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Helmet Head
Categories: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Beauty and Spas Massage Hair Salons, Massage
5527 Airport Way S(between Lucile Street Ovps & Lucile St)
Seattle, WA 98108
Neighborhood: Georgetown
(206) 763-5945
- Hours:
Tue-Fri 10 am - 7 pm
Sat 11 am - 5 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Accepts Insurance:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Hair Types Specialized In:
- Straight Perms, Coloring, Extensions, Curly Hair, Asian Hair
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
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79 reviews for Helmet Head
79 reviews in English
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Review from Allie S.
I have never had a stylist of my very own before. I'm flighty - one cut it's Vain, one cut it's Regis, next cut it may be SuperCuts. I know hair grows back so sometimes I just want to get it cut on a whim...
But that's all changed -- before the end of my appointment at Helmet Head I swore my allegiance to Lorena, who was able to listen to me prattle endlessly about my rather mundane life, who knew the haircut I was dying to ask for without me actually needing to ask. It's true -- she's a salon psychic.
Having pink hair and being a DIY kind of gal, my hair is all sorts of damaged. Taking at it every morning with my trusty straightener, the periodic bleachings [and re-bleachings, d'oh], the pink bubble gum smelling goo being slathered all over my hair before being tightly secured in a grocery bag and duct taped to my head before I sleep to ensure my pink lasts as long as it can. I'm no stranger to hair drama -- believe it or not I have a metric buttload of strawberry blonde hair when I am not cotton candy pink. My hair will always find a weird way to stick up if I don't have the right cut.
Enter Lorena: she's got a ton of experience [she was a stylist at Gene Juarez prior to Helmet Head] and is an awesome listener. As I said, I was very vague with instructions -- I figure no matter how cool something may look on other people, there's always a chance it won't look good on me so I leave it up to the stylist's discretion -- and ended up with a phenomenal haircut.
Even though it was only a couple inches of hair being trimmed on most of my head, the haircut was an immediate improvement... To the point where I already have to count the compliments I've received on both hands [almost moving on to toes!] and I've only been rockin' this 'do since Saturday afternoon. Not to mention, it was a total steal, as my cut itself only cost $30.
... I've already got an appointment to have Lorena re-pink my hair for me. I deserve it.
[PS: Helmet Head was awesome as a whole as well -- the decor is fabulous and the entire staff was really welcoming!]Listed in: Catch 'Em All!
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Review from Daniele F.
Seattle, WA
Updated - 1/11/2012
I think it's funny/interesting that they haven't responded to me almost 3 months later (even though the person who came in after me got one), but can post my pic on their website. I'm the one in the teal tanktop getting her hair cut by jamie in front:
http://www.helmetheads...1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/21/2011
I got my hair cut here with Jamie, who was nice enough to book me on a Saturday, which I knew to be… Read more »
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Review from Crystal B.
Honolulu, HI
12/16/2011
It's been a while since I visited Helmet Head, but as I was scheduling a hair appointment I was thinking about past haircuts and felt I should review my experience here.
I always get my hair cut on my birthday before going out to dinner, just a little something to make myself feel extra pampered. I wanted to try a new salon, so after looking at the Yelp reviews I chose Helmet Head for my birthday treat.
First of all, the location is a little bizarre. It is out in the middle of a somewhat industrial area, and definitely doesn't impart the "luxury salon" feeling. I like that they had a concept and the decor was cool. While I waited for my stylist I chatted with the receptionist, and when I told her I chose the salon because of Yelp, she told me that I got 10% off because I am a yelper. Awesome.
I told my stylist what I was going for (for length and style) as well as how I usually wear my hair. I also told her that I would be going out for a fancy dinner that night for my bday and was looking forward to a nice blowout. She sounded confident and capable. Fast forward, she starts styling my hair and I get increasingly nervous because she is putting finishing touches on my hair after only partially drying it with the blow dryer. I have that kind of hair that can't just be blow dried, because without further styling it just expands and expands into an unfortunate, frizzy-afro-looking disaster. I could feel that the under layers of hair were still damp. In addition, I had told her I needed some subtle layers so that I didn't end up with that triangle look where the ends are all poofy, and she had not put a single layer in that I could find.
I am really bad at speaking up in situations like this, but it was my birthday and I was definitely not going to show up at my birthday dinner looking like this, so I summoned all my nerves and told her it was not really what I was hoping for. I told her I wanted a few subtle layers, and that my bangs still needed a trim, because I was going from full bangs to side-swept ones. She seemed frustrated, which I understand, but said "Well to do anything about that I'm going to have to basically do it over?" Okay...
