Spring is always a great time for a change! I did a quick search for queer friendly salons in the DMV near me, with great reviews and reasonable pricing. The first salon I found wanted over $600 for just a style and gloss. The gasp I gusped. I walked out of Salon deZen for literally hundreds less than that, with a fast and fabulous cut from Mariah customized to my needs (after a very helpful consultation), along with a demi-permanent teal gloss on my previously highlighted hair, AND a truly gorgeous laminated brow and Korean lash lift from Caroline. Mariah gave me a hair style that requires minimal maintenance, but has tons of movement and versatility and a color that made me smile so hard it hurt. Caroline somehow made my DISTANTLY related eyebrows look like sisters instead of estranged second cousins. She also gave me a bottle of oil with a spoolie for lash and brow aftercare that made such a difference in the hair texture after processing. Together, they've streamlined my beauty routine and gave me such a lift for Spring! My shampoo and blow out was done by a really sweet and capable person whose name regrettably escapes me, but who had me leaving looking flyyyyy. The whole place has a relaxed, spa like vibe, with really friendly staff. It was a great experience and I highly recommend you get in where you fit in! read more

So, I came to this salon last week for a trim and blow out. It looked cute online and had good reviews so I thought I'd give it a try. To be honest, I dread going into the salon for hair cuts because I'm insecure about some hair thinning that I have. This experience was so amazing though, I'm actually looking forward to going back again!! I am not exaggerating when I say that Gretchen gave me the best haircut of my life. She is the only person who has ever cut my bangs perfectly, in a way that I love. I deserve this (her haircut) Also, when she washed my hair, she offered me an essential oil towel around my shoulders and a head massage. I think those played a role in helping me feel relaxed and happy in a salon setting. It made a positive difference for me in an emotional way! Please go to this location and ask for Gretchen! ‍ read more

Salon DeZEN - Me feeling cute with my haircut at afternoon tea the next day! Thank you, Gretchen! - Makeup Artists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Mariah is one of those stylists you feel lucky to find. I've seen her for everything from cuts to balayage to brazilian blowouts, and I trust her completely with my hair. She's incredibly talented and has such a good eye for what will work best while still listening to exactly what you want. I always leave her chair feeling like the best version of myself, and honestly, half the fun is hanging out with her while she works her magic. I absolutely recommend Mariah to everyone! read more

Kara was always awesome! The rest is, yikes. Shocking lack of customer service when I couldn't make it for a hair inspection after sending 6 pics. I'll be happy to move on! read more

I've been going to Salon DeZEN since early 2025 and don't see myself ever stopping (as long as my grl Violet is there). This place is filled with the nicest gals in Old Town. The vibe is cheery and supportive, you can tell they really take pride in their clientele. I do make the trek from NoMa all the way to Alexandria because this salon is the most affordable I've found in the area. plus it's Metro accessible !! only about 10mins walking from Old Town metro station. read more

Curly cut and color with Lee Wilson: Lee is the best. Both as a stylist and as a person. It's always a pleasure to chat with her. Plus she's the best curl cutter in Northern Virginia and a fantastic colorist to boot. Don't want anyone else to touch my hair. read more

I love how organized, modern, and efficient Salon Dezen is! I'd been thinking about giving it a try for a while after moving from DC to Old Town, and I'm so glad I finally did -- I was very happy! I'm known for being hard to please and pretty critical (sometimes I wonder if my expectations are unrealistic!), but apparently not! I booked with Stephanie J (N Fayette St) for a haircut and gloss, and she gave me exactly the cut I wanted without me having to explain it for 10 minutes like I usually do. She's also incredibly friendly! I'll definitely be coming back often! read more

This review is just for a blowout. I haven't gotten a haircut or other treatment so can't speak for those. This is a nice new addition to the neighborhood and has a good atmosphere inside. It has been pretty easy to book appointments and Martha is helpful, friendly, and does a good job. The hair wash is relaxing. They give you a choice of aromatherapy scents and an optional scalp massage. read more

