My vision of expansion has taken physical form: Salon deZEN’s second location is now open on Montgomery Street. We’re adjacent to St. Elmo’s, Sisters Thai, and Oak Steakhouse and around the block from AKA Alexandria. It’s such a vibrant area—there’s art, parks, new developments, and a friendly, active community—and we’re still in Old Town.

Every winter clients come to us seeking solutions for brittle, frizzy hair and dry scalps. I did a little digging and it seems many have raided their fridges in the name of hair care. And at the top of the DIY hair treatment list? Good ol’ mayonnaise. But with today’s hair masks and scalp serums, do we really need to dunk our heads in eggy, oily goop anymore? Or does mayo still hold its own?

Every new year brings a fresh perspective on hair color, and 2025 is no different. The trends this year are warm, bold, and full of dimension—just the way we like them. What excites us most is how adaptable these looks are.

I buy a lot of products. I mean a lot. Most are a miss but when I do hit it right I am a very loyal consumer. At the beginning of every year I do a major bathroom drawer clean out. I basically make it my hall of fame and toss the stuff that hasn’t become a favorite. Here are my favorite picks from 2024 that I’m taking into 2025.

Embrace your individuality. This year, let’s embrace everything that makes us who we are. Whether you’re rocking your natural hair texture or stepping into the latest 2025 hair trends, there’s power in celebrating your authentic beauty.

Winter in Alexandria can be beautiful, but it’s no friend to our hair. The good news? With the right care, your hair can stay hydrated, healthy, and full of shine all season long. Here’s a step-by-step guide to winter-proofing your hair, featuring must-have products we love at Salon deZEN.

There’s always that one individual that makes you sweat come holiday shopping time – because they have absolutely EVERYTHING. They’re on top of trends and have the “it” gadget before it's available to anyone else on planet Earth, they also have a vintage collection that museums would fight over and they’re non-expressive and unimpressed (though polite), whenever it’s time to open your present. But…maybe they don’t have one of these:

Why does he always say he doesn’t need anything, and then looks sad when all the gifts under the tree are for the kids – and you! Surprise him this year with something unique and something he needs, not socks or a sweater, because you know your mother-in-law has that covered. Here’s a guide from our local experts:

We are incredibly grateful for the women in our lives – and appreciate every minute we get to spend with them while they are already juggling so many things! Giving them an unexpected, thoughtful present is just one way to share our love this holiday season.

Let’s face it: great hair doesn’t happen by accident. At Salon deZEN, we know that achieving that effortless, fabulous style requires a few insider tricks of the trade. Lucky for you, we’re not gatekeepers.

Every now and then, life brings you a “full circle moment” – a chance to reconnect with the people who helped shape your journey. Recently, I experienced one of those moments when I welcomed Ruth Roche, one of my biggest influences from my early years in cosmetology, to Salon deZEN. Ruth, a seven-time NAHA winner (basically the Oscars of hair), made a massive impact on me back in cosmetology school.

Permanent makeup offers a transformative way to simplify daily beauty routines while enhancing natural features. At deZEN, we’re embracing the latest in permanent makeup trends that prioritize artistry, personalization, and timeless beauty. Here’s what's trending:

At Salon deZEN, we take sustainability seriously, and it’s become a core part of our mission. Our dedication to reducing waste has led us to recycle an impressive 3,575.97 pounds of beauty waste this year alone—including hair clippings, excess color, used foils, and single-use plastics like gloves. But sustainability isn’t just about numbers; it’s about creating a positive ripple effect.

With chlorine, sun and salt water no longer wreaking havoc on our manicures, we’re all in for rocking some new nail looks this fall. Our hands are an extension of our daily look/vibe/mood and keep us feeling polished (pun intended) during the fall madness. While we’ve been out and about in Old Town, we couldn’t help but notice the vast range of shades and styles displayed on our friends’ hands. So we asked our contributors to share the fall hues they’re loving:

Your haircut is more than just a style—it’s a reflection of your personality, lifestyle, and most importantly, the unique features of your face. While many people think certain cuts are only for specific face shapes, the truth is, most haircuts can work for most people, as long as they are adjusted and tailored to the person wearing them.

Hair growth can feel like one of those elusive goals. We've all been there – staring at the mirror, willing our hair to just grow already. But often, it’s not just about what we’re doing to encourage hair growth; it’s about what we’re unknowingly doing wrong. Here are some common mistakes that could be stalling your hair’s journey.

The temps are cooling and those beautiful autumn days are coming. While fall is full of festivals, apple picking and harvests, we do love to squeeze in a day trip to a winery or two…or more. We asked our contributors to share their faves within driving distance of Alexandria.

This fall, variations of the classic bob are dominating. First up, the French bob—a timeless, effortlessly chic style that sits just above or at the jawline. Whether you opt for subtle front angles or a uniform length, the French bob exudes a certain je ne sais quoi.

Whether you're ready to make a bold change or simply add a subtle touch of warmth for the season, let your choice reflect your inner vibe. Fall is all about transformation—not just in nature but within ourselves too—so why not let your hair be a part of that journey.

There’s just something about having your hair and makeup done that provides a boost. That’s what I love about deZEN – we’re in the business of making people feel their most confident.  We’re also here for those women getting back on their feet, trying to find a light in sometimes very dark days.