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Salon Revive
Categories: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Beauty and Spas Day Spas Hair Salons, Day Spas [Edit]
1938 9th St NW(between N Florida Ave & N T St)
Washington, DC 20001
Neighborhood: U Street Corridor
(202) 232-1008
- Nearest Transit:
-
Shaw Metro Station (Green, Yellow)
U Street Metro Station (Green, Yellow)
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
QWERTY -. said: "I was reviewing my Groupon account & found one I didn't even remember buying to some place called Signature Image Salon. What's worse, the salon only had (at the time) a dozen reviews on Yelp. Given all the illicit review weighting…" read more »
67 reviews for Salon Revive
67 reviews in English
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Review from Naima K.
Alexandria, VA
1/29/2012
This is my go-to place. Hiwot is my stylist. (See my pic? Hair by Hiwot.) I usually get a shampoo, blow dry, and flat-iron. My hair is natural; uncolored, about 10 inches long and thick with like 10 different curl and wave patterns, and I'm usually done in about an hour. It usually looks good (my only request is that it be curly so it will last longer), but the outcome is a bit inconsistent - sometimes I get compliments, and sometimes I'm embarrassed to admit that my hair was recently done later that afternoon...with partial blame on humidity and wind. She talks to you before she does anything, and offers lots of hair maintenance tips. You can feel that she is very concerned about the overall long-term health of your hair, perhaps even at the expense of style. Perhaps this is why she doesn't touch the roots...I have mixed feelings about this. I'll revisit this issue later.
It's easy to schedule an appointment with their online system, there is never more than a 10 minute wait after you arrive, and everyone who works there is very nice and friendly. It's easy to reschedule an appointment if you call, and they try to accommodate special situations. I especially like that Hiwot has a number of elderly clients, and she really goes out of her way to show them the utmost respect and consideration, bringing them water, etc. I like the "shampoo women" too. I wish I could afford more generous tips. On rare occasions, I get roller sets, but for whatever reason, it's always complicated here and usually doesn't come out right, so I don't do it often.
The lack of straight roots...is why I cheat on Revive with a Dominican salon every now and then to get the "relaxer experience," even though the styling can take you back to 1992. And, there's always lots of breakage and it takes a while to get my curl pattern back, neither of which I experience at Revive. For Dominican salons, I prefer Street Kutz in Hyattsville. From my limited knowledge of Spanish, they seem to be the nicest and most accepting of natural hair of the Dominican salons I have visited. In other ones, I always get that one mean lady talking s*** about natural hair in Spanish, and abusing your hair accordingly. That being said, after all that, I run back to Revive and Hiwot to have her bring my hair back to life a few times. It's a vicious cycle.
I wouldn't recommend the "natural style," since I have been natural all my life and I am very particular about how I want my 'fro to hang. I tried it once here and I was held up in the bathroom for 30 mins, trying to make it look presentable before returning to work. It was faster, but definitely not an aesthetically-appealing improvement on my own wash, towel dry, apply leave-in conditioner, section and braid into 2-4 parts, and letting it air dry (or blow dry), at all.
Getting there...I almost always take the metro. Parking is bad and not cheap in that area, but I arrived early the couple of times I drove, and parked on the street, a couple of blocks away. It's right on 9th and U, so it's a short block away from the 10th St exit of the U St-Cardozo Metro Station! Double win!!! During lunch time, you can catch a lunch special at some of the best Ethiopian restaurants in the city, along with Busboys, Caribbean Restaurants, etc. -
Review from Mang J.
Silver Spring, MD
1/1/2012
I've been twice, so now I feel like I can write an accurate review of Hiwot's service. I don't let many people cut my hair, but I feel good about Hiwot's care. Here's the lowdown on both of my experiences.
Appointment making: The first time, I made my appointment online at 3 or 4 in the morning. The second time, I had to call to make an appointment because they have a new online system for which I wasn't registered (and you have to call to register).
Getting there: I've heard people complain about the small parking lot, but I take the Metro to U Street-Cardozo (10th Street exit), and it's one short block and a half walk away.
Reception: The first time I went, there was a...shall we say brisk lady at the desk; nothing personable about her--she just checked me in and got the job done. The second time, the lady at reception greeted me with a smile, checked me in, and directed me to sit and be comfortable.
Meeting Hiwot: Both times, she was extremely pleasant, talked to me about my hair's needs, and her manner eased my nervousness about scissors coming close to my hair.
Each time, my hair was washed by an assistant, and this last time, I got a deep conditioning treatment, during which they put you under a steamer after applying conditioner. I've heard debates on whether or not steamers make a difference in conditioning, but after my experience, I'm on Team Steam! The steam treatment itself was somewhat unpleasant because the excess water ran down my face constantly, and the steam was extremely hot on my scalp where my hair is thinner, but I'd endure it again for its benefits.
