The Top Five: Best Salons
Salons around town that won't let you down - By Lauren Jane, Oct 21, 08
Looking for a new place to get your hair did?
Here's a list of five salons (plus one) which are the best of the best in the city. I've taken into account feedback from my friends and, of course, my own experiences, and hopefully one of these will be what you're looking for in your search for a salon.
So here they are, in no particular order. I've added a general price list for each salon (keep in mind, prices depends on stylist, hair length, and services and are not guaranteed).
ID.Hair
274 Nanchang Lu, near Maoming Lu. Phone: 3406 0490. Map & Taxi Printout
Located in the heart of the French Concession, this salon offers international standards with a neighborhood feel. Their top stylist, Terry Grau, hails from Switzerland and is featured as ID's European Director. A twelve-year veteran of the business, Terry specializes in highlights -- especially blond. All of the staff are super friendly and welcome you upon entrance. I really liked this one, as it comes across as extremely professional while maintaining an unpretentious vibe. They use Kerastase products and offer a variety of services including special hair treatments and nail care. ID can be a little bit pricey depending on which stylist and treatment you get, but a basic cut and shampoo is quite reasonable compared to some of the competition.
Cut, Shampoo, & Finishing: 60-420rmb
Color: 380-1500rmb
Hair Straightening: 380-2000rmb
Permanent Waving: 580-2400rmb
Hair Extensions: single piece 50rmb up to whole head at 8000rmb
Toni & Guy
Several Salons in Shanghai. Click here for details
Arguably the most well-known salon in Shanghai is Toni & Guy; they've been around internationally for over 40 years and claim to be the "most powerful hairdressing brand in the world." With their cutting edge image, Toni & Guy have secured their status as one of the most influential hairdressing companies in the city. There are several locations throughout Shanghai, but I checked out the one at Shanghai Center. With top stylists from Malaysia and Australia, they definitely offer quality and consistency.
Their prices for color and other permanent treatments are pretty standard for most high-end salons, but a basic shampoo and cut is a bit overpriced in my opinion. With that said, it might be worth it in order to receive international standards of hair care minus the accompanying episodes of panic and fear. After all, going to the salon is supposed to be a relaxing experience. The feedback I received about this salon is that their work is generally good and consistent, but very overpriced. On the other hand, I did have a friend who went to Toni & Guy wanting only her bangs trimmed, and they charged her for an entire cut! Toni & Guy offer a nail salon and feature products such as L'Oreal, Label.m, and their own line -- Toni & Guy.
Cut, Shampoo, & Finishing: 120-1000rmb
Color: 400-1200rmb
Hair Straightening: 1000-2000rmb
Permanent Waving: 800-1080rmb
No hair extensions
On the web: www.toniandguy.co.uk
Hip Hair Culture
208 Xinle Lu, near Donghu Lu. Phone: 5403 5827. Map & Taxi Printout
Established in Hong Kong in 1999, the Hip Hair Culture Group has developed extensively in a short period of time, having just recently expanded to Shanghai. Hair Culture claims to focus not only on the salon industry, but are "actively involved as a leader in the creative direction of hair styling in media and entertainment."
Hip Hair Culture is located on charming Xinle Lu, and Cameron Lee, their leading Hong Kong stylist with over 20 years in the industry, was immediately friendly and eager to inform me about their services and overall vision. I was impressed by his laid-back demeanor as so often salons, or hair stylists can come across a slightly snobby. HHC is so the opposite! This salon is one of the less expensive options and doesn't shaft you on quality. They feature Paul Mitchell products which are fantastic and often difficult to find here. Manicures and pedicures are available as well as hair extensions by consultation only.
Cut, Shampoo, & Finishing: 70-280rmb
Color: 200-1200rmb
Hair Straightening: 500-1500rmb
Permanent Waving: 250-1500rmb
Hair Extensions: by consultation only
On the web: www.h-culture.com
Benson Salon
778 Jiangning Lu, near Haifang Lu. Phone: 62778778. Map & Taxi Printout
In my opinion, Benson Salon is the overall best value in Shanghai. I was lucky enough to meet Benson, the owner and top stylist, a couple of years ago while helping out with the initial opening of his salon, and I've been loyal ever since.
Boasting a staff of local stylists, they are trained in hair care for all different types of hair. Benson's initial education through Vidal Sassoon helped him develop into one of the best hair stylists in Shanghai. They've recently remodeled their salon and overall image, which now puts them on par with the best salons in the city. And for those of you seeking blond highlights, Benson is fantastic. He also has a gift for giving "the perfect cut". My boyfriend swears by Benson's technique and won't go anywhere else! Overall their prices are on par with HHC, but I recommend this salon for cuts and color. And ladies, if you're keen to try out hair extensions, they start at only 10rmb a piece which is the cheapest I've found yet. It's best to make an appointment during off-peak hours so you get full one-on-one attention (they're usually swamped on Saturdays, so plan ahead!). Benson Salon also offers basic nail care and use products by L'Oreal, Kerastase, and Tigi.