So round 2... When she spun me around to look in the mirror, I was still very unhappy. Layers indeed- the cut looked like the Rachel shag circa 1995, except partially dried with frizzy curls. My bangs were not cut in a way that fell nicely, and she had used so much product trying to tame the poof left by the unfinished blowout that my hair felt greasy and heavy.
I was over it at that point, so I paid (full price, no Yelp discount after all I guess...) and went home where I re-washed and styled my hair. The cut, when straightened, was really choppy, and the two sides were uneven. The layers were chunky and definitely not subte. Ugh.
Anyway, I live in Honolulu now, but even if I was still in Seattle I would be looking for a different salon. I couldn't tell if she wasn't listening to what I was asking for if she was incapable of producing it. I have difficult hair, I am well aware of that, but for a salon rated so well I expected more.Comment from Yelp Sucks Y. of Helmet Head 12/29/2011
Thanks for your review. I sent a private response. Also… More » -
Review from Jim E.
Seattle, WA
1/6/2012
Did not like. I was informed by the stylist that she doesn't do clipper cuts, and had to suffer through a $40 scissor cut that ended up looking nothing like the conservative, simple high-and-tight that I always get. I understand that hair can be art, but I just needed a simple service performed. Wrong kinda place for me, I suppose. I also understand that they probably rent out the chairs and these were the quirks of that individual stylist, but it still reflects on the business. For me, $10 at Ashley Hair Salon down the street got a much better haircut.
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Review from Marla E.
Fairwood, WA
Updated - 1/4/2012
so my stylist, heather, moved to a salon in w sea, and after driving out there for a while and dealing with the horrendous parking situation, i decided to come back to helmet head & see kurstin. kurstin has been my husband's stylist for about 3 years and does an amazing job on his thick, wavy hair. i've been growing my hair out for a few months, so i was overdue for a cut. kurstin did a fabulous job! she totally got that i'm growing it out, so she cut mostly into the center, removing bulk and just trimming the ends on the length. she made my curls shine! i had no idea they could be so vivacious but through her masterful technique, they are. we also talk products and she is very knowledgeable about the product line i use (Loma, which they carry). i'm so happy i made the change. having fine, curly hair herself, she TOTALLY gets my hair.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/7/2008
AWESOME! heather cut my hair for the first time since i moved here and i am a very happy girl. she… Read more »
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Review from Andrew K.
Pollock Pines, CA
8/9/2011
I decided to try Helmet Head for the first time a few weeks ago. After shopping around for a hair cut, they seemed to be the best value by a long shot. Several of the places I called wanted $50 for a haircut, and I just refuse to pay that much!! I payed half that at Helmet Head, and was very happy with my hair cut.
The salon itself has a very interesting atmosphere. Its definitely not your run of the mill salon. It seems like a biker/vintage hair kind of vibe. Its cool to see the vintage hair styles that they do for some of their clients. I enjoyed watching one lady getting her hair done.
Nina cut my hair, and she did an excellent job. She was very sweet and easy to talk to. I asked her to take an inch off, and she knew that would be too much, so she took of 3/4" first, and I was much happier with that. I was really pleased that she picked up on that, and made a decision in my interest. I asked her to keep the same style that I had, just trim it. She did that, and actually improved the style!! I am really pleased with the changes I made. I will definitely be back to see her soon. -
Review from nancy c.
Renton, WA
8/5/2011
OMG! i'm so glad that I decided to try a new place in getting my hair cut. For YEARS i've gone to different places, stuck with them once, twice and maybe three times because i'm afraid to venture off. but dangit! i'm sure glad I did this time.
My first time there, I found helmet head and saw amazing reviews decided, hey why not? Made an appointment, long story short I had Lorena and she did an AMAZING job. I had a simple trim and add layers and it nearly didnt cost me as much as it did when I went to 7.
I'm usually not a talker when I get my hair cut, so it was very quiet between the two of us (which I hope wasn't awkward for Lorena) here i'm use to the "asian" hair salons, snipping away and hair flying everywhere but this time i'm sitting here not feeling a thing wondering... "is she cutting anything?"
Yes she was! She asked if i wanted a sleek finished look or volume, I let her decide and we went for the volume look. LOOOVED IT! i'm glad. I only have 2 complaints 1) is that i'm not exactly crazy about the product that was used to probably volumize my hair (sorta on the sticky side and I typically don't use hair product) but I figured, if that's what help volumize my hair and made it look the way it did, by all means, lemme get some more!
2) Maybe there was a miscommunication, i told her I part to the left. To me that meant my bangs swipes to the left yet she swept my bangs to the right? none the less, it was amazing and they will see me again!
I've been dying to find a "non-asian" hair salon. I just totally HATE how you set up an appointment but when you arrive at your time, that stylist is with another customer. WHAT THE HECK! why make "appointments" if you cannot honor that. whatever.