The first time, the assistant blow dried my hair. This time, after my treatment, Hiwot rinsed out my conditioner and blow dried my hair. Then she cut it and flat ironed it.
I'm black, I have very thin and coarse hair, and I don't use a relaxer. I normally wear my hair curly, and that's the best option because of its thinness. In the past when stylists have straightened and curled my hair, it was a nightmare--they made me look like I was wearing a helmet! However, Hiwot manages to flat iron and curl it, AND give my hair body so it doesn't look like a helmet made of thread. Really.
Price: My first visit, I didn't get a deep conditioning treatment, so it was $60. The second time, with the treatment, it was $100. Frankly, I think $40 is a bit steep for a treatment where they're using the same conditioner they'd normally use, and they're not actively handling the client's hair.
Bathroom: I wish the bathroom were a bit cleaner. It's understandable that hair is everywhere in a salon; however, the sink and toilet should always be spotless. As a relative germaphobe, I'm not completely put off by the bathroom, but it could be improved.
Accessibility: A note for people needing wheelchair access. Yelp says the salon is accessible, but to get inside the salon, there's a large step at the door. I have arthritis and it's a bit of a pain. Once inside, the main area is on one level, and there are two short steps to the sinks, hooded dryer area, bathroom, coat closet, and another stylist area. If you think you'll be fine with the step at the door, when you make an appointment, it would be good to ask where in the salon your services will take place.
So, four stars for the wonderful haircare and customer service, and minus one star for the overpriced conditioning treatment and bathroom.
There you have it. -
Review from Mikyala C.
Washington, DC
11/28/2011
I'll like to write my reviews like I would want to read them. So here goes.
About me:
1. I am an African American female with slightly above shoulder length type 4B-ish textured hair
2. I am about 10 months into my transition from relaxed to natural hair
3. I'm originally from New Orleans but I'm in DC for school-I am used to bouncy roller wraps (for $40 incl tip mind you, but i digress) the first time I got my hair done I wont name the shop but they tried to put grease in my hair...GREASE! I walked out of the shop feeling like i needed to run home and wash my hair
4. I was in search of a stylist that could give me a trim without cutting all my hair off
Who I saw:
1. My first visit was with Hiwot
2. My second visit was with Vonetta
My (FIRST) experience from setting appointment to "the morning after":
1. I used the online appointment setter; I found it a bit confusing because I wanted a shampoo, trim and flat iron but there was no option for that so I selected my stylist (Hiwot) and a Saturday afternoon appointment.
2. Almost immediately I received an email confirmation of my appointment "REQUEST" but noted that it was not a confirmation.
3. A few days later Hiwot called to ask me to reschedule for that same day, which was no problem.
4. Got to appointment she was very friendly and took me right away
5.**I asked for a trim and she wanted to cut all my relaxed hair off?? Just so you know I am natural now (not bc of her) but thats someones personal choice and i felt bullied...she basically didnt even do what i asked because i didnt want to make a life decision right then and there.
6. She did a less than stellar job on my blow out and flat iron..far less. and she also tried to get me to pay for a deep condition service that I didnt even ask for nor did i know i would be charged
**All in all, I wouldnt go to her again (4 out of 10)..her flat iron skills arent even up to par with my freshman year roommate**
Vonetta. AMAZING! thats it. she listened to what i wanted and showed me exactly how much hair she would be cutting for my trim. (9/10) -
Review from Suzie M.
Hyattsville, MD
11/23/2011
I have been going to Aveda concept salons for years from California to Hawaii & NYC.
After reading reviews on YELP about Hiwot I was very excited. She was very pleasant on my first visit yet, cut my hair too short. Months later I went back and explained what I wanted again, long layers. Again it was cut too short. Well, I went back for my 3rd time thinking that she just needed to get to know my type of curly hair. I have long hair that is not too course or overly kinky. She seemed annoyed that I was back, cut my hair too short with funky steps, NOT layers, and then was even more annoyed that I wanted my hair blown out!!!
She spends about 15 minutes cutting my hair each time, doesn't listen to what I want and then is annoyed when I want my hair blown out!!!
Sorry Aveda, this is a poor cry to what I grew up with and expect from an Aveda salon.
I found a new salon where I had my hair cut right the first time, makes me feel welcome every month they see me and always expect to blown out my hair! -
Review from Freddie B.