Cut, Shampoo, & Finishing: 68-280rmb
Color: 480-730rmb
Hair Straightening: 380-2400rmb
Permanent Waving: 380-880rmb
Hair Extensions: 10rmb/piece; whole head 1400-2000rmb
On the web: www.bensonsalon.com
Beijing Hair Culture
2 Salons in Shanghai (click for details): Xintiandi and Hilton Hotel
With two locations in the city, Beijing Hair Culture deliver an extremely high-end salon experience. Beware, as this also includes high-end prices. But if you're looking for a place with guaranteed international standards and the ambiance of a spa, then this is the place for you. I checked out the one at the Hilton, and I must say, the entrance through the spa into the salon was especially calming. Overall, the staff were pretty friendly and unpretentious. I would recommend this salon for those of you who want the full experience of being pampered in a classy environment. A girlfriend of mine said she always goes to BHC because they give a wonderfully long head massage during the shampoo that can even make you fall asleep! With products such as Kerastase, L'Oreal, and Paul Mitchell, Beijing Hair Culture offer a wide variety of services in addition to hair care including a full nail salon, wax service, and also make-up service.
Cut, Shampoo, & Finishing: 120-680rmb
Color: 300-1800rmb
Hair Straightening: 500-2500rmb
Permanent Waving: 400-2500rmb
Hair Extensions: 80rmb/piece
On the web: www.beijing-hc.com
Eric Paris Salon
4 Hengshan Lu, near Wulumuqi Lu. Phone: 1376 1390 605. Map & Taxi Printout
Eric Paris Salon, another high-end salon boasting a full staff of skilled stylists, also has about four or five foreign stylists available on staff as well. I was surprised to find such a nice salon just down the street from TGIFriday's, and their display was incredibly impressive.
Founded by Eric in 1996, his vision was to "bring his signature French style in hair and beauty to China". Eric, who indeed hails from France, owned the largest private chain of salons in his region. Often working with hair in runway shows for super brands like L'Oreal, he's really made his mark in China by exhibiting his innovative method of hair styling. Eric Salon use products from L'Oreal and Schwartzkopf. They also offer a variety of extra services such as body and back massage, full nail salon, make-up service, eyelash and eyebrow care, spray tan, candling, and even ear and naval piercing! With such an internationally mixed staff of stylists, I was amazed at how reasonable the prices are for a basic cut or color.
Cut, Shampoo, & Finishing: 90-425rmb
Color: 240-740rmb
Hair Straightening: 510-1540rmb
Permanent Waving: 440-1160rmb
No hair extensions
On the web: www.ericparis.com
***
MaLiNa
Oct 21, 08
Benson litterally "saved" my hair last year and he's not that into publicity, I'd be surprised if he did something that low. Trust me, he doesn't need forced publicity, all his client are the best communication mean he will ever have. sincerely, he worth it!
mjm
Oct 21, 08
benson's Salon is the best I have had, I only get a trim every month but he always manages to make my receeding hairline look less obvious!
In Australia i spent decent cash at fancy places but none of them were as Good as Benson
In Australia i spent decent cash at fancy places but none of them were as Good as Benson
wicked_witch
Oct 22, 08
I went to Eric's fairly recently, and their prices are much higher than this. They do an ok job, but nothing spectacular so I don't think I'll be going back...
VinnieB
Oct 23, 08
I would like to recommend another good one, Color Hair Salon, at Fahuazhen Road, near to metro line 4 Yanan West Road station.It's a small neighborhood salon but the best so far and cheap. My Canadian female friend and I are very fussy about hairstylist and we both have been enjoying Michael, the owner, skills very much. Many of my friends and colleagues are his fans now after my recommendation. And if my Mom only allows Michael touching her hair everytime she's flown in to Shanghai from Singapore, that pretty much says how good he is!
yprh
Oct 23, 08
I just went to Beijing Hair Culture this week. I don't recommend it. I asked the chief of the salon to cut my hair, I asked him for something modern, funny, young, but he made me a really boring hair cut.The hair massage was really nice, but the haircut was not amazing, neither charming and it costed 480RMB.
rock78
Oct 26, 08
the best guys is CONTESTAROCKHAIR price quality and ambient ZhenNing rd 9 2floor....ENJOI
jenifer
Nov 11, 08
I moved to Shanghai two years ago and have been coming to Benson Salon basically since.They do great blond hair and manage my unmanagable curls really well. The staff are always so friendly and helpful. It¡¯s always a wonderful experience. I have a lot of hair and love the way I have two or three people doing my hair to get it done quickly and make you feel like a princes at the same the time. Everytime I get my hair done at Benson my friends comment how great my hair looks and tell me I should let them do it everyday!
I wish I could that would really be a dream!
Wonderful people,,wonderful talent!
I wish I could that would really be a dream!
Wonderful people,,wonderful talent!
laurasunny
Nov 13, 08
I have only been in Shanghai for two years and have been lucky enough to discover Benson.Not only are the friendly but professional
I will recommend them to all my friends.For half head of hightlights only 580,cut is 120.the price is reasonable than other salon doing western hair.