Helmet head, you will see me again! -
Review from Burt S.
Seattle, WA
5/26/2011
I've never been more happy with a stylist than I am with Dawn. The first time I walked into Helmet Head, Dawn was fairly new and she was sitting at the receptionist desk. I walked in and asked for a haircut and she stood up and said ok, follow me. I followed her and was thinking to myself, "am I getting my haircut by the receptionist?"
After getting more acclimated with her through conversations about life and food (my favorite subject) I just blurted it out, "so......do you cut hair often? or just when everyone else is busy?..." And she laughed, saying she was a stylist just helping out at the desk. I was relieved and even more satisfied when she was finished with an amazing haircut. I've been going back for a few months now, and they take VERY good care of their regulars. Dawn even gave me a free haircut as a birthday gift! How nice is that!?
I would definitely recommend Dawn to everyone! She takes her time and does a great job every single time. She's also very pleasant to be around and is the nicest stylist I know! -
Review from Erin M.
Seattle, WA
8/8/2011
So I came to Helmet Head after having a "break up" with my previous hair stylist in January of 2011. Since coming to Helmet Head, I've had an absolutely wonderful experience. These ladies are classy and treat their clients with respect.
Kurstin has been awesome! She does an excellent job on my hair. Even after 2 months of growing out, my hair still looks great because she does a great job. Thank you!! -
Review from Rachel P.
Seattle, WA
Updated - 9/12/2011
I am totally not a "yelper"...I forgot that I did it once, and I think Helmet Head was the only place I reviewed. I came here on Saturday to get an updo with Sami because she had done a great job for one of my friends.
Sami did, hands down, the BEST updo I have ever gotten. She was so nice, and totally listened to what I asked for. She even reduced the price because my appt didn't take the full amount of time, and threw in some free hair wefts to make my 'do look extra special.
You simply cannot get a better experience than Helmet Head...there's a reason I keep going back here! They are the best!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/26/2010
LOVE this place. Have gone here a couple times for a bang trim and they are fantastic. Super nice… Read more »
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Review from Emby L.
Seattle, WA
1/24/2011
I was excited to try Helmet Head after reading the great reviews on Yelp. My 1st time there I had problems finding the salon and arrived too late for Carly Jo to have enough time so I rebooked with her for another date.
Carly Jo was really sweet but the haircut she cut was one of the worst I have experienced. I have loose spiral curly hair that gets straighter farther away from washes and it was shoulder length at the time. I was interested in some light layering and shaping. Carly Jo used thinning shears haphazardly cutting off 3-4 inches and I was left with a lopsided frizzy mess. Using thinning shears on curls disrupted the curl pattern and left the locks in a stiff frizz.
I am not a high maintenance person, appreciating good cuts that make life easier, so having a cut that made my hair awful was very stressful for me as I had gone in to get shaped up a week before a job interview. I called a few days later asking for help in styling what Carly Jo had done and the owner had me come in. I talked with her and the stylist Kurstin and they agreed that nothing could be done until a couple of months of hairgrowth happened, the owner apologized and offered a complimentary cut in two months to fix what Carly did.
After my hair grew for two months I went back to see Kurstin and she went through and cut into the locks to free up the curls from the effects of the thinning shears. It helped.
A few more months later I went in for another cut, I called in advance to let them know I was running 15 minutes late which the receptionist said would be ok as long as I got there within 15 minutes. I arrived as promised and after I got there Kurstin was on the phone and didn't get to the chair for another 10 minutes. She was on the phone with her car insurance. When she did come to the chair I explained the shaping I wanted and she started to cut.
She didn't say much so I asked her what her approach was going to be for the shaping I was after. She seemed angered and snapped back about how "I was freaking out about my hair" which was a bit odd. The rest of the time was pretty unfriendly. When she rinsed my hair out she wiped and scratched her nose on the towel she used to wrap my wet hair with.
Although we had another 10 minutes before her next client she did not dry my wet hair. I asked her if she was done and asked for a new towel and went to the bathroom to dry my hair. The cut frizzed out my hair at the crown.
I'm not sure if she was stressed because of her car or if she did not want me as a client or if she was mad that I was late. I thought about trying to talk with her about what was going on for her last week but decided the cuts and the unwelcoming atmosphere were not worth going through that for me. So I'm trying another salon that got good reviews on a curly hair website.Comment from Yelp Sucks Y. of Helmet Head 6/29/2011
Kurstin called this client personally to speak with her… More » -
Review from Fedora e.
Seattle, WA
8/26/2011
Nina just gave me the best cut & color I have had in five years. Then, Sammy told me about this straightening process they have that will make my wavy hair super smooth and straight for up to 6 months. Did I mention Jenny gives the best massages in town? This is my full-service, friendly, funky, head-to-toe go-to for beauty.