10/10 experience!! Went to the location on Montgomery st. to get a bad haircut from a different salon fixed. I was so scared to have to go shorter than what I already received but Cassie was AMAZING! She really understood the assignment and fixed my hair! From bad choppy layers to blended softness. Definitely looking forward to future appointments with her, wish I would've heard about this spot first! Also Vibes are unmatched, the ambiance is so welcoming and funky fresh in a very inviting way. read more

I had Gretchen for my highlight and style and she nailed the color I wanted. She listened to me when I was indecisive and helped me come to the best decision. (It's fall so I almost went with a completely different vibe) I'm so happy with how it turned out read more

Salon DeZEN - Makeup Artists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was overall very pleased with how welcoming and fun the vibes are here. Kara exceeded my expectations by miles! I was initially nervous because I don't often get my hair done, but the work she did on my hair was more than I could've wanted. I will definitely be making this place my new go-to salon. read more

Salon DeZEN - Makeup Artists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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I had a great time at Salon DeZEN, and I am so happy with my haircut! I was a little nervous walking in, and I wasn't super confident what I was looking for, but Stephanie (L. M.) helped me pick a haircut that would work for my lifestyle (how did I let my hair dry, what do I normally do with my hair, etc). I'm a low maintenance hair girl, and she was the perfect person for the job. She was also so gentle, and the hair wash and hair cut just felt good! I was feeling my hair all day because it was so soft. I appreciated the availability of early morning sessions so I could enjoy the rest of the day with my new cut and soft hair! Had a great time, and I'm honestly looking forward to my next haircut. read more

I REALLY wanted to love this place. It's convenient and the stylist I found did a great job. I tried 2 others at this salon over the last 3 years and didn't find a good match. Then I opted for a stylist who has a high amount of experience and found someone who could do what I asked in terms of cut and color. The reason for the 3 stars is that she cannot manage to be on time. 4 apts in a row she was 5-15 minutes late with no acknowledgment of running behind. The 4th appointment I made sure to book the correct service for highlights and still she didn't have enough time to dry my hair and left me with a towel on my head and blowing my own hair. $$$ for that is ridiculous. I make sure to arrive at least 5 minutes early planning my morning around this. THEN I tried for a 5th appointment and she was 20 minutes late and still not ready. When I peeked around the corner at 10 minutes the other women in the chair had just taken the towel off her head and they were starting to cut. 10 minutes later they hadn't started drying. I left at 25 minutes past my appointment time. She never came out to say she was running behind or acknowledge me whatsoever. I didn't have the time to sit and wonder when it would be my turn nor did I feel like paying $$$ to be ignored. I also had to book a full haircut (I called vs online apt to see if there was something I was missing) just to get a trim and really, my entire cut would have taken 25 minutes total. Lastly, if you do decide to go I recommend coming with wet washed hair. The water is scalding or freezing and the odds of getting someone who will yank on your hair while washing hard enough to bring tears is high. Sadly, this is a strong pass for me. I went back and forth between 2 and 3 stars but she does do a good job if you can deal with the rest. read more

So, I'm a week out from my service, as of Saturday. My eyebrows look exactly the way they did when I went in. I guess I was expecting a henna-type tinting. AND, once I got home and was able to actually see my brows, there were still stray hairs despite waxing. The lady was very nice and educated me on the services I requested and how they would look vs. the services that would look best on me. TY lady! Sorry, I'm writing backwards, but the salon itself was super clean, even the ceiling and vents. BUT, I know for a fact that I intentionally did NOT schedule myself with the person that I ended up seeing. Also, she wasn't expecting me for another 15 minutes (20 since I got there early). Someone called me and moved my appt up by 15 min without her knowledge. Funny, they did the same thing with the person that came in after me... read more

I have been seeing Lee for a few years now.She is the only hair stylist I have trusted on my hair since I have lived in the DMV. They always manage to get me an appointment within a reasonable wait time. read more

Salon DeZEN - Lee maintains my curly hair and makes it easy for my busy lifestyle. - Makeup Artists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