I will recommend them to all my friends.For half head of hightlights only 580,cut is 120.the price is reasonable than other salon doing western hair.
Bandini
Nov 14, 08
they are doing it again!!! and also here!
boicot Benson!!!
boicot Benson!!!
johnotoole
Nov 18, 08
Eric Paris has been a big name in Beijing for a while now. They are to international standards but by no means the best. Also, when I was living up there there were persistent rumours (from people I trust explicitly) that Eric's lifestyle standards have caused him to withhold pay from his Chinese stylists for months on end, so that he had access to the cash.
Whether or not that's true (and I personally think it is) his best stylist, Catherine, left to start her own salon C. De France, which is around the same price range and one of the finest I have been to in China or elsewhere (The BarberShop in HK is still my favorite, but only because of the ambience and decor, CDF's cuts are as good and cheaper). She really needs to get up here.
Whether or not that's true (and I personally think it is) his best stylist, Catherine, left to start her own salon C. De France, which is around the same price range and one of the finest I have been to in China or elsewhere (The BarberShop in HK is still my favorite, but only because of the ambience and decor, CDF's cuts are as good and cheaper). She really needs to get up here.
Annlynch
Nov 20, 08
I've been to Eric's and it was great. Then I found a place called Hai Evolution at Shoppe 101 - 88 Xin Geng Road. Sam did a great job - wonderful cut and I've heard equally wonderful things about Leon too. Jenny does a great manicure!
reggae809
Nov 23, 08
most places in pudong you get your 1.hair washed 2.a massage and 3.hair cut for 10 yuan yes ten yuan thats it
hanna
Nov 26, 08
BENSON SUCKS! OK! I AM IN A REALLY BAD MOOD TODAY JUST BECAUSE OF FUC**** BENSON SALON! They are really just spammers and have no idea have to work wit foreigner hair! I paid 700 RMB for very bad haircut ( too short, not asymetric, no straight) The back is terrible and i have no idea why they have no idea how to mix colors but i got what i did'nt want to and thats for 700RMB! HEY BENSIN IF U THINK THAT YOU CAN STEAL MONEY FROM FOREIGNERS JUST BECAUSE UR ADMINISTRATOR SPEAKS ENGLISH BUT YOUR HAIRDRESSERS WORKS NOT BETTER THAN ANY OTHER LOCAL HAIRDRESEr! I have got much better haircuts for 58 RM befor then BENSON SUPER EXOENSIVE SUER BAD HAIRCUT! Guys dont be fooled buy stupid adds online! BENSON IS CRAP!!!!
ANd is t normal thar hairstylist hand are shaking> WTF?
Actulaly i shouldnt pay at all but i was so schoked taht i just did it and now i regret it cause i had better hair before i enter that place...
ANd is t normal thar hairstylist hand are shaking> WTF?
Actulaly i shouldnt pay at all but i was so schoked taht i just did it and now i regret it cause i had better hair before i enter that place...
hanna
Nov 26, 08
And one more thing about Benson - when i told that its too short addiministrator said - well just wait few month:) WTF>??? fucking BENSON!
BuddyBaby
Dec 02, 08
I know for a fact that Benson does not spam online about his great services. These are real comments from real people who have been satisfied with his work. If you had a bad experience, then just go somewhere else. Opinions about hair stylists are totally subjective anyway...no need to get all emotional about it. And I love Benson Salon.
ISpyShanghai.com
Dec 02, 08
http://www.shanghaiexpat.com/MDForum-viewtopic-t-82804.phtml
Several usernames have been banned from the ShanghaiExpat.com forums for continually posting spam adverts for Benson salon. Real people do not register with online forums, make 10-15 posts about how wonderful their hair stylist is, and then disappear.
THAT is a fact Buddy Baby.
Several usernames have been banned from the ShanghaiExpat.com forums for continually posting spam adverts for Benson salon. Real people do not register with online forums, make 10-15 posts about how wonderful their hair stylist is, and then disappear.
THAT is a fact Buddy Baby.
mjm
Dec 06, 08
What is wrong with you people?
BENSON is the best,
If you have an opinion does not mean you need to attack the guy.
I know 3 people who have posted LEGITIMATE comments here who are all expats. No BS.
BENSON is the best,
If you have an opinion does not mean you need to attack the guy.
I know 3 people who have posted LEGITIMATE comments here who are all expats. No BS.
Shanghai Patty
Dec 17, 08
I am sorry - i am not fake or a spammer - i am friends with Lauren who wrote this article and i have lived in Shanghai for 3 years. Benson was recommended to me after i went initially to T&G and paid 3,000 RMB to have my hair done with blonde highlgiths - very averagely i might add. Benson and his team have constantly done my hair - my friend Lori, my friend Lynne, my friend Kelly and Zoe - with great colour and cut for 3 years.
Benson's staff are friendly - polite and also work together well, Benson always ensures we are happy and comfortable and is always available on his mobile in need of emergency or something....