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Review from Allison B.
San Francisco, CA
1/3/2011
I very VERY rarely give a 5 star rating. Actually, to this date, I have yet to do so. Let that be known first. But I honestly feel this place deserves the highest recognition I can give on Yelp.
I found Helmet Head after searching online for a hair salon. Having just moved to Seattle, and having no female friends to ask "where you get your hair did" I turned to Yelp. I found a place (that I won't name here) that's just down the street from my apartment in Cap Hill. And let's just say I was not entirely pleased with the outcome. But I'm cheap, so I let it grow out (and grow out it did, not-so-nicely either) before getting it "fixed". I again turned to an online search, and this time found Helmet Head.
Thank god.
I called and asked for a haircut. I'm usually not very picky (which is why I was surprised by how much I disliked my previous haircut - it was that bad), so I didn't ask for any particular stylist. Jamie had an opening. I took it. And I was super pleased. She took the time to ask me what I was looking for and she actually LISTENED! Again, I'm not super picky so I gave her a lot of free reign - it's why she's the stylist and I'm not - but she got it right and made my hair look healthy and happy again. And I've been going back ever since. -
Review from Nicole T.
Seattle, WA
7/30/2011
Dawn is now my go-to hairdresser! It's not often you find one that you like. I had my hair cut for only $25 and she did an awesome job. I went in knowing I wanted my bangs cut and my ends trimmed, but as for styling, I wanted them to decide. And unlike other salons (like 7) who I give that freedom to, Dawn made a great suggestion. I trusted her and went with it, and she did great. She was also very easy to talk to, not stuck up like those in high end salons.
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Review from Heather M.
Seattle, WA
5/4/2011
Thank you J & Living Social for bringing this establishment into my life.
My wonderful husband recently gifted me a 60 min. facial a la Living Social for use at the Helmet Head Salon. I'll admit I was a bit apprehensive at first, as I have never had a facial before. However, upon arrival I was warmly welcomed and introduced to Lauren, the aesthetician. Lauren then guided me to the back of the salon where Dr. Jennifer of Xerion Skin Science awaited us behind a bar (circa 1952 soda shoppe) to conduct a skin consultation before my facial. I must say, I was thoroughly impressed with Jennifer's expertise in skin science. Utilizing a biochem./medicine background, Jennifer customized the facial care products and masks for my facial.
The facial: WOW!! Lauren you are amazing! I especially loved the leg/foot and arm/hand massage between each mask. I was also extremely relaxed by the soft music and the scalp massage. On top of the softest, clearest skin, I received an eyebrow waxing! After the facial was complete, I was given the opportunity to purchase all of the handmade, customized products used by Lauren at a great discount. After Lauren and Jennifer took the time to walk me through the ideal skin care regimen, they packaged the products into an adorable, free tote bag of my choice and I walked out of there with over $150 of natural skin care product for less than $75!
Now a week later, I am already noticing more balance in my bipolar skin. No more dried out skin from the harsh OTC products that left me so oily at the end of the day you could fry an egg on my forehead. Also, the deluxe eye cream (one of 5 products I got for $50. Org.$40 value alone) is perfect for my dark circles, and I am loving their tip to put it in the fridge.
Get in there and see these ladies! A must if you want to avoid harsh chemicals/products or just enjoy the great service. -
Review from H. K.
Seattle, WA
10/1/2010
The cut and color here were truly just ok- nothing spectacular, nothing worth returning for. The stylist (couldn't remember her name) was super friendly and nice. I was a little disappointed to see that there were no dogs present, but hey, that's ok. I was excited to try out this place with such rave reviews. However, I came away really disappointed. The cut wasn't as described, even though it was just trimming up an existing cut- they left the hair on the top of the head way too long, so it looked shaggy when it should have been spiky. And the color was dramatically toned down from the striking contrast that used to be there. It was almost like we went to an edgy salon, yet got a Mom-Jeans cut and color.
Ok, so they weren't sure exactly what we wanted- this was our first time there. That could be changed with subsequent visits (Brighter highlights! More off the top!) But what really put the nail in the coffin on this place was the price. I get that cutting and coloring hair is expensive and I expect a high price tag for overall color and foil, but nearly $200 for a trim and color on very short hair?! Holy cow, that was the breaking point. No way would I spend that much money on a ho-hum result, especially on a pixie cut.
If the cut and color were spectacular, I might return. But I don't want to pay a few hundred bucks on trying this place out again. I'll find someplace else. Nice people, but too expensive for too little excitement. -
Review from Leigh C.
