle & safe, even for challenging skin. Thank you Althea & Makana Wellness Academy for reviving my skin.XOKrisseePoo

Makana Esthetics not only got me ahead in life by teaching me a skill, it changed my entire life. Malia Sanchez is by far one of the most compassionate and understanding people, and those principles are echoed through the school. We were taught about self worth, the importance of giving back and being three change we wish to see in the world. Not to mention superior esthetic training, including skills that other establishments charge extra for. I am a graduate of 2009 and have been practicing since. Earned back my tuition in the first year of employment. I am forever indebted to Makana and Malia. If you want a career and be a part of the Makana family, come here!

Today I had my first facial at Makana Esthetics! It was an awesome experience. Got to learn about my skin & freckles. My face was so fresh & so clean. Check it out

I had an amazing experience with royslen, she did a basic facial as well as a high frequency add on with an eye brow tint. Talk about the ultimate fresh loook, walking out looking glam glowy and amazing. She was awesome. Her massages was great. Always hitting that stress point spot. Much needed.

Kim was wonderful! She totally listens to tour skin concerns, makes helpful suggestions while explaining alternate options, and gives awesome massages. Her customer service is top notch and I’d recommend her to anyone!

Makana Esthetics & Wellness Academy is absolutely amazing, everyone was so friendly and knowledgeable. Special thanks to the owner, Malia for being such a gracious host. Keep up the great work guys you are doing something truly amazing!

Love 💕the friendly service and professionalism of staff member Emily Moriyama. I had the deep cleaning facial. It was my first time. I would go back again. My face feels clean and refreshing.

CAN I SAY WOW?! Christene Medeiros was beyond AMAZING! She was extremely thorough with explaining the procedure (facial), professional and knowledgeable with all the products. This was my first and surely wont be the last facial. The facility was very posh and clean. Hidden gem.. Couldnt ask for an even better experience.

Royslen is the best hands down, I’ve never had a facial in my life, & she made me GLOW up real quick!! Very informative gave me good advice so I can keep this face lookin fresh. I will definitely be back for her amazing service!

I requested more information about the school perhaps sit in one of their classes before investing thousands of dollars for their esthetician program. No response since the inquiry several years ago. Their positive reviews are more from their customers and not much about the academy.Update: When their reputation is on the line they promptly respond on google. Now that their tuition increase $2000-$3000 since few years ago when I contacted them I dont think I have any interest here

I had facial done with Tatiana Heard. The place was very clean everyone was nice and professional. Tatiana was nice, funny, and did a great job! Will be coming again.

I flew all the way from LasVegas, Nevada to come to visit this amazing academy I’ve been following on Instagram. I had the Pumpkin Peeling Enzyme facial that was suggested since I’m a tennis player with sun damaged skin. If I lived in Oahu, I would definitely go there for all of my treatments

Ive been getting treatments here for years performed by students. I always leave refreshed and relaxed. Aside from the technical skills, you definitely feel a sense of genuine care has been taught to them as well.

My first facial experience was amazing!! They were kind, welcoming, and made me feel amazing! I am so thankful to have gone! Highly recommended!!

Received a facial from Althea and she was awesome. She made sure I was comfortable and everything was relaxing. Loved how glowing my face looked after.

STUDENTS BEWARE!!!I understand the profound lack of choices of esthetician schools here in Hawaii. But you can do better than this. Dont waste your time and money attending this schoolThe owner and a few of the instructors are not good people. The school is run very poorly.Heres why1. Very unorganized in every aspect. From the way theory is taught, to how the class room time is structured. The syllabus that is provided is a very loose guide of what you would be receiving; as many things are forgotten or overlooked. Frequently, the licensed instructors dont show up or are very tardy. Lots of miscommunications.Theory throughout the program is rushed and delivered without much care for if the students are actually retaining the information. The different teaching styles create a learning gap in the beginning stages, the owner and other instructors are aware, but make no effort to fix this issue.2. Unprofessional! On many occasions the owner would enter the classroom and interrupt lesson to rant and ramble, often times about her personal and unrelated issues. These rants would go on for long periods of time, sometimes even over an hour or two.Recent (and unlicensed grads) were given jobs and would teach lessons and assist with services on clients. Many times there would be only one licensed instructor and the clinic floor students would preform services on clients under the supervision of unlicensed recent grads.3. Bad Business practices. The rules were not enforced equally amongst the students. Students who were favored over others, were allowed to violate several rules and policies; while others were not.Instead of maintaining service supplies and products (which in this setting are educational tools that should have been covered with tuition) the owner choose to purchase unrelated and unnecessary retail clothing and beauty items.On several occasions the owner and instructors would cheat the time clock by allowing students to leave early and they would clock them out at the correct time.The bottom line is, overall you dont get what you pay with this school. The owner and a few of the staff are not good people. Dont risk your money, time, and education. The other schools are better options by far.

First time to Makana, and was very happy with the signature facial I got from Tia, it was so soothing and relaxing, I booked another appointment.

Althea was amazing! The prices here are very affordable. The monthly specials and returning client deals are great way save money. I definitely plan to come back.

Emily is the best!!! She is so gentle and takes her time. It was so relaxing. She does an amazing job!!! I would defiantly go back again!

All services are professional level, provided by students with instructor supervision. Availability and prices, including monthly specials and loyalty/rewards program are excellent! Staff is accommodating and pleasant❣

My facial today with emily was a nice first experience with great pressure on the muscles. Everything was excellent over all and great onversation too. Thank you

Went here for my first facial ever and it was so relaxing.Thank you to Julia Busenbark for the great experience. My skin feels great. I recommend this to everyone.

Althea did nice job with my wife’s facial. I would highly recommend Althea to do all my facials. Thank you!

Had a great experience with Lareshia today ! Got the papaya facial (: would definitely go back for another! Thank you !!!!

Lovely, Relaxing atmosphere and the best facial ever from Rachel Spear Cote. Thanks for the special service and Loved the Academy.

The staff was very nice and the facial was amazing! My face feels great it was a great experience

I got an eyebrow wax from Brooke thibaudaeu and she did a fantastic job! I will only go to her from now on.

Absolutely love this place!! The service is always amazing and the treatments are wonderful.

Awesome experience Althea did an awesome job on my facial!

Loved this facial Don’t Miss out your face will be so happy

Excellent service, love this place. Lareshia Lee did a great job!

Great services & all in a timely manner!

Need outdoor sign!