I folishly last week was in Nanjing Rd and in desperate need of a blow dry and went to T&G on a Whim - and what a waste of money... 220.00 RMB to have their creative director do it and it was bloody awful and basically dropped the minute i walked out the door - and i may as well have done it myself! i get better ones done across the road at my local place near my house for 20RMB! So in short if you find somebody you like - such as Benson and your friends also use him and like him - thats got to say VOLUMES about service, quality and good business....
Benson's staff are friendly - polite and also work together well, Benson always ensures we are happy and comfortable and is always available on his mobile in need of emergency or something....
I folishly last week was in Nanjing Rd and in desperate need of a blow dry and went to T&G on a Whim - and what a waste of money... 220.00 RMB to have their creative director do it and it was bloody awful and basically dropped the minute i walked out the door - and i may as well have done it myself! i get better ones done across the road at my local place near my house for 20RMB! So in short if you find somebody you like - such as Benson and your friends also use him and like him - thats got to say VOLUMES about service, quality and good business....
shwan
Feb 12, 09
i am hair stylist from canada and i am moveing too shang hai sone not sure where too start from..any idea..anyone..
Lisa17
Feb 20, 09
Hello!
I just read what you wrote about Benson salon, and was very surprised. I would like to share my experience.
I usually do blond highlights in France, and I am always satisfied, it is blond but natural. I read somewhere that Benson is specialized with European hair, so I took appointement for highlights.
The stylist didn't speak English, but there was somebody who spoke just a little bit, I explained what I wanted, I also show it on the price list. I was seating and reading magazine, and the colorist started to do something behind, but I realized that he was actually doing a color. But it was already too late, so I let him continue, hoping that it would look good too. But after the shampoo, I saw that my hair was yellow, real fluo yellow!!! I was horrified, I never cried at the hair dresser before! I told them that there is no way I can go like this outside. So they started to make another color (what I didn't like is that they cut a piece of my hair in the middle as a sampl!). After the second time, it was a little bit better, but still I didn't like. I was really disapointed. At least, the did a nice cut and nice blow dry.
Another bad surprise, was when I paid, it was 1000 rmb for something that I didn't like! They told me that they didn't have the right product, so I don't understand why they took me!!!
I just read what you wrote about Benson salon, and was very surprised. I would like to share my experience.
I usually do blond highlights in France, and I am always satisfied, it is blond but natural. I read somewhere that Benson is specialized with European hair, so I took appointement for highlights.
The stylist didn't speak English, but there was somebody who spoke just a little bit, I explained what I wanted, I also show it on the price list. I was seating and reading magazine, and the colorist started to do something behind, but I realized that he was actually doing a color. But it was already too late, so I let him continue, hoping that it would look good too. But after the shampoo, I saw that my hair was yellow, real fluo yellow!!! I was horrified, I never cried at the hair dresser before! I told them that there is no way I can go like this outside. So they started to make another color (what I didn't like is that they cut a piece of my hair in the middle as a sampl!). After the second time, it was a little bit better, but still I didn't like. I was really disapointed. At least, the did a nice cut and nice blow dry.
Another bad surprise, was when I paid, it was 1000 rmb for something that I didn't like! They told me that they didn't have the right product, so I don't understand why they took me!!!
lianggeli88
Feb 21, 09
plz go someone who makes u comfortable, and never trust the brands, coz good hair cut which depends on good hair dresser but NOT brands!
and I really doubt is that real TOP five???!!!
how they gave ppl the conclusion and where those date base came from?
and I really doubt is that real TOP five???!!!
how they gave ppl the conclusion and where those date base came from?
gioshanghai
Feb 22, 09
It is 2 years that I do my hairs at ID Hair in Nanchang Lu.
The saloon is really nice and recently they've hired also foreigner hairdresser. They are all very good, mine is YuKi and I strongly suggest to everybody. Compared to Italy is a little bit pricey (1000RMB for color+cut) but definetely much better than the chinese salon around the city!
The saloon is really nice and recently they've hired also foreigner hairdresser. They are all very good, mine is YuKi and I strongly suggest to everybody. Compared to Italy is a little bit pricey (1000RMB for color+cut) but definetely much better than the chinese salon around the city!
arabella
Feb 23, 09
I suggest the hair salon of the Portman Hotel, colour and blow dry is cheaper that tony and Guy ( I don't do highlight only colour)and service is better. Since the salon is small is also a quite environment. Maggie, the stylist, is nice and I was always very satisfied with her cut. I think they do 20% discount but I am not sure...
Treamer
Feb 24, 09
Maggie at Tony & Guy has been looking after me for 18 months now. She is very professional and an excellent stylist. Worth the extra bucks over the local places for sure.
arabella
Feb 25, 09
my suggestion was for hair salon in the Ritz Portman not Tony and Guy though. The English name of the stylist at the Portman is Maggie too.
matsume
Feb 27, 09
Ok, here comes a little masturbatory promotion! Come see me and my crew! I've got Sun, our new color tech from San Francisco, Kelly our new girl from the U.K., Andy our very tall, very handsome guy from Shanghai who can speak English as well, Angel who's wicked at styling and up do's! And of course! Moi! The coolest hairstylist you'll ever have!