Washington D.C., DC
7/17/2011
My appointment at Salon Revive was actually six months ago. It ended with me weeping down U Street, missing my last hair stylist. As an aside, for those of you who find yourselves in London, Laurel at Power Cutz in Holborn is a genius! And I suppose that she has spoiled me into believing that all stylists know what they are doing and have your best interests at heart. Not so. Eventually I went back to London to sort out the hot mess that was created at Salon Revive.
So, I got there and asked for a colour (goldy) and cut on my natural hair. The shape was in a kind of over grown faux hawk and the ends were the colour I wanted. I got the feeling that we were both on the same page, and so sat back and waited for the dye job to work. After around 15 minutes, I noticed that my hair was turning a dark brown colour. When I pointed this out, I was told that it would get lighter when it was washed out. Again. Not so. So once it was agreed that it was not the right colour, they decided that highlights were the way to go. At this point, I should have focussed on the image of a dodgy Brazilian footballer that was in my mind, and got up and left, but again, I believed that stylists know what they are doing. What happens when you highlight short natural hair? You end up looking like a dodgy Brazilian footballer, or even just a dodgy football. Poor!
As if this wasn't enough, the initial cut was just as disappointing and ended up looking like a cross between the Fresh Prince and my Ugandan aunty. At this point, she could see my trembling lip and asked whether I liked it? Umm, no. She then decided there was not much else she could do for me so walked away. Eventually Vonetta came over and was very sweet asking what was wrong, but by then there wasn't too much more she could do to fix it but cut it all off.
She took the price of the cut off the bill but in the end, I still paid $180 to walk out, weeping, bald, with little blonde patches around my head, and terrified of trying another salon in DC but aware that I can't keep flying back to London! -
Review from Keisha D.
Alexandria, VA
5/27/2011
After months and months of stalking the reviews I finally did it - I went to see the Yelp Famous Hiwot at Salon Revive. Let me begin by stating how much I hate the whole hair salon thing. I hate having my time wasted while sitting among 10 other women with my exact same appointment time. I hate watching the stylist sit down and eat or take a call in front of me or better yet leaving the shop to run an errand. I hate having to deal with fluctuating prices depending on the mood of the stylist. I hate having to tune out other people's cell phone conversations.
I am happy to report this was not the salon of my nightmares. There were no random people just hanging around, no club music blaring and thankfully nobody came through selling "designer" bags or chicken dinners. There were no unattended children running amok. It was exactly what it was supposed to be relaxing, clean and efficient.
Parking: Some reviewers were annoyed about the parking lot, but considering I pulled right in I had no issue. It's a small lot but if there is a spot go for it. It's $5 and it is what it is. You don't have to worry about meters.
Reception: The receptionist was friendly and informative. I arrived early but within 5 mins was taken back and shown the cape drawer. I got my cape and returned to the waiting area and not even 5 mins later I was introduced to Hiwot and seated at her station. Did I mention that I arrived early?
Shampoo/Blowdry:Tseday was awesome. She did a great job washing and blowing my hair out. She was thorough and worked quickly.
Hiwot: She was great. Friendly, informative and she listened to what I asked for. She worked quickly and explained what she was doing at each step. She gave me a cute cut and had me in and out in 75 minutes! The time alone is reason for me to return. I have never experienced such thorough, fast and affordable hair service in DC. It is 3 hours later and I am still in amazement that I am not in the hair salon. -
Review from Shea J.
Upper Marlboro, MD
Updated - 4/16/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Dear Vonetta,
Why are you so wonderful? You treat me so lovely and make me feel so pretty. And I know this was only our third appointment-date but would you please take me as your hairwife? Yes I've been around the block, sitting in this chair and that chair,but I promise never to let another set of hands have me again! And I accept that you will have to put your hands in other heads. But so long as you stay easily accessible and continue to keep me bouncing and beautiful I won't ever stray. I'm on bended strand asking you for your hands in matrimony. Asking you to take care of me and style me like only you can. I can't go back to my dull frizzy dry life I had before you.
With much love and respect,
Shea's (your Barbie) Hair1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/5/2011
Vonetta I love you! My hair is fabolous and she's wonderful! I've been here almost three weeks from… Read more »
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Review from Kelly G.
4/29/2011 2 Check-ins Here
Eventhough it was raining out, I just HAD to get my hair done. The appointment I had at the Aveda Institute was cancelled. (They called me 1-hour prior to the appointment and cancelled on ME if you are wondering.) But I knew I just HAD to get something done to my hair before birds started building their nests in my growing fro. So I called Salon Revive. They could take me at noon. I hopped on the subway and started my afternoon of beauty.