Look no further if you're looking for a salon full of people who embrace individuality and kindness. Sip on some herbal tea, coffee, or water while talking over your hair-story. and it's helpful to have a photo of a style/color/texture you're hoping to achieve. I'm biased, but especially if you have textured hair, ask for Lee. She's taught be how to keep my curls looking ah-mazing...If you're nervous, book a consult and talk things through as far as shape, length, color, etc. Parking can be tricky, so remember to ask for aromatherapy during your shampoo (lavender and peppermint are the best). For people who can use the DC/VA/MD metro, get off the blue/yellow lines at the King st. stop and take the free Old Town Trolley to the stop near Fayette st. The salon is environmentally responsible, too! read more

I had a free consultation before I went. The staff was super nice. The salon has a wonderful and welcoming vibe. Nyia truly listened and I couldn't wait to do it! I went permanently purple and she nailed it! My look is exactly what I wanted and even better! I think it is going to be easy to maintain and I feel like I'm in great hands to get to keep looking and feeling amazing! read more

Salon DeZEN - I love my permanently purple hair!! Nyia did an amazing job! - Makeup Artists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

I love my haircut from Lee! It's kind of hard to find a solid curly hair stylist who has a portfolio with my type of curly hair and after doing research, I found Lee and wanted to give it a shot. The salon is nice and clean and I like how you can help yourself to a beverage. Compared to other shampoo services I've had, it felt really short and didn't really feel like they got into my scalp but there was a massage which definitely made up for it. Lee was very thorough with styling my hair which I loved, but we didn't let my hair dry all the way with the diffuser before fluffing it which led to a lot of frizz. Not really a dealbreaker to me bc I really only care about the cut at the end of the day. And the cut is fire. I went from mid length to bob and I feel so free. I'll definitely come back when the time comes. read more

Gretchen is a magician. I've been paying through the nose with mediocre results for YEARS, but Gretchen listened to my concerns/requests, steered me in the right direction, and delivered what no one has before. The true test was when I did my hair myself, and still loved it. She's worth every penny. read more

Salon DeZEN - Makeup Artists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

LOVE Gretchen!!! Just moved here, admired a neighbors', super cute hair, who HIGHLY recommended Gretchen. THANK YOU! Gretchen listened, understood & executed exactly what I needed! My hair has never looked better! Thank you, Gretchen, can't wait for my next appointment! read more

NEW LOCATION REVIEW!! I am a longtime client, friend, and fan of Salon deZen and was so excited to try the new location. I had the Japanese Scalp Spa and I completely forgot what day it was afterwards. So relaxing! I don't think my hair has ever been so clean. I loved the scalp analysis. The salon is inviting, fresh, and cool. I can't wait to come again. read more

Gretchen gave me an amazing haircut. I was a little worried about going so short with a new salon, but Gretchen helped me pick the right style and length. Now I have shoulder length hair that is super easy to maintain and looks very cute for spring. I loved the atmosphere and the location is super convenient. Will definitely be coming back! read more

Mariah gave me an amazing haircut. It literally was the best haircut I've ever had. she listened to me and made my vision happen. She was so kind and patient. On top of that the salon was super clean and relaxing and had a great vibe. Cannot recommend enough! read more

Great haircut by Gretchen! I've gotten 3 great haircuts at Salon de Zen. Highly recommend the Old Town North location!

