Review: Devachan Salon & Departure Lounge

Part 2 of a birthday gift from my dearly beloved friends was a trip to the Devachan Salon and Departure Lounge (I'm not really sure why they call it "departure" lounge, but ok). Just by stepping into this posh salon I knew it would be extremely pricey- yet it wasn't, it was very affordable. This was my first trip to a salon specializing in curly hair. I usually get my ends clipped/cut at your local Dominican beauty salon. So this was definitely a special treat and an experience for me- thanks to my friends!

I didn't have to wait long for an appointment- I called up the day before and asked for a "junior stylist" and they set me up to meet w/ Sophie the next day at 6pm. Upon entering, I checked in at the front desk and was then told to proceed to the back and change into a robe (which happened to be silk- for the same reason I'm told to use satin pillowcases at night). After doing so, I arrived back to the front waiting area and was greeted by Sophie- who then led me to her chair.

Once being seated, I was asked if I wanted something to drink, iced tea or water. I asked for water. Afterwards, Sophie asked me to tell her about my hair. I explained to her that my hair is extremely tight and curly in the middle/back, has a smooth yet wavy curl pattern on the front right, and a looser wave pattern on the front left side. She noticed that my hair was a bit frizzy in the center. After chatting a bit, Sophie explained that the Devachan procedure is to cut the hair dry- curl by curl. This took about maybe 30 minutes to complete, but it was relaxing!

When she was done trimming/shaping my curls I was led to the wash area. I immediately fell in love with the "beds" at the sink. Rather than breaking my neck in a chair, Devachan places their clients on a therapeutic chair-bed. The massaging wash was also a dreamy experience that was over much too quickly. Once I was back in the stylist's chair, Sophie began explaining how to style my hair while also reducing frizz.

Below I've listed the ten steps taken to style my 3c hair:

1. Sophie recommended using the Devacare No-Poo Cleanser once or twice a week. Every other day (if necessary) I was told to wash with the Devacare One Condition (which does not list any sort of "cones" as an ingredient: major plus!), this acts as a shampoo, conditioner, and styling product in one.

2. ALWAYS detangle in the shower (which I do anyways)

3. Style hair, dripping wet, head flipped over INSIDE the shower. She styled my hair using the Devacare One Condition; applying section by section (about 2" sections) never applying product onto scalp. (Note: If you need to blot excessive water, use paper towel- no towel)

4. When complete, flip head up and use metal clips at roots to lift and add volume -I specifically told her I like "big" hair- she used about 6 or 7 clips at the crown. Also, since my hair is more tightly curled in some areas than others, she used a few metal clips at the ends to help elongate the curl pattern and create a more even shape.

5. When done- DO NOT TOUCH YOUR HAIR UNTIL COMPLETELY DRY. This is critically important because further touching or teasing your hair WILL increase frizziness.

6. She then placed a paper towel over the clips at the crown (to avoid frizzies) and sat me underneath the dryer for about 30 minutes.

7. She then dried the ends with a diffuser, not touching the hair.

8. Once completely dried, she had me toss my head back over and gently tousled the curls. I flipped my head back up and voila! I had uniform, even-length, fluffy, layered curls.

9. Few things to remember: Natural hair curlies only need to visit a salon for a trim 2 or 3 times a year.

10. Condition, condition, condition!: I had told Sophie that I'm trying to grow my curls long and she told me that my hair was already in great condition prior to my visit. All I would need to do is condition once a week (using a handful of conditioner, and she stressed the importance of using EVOO -extra virgin olive oil- about a teaspoonful along with it. Saturate hair with the mixture and cover with a plastic cap. Sit under dryer or steam for about 30 minutes). Rinse thoroughly, do not shampoo afterwards and proceed with styling.

I was very pleased with outcome of my hair, it felt curly (and not frizzy!) all over. The price you ask? $77! Not bad considering 1. the lavish treatment you'll receive, 2. You'd only need to see the stylist twice a year and 3. You visit with a junior stylist (I highly recommend Sophie!). I also purchased the Devacare One Condition ($17).

I'll admit that I don't always follow such a strict routine when it comes to my hair, most of the time I wash and go. I'm guilty of not deep conditioning on a consistent basis. I'm going to try my best to "follow the rules" this time! And in 5 months from now I'll give you an update ;-)

**Quick Update: My curls lasted about 3 days afterwards!!