8/14/2010 5 Check-ins Here
I needed to do something new and exciting with my hair so I saw all the great reviews on Yelp about this place and seeing as how it's near my house, I decided to make an appointment.
I had the most amazing hair experience, ever. Sam is hilarious, but even better, she has some serious hair skills! I showed her a picture of what I wanted and she took her time to make sure it was perfect down to every last detail. I have a freakish amount of hair so it took nearly 2x as long as I was scheduled for, but not once did she rush what she was doing or take any shortcuts to make it go by faster. The cut and color are gorgeous. I've gotten so many compliments on it, even from my mother, who has a tendency to hate everything I do haha.
I will definitely be going back to her in the future for any and all hair needs. I think it's safe to say that after years of bouncing around from salon to salon, I have found a place worth coming back to. -
Review from Amanda R.
Seattle, WA
5/31/2011 6 Check-ins Here
Jamie has given me something I always wanted but never thought I could have. I went in with a general idea of how I wanted my hair cut and Jaime ran with it. This lady is meticulous and extremely skilled. I have very baby fine, thin hair that just kind of lays there looking lifeless. I thought that the only remedy would eventually be some kind of extensions or a hair piece. Jaime knows what she's doing and actually cut my hair in such a way that it looks like I have a lot of hair! She also focuses heavily on making sure you can reproduce your style at home. She explained every product, why she was using it and how I could achieve the same results. Jamie is no nonsense and a say it like it is kind of lady. She was right on when she said this is the beginning of a long relationship for us! I will never let anyone else cut/foil my hair.
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Review from Monica N.
Seattle, WA
5/6/2010
Okay, I just got back from getting the best hair color job ever by Kurstin.
Here's how the story began. I was a pretty tan Asian (like NC42 in mac shades) with black hair and I decided to go light ASH brown with blond fading into the ends. I wanted to look like I came back from the beach. I didn't want any golden shades. I went to get it done at this other salon where I usually go to get everything done and guess what happens....
This other place bleaches my hair with splotchy pieces and tries to color over it with a light brown shade .... I don't know how but my whole head was blond!!!!!!!!!! Unless I was going yamanba, it looked ridiculous on me. So I went back the next day to get it done a few shades darker ... then what happens ....
MY HAIR IS ORANGE!!! not like a dark orange, but like an orangutan animal neon blond peach who knows what color this was. The other place kept on insisting that it looked nice and I was like HELL NO. I cried the whole time I drove to work and my coworkers had a big laugh of it. =( My boss called me a Japanese pop star and my hair was lighter than my coworkers natural red beard.
So that's when I made the best decision of my life to go to Helmet Head to get it done right. I called around 10:30 in the morning to see if they had any openings and thank the lord they had one at 2:30 pm. I went in there with my hat covering my head and prayed that someone could fix it....
Kurstin was kind enough to take out time to help me pick out the right shades and what she was going to do. She didn't push to do something I didn't like or want. She used a demi permanent dye because my hair was so badly damaged. She was so gentle when she applied the color with her fingers instead of using a brush to poke at my scalp. And guess what, I came out of that salon so happy I almost had tears of joy! My hair is the LIGHT ASH brown where I want it to be and the ends are such a nice natural blond. She took her time to blow dry my hair with a brush to make it all bouncy. Not flat as a pancake as that other place. Everyone was so friendly and so passionate about what they do. =) I am glad I chose HH to get my hair fixed because the other salon tried to get me back in to "fix" it again.
The color cost me 90 dollars and I tipped Kurstin 30 because she saved my life from further humiliation. If you have major hair emergency, this is the place to go!!!
Plus, they had the cutest dogs!!!!!! -
Review from Jen L.
Seattle, WA
6/12/2009 ROTD 1/7/2010
Heather is a wizard with scissors.
I stubbornly grow out my hair for 2 years and wonder why it has no body.
Duh.
I go to Heather and her shears sparkle in the sunlight as she snips away my pathetic ends into something fancy that I can never duplicate but I sure look good when I walk out. I'm still working on the duplicating part but it takes me about 5 times the time (and effort) that it takes Heather. Um yeah, I'm not big on styling.
Hmmmm......maybe in two years I'll finally have it down. ;-)
They have moved to a bigger space with air conditioning and now have pedicures. The chair looks like a throne and I may have to check that out. -
Review from Tara S.
Seattle, WA
6/13/2010
The BEST hair cut I have ever received for the price. Unbeatable. I honestly don't understand how this place exist considering their hair dressers are 5 star quality for a 3 star price. Very rare. I was raised on good hair cuts at expensive saloons, however, breaking out on my own, I refused to pay the price. Since moving to Seattle, I went first to an expensive salon and then to a cheap one. Unhappy with both; The first for being to pricey, and the second for a crappy hair do. I was blown away with Helmet Head.