Althea and Tirena were tag teaming me that day. Tirena gave me the best shampoo ever. Not with her fingernails, but with the fleshy part of the finger tips, ooooooh, she got every hectare of scalp soapy sudsy clean. Mmmm, mmmmm, mmmm. Then she applied some kind of protein boost and put me under a steam hood. Oh, nice. Finally, Tirena set out on the voyage to blow drying. Ahhh. Comfort. I did have a couple of those "too close to the scalp" blasts of hot air but that area probably needed it. Trust me.
After the blow out, I went over to Althea, the stylist. She took the scissors and rid my now silky strands of their dry brittle ends. Then, the flat ironing process started. Althea is magical and clinical with those 450° ceramic planks.
During the flat ironing, she inquired about my eyebrows. If you're wondering, no, she didn't ask if two springtime caterpillars had crawled up onto my forehead to mate. She asked who does my eyebrows. In the end, she was the one to artfully craft my new springtime look. It did take a few days for the pink color to go away. But eventually it did. Et voilà! My new spring look.
They took my coat. They offered me water, magazines, a smock. The bathroom is nice and clean. The decor is tranquil and soothing. The music is calming. Not urban R & B or bad boy hip hop. And there was none of that raunchy salon talk that some shops can be known for. AND...they got me in and out in about 2.5 hours. Wow.
Oh, the payment. wwwwwowwwwww. Not sustainable for a weekly or even every-other weekly visit. But not the size of the federal deficit, either.
The whole experience was as good as it gets for a DC hair salon. I highly recommend Salon Revive, Althea, and Tirena. I will absolutely return to the business.Listed in: You, yew, ewe, and U Street!
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Review from Dee M.
3/15/2011 3 Check-ins Here
I needed to get my hair flat ironed while in DC for work. Unfortunately for me, I waited until the last minute to make an appointment. Fortunately for my hair, Salon Revive was more than willing to accommodate me.
I'm familiar with a few salons having lived in the DC area for many years. However, I never found one that I was impressed enough to go back to. That is, until today when I discovered Salon Revive. They took me as a same day appointment at 3:30 in the afternoon. I knew this was going to be a great experience.
My appointment was with Althea. She was amazing! Immediately took the time to learn about my hair cares needs and made recommendations on how to care for it going forward. What I appreciated most was how comfortable Althea made me feel while trimming my hair. I am a total wimp when it comes to hair trimming. Probably because I've only experienced stylists that seem to get a rise out of cutting my hair vice trimming it. That said, I was terrified at the idea of someone I wasn't familiar with trimming my hair. All I can say is that I wish I still lived in DC so that I could visit Salon Revive on a regular basis.
My hair never looked or felt better. It was shiny, luxurious and FULL of body. I paid $85.00 for a wash, protein/moisture treatment, blow dry and style. It was worth EVERY penny!
They subsidize parking in the lot across the street. You pay $5, and the pay $5. There is also metered parking along 9th St and two hour parking along T and 8th streets.
I highly recommend Salon Revive. Give them a try! -
Review from Melissa M.
Washington, DC
9/26/2011 1 Check-in Here
Meron is ammaaaaazing!!!! She literally just saved my hair's life from relapsing to it's creamy crack habit. I've been natural for almost a year, doing my hair all by myself while I was stuck in Ohio for school without a stylist. I don't have that "bohemian silky" type of hair either so you can imagine my struggle.
I went in to get my hair deep conditioned, straightened, and I definitely needed a trim. My shampoo felt great and they use a steamer for the deep conditioning which is great! Meron was so gentle when she blow-dried and detangled my hair and I was pretty shocked at how straight it was....seeing as I never get these results at home. She then only trimmed about half an inch off my hair which was all I needed. Stylists have trimmed much greater lengths.... After the flat ironing my hair was soft and bouncy and it was actually styled! So cute, like I had a relaxer again!
Moral of the story: I would definitely recommend Meron and salon revive if ur a struggling naturalista like me. Prices were a little steep--$100 for deep conditioner, style, and trim. But its worth it for quality hair care. Meron also said she does other styles besides flat ironing, think I'm going to get spiral curls next time. Meron is knowledgeable and gentle and Salon Revive is a great salon! -
Review from Raquel M.
Washington D.C., DC
4/24/2011
You usually can't tell, but I have extremely curly/kinky hair. I have been relaxing my hair since 7th grade and have always struggled to find a hairdresser that doesn't scoff at the volume and curl in my hair. I have been going to Hiwot at Salon Revive for over three years now. I happened to stumble upon many Yelp reviews raving about Salon Revive's treatment of hair just like mine and decided to give it a try.
The salon is an Aveda concept - so they use Aveda products but you can still manage to get out of there without paying an arm and a leg. I am charged $55 for a cut and blow dry (and Hiwot usually finishes up my appointment by running the flat iron through for a bit). Hiwot really listens to what you tell her and is a pleasure to chat with during your appointments!