Salon deZEN became my hair paradise as I arrived on-site with pop tunes blasting from the speakers. Hand painted chairs and funky string art lined the walls--capturing the wild child spirit of the salon. Out came a woman in a neon green jacket and even brighter personality. Maria Elizabeth, former model turned hair therapist, was going to transform my locks from dry and tangled to model worthy curls. I felt like a princess throughout the treatment. Maria offered me refreshments of water, tea, and retro candy from her home state of Michigan. The shampoo experience had warm scented towels (I picked a rose essence) and she massaged my scalp with lots of pressure, per my request. My seat was cozy as it reclined far back with a footrest for my comfort. Once in Maria's chair I requested my hair treatment be "me but better" with a keratin treatment and anything else she recommended. Maria began with a curly cut on my wet hair so my afro would have the best shape when dried. She explained she would go in again for cutting any out of place hairs once my hair was straightened. The reasoning: so I would look good whether in my natural state or with a blow out! Maria assured me through every step of the process.When applying the keratin treatment she explained the one she used on me was safe for natural hair. The treatment which was left to process for fifteen minutes. The results: to omit my frizz and enhance the look of my curls for up to three months. Once the timer went off Maria followed up with a blow dry and flat iron to activate the keratin. I was left with light-as-air hair with mega shine and felt like silk. My time at Salon deZEN was part self-care, part girl talk, and 100% therapeutic. read more

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Was booked with Tricia for a partial highlighted to the high ratings. The results were disappointing & unprofessional. Large sections especially the entire upper underside of my hair, were left completely untouched, which made the color look uneven and unfinished. The placement was inconsistent & visibly striped, lacking the blending or natural flow you'd expect from a skilled colorist. It looked more like an at-home experiment than a salon treatment. For the cost, I expected far more care, coverage, and technique. Unfortunately, this felt like a rushed or inexperienced job, and I left feeling like I wasted both time &money. read more

I got my hair cut and styled by Gretchen and she was fantastic! she executed my vision perfectly! Will be coming back for sure!

Reallt enjoyed my cut with Kelly. I have not had a haircut I have liked in years - but somehow Kelly had me leaving liking my hair for the first time in a while! The atmosphere was also super nice and welcoming. read more

Love coming here to get my hair cut/styled/dyed/etc. Great location. Always easy to find street parking within a block. Staff is professional, helpful and friendly. Place is clean and welcoming. Prices are reasonable. Shout out to Angela. Been going to her for years. Knows her stuff. Listens to what I want done. Steers me away from epic mistakes. Never a bad visit. Highly recommend Angela!!! read more

Hair color, styling and cut Alondra is amazing!! She's speaks english and Spanish and always does an amazing job!! Recommend 10000%. The vibe is always calm, relax and good conversation. Live her and the amazing job she does. read more

I was in town for a few days and desperately need some TLC on my hair. I booked for a cut, color, glaze, and style. This salon DID NOT disappoint. Eboni was AMAZING!! To say that is an understatement. She listened to my concerns and what I envisioned for my hair and she delivered to the max. I have thick curly hair and was concerned, as always when meeting a new hair stylist. Eboni was knowledgeable, sweet and completely understood what my hair needed. If I am back in the DC area Salon Dezen and specifically Eboni is my go to for ALL my hair care needs. She is a hidden gem. This salon is amazing. read more

Gretchen provided excellent highlights! She listened and gave me exactly the right blend of golden red highlights to hide the grey to give me a beautiful overall glossy rich chestnut color. I love it. read more

I met with Elise regarding getting extensions and had a wonderful experience. I was greeted immediately and offered water before sitting down in a private area to review my options. Elise was thorough and honest about her suggestions and I left feeling I had everything I needed to make a decision. I highly recommend this salon as it was clean, provided excellent service and seems to have regular repeat customers. I look forward to returning and working with Elise again soon! read more

Salon DeZEN - Makeup Artists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

I received probably the best haircut I've ever gotten from this salon last night! Stylist was fabulous, I was in and out in under and hour and the experience was lovely. I'll absolutely be back. read more

I visited Salon deZEN for the first time last year and Tanisha was my stylist. I originally shared this over email but wanted to post this on yelp to share how positive of an experience I had with her. I had the same stylist in Chicago for 10 years and since my move to NOVA, I have only had 2 salon experiences that weren't the best. Tanisha gave me one of the best cuts I have ever had and she could tell I was a bit nervous but I'm so pleased with how healthy and perfect my cut was. I look forward to seeing her again in the next month! I'm so happy to find this gem of a salon! read more