I had Kurstin. She rocked my haircut. Listen and asked specific questions to really get what I was saying. She spent her full hour with me, even though I didn't care if I had a style or not. She also spent a lot of time taking weight out and making sure the cut was exactly how I wanted it.
My gf had Jamie, who was also amazing! I've never seen her with such a sexy-cute haircut! I loved it. Awesome job! We are def new regulars.
You must go here. There is no where in town, or most towns that can beat this quality for the price!! -
Review from Becca C.
2/25/2010
A wonderful experience at Helmet Head. Sammy, the owner, gave personalized attention to me. I never felt rushed while we discussed my hopes and dreams for my highlighting. I have really naturally dark hair, and wanted to be able to tell I did something with my hair, but didn't get shocking stripes. She did a wonderful, 2-tone job that complemented my hair and gave depth and volume to it.
This place does have a couple really friendly dogs, but they'll leave you alone if you wish. I wanted the pug to like me, but instead Sammy's chihuahua (I think?) snuggled upto me.
The price was definitely more than I usually pay, but the quality was definitely better. Sammy also showed me some hair-magic volume powder that I love to use! For a haircut, I'd probably go somewhere cheaper, but investing in good hair coloring is not where you should cut corners.Listed in: Beautified in Seattle
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Review from Doreen H.
Seattle, WA
1/27/2011
I just had my hair done by Kurstin and as always... am super happy with the experience. I am so happy that I decided to Yelp about it! Then I saw a review about Kurstin and Helmet Head that kind of upset me. Kurstin has been my stylist for close to a year now and I have never had a bad experience. I'm always greeted with kindness and courtesy, felt appreciated and valued and left feeling well taken care of. She is always smiling, happy, conversational and a great listener. Everyone has bad days, but I've never witnessed one of Kurstin's. When it comes to work, she's nothing but professional.
Before I found Helmet Head, I used to dread getting my hair done. Feelings of anxiety & worry always surfaced right before the appointment. How many tears will I shed after it's all cut and done? What hats will I be wearing until the next dreaded hair appointment? I had not found hair happiness until I found Kurstin. Seriously. She saw me and my hair, analyzed the situation, learned about my lifestyle and how easy it needed to be for me. She foiled my hair with colors that compliment my skin tones. We came up with a style that worked for my facial features and need for simplicity. I couldn't be happier with her work. I now look forward to being pampered and fussed over.
As for today, Kurstin rocked it! I'm already up to five compliments on my hair and the day isn't even over! -
Review from Alison V.
12/10/2007
What's not to love?
Talented, friendly, and talkative staff.
Dogs to keep you company while hanging out.
A nice, relaxed attitude.
A general feeling you're getting your hair cut by a good friend but getting professional work.
I love this place and will be back again for sure!
***Update in early 08 - they moved to their new location along Airport Way so if you're just planning on popping in, go there!***** -
Review from Heidi N.
Kent, WA
6/13/2010
I needed to get my hair, makeup and nails done for a wedding I was in....so I went to Helmet Head!
I had Jamie who gave me an AWESOME up do and Kurstin for a LIFE CHANGING make up experience. Annabeth always does my nails, so I knew I would get a STELLAR mani/pedi and I did!
The entire staff was so great and I felt like a rockstar when I left and all for an amazing price.
One of the other bridesmaids got the rockstar treatment that day too and said she is a customer for life! -
Review from Jennifer G.
Seattle, WA
4/23/2010
I've had my hair cut by Heather, cut and colored (partial foil) by Carly Jo, and my brows waxed by Noel. I have never, not once, left Helmet Head with a shred of concern or stress...and I'm the kind of girl that walks into a hair salon and says, "I don't know what I want. What do you think?"
Yeah. I'm THAT girl.
Both Heather and Carly Jo took their time, discussed their preferences and had no qualms about just going for it, while staying inside a few boundaries I gave. (No shorter than this; must be appropriate for my law firm job.) They respected my boundaries, gave me badass haircuts, and spent a good chunk of time showing me tips so I could replicate and play with the style at home.
So, even though I have a hankerin' for some scissors in my hair, I'm waiting until Tuesday to get it cut...because that's when Carly Jo is next available. (That's kind of a big deal for me - waiting, I mean. In general.) -
Review from Sharon K.
Long Island City, Queens, NY
6/10/2009
Oh how I love Yelp! It helped me find Helmet Head and see all the great reviews that previous Yelpers left so that I knew that I was going to a great place.
