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November 17, 2011

A Ceremonial Solution for More Lustrous Locks

John Barrett Salon's Shu Uemura Sanctuary Offers Customized treatments for healthier hair

WHAT: Shu Uemura’s Art of Hair Ceremony
WHERE: Bergdorf Goodman’s John Barrett Salon
PRICES: $50-$150

If your regular blowout appointment is starting to feel more like a chore, and less like an escape, you may want to indulge in one of the newly launched Shu Uemura hair “ceremonies” at John Barrett’s famed 5th Avenue salon (also home to our favorite braid bar). The hair temple, tucked inside Bergdorf Goodman’s penthouse, is now offering tailor-made Shu Uemura treatments to solve any hair problem, from frizz to flatness.

The services, inspired by the art of ancient Japanese tea ceremonies, apply similar principals—mainly a keen attention to detail and respect for ingredients—to hair care. The ceremonies are all administered by Chloe McMahon, Shu Uemura’s Art of Hair “Ceremonist,” who creates custom mixes of different oils (seven, to be exact) and bases to improve any client’s hair health. As for the best part: each treatment includes a heavenly shiatsu-inspired scalp massage, targeting key points for relaxation and stress reduction. Clients can choose from three options: the $50 “Essential Ceremony” is perfect for those looking to moisturize dry scalps and deeply cleanse and purify locks, while the $75 “Infusion Ceremony” takes it a step further with a luxurious treatment masque made with lightweight essential oils (called Absolu oils) that work to repair overstressed strands.

I was treated to the $150 Luxe Ceremony which also includes a pro blowout.  After meeting with McMahon, who diagnosed my hair as “thin and dry,” she led me back to the salon’s Shu Uemura Sanctuary—there are five total in the US—equipped with hued lamps, white linen drapes, and calming lavender walls. Next she massaged a deliciously fragrant jasmine oil into my dry scalp (courtesy of the recent cold front). Then she applied a custom masque made with musk rose oil that had an intoxicating floral scent. After a rejuvenating massage, I headed for a blowdry to see the fruits of her labor. I’m not kidding: I’ve never seen my hair look so shiny and lustrous. The tailor-made oil combo and masque provided my over-processed mane with much needed moisture, without weighing it down. Plus, my hair literally smells like roses. Who knew you could noticeably improve hair health with just one, thirty minute treatment? –AMANDA LIBBY

John Barrett Salon|754 Fifth Avenue|9th Floor|212-872-2700