You should at least come have a chat with us if your freaked out! 6249-7228 :) Now don't get angry everyone! What's wrong with grabben a little business while I'm surfing! :(
You should at least come have a chat with us if your freaked out! 6249-7228 :) Now don't get angry everyone! What's wrong with grabben a little business while I'm surfing! :(
matsume
Feb 27, 09
Oh! And if there's any stylists out there who need a job. Give me a shout! At the same number!
matsume
Feb 27, 09
I promise to shut up after this one! 100 RMB off for any students who bring in there uni cards and 30% off of everything( except product) for first timers!
moritz2000
Mar 01, 09
bensons sucks and tony&guy too, 1600 rmb highlights not even the full head, without cut and all in yellow yeah good job!
Sigrid-Marianella
Mar 01, 09
I went to Erics and i wouldnt reccomend anyone to go there.
I felt totally ripped off.
The cut and colour was ok and decent. But for the price they made me pay I expect more than just OK (it was almost 1800 for cut and high lights).
I also wanted to buy hairspray from them (elnet loreal) but they charge 300 RMB for the can!
Now I go to a chinese local hairdresser, I pay 48 rmb for cut and 250 for colour. The result is nice nothing too amazing, but nice and cheaper.
Dont underestimate the local places they are a lot better than you think!
I felt totally ripped off.
The cut and colour was ok and decent. But for the price they made me pay I expect more than just OK (it was almost 1800 for cut and high lights).
I also wanted to buy hairspray from them (elnet loreal) but they charge 300 RMB for the can!
Now I go to a chinese local hairdresser, I pay 48 rmb for cut and 250 for colour. The result is nice nothing too amazing, but nice and cheaper.
Dont underestimate the local places they are a lot better than you think!
TheBee
Mar 04, 09
@matsume£ºFirst, it would be helpful next time to write the name of the salon if you want to promote it!!!! I just called your salons, with the name ID-hair and they do not know anything about 30% off of everything for first time !
So was this a joke - or wat ?
So was this a joke - or wat ?
matsume
Mar 05, 09
Oops. I'm a moron! Beijing Hair Culture is the name:) The number I left is the Hilton location, 62497228. And the receptionist know about this.
trotte
Mar 07, 09
As Sigrid, I really not recommend Eric...
i had correct highlights, but when I came back for a full color it was the total chaos!!
Hairstylist was not friendly at all, almost agressive, and Ipaid more than 2000yuans for a really bad looking blond which was not the color I asked for... Further more, the color is not harmonious and I did not get my eyebrows bleached... I felt really cheated.
i had correct highlights, but when I came back for a full color it was the total chaos!!
Hairstylist was not friendly at all, almost agressive, and Ipaid more than 2000yuans for a really bad looking blond which was not the color I asked for... Further more, the color is not harmonious and I did not get my eyebrows bleached... I felt really cheated.
afmulazzi
Mar 13, 09
I agree with Matsume. Beijing Hair Culture at the Hilton is great. I got my hair cut last night with Sun. His cut, 280rmb is the best value ANYWHERE. I got my hair cut with someone else before and he just never really listened to me. Sun listened and gave great advice and then cut beautifully!
trotte
Mar 15, 09
I went to HIP HAIR CULTURE today, following the advice of a bleached haired german girl met at the Shelter, and I was absolutely delighted by the quality and the service!!
For 900 rmb I got a wonderful ultra-light blond, with bleached eyebrows, brushing and treatment.
Cameron, the manager, is very professional and helpful, all the contrary of my former hairstylist @Eric Paris.
My boy friend got a very nice haircut for 180rmb, and we are really enthusiastic about this salon.
It's conveniently located near Franipani & Dragonfly n the French Concession.
I really really advise you to go there and to forget Eric, Franck Provost and Tony &Guy!! You'll save time, money,AND your hair! ;)
For 900 rmb I got a wonderful ultra-light blond, with bleached eyebrows, brushing and treatment.
Cameron, the manager, is very professional and helpful, all the contrary of my former hairstylist @Eric Paris.
My boy friend got a very nice haircut for 180rmb, and we are really enthusiastic about this salon.
It's conveniently located near Franipani & Dragonfly n the French Concession.
I really really advise you to go there and to forget Eric, Franck Provost and Tony &Guy!! You'll save time, money,AND your hair! ;)
yprh
Mar 26, 09
Benson is a big shit! I went to Jianing lu to cut and color. I shown them a picture, easy and suitable haircut for me. The chief of the salon asked me who I wanted to cut my hair. I asked for their experience, the chief told me, all of them 3 years working there. He taught how to make the haircut I wanted to one of them. That man has never cut the hair in his life! He didn't know what to do. He made me the ugliest haircut I have had in my life. I called the chief of the salon, I asked what was that. Even, he noticed it was an absolute disaster. He tried to repaire it. I told him I wanted the haircut of the example-picture. But, he told me "forget about it". The other one, try to dry my hair, he had no idea how to dry curly hair. He left my hair wet looking terrible, it was 0ºC outside. Finally, the chief dry it for me. It was a complete nightmare day. I wanted to kill them!!! I hate Benson!!!! So, unprofessional!!!! I paid 600 RMB for a terrible haircut + color (the color was ok)
anaruby
Mar 31, 09
CONTESTAROCKHAIR....is the best Place in town for your hair... Modern, Funky, Great Atmosphere, just right...did i mention they are Italian??? DONT MISS IT!!!!
