Time-pressed and money-savvy travellers can find a quick hair or makeup fix at these one-stop shops that offer only one service.
In Los Angeles, time-pressed and money-savvy travellers needing a quick hair or makeup fix are heading to these one-stop shops. From professional blowouts to full makeup applications, these shops offer only one service at competitive prices without any of the full salon hassle — and in most cases, you can even show up without a reservation.
Tint, a hair colour-only studio in Santa Monica, was rated a top pick by beauty magazines Allure and InStyle. The salon offers a range of services, from a basic root touch-up ($49) to an overall colour ($64) to highlights ($75). Bear in mind that Tint isn’t a regular hair salon; they don’t offer haircuts nor will they blow dry your hair before you leave. But clients can tend to their own hair needs at the eight-person blow dry station, which comes complete with hairdryers, brushes and products. No reservations are required.
Drybar, with six locations throughout Los Angeles, doesn’t offer haircuts or colour — just a wash and a blowout for a flat fee of $40, regardless of your hair’s length, texture or thickness. Choose from eight styles, such as the straight and sleek “Manhattan”, or the messy, beach-style “Mai Tai”, then sit back with a glass of champagne in front of a movie until your new look is complete. Reservations are recommended but not required.
Makeup and Go in the Brentwood neighbourhood is perfect for those who are intimidated by the intricacies of makeup. Here, a professional makeup artist will cleanse your face, apply airbrush foundation and concealer, as well as eye, lip and cheek colour for $35. Those who want a more dramatic, evening look can upgrade for $60, while false eyelash application is an additional $18. Walk-ins are welcome, as are reservations.
The Broot, which opened last week in Santa Monica, specialises in all-natural hair treatments using raw, organic ingredients. Choose from the ���Strength and Shine”, which uses banana, egg, oils and honey, or the “Softness and Shine”, with avocado, egg, oils and honey (both $35), among others. Hair is then rinsed and either braided wet or guests can blow dry it themselves. Appointments can be booked online.
Caroline Pardilla is the Los Angeles Localite for BBC Travel. She also writes Carolineoncrack.com.
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