I've been going to different sylists at Strands and Essence for over 20 years in three locations! I have never gotten anything but satisfactory service. Most recently, I have a new to me sytlist, Helen, and she's provided me with absolutely wonderful and stylish cuts. I am very pleased and recommend her to anyone who is interested. She first cut my husband's hair, and he has a full head of thick and unruly hair...I figured if she could handle HIS head, she could definitely do something with mine! And she did. The salon atmosphere is upscale and trendy...prices are reasonable, esp. given you don't leave unhappy, and getting 'fit in for an appointment' is never lengthy! This place is 'all good!' read more

Had an absolutely terrible experience here. I promised I would myself I would never get my hair colored by anyone other than my colorist at home but I was in desperate need of color while I was away at school. I had done some research and spoke to some people in town about the best hair salon and this was the name that I was given. I came in and asked for the woman to tone down my highlights a little and to add some browns. I even brought in a picture for her to replicate. She seemed like she knew what she was doing and was very nice. I didn't have time to stay and blow dry my hair once she was done I happened to be in a rush. Once I got home however, I dried my hair and it was GREY. I mean, old lady grey. I was so embarrassed because I had a wedding that night and there was no time to fix the mistake. I had to wear my hair up and it looked horrid in pictures. Luckily I was headed back to Long Island in a few days and I had my lady fix it at home. I will never forget how horrible it was. read more

I have been going to Mindy since she was in Beauty School and followed her talent to Strands and Essence. Always been very satisfied with cuts and my color. Mindy is an awesome colorist! Since going to Strands and Essence I have met Helen who does my facials it's an awesome experience! If you're looking for a relaxed atmosphere and professional service Strands and Essence is the salon to experience! read more

This is the only place that I'd allow to cut my hair in Oswego. Amy is the current owner and is the best! The ladies here make you feel comfortable. I've never gotten my hair colored here, just a straight cut and styled. read more

I was treated poorly by the owner(!) while inquiring on making an appointment for a hair cut. I also offered to promote the business by dropping off business cards to people I know and in my office. I had never been in her place before and had never met the owner previously. Needless to say, I did not make an appointment, I will not recommend her business to anyone. The receptionist was clearly embarrassed to have her boss yelling from a booth, being rude and completely disrespectful to a potential client. The other employees as well as customers could hear her and I got more than a few mortified looks from the other hairdressers. The owner stated that she did not need any help from me and the receptionist's voice cracked when asking her boss if she meant she did not need new business, the owner confirmed, she was "all set" A sad display of truly poor people skills. read more

I've been going here for about two years now and it's my favorite salon in Oswego. Nicole is such a sweetheart and I've never been displeased with a cut she's given me. The atmosphere is nice, it's pretty well-decorated, and although the prices are higher than many places in Oswego (I think I usually pay $20-25 for a cut), it's a bargain in comparison to similar salons downstate. They also carry a decent range of products. read more

Strands and Essence is a beautiful salon with a very upscale atmosphere. I have gone to several different people for both pedicures and haircuts and they have all done a wonderful job and are friendly and helpful. I agree with the other reviewer. You might pay less elsewhere in Oswego but it is worth it. read more

Nicole is a great stylist and the place as so many other things. Massages, Manicures, Waxing. Very clean environment as well