ZhenNing Lu NO 9, joy tower 2F
ZhenNing Lu NO 9, joy tower 2F
leng jai
Apr 03, 09
Hair is always a problem in a new town and I often hear foreigners here wondering where they can get the locks attended to...Many complain that local stylist just cant cut the rug, so to speak..Not true there are some excellent local stylists. The problem is this...
If you're an expat, chances are your hair is of the European type..That said, techniques for cutting European and Asian hair are entirely different. The solution is this.
Find a stylist with experience in dealing with European hair, quite simple really.. However, don't be fooled by locals claiming to have come from the Vidal Sassoon/ TiGi stable, they probably did a 2 week course at Sassoons many moons ago. What you need, is someone who actually came from a country where the majority of heads are of a European texture and were trained that way. They will be best able to cut/colour your hair and turn you into the Diva you deserve to be..I have tried several salons around town and was least impressed by those with big London names over the door and most impressed by the writer of this column. That is not to dismiss all local stylists, if you need a glam up-do for that special night out, go see an experienced local, they're great at it..
With all this in mind, I'm glad I don't have an Afro, I'd be screwed..
If you're an expat, chances are your hair is of the European type..That said, techniques for cutting European and Asian hair are entirely different. The solution is this.
Find a stylist with experience in dealing with European hair, quite simple really.. However, don't be fooled by locals claiming to have come from the Vidal Sassoon/ TiGi stable, they probably did a 2 week course at Sassoons many moons ago. What you need, is someone who actually came from a country where the majority of heads are of a European texture and were trained that way. They will be best able to cut/colour your hair and turn you into the Diva you deserve to be..I have tried several salons around town and was least impressed by those with big London names over the door and most impressed by the writer of this column. That is not to dismiss all local stylists, if you need a glam up-do for that special night out, go see an experienced local, they're great at it..
With all this in mind, I'm glad I don't have an Afro, I'd be screwed..
toma5155
Apr 11, 09
i just cut. my hair is wavy and not similar to local hair, and i have a great Shanghanese hair stylist. at Dingxi, corner of Xin Hua, called SOHO (near the starbucks)
stylist name is: "a qian" and the guy is a perfectionist! until your hair is not perfect he won't budge.
non-english speaking, though its never been a problem for me ~120 rmb for cut+perfect blow dry by him as well.
simple. reccomended.
and what's wrong with the people spending "only" 1000-2000 rmb per a simple haircut ?!
stylist name is: "a qian" and the guy is a perfectionist! until your hair is not perfect he won't budge.
non-english speaking, though its never been a problem for me ~120 rmb for cut+perfect blow dry by him as well.
simple. reccomended.
and what's wrong with the people spending "only" 1000-2000 rmb per a simple haircut ?!
lin wang
May 05, 09
Japanese straightening tecniques,color,makeovers and maniques are all available at Benson.Prices vary depending on whether you go with a senior stylist,its 120rmb for basic wash,cut,style.Highlights start at rmb580.And they can do the good job with your hair.
zhangHL
May 06, 09
I am Shanghainese. I started trying to go to foreign salons to have new hair style one year ago. I have been to one of top five salons whci Smart SH mentioned but I was not happy with their technical services espcially the colour and the price was too high compared to the quality. Recently I found one foreign salon named CONTESTAROCKHAIR which is from Italy. The stylist is really enthusiastic, and knows well what knid of hair is perfect to me according to my face, personality and career. By the way, I am really satistified their technical service. Moreover, the price is really good!
Sigrid-Marianella
May 10, 09
Went to Beijing Hairculture at the Hilton a couple of days ago.
Disaster.
Now I feel like Id rather not cut my hair at all than to try another salon here in Shanghai (ive tried about 6, some local some more upmarket).
I asked the guy to trim my hair, and he asked me if i wanted him to layer it, which I told him no, i just want a simple trim to my split ends.
All of a sudden I saw him cut of about 5-7 cm strands of my hair. By then I just had to let him finish because otherwise my hair would be uneven.
Now I look like I have a semi-mullet. He cut my long hair in the front so that it reaches my jaw line, and then let the hair be long in the back, looks so frikkin weird! It certainly isnt layers.
I just dont get what the bleep is wrong with these hairdressers! You tell them one thing and they act like they dont give a shit and do whatever they want. Im suspecting they think that the longer they cut the better or something.
I was told I could come back and the stylist would try to fix it for me, but i dont want them to touch my hair again.
Im just gonna walk around with my ugly hair until summer holidays when Ill go back to europe and get someone who knows how to cut hair to do it.
ps if you MUST cut your hair here in Shanghai, it wont come out looking that great at least it will be cheap, the expensive places here suck at cutting hair aswell so you might just as well pay as little as possible to have it ruined.