Salon deZEN is a one-stop shop for everything hair-related, especially for the curly girls! I've been going to Salon deZen for the past 3 years, and hair day is hands-down my favorite day of the year! The ambiance is perfect - very peaceful and welcoming. Hair day is made into an experience - free coffee, aroma therapy towels, and cute sayings on chalkboards above the hair wash station! Not to mention, every stylist absolutely kills it! I have curly hair that I frequently straighten, so I needed a haircut that would look great when worn naturally and when styled. Alondra was able to understand my "non-professional" descriptions of what I wanted to ensure that she gave me the best cut, including adding internal layers! I was also debating getting a balayage, and she gave me the final push to go for it! I've gotten so many compliments on my hair since switching to Salon deZen and Alondra! read more

I've been going to Salon DeZen for about 2 years now and always have such a great experience! I regularly see Jelena and she's been so amazing with my balayage and haircuts from the start! Plus she's helped me in changing my hair cut and getting a better look and she gives great advice on how to achieve the looks I want. She's also so friendly and fun to chat with during my appointments! I recently saw Kara for the first time and also had an excellent experience! She pays such close attention to detail and my hair turned out wonderfully! She was also so sweet and fun to work with! The salon overall is such a great place and everyone I've worked with here I would highly recommend! read more

Salon DeZEN - My hair before my session - Makeup Artists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

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I found Salon DeZen as a walk-by shortly after moving to the neighborhood. I was greeted warmly and given a list of stylists who could meet my specific needs. Booking was very easy and I received an appropriate number of reminder, which was appreciated. The salon was very accommodating when I called to say I'd be running a bit late, which also put me at ease as a first time client. Cat is also very warm and approachable and asked a lot of great questions about my hair but also pushy about anything at all. I really appreciate the way she put my vague directions into something that came out exactly how I envisioned it despite my poor way of describing it to her. I've never been in a salon that is both warm and electrifying - I loved the fluorescent colors that added such a fun touch to the studio. It was also nice to have the aromatherapy treatment while having my hair washed. Salon products were offered at the end of my appointment, but I didn't feel, any pressure to purchase. I will be back! read more

I wanted to update my review just to create some awareness. The first time I went to this salon I was pleased. However, after my second visit I was not happy as there was not enough coverage with my highlights. But I let it go. The third visit that I had (with that same person) went awful. I was rushed the whole time, even while I was processing she squeezed in another client to blow dry. Then, she washed me out and my highlights were not done and super brassy. I was so upset that I went back the next day for her to fix it. As I was pointing out what I was upset about she acted rude like I don't know what I am talking about (I have been a hairdresser over 10 years). She proceeded to put litterally 15 foils throughout the top of my hair which completely threw off the whole look. My hair has more coverage now throughout the top than it does with the rest of the head on top of that there are still bleeders from the foils slipping from the previous work that she did and even more from when I got my "redo". It also still isn't even as blonde as I prefer. She also took me 20 min late for my redo appointment and also did another client while I was processing with those 15 foils in?! I'm just so upset. My hair is noticeably extremely damaged aswell now. Breaking off around my hairline in the front, back as well as some on the top.. I'm assuming she overlapped the bleach when foiling every time I saw her as it progressively got worse with each visit. As a professional I would never do this, especially if I was making an adjustment on a client that was not happy with my work. She didn't even blow try my hair at all to even see if it looked okay at all after I left. This is the worst customer service I have ever got at a hair salon. To be honest, though this salon is convenient to go to and close to where I live but I'm not going back. I've spent so long to get my hair healthy as a blonde and she ruined it in just 3 sessions. Now Im traumatized and scared to go anywhere else but have to find and pay someone to fix this mess. This is just not acceptable. BE AWARE PEOPLE. read more

Salon DeZEN - Makeup Artists Near Me - Alexandria, Virginia

It was my first time going to Salon DeZEN this salon was my vibe. The girl did a great job on picking Cat to do my mullet haircut. I enjoyed Cats vibe and conversation she was really concentrated on what she was doing especially giving me tips on how to hairstyle my hair. She did an amazing job on my hair I RECOMMEND CAT read more