Most recently she talked me through getting bangs for the first time (who would have though a girl with naturally curly hair could get bangs!).
I have also gotten my hair relaxed there a few times. In fact, that first time I went in and did not know the type of relaxer that was previously used on my hair, Hiwot insisted that I call my old salon immediately to ensure that the product she uses would be compatible.
The receptionist is always super nice and they call you a day or so before your appointment to remind you. Also a bonus is that you can make appointments online now.
I definitely recommend Hiwot and Salon Revive! -
Review from K K.
Washington, DC
12/6/2010 2 Check-ins Here
Thank goodness for Salon Revive. It's a wonderful salon that caters to hair of all types, but they are especially good with managing natural African American hair (they're darned good with relaxed hair too). I would give them 5 stars, but their online appointment confirmation process could be better.
My stylist, Yodit, is a true rock star. I've had long, relaxed hair all my life, and she emotionally got me through cutting the majority of it off to transition to natural hair. We're still in the process, and she gives me the confidence to wear my new do through her amazing skill with a pair of scissors and maintenance instructions.
By the way, they push Aveda products because they WORK! Give them your contact information and they'll invite you to their holiday party where they have a makeup stylist on hand and they do makeovers. I went last year and had a wonderful time. -
Review from Mallory C.
Atlanta, GA
7/20/2010
time to confess, I don't do ANYTHING to my hair. My mother wasn't a hair person, my sister isn't a hair person and neither am I. I want it to look nice and need little effort. Knowing that I'm not going to do my hair means I spend a lot of time at salons. After a few uneven blowouts at a local chain I took to yelp and found salvation at Salon Revive.
It's super easy to get to, 2 or 3 blocks from the metro, the staff is awesome, I'm out in an hour and (here's the best part) I don't have to give them my unborn child upon check out.
Thank you Salon Revive for allowing me to remain lazy about my hair. -
Review from Candice T.
Washington, DC
Updated - 10/15/2010 3 Check-ins Here
Hiwot is a sweetheart yes, but she is also a hardass. She will let you know that your shit is NOT looking good and that it is time for a change.
I've been a highlighted blonde-blonde for years. Too many years. I have no idea what my natural color looks like, I'm assuming it's one of the many colors on my head. Hiwot told me, point blank, we need to change, and by we, she meant me. Last time she humored me with the highlights but this time she wasn't taking any nonsense from me. My hair was fried from the constant highlighting over the years. This is the tough love I needed to hear. So, we did lowlights instead and yep - this looks way better.
I told her I trust her completely. She has carte blanche to try whatever she wants with me.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/12/2010
I have a few criteria for rating a hairstyle/dresser. I need to see myself outside of the salon, and… Read more »
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Review from Bri P.
Washington, DC
6/21/2010
Note: I don't know how they do with other hair textures and cuts. This review comes from an African American woman with relaxed hair (natural: 4c kinky) rocking a pixie cut with a long bang.
Here's the real deal for my sisters (and the rest of you who want good service):
1. The "parking lot" is a joke. Bring quarters.
2. The shampoo girl got so much water down my back she had to throw my shirt in the dryer. Thankfully I was just wearing a boyfriend tee, but what if I had been taking my lunch break from work and that were my blouse? AWFUL! I've gotten my hair done (braids, relaxers, etc.) done in some shady places, some dirty places, and some home kitchens, and NEVER before have I had such a bad shampoo job! EVER!
3: I will say again: I have short, mildly relaxed African-American hair, which I wear in a Rhianna-style cut. Which means it's tapered on the sides and back.
Salon Revive (Hiwot) --you CAN NOT use foaming wrap lotion on the back of my hair and then use a net and not a wrap/barber strip! IT WILL NOT LAY DOWN! You just use a dab of protein gel, tie that barber strip down super tight, and it will still come out smooth, silky, and not dry or crunchy...
4...which is somehow how my hair ended up, despite the lack of gel. The products used on my hair during and after styling were NOT good for my hair. Despite the fact that Aveda products are supposed to be amazing, maybe I was given the wrong combo. The oil (yes--oil. not serum. oil.) that was put on my hair made it grainy, not smooth. And that hairspray? Even worse--Crunch central.
I was hoping that this could be my back-up when my stylist couldn't fit me in, but I will NEVER be back to salon revive. Ever.
I've been having far better results doing my hair at home. With gel, barber strips, and my 20 dollar flatiron. -
Review from Cristine C.