Disaster.
Now I feel like Id rather not cut my hair at all than to try another salon here in Shanghai (ive tried about 6, some local some more upmarket).
I asked the guy to trim my hair, and he asked me if i wanted him to layer it, which I told him no, i just want a simple trim to my split ends.
All of a sudden I saw him cut of about 5-7 cm strands of my hair. By then I just had to let him finish because otherwise my hair would be uneven.
Now I look like I have a semi-mullet. He cut my long hair in the front so that it reaches my jaw line, and then let the hair be long in the back, looks so frikkin weird! It certainly isnt layers.
I just dont get what the bleep is wrong with these hairdressers! You tell them one thing and they act like they dont give a shit and do whatever they want. Im suspecting they think that the longer they cut the better or something.
I was told I could come back and the stylist would try to fix it for me, but i dont want them to touch my hair again.
Im just gonna walk around with my ugly hair until summer holidays when Ill go back to europe and get someone who knows how to cut hair to do it.
ps if you MUST cut your hair here in Shanghai, it wont come out looking that great at least it will be cheap, the expensive places here suck at cutting hair aswell so you might just as well pay as little as possible to have it ruined.
Sigrid-Marianella
May 10, 09
i meant to say in the end:
if you must cut your hair go to a local chinese little hair salon and get an ugly hair cut for cheap rather than an ugly haircut that costs you an arm and a leg.
if you must cut your hair go to a local chinese little hair salon and get an ugly hair cut for cheap rather than an ugly haircut that costs you an arm and a leg.
sirloinbones
May 12, 09
Benson Hair just next to my home , but I never been there until last week; the hair dresser in the other hair salon cut my hair really bad; I bumped into Benson and hoped that they could save my hair ;
The first impression: they were really busy! I waited for 15 mins , then they arranged a hair dresser to me according to the value option I choose ;
The hair dresser communicated with me first , he asked my thoughts, we chatted a bit ; then he told me what he planned to do , first step, second ...ect ..
I am happy that they were not trying to sell anything to me , not even a word to mention; They didn't push me for the payment , for the membership card and so on; they made me feel that they were really doing the job, serious hair cut ,serious techniques , no bullshit, no push to the customer .
So eventually , I was quite happy with the service and the hair cut;not to mention the price is way cheaper than Toni & Guy (never go again).
I think their style is more classy than others; It's perfect for office people ; If you are looking for something funky , please do not consider about it...
The first impression: they were really busy! I waited for 15 mins , then they arranged a hair dresser to me according to the value option I choose ;
The hair dresser communicated with me first , he asked my thoughts, we chatted a bit ; then he told me what he planned to do , first step, second ...ect ..
I am happy that they were not trying to sell anything to me , not even a word to mention; They didn't push me for the payment , for the membership card and so on; they made me feel that they were really doing the job, serious hair cut ,serious techniques , no bullshit, no push to the customer .
So eventually , I was quite happy with the service and the hair cut;not to mention the price is way cheaper than Toni & Guy (never go again).
I think their style is more classy than others; It's perfect for office people ; If you are looking for something funky , please do not consider about it...
matsume
May 13, 09
Dear Sigrid,
I'm sorry you've had such a horrible experience at my salon the last time you were here.I'm shocked because I understand that you've been a regular client at our salon but chose to try someone else the last time you were here.( We're you here on Friday with your gf?) If you don't mind contacting me or the salon, I'd like to ask you to come back so I can personally take a look at whats happend. Or I can ask Kelly your regular stylist to take a look as well. Thanks 13816993782
I'm sorry you've had such a horrible experience at my salon the last time you were here.I'm shocked because I understand that you've been a regular client at our salon but chose to try someone else the last time you were here.( We're you here on Friday with your gf?) If you don't mind contacting me or the salon, I'd like to ask you to come back so I can personally take a look at whats happend. Or I can ask Kelly your regular stylist to take a look as well. Thanks 13816993782
rouco
May 14, 09
Dear all, It's very interesting to read all your comments. I'd like to ask you a favour for the hairdresser market research I'm working on.
Can you tell me which are in your opinion the 5 most expensive salons in the city (not depending on quality, but just on price).
You can write me to the following e mail:
roucavare@gmail.com
THANKS!
Can you tell me which are in your opinion the 5 most expensive salons in the city (not depending on quality, but just on price).
You can write me to the following e mail:
roucavare@gmail.com
THANKS!