So many good things about this place: private parking lot (BIG plus!) and big and spacious shop (they have a garage door that opens up on nice days - so nice and refreshing! Also good if there are perms & colorings going on so the chemical smell won't stay contained in the shop). Some other goodies: 3 totally cute dogs, laidback environment, variety of magazines to read, oldies music (I love stuff from the past!), and the girls that work here are all down to earth, friendly and informative.
Kudos to Kurstin for being patient and fixing my crazy colored hair. All different shades of brown from old dye jobs with 1+ inch dark roots but after a few tries (and as painless as it can possibly be, especially for my sensitive scalp), I got an even all over color! YES! As maid-of-honor, I know that my best friend/bride-to-be will approve. She was nervous that I'd go lighter. Although I originally wanted to go lighter, I'm glad that I got a dark brown shade - it makes me look tanner haha. -
Review from Ian R.
Seattle, WA
10/20/2010
Great price. Incredible 'do. Sorry that I couldn't go to my regular at Hodges Hair Quarters, but if you're going to get a dye and trim this is the frickin place. So great. I was attended to by about 3 different people with great customer service.
My stylist was Carly Jo who was absolutely stellar, and works Mon., Tue., and Sat.. We weren't friends before, but we sure are now. She rocks!
She is a rat city roller girl by night, and stylist by day. She rocked my mohawk into Husky Fashion for the football season. She didn't get any die on my scalp. The die didn't run out the next day. I couldn't be more pleased, and I think the 'do got me a business deal... but on this we shall see. If it does, I will tip better next time ;)
Thank you again! Love ya,
Ian -
Review from David R.
Seattle, WA
10/2/2007
They may be in my backyard (one reason for the visit) but this place rocks. The decor is much better then other salons I have been to. Rudy's never takes appointments which made it hard for me to go to and even with the good service Helmet Head blows them away.
The staff is friendly, outgoing very talkative and ready to make you feel at home. I won't be one to comment on the mani's and Pedi's but Ali did a great job trimming the hair that I am blessed enough to have left on my head. Instead of just pulling out the old buzzers she buzzed with a comb! Made it look more like a cut and less of a fresh buzz (my normal is a 1.5 buzz if that helps) She made my hair look clean and head look great.
The dogs rule and are funny as hell. I kinda wish I had more hair to cut so I could hang out a bit more. For the price of Rudy's I got a cut and THEN a rinse to get all those annoying small hairs that drive me nuts off my head and neck. ($10 for my cut)
Will be making this my new place for sure!!
Edit: we now have a new puppy and she is welcomed and allowed to run around off leash while we get our hair done. This is a huge plus since its always good to have pet friendly places.
Stay tuned for the new location opening this spring!!!! -
Review from Jennifer A.
Seattle, WA
5/10/2010
I needed a haircut bad and quick so came onto Yelp and found Helmet Head. Was familiar with the area so called and made an appointment and was able to come in the same day. I was seen by Sammy, the owner, and she made me feel right at home. I came in for a cut and right from the beginning knew I could trust Sammy with my hair. I've gotten bad haircuts in my lifetime and have been pretty hesitant with coming to new places.
My haircut was great, Sammy was amazing, and she took time to show me tips on how to curl my hair. My thick straight hair never wants to hold a curl for more than an hour and Sammy showed me ways on how to keeps those dang curls in for days. She actually curled my entire head after the cut!
I walked out satisfied and will definitely be going back for my next haircut. -
Review from Jessica W.
4/18/2010
Pros:
-There's a discount for Yelpers
-Cuts with Jamie are only $30
-The haircut was good
-Fun atmosphere
-Nobody trying to sell you product (I hate that!)
-Cute dogs
Cons:
-The only con I can think of so far are the dogs if someone was allergic, but it's a huge place and there are not a lot of places where dog hair could get trapped -
Review from MiChin L.
Seattle, WA
10/8/2008
Attention all South-enders: Go here, you deserve it.
Helmet Head kicks ass, plain and simple.
Got my first cut with Sammy yesterday and she took my less-than-optimal description of what I wanted and made my vague vision come to life. On top of being gorgeous, Sammy is friendly, down to earth, had a vested interest in my happiness, and didn't try to push any products on me. She also didn't make me feel bad or guilty that I color my own hair, she actually gave me some good advice about how to do it for best results. I walked out of there with a great look that's completely me, and I will be back. I'll bring my guy there too.
The salon resides in a terrific new space complete with motorcyles on display, one of a kind dressing mirrors (Sammy's husband made them!), pedicures and manicures, massage, Reiki on Fridays, and well-behaved, adorable dogs that add a special welcoming touch.
Look for the painted flames on the front windows and go get yourself a great new 'do! -
Review from Elizabeth J.
