Tress-cue

Summer was a time for carefree trips to the beach, outdoor activities and incarnating that boho glam look that is still so alluring. Unfortunately, no matter how careful we are in applying SPF on our faces and body, our hair is oftentimes left less protected and as a result becomes, at best, dull. At worst, it can be fried by summer’s end. 

Enter Kerastase Institute’s Salon ESA in 6750. Recently opened to the public, this salon is a beauty oasis amidst our concrete jungle. Kerastase products, which offer hair care technology developed by L’Oreal Recherche Avancee, could have very well been the only drawing factor of the salon. However, they went a great many steps further for the salon to become the beauty mecca that it is. 

First, the salon’s impeccable 71 square meters is the result of a collaboration between Salon ESA and architect Conrad Onglao. This collaboration unites luxury, high technology and relaxation, all revolving around the customer. One has to experience it to believe it. The washbasins are designed by Philippe Starck, which, along with the amazingly luxurious reclining seats, conform to your body by remote control. The white interiors are very soothing but the design constantly reminds you that you are in a unique place having a unique experience. 

The salon is divided into two areas: the treatment area and the salon proper. The Kerastase treatment area is sound-proof, allowing for a truly relaxing experience. You will almost not believe that you are actually facing Ayala Avenue. Changing rooms let you slip into salon robes and slippers so you can feel at home as you get ready for your treatment, which starts with a hair and scalp analysis. Once you are diagnosed, a customized salon treatment is prescribed and an at—home regimen, recommended. 

A camera magnifies the hair and scalp 1,000 times. It’s a very humbling experience as every split and tear is revealed to your horror. Too much sun and salt water was my diagnosis, for which they prescribed a moisturizing treatment from the new Kerastase line Reflection, developed to bring back life and brilliance to "cactus hair". 

After applying the treatment, a complimentary neck and shoulder massage allows you to relax as the active ingredients work on your scalp and a CD composed of twelve experiences by Stefano Cecchi plays in the background. 

The salon area offers hair color, blow dry and hair cut. The blow dry session is where the treatment experience is capped off. It reveals your lustrous new hair, one which, assuming you continue the regimen at home, can be a daily reality.