ariannef
May 22, 09
I'm with Toma5155 though I believe it's called Ming Liu International Salon - Dingxi, corner Xuanhua ;-) Best. Hair Salon. Ever. A friend recommended it back in November when I went from blond to dark red with extensions. Fast forward 5 months later, I'm regretting the move big time and want to go back to platinum blond so I bring a bunch of old pictures... "can you make my hair look like this again?" "yes" "are you sure?" "yes" "you know that red is really hard to bleach out right?" "yes" "and it won't be yellow right?" "don't worry"... now usually this is when you start breaking out in a cold sweat and praying to the hair gods... they did a fantastic job, this is now more than 3 months ago and not even a tint of red or yellow has marred my color. Their prices are "normal" but if you get one of the cards you get mad savings - getting my roots done used to cost just under 1000RMB at Eric - bleach, toner, blowdry - at this place I paid 260RMB last time (based on a 5000RMB card - regular price if you pay cash is a little more than double so still half as cheap as the other expat places). My favorite is you can buy one of those kerastase super deep conditioning tubs (ok, super expensive 800-1600 depending on which one you choose) but after that they'll apply it for free every time you go with the steam machine and it has literally saved my hair - my first tub lasted over 6 months with TONS of hair (3 packs of extensions) so this one might well stretch out to a year, oh and their simple wash and style is 38-48RMB depending on the stylist and you knock off 50% if you have a card so it costs me 20-25RMB a week to get my deep conditioning treatment which saves both my color and my hair and then get it styled - I have seriously given up on doing it myself and the 20 minute head and shoulder massage don't hurt either ;-) So yay for this place :-)
jetenke
Jun 17, 09
i tried both id and hip culture, both of them r totally crap. hip culture is a complete nightmare. don't ever try.
i guess this article is only and advertisement...
shame on you
i guess this article is only and advertisement...
shame on you
saragougs
Jun 19, 09
I found this article rather interesting, yet saddening at the same time. I have lived in Shanghai for going on twelve years. So believe me when I say that I've tried everywhere and "everyone" of the who's who of hair dressers in Shanghai and hands down Dennis L. is the BEST!!!. He previously was the senior stylist at Portman Ritz-Carlton for nine year, until three years ago he started up his on salon at Heng Shan Bing Guan. I am naturally blond but go to him for highlights,I assure his work is nothing short of perfection. Have yet to find anyone that is even is the same realm of talent. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! His work speaks volumes and is worth every penny. Also ask for Tracy for the best manicurist/pedicurists in town.
dido_zj
Jun 24, 09
Damn it, I cannot believe some of you complain that there is no place to go for a nice hair cut in Shanghai. Let's see how you gonna survive if you move to where I live right now (somewhere northwest of U.S. This place was rated the second place in the nation to have bad hairsyle in 2008). Five years i have been here, I have experienced countless disaster cuts from Amercians, Korean, Japnese, Vietnamese and of course Chinese "stylist". Well, lessons learned. I finally realize the cost of a satisfied haircut for me is around 00, which includes the cost of haircut and a plane tickets back to Shanghai.
Sigrid-Marianella
Jul 01, 09
feel like i need to post another review here.
Went back to beijing hair culture for another cut and I feel like they truly made up for the mishap with my hair that happened last time.
I find it very professional when businesses take their customers criticism seriously, i feel very valued as a customer.
This time I had my hair cut by Matsume, and it turned out great. I even took the daunting step to cut off all my long hair into a bob after 10 years of long hair. No tears shed.
:)
Apparently the stylist that cut my hair last time no longer works there so I suppose one need not be scared of going there anymore.
I will be going back again definitely.
Went back to beijing hair culture for another cut and I feel like they truly made up for the mishap with my hair that happened last time.
I find it very professional when businesses take their customers criticism seriously, i feel very valued as a customer.
This time I had my hair cut by Matsume, and it turned out great. I even took the daunting step to cut off all my long hair into a bob after 10 years of long hair. No tears shed.
:)
Apparently the stylist that cut my hair last time no longer works there so I suppose one need not be scared of going there anymore.
I will be going back again definitely.
Dmoney
Jul 11, 09
My husband and I live in California and have very high maintanence blond hair. We have been in Shanghai a month and were dying to get our roots done, but were terrified to trust any salons and the banter in the reviews above certainly didnt help. So I researched salons with european stylists that knew our type of hair and came up with Contestarockhair, as mentioned in reviews above. They were euro, spoke english and that was good enough for me. We took a chance and were very happy. My husband and I walked out of the salon as if we had been born with that color. In comparison to what we pay in the USA to get our hair done, it was very reasonable. Check it OUT!!!!!!
Leenski
Jul 11, 09
Hi All - would like to pick your brains about STRAIGHT PERMS in Shanghai... has anyone had it done successfully here? I used to get bio-ionic straightening done in Korean/Japanese hairdressers in Australia, but having trouble finding an experienced hairdresser here who offers the same. I went to a really expensive Japanese hairdresser in CITIC square and in the end he left the formula in my hair too long and my hair broke!
My hair has grown back now and still frizzy... would love to hear your success stories?! :)
My hair has grown back now and still frizzy... would love to hear your success stories?! :)
anabeth
Aug 06, 09
Before I came to Bensonsalon,doing my hair everyday was a constant battle. However,now that I have had my hair straightened there,my hair looks fabulous! Thank you so much,Marc and his team!
I love my new straight hair!
I love my new straight hair!
Gabby
Aug 30, 09
Big up for Terry from I.D
xxx
xxx
angelhha
Dec 03, 09
I am demanding about my hair and the salon is good. Maybe the hair massage should be longer
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They've been spamming the board for weeks with fake usernames, making up recommendations that sound very much like the one in this article. Not smart.