Seattle, WA
10/21/2010
After searching for over two years, I've finally found a salon that I want to keep returning to. Kurstin cut and colored my hair and it came out beautifully! Great experience, even with my massive amount of hair and the cost was lower than I expected. They are very attentive to people waiting and I love the little dogs running around and greeting customers. I would recommend this salon to anyone with a conservative, funky, colorful or crazy sense of style!
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Review from Christine B.
Seattle, WA
6/29/2010
I heart Carly! I love my color and my cut, she wanted me to go shorter but I chickened out and now I think, no I know, she's right. My next call is to her to do what she wanted to in the first place! I love it when a stylist is HONEST with you and says "girl you're crazy, that won't look good" and suggest what will! And she's just just cool as hell!
good prices, love the dog that sat in my lap and the pizza place next door is "wow"! -
Review from Lanny B.
Spokane, WA
12/28/2007
Great atmosphere, Great talent, chatty, fun, hip atmosphere, casual, cool, and puppies. Those are all the best things about Helmet Head. I sincerely appreciate all that Sammy (co-owner) did for my hair when she transformed it from black to white with Minimal hair loss. She foiled in the color carefully instead of recklessly globbing bleach straight onto my scalp - and THEN sent me home with handfuls of sample product. Not finesse either; high end product to ensure the health and well-being of my coif.
Everything about this business tells you that these babes mean business. They're in it for fun and they do what they do because they love it, they love you, and they're oh-so-good at it!!
I can't wait to see Sammy, Ali, Heather, Mary, Pepper, Ozzie and Cisco again! -
Review from Kate T.
Vashon, WA
3/2/2011
Good value. A bit too much churn in the stylists so if you want the same thing over and over like me, you'll have to re-explain yourself with slightly different outcomes each time. Still, they're friendly, Georgetown is fun and the price is right.
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Review from Alix H.
Updated - 9/3/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Just how cool is Helmet Head? Sammy the owner got to do a ginormous up-do on Lady Gaga when she was in town for concert just a few weeks back. Hell ya!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/13/2010
I was saved by Sam at Helmet Head after a botched coloring job at my ex-favorite salon. I asked the… Read more »
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Review from Jen M.
Seattle, WA
1/31/2009
I just went here today and had the best experience I've ever had at a salon. Sammy did an AWESOME job on my color, she is so knowledgable about what she does and just such a fun person in general. I had a great time and felt like the three hours I spent there just flew by, what a fun salon this is. Unpretentious, colorful, full of fun stuff to buy, and the cutest chihuahua sitting on my lap half the appt! Maybe this isn't some people's kind of place but to each their own and I will DEFINITELY be back here. I got some great tips on keeping my color in and wasn't scolded as I am at many salons for the hair crimes we all commit at times. I think I died and went to hair heaven.
Thank you Helmet Head for making me beautiful again, and being so close to my work, with free parking and bars next door. God bless Georgetown. -
Review from C M.
Seattle, WA
Updated - 8/17/2009
I was pretty disappointed with my last visit to HH - I've always been very explicit in the highlights I wanted (not too light) and now I could be mistaken for a blonde. The cut was also very hurried.
I was attending a wedding in LA a few days after my visit and decided to straighten my hair. DISASTER! The cut looked like I'd been attacked by a weed wacker! I have relatively wavy hair so it wasn't as noticeable when in its natural state but the layers were just awful. I was somewhat traumatized and have taken awhile to let it grow out. Now my glaring roots need a touch up and I'm afraid to go back!
My husband and a friend of ours have also had cuts there and both felt the cut was WAY TOO SHORT even for a guy.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/2/2009
I have recently moved back to Seattle and was in need of a new salon. I visited Yelp of course and… Read more »
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Review from Sarah G.
Seattle, WA
9/8/2010
I have super unruly and curly hair. I have been in search of a new hair stylist for a long time and am super picky about who touches my hair. I've had plenty of bad experiences in the past and don't care to repeat them. After searching the internet for reputable salons and stylists, I came across Helmet Head on yelp. After reading the reviews, I was confident this was the right place.
I hadn't had a professional haircut in over two years and was feeling a little insecure when I arrived. Heather, one of the owners, was super warm from the start. She asked a lot of questions about my hair and what I wanted. Having curly hair herself, she was able to relate to my woes. I felt totally at ease getting my hair cut and adored pepper (the pug), who sat in my lap the entire time. She used some amazing product on my hair that shaped and styled my hair but didn't make it feel stiff and crunchy, like the gel I used to use did. Although my hair was a little fuller than I like when I left, when I got home and styled it using the products and curling technique she introduced me to, I was pleased with the results. Now, I just need to get a hairdryer and diffuser so my curls are as soft as she made them.
The salon is open and welcoming, and the people are super nice. I would definitely recommend Helmet Head to anyone. Thanks Heather!