Washington, DC
12/28/2010
Visiting Salon Revive has been one of the best salon visits I have experienced in my life. I don't go to the salon to have my hair done often and I haven't been in at least two years, but I've been to cramped, loud, drama filled, places where unwanted vendors stop by and I've spent unnecessary hours in an uncomfortable chair. I've been to good places, too, though. I decided earlier this year to transition from wearing my hair relaxed to wearing it in its natural state - no more relaxers. So I wanted to go to a place that wouldn't use too much heat or look at me sideways for not having a relaxer. I haven't had a relaxer in 13 months, have self-trimmed/cut three times this year, and I am a busy student which means I get lazy with my hair. In short, I needed to treat my hair. I got a simple shampoo, blow dry, and flat iron + a [much needed] trim.
I arrived about 5-10 minutes early, but was not kept waiting for long. the receptionist was very nice, polite, and proper - a plus. Sadde (Saday) (sp?) washed + conditioned my hair and gently detangled it. She also prepped me to see Ayesha who blow dried, trimmed, and flat ironed my hair. She was very gentle with the paddle brush + the blow drier was not scolding hot on my hair or my scalp. She asked several questions as she was doing my hair and at no point did I feel uncomfortable. I'm generally trusting, but I will say something if I feel uncomfortable. She was very careful, did no more than 2 passes with the flat iron (I had it curled, not straight) and was very supportive when I told her I wasn't ready to cut off the rest of my relaxed ends. She asked how much I wanted trimmed and did exactly that - it came out great!
I sat down to get my hair washed at 2:35 and was out (done & paid) by 3:55. UN-FREAKIN-REAL. There was one client in front of me and I waited no more than 10 or 15 minutes for Ayesha - huge upgrade from what I'm used to - but Sadde took care of my while I waited. I did not feel neglected or forgotten.
I'm only giving it 4 stars because it was my first time here - but the next time I want my hair done I will DEFINITELY be coming here. As a student, I would say this is more than I would normally spend on one "thing" but in relation to what I've paid before and what people do pay, I think the price was just right. Especially for the treat my hair received today.The salon was clean, had a relaxed environment, and lived up to my expectations.Transitioning/Natural ladies ... TRY IT OUT!! -
Review from Remi L.
Washington, DC
6/6/2011
The stylist Akesha(sp.) was sweet but very inexperienced and timid. I'm low-maintenance client. Natural AA curly hair worn in a 'fro or pulled back slightly. Shoulder length when straight, but I wasn't wedded to the length. Really I just needed a trim(it's been a couple of months) and some layers in top to help the 'fro to be more round. My hair on top is thick and heavy. I wanted to try a new salon just to see if the grass might be greener.
Stylist was really timid and didn't seem to know what she was doing. Not that I do, as I'm not really a salon type of girl. But it was pretty obvious when she started trembling a bit and I had to show her where it was uneven. She cut it WET and brushed it (huh) way too much. Then cut way too much in the wrong places.
OK, so I asked for Angela Davis and got it for a day. But I really don't have kinky enough hair for the big 'fro style. I should have figured that something was up when other stylists looked at me with sympathy and in silence. I found out she's only 20 years old. Granted, some people are great with hair at early ages. But she should stick to shampooing for a few years.
Back to Bill Lawrence (hopefully Taio is still there). When my hair grows back. -
Review from Marisa S.
Washington, DC
10/24/2010
I read the reviews thinking this salon was the best place in the city. I was pretty disappointed.
I wanted a simple updo for a gala dinner I was attending that evening. First off, I waited 35minutes because they had "lost' my reservation. Then when I finally was assigned a stylist - she proceeded to upsell a bunch of product (its an Aveda salon) and extra services to me. When it came to the shampoo the water was FREEZING - something to do with an outage? Finally, the actually updo was very meh - I tried to be as descriptive as I could but in the end it just looked like I was going to homecoming back in 2002 and put a half a can of hair spray on my head.
To top it off it was way overpriced - $95 with tip! Sadly I won't be returning to Salon Revive. -
Review from B. F.
Fairfax, VA
4/10/2011
From an African-American experience (relaxed hair)...
I have visited more salons than I care to mention trying to find a nice balance between reasonable prices and great styling in D.C. and NOVA. I've visited two stylists here and this salon missed the mark for me on several occasions.
Yodit - I REALLY liked her personality and interest in maintaining healthy hair, but her styling skills were disappointing. If it weren't for that, I probably would have remained a customer (in spite of the prices). After a few visits, I just couldn't fathom spending $65 & up and walking out with old lady hair do's (bouncy, yes, special, no). I did really like my highlights, though.
