For many women, the journey to finding a good salon can be compared to the journey of finding the perfect partner: difficult, heartbreaking and at times, completely hopeless. But once that perfect match is found – the one who brings out the best in you and makes you smile – it’s all worth it.
I recently went on a first date to the newly opened eloura Lifestyle Salon & Spa in Surry Hills and ladies, between you and me, I think I may have finally found The One.
The salon
Located on the corner of Crown and Devonshire Streets, the salon is incredibly easy to find with a welcoming interior full of natural light. Opened by Richard Campbell and Anita Sutton-Galloway who have 50 years’ combined experience in the industry, eloura is everything one would expect from such beauty professionals.
eloura partners exclusively with Aveda and, in keeping with the brand’s philosophy and mission for caring for the world we live in, uses recycled materials throughout its design, from reclaimed pallets for the 11 hair-cutting stations, to the recycled wood used to create the reception desk. Built over two levels, the downstairs salon is filled with rustic charm and industrial nuances, whereas upstairs is a luxurious retreat (seriously, all sounds from the street below are completely non-existent once you climb those stairs). So whether you’re after a quick blow-dry or a full day of pampering, eloura is the perfect one-stop salon.
The treatment – Botanical Hair and Scalp Renewal Treatment
As someone who constantly heat styles her hair, the word “renewal” is music to my ears. My hair was definitely lacking in the shine and health department, so Richard was quick to recommend the Botanical and Scalp Renewal Treatment to restore hydration to my ends, roots and scalp. The treatment caters to all hair types, so no matter what your hair issue is – oily, sensitive, dry or normal – the salon has a range of Aveda products to suit everyone.
To begin, I was asked to close my eyes and take three deep breaths before being treated to an amazing scalp and neck massage. This is the opening ritual the eloura salon performs on every client before every treatment and it completely relaxes and clears your head so you’re able to fully enjoy the experience and leave all your worries at the door.
Next, the Aveda Scalp Remedy Conditioning Concentrate was applied throughout my scalp and roots, section by section, and then massaged all over to ensure every inch was treated. I was then led to the basin where the oil was washed out and my hair cleaned with Aveda’s Smooth Infusion™ Shampoo which perfectly suited my static and frizzy hair. Afterwards, the botanical treatment was applied. While the hair treatment worked its magic, I was able to lay back and relax while I was spoilt with another massage, this time on my hands. I have honestly never been more relaxed in my life.
The result
After the treatment was rinsed out and finished off with the Aveda Smooth Infusion™ Conditioner, I was led back to the cutting station for a blow-dry. Richard applied Aveda Pure Abundance Style-Prep before combing through my locks and I instantly noticed how easily the comb glided through my hair. Aveda’s Volumizing Tonic was applied to my roots for added volume and Phomollient was run through my ends for extra styling.
As Richard blow-dried my hair, it was easy to see the change the treatment had made. My hair was so much shinier, the static was calm, my scalp looked completely clear and soothed and I have never seen my hair so healthy. I’ve found with previous treatments that it’s only the mid-lengths and that benefit, but this one was a complete transformation. The colour of my roots was restored purely from the hydration of the treatment and despite an oil being used, there was no residue or heavy feeling whatsoever. The result was a fantastic wavy blow-dry with a healthy shiny finish that the Duchess of Cambridge would envy.
eloura is an Aboriginal word that means ‘happy place to be’ and from my own wonderfully relaxing experience and the sensational results, it couldn’t be a more accurate name.
For a full list of treatments head to http://www.elouralifestyle.com.au/
Do you like the sound of Sam’s treatment? What do you look for in a relaxing, effective treatment?