Vonetta - I think she's a great stylist with a friendly personality. However, I didn't like the fact that she was constantly trying to "sell" me on getting a "needed" deep conditioner....for $30-40 bucks extra! The prices here are already ridiculous, so adding this additional cost to my bill just didn't make sense to me. I even asked which conditioner she wanted to use so I could possibly purchase it and use at home. She was guarded with this information. To me, if a stylist is ultimately concerned about a client having healthy hair, they aren't going to be incognito about hair products.
Pros: In and out time is much appreciated - that was never an issue. Appointments were also easy to get.
Cons:
Prices
Shampoo - The shampoos here always left much to be desired. I'm used to going to Black salons where the shampoo person is so good that you don't want to leave the bowl. Here, it's a lackluster experience and then you feel compelled to tip just because that extra person worked on you.
Overall -The prices, in my opinion, don't ensure that you'll walk out with hair that looks like you spent $90 & up EASILY on a vist. -
Review from L A.
Atlanta, GA
11/8/2009
Let me start off by saying I'm EXTREMELY picky about my hair and I have no relaxer so I'm used to having my roots pressed and hair flat ironed... I also should add that I'm from Atlanta where hair is just... different.
Ok so I walked in last night and again the receptionist was rather spaced out. As a matter of fact I stood at the desk for about 3-5 minutes before she realized "oh... you need to check in?" I reply, "yes". After I give her my name she says that Merin (my stylist) will be with me shortly. I was about 10 minutes early so I didn't mind the wait. After about 20 minutes or so I was taken back to her chair. The very first thing she did was pull out a tub of relaxer! I immediately told her that I was natural and that relaxer (or lots of product) would not be needed. She then proceeds to ask me if I'm "sure" I don't have a relaxer. (I'm thinking to myself... well ummm yeah!) She then asks, well what do you need? I explain I need a shampoo, blowdry, & flat iron/curl. Ok easy enough...
My shampoo was so so (I have dry scalp and my previous stylist used Aveda products - which was my main reason for choosing this salon). I expected her at the very least get my scalp clean...she didn't. The whole thing took 5 minutes (I don't even know if she conditioned it). After that Merin blowdry(ied?) my hair and attempted to flat iron it. It looked ok however my roots are still puffy. All in all... $45 was spent on the convenience of someone doing what I could have done myself.
Now the check out process was worse than the check in... the receptionist (in all her clueless glory) goes "Nicole, you're all set!" Now forgive me of my northern ignorance but when someone tells you at a checkout desk you're "all set" that typically means... thank you come again, right? I then ask, "so it was free? or what's my total?" She says, "OH!! $45..." I give her a $100 bill... she doesn't give me change but instead says "is this for Merin or..." By this point I'm annoyed by the whole process and I say to her..."neither.. it's for me." She hands me my change with a confused look on her face. I walk out...shaking my head all the way.
Now, maybe my Southern hospitality roots are making me ignorant to the Northern way of life but... *frown* I don't THINK this receptionist was properly trained (or she just doesn't give a dern).
All in all.. I wont be back.
P.S. The "free" parking is for those spaces marked Salon Revive only... there are a handful of them. Be warned, I had to park 2 blocks away and walk. -
Review from Maisha H.
Hyattsville, MD
4/16/2010
Sooooo, I wanted to get my hair cut. Unfortunately, I do not have a salon that I frequent on a regular basis. Im a salon hopper. lol. I stumbled upon Salon Revive on yelp, read the reviews and literally booked an appointment the next day for Hiwot.
After driving around U St for 15 minutes like an IDIOT, I called the salon and they informed me of the complimentary lot across the street from them. (Please be advised this lot is tiny with limited spots...approx 20 total)
I went on a Thursday, waited only about 10 minutes and Hiwot greeted and escorted me to the shampoo area. I don't know the chicks name who washed my hair but she did a great job. I told her not to be timid because I was not tender headed. Afterward, I described the cut I wanted to Hiwot. Something in between a Victoria Beckham/Katie Holmes inverted bob with bangs. She proceeded to cut my hair while it was wet which concerned me. My hair is has very tight curls and I did not think she would be able to perform an accurate cut if the hair wasn't straight. She saw the look on my face and told me not to worry. She was very confident and definitely worked like she knew what she was doing.
To my surprise it was a great cut once she blew it and flat ironed it. Only thing she did after that was use a razor-like utensil to even it up and shave off fly ends. I was pleased with the cut and her time. She only took about an hour and 15 minutes which is what Im used to with my stylist in Atlanta. Hiwot was great. Total for wash, blow, fat iron and cut - $65. But my hair is thicker than most so yours may be cheaper. :) -
Review from Tiffane C.
College Park, MD
9/30/2009
Prices: If you don't mind paying exorbitant prices for hair care, this might be the salon for you. I've lived in urban areas like Chicago and Atlanta, and I've never had a problem finding quality hair care at an affordable rate. I'm African-American and visited Salon Revive after reading the Yelp reviews expecting impeccable service at a decent price. Maybe the prices are decent relative to the DC area, but I was shocked when I saw my final bill. $85 for color and $40 for a good conditioner on top of $65 for a shampoo, blow dry and trim. Maybe I've been spoiled with my previous stylists, but I would have appreciated at least knowing what I would have to pay before relinquishing my hair (and my pocketbook!) to the stylist. By the way, I asked the receptionist for a price list, and they didn't have one. How convenient.
Stylist: My appointment was with Vonetta. She's extremely friendly and sociable, but she was pretty rough with my hair. I was pleased with the final outcome, but I've experienced much better hair care in the past. Again, I didn't feel that the service justified the cost.
Parking: People rave about the free parking across the street, but the lot is extremely tight and the parking attendant spoke limited English, so I couldn't really understand his directions. As a result, it was really hard to get out of the lot, which was extremely frustrating. Park on the street if you can.
Overall: I won't be back. Can't afford it, but even if I could, I feel my money would be better spent at another salon.Listed in: Salons for Sistahs in DC
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Review from talia r.
Washington, DC
4/7/2009
I will be the billionth person to rave about Vonetta Dumas, but I can gaurantee I will not be the last. She is fantastic. I came in after reading all the reviews on how amazing she is and I told her this too. I have had only 2 good hair cuts in my life (Vonetta now being the second). The first words out of her mouth, besides thank you, were "If I'm not good for you then I'm not good at all." It is rare to find a person who actually cares about pleasing the client rather than thinking they know best. Just because a person knows more about hair than me doesn't mean they know more about my hair than me.
My hair was long, it was lifeless, damaged, dry, frizzy, all around gross. I was afraid to cut off so much but we talked about what would be the best length for me to grow my hair long and healthy. We picked a spot and she didn't go even a centimeter above or below. My hair hits my shoulder blades, has body, layers, and pizazz.
She listens and understands. She is perfect. Hands down the nicest, friendliest, and most importanty the best hair dresser I have been in contact with.
I already made my next appointment to get my hair highlighted by her! I can't wait! -
Review from Karena B.
Arlington, VA
9/8/2009
The Pros -
*Vonetta does a great job on my hair.I haven't found more than one person in the DMV that can style my hair correctly - or to my liking. I am from Detriot MI, and the haircare/style that I am used has been hard to match. So, I am an extremely picky client. You may have noticed that I also reviewed another salon (Robert Lewis), I still agree with the review, but Salon Revive is about 35 minutes closer and that makes a huge difference. I recommend Vonetta, if you can get an appointment, she is in HIGH demand.
*The salon is super easy to locate and metro accessible (yellow/green line U Street). There is also free parking across the street -- . I was once ordered to tip the parking attendant -- he did nothing to deserve the tip. But I still park there occasionally.
*Aveda products are AWESOME - my hair responds very well to the shampoo/conditioners that are offered.
The 1 Con -
*Salon Revive has an online booking system that never seems to be updated. It will show an available appointment time for a stylist and then a day later I will receive an email letting me know that my appointment wasn't accepted. If the salon is going to have an online booking system update it on the regular -- otherwise take it off the site. It is never updated and all my appointments -- every single time have been rejected. It's annoying - period. -
Review from Lydia M.
Burke, VA
7/23/2008
Hiwot has perfected her craft with regards to curly hair. I wear my hair naturally and try my best to refrain from chemical straighteners and such. The prices are reasonable as well!
There is another establishment on the same block that professes to specialize in African American haircare who had me leaving out of there looking like a candidate for a Soul Glo commercial. (remember Eddie Murphy's Coming to America?)
Thank you Hiwot for understanding that curly hair need not look like a jheri curl ;-) -
Review from China D.
Washington, DC
6/17/2010
I have absolutely NO complaints. Oh how I love Hiwot; let me count the ways!!
One, I was in and out this salon in one hour!
Two, the hair wash was AMAZING!!
Three, my hair is natural and kinky (like straight out of Africa kinky...lol!) and I went for a blow dry and press...she was awesome with her advice and used quality Aveda products!
Four, she was VERY gentle; as I said my hair is very kinky but she made sure not to pull and break my hair.
Five, though she had to use heat to dry and press my hair, it was very minimal and she used heat protectant.
I will DEFINITELY be back!! -
Review from Shannon M.
Decatur, GA
8/23/2007
Hey there beauty-hounds! I'm back from vacay (too much sun, too much tequila).
You won't regret checking out Salon Revive--an Aveda concept salon one block from the U Street metro stop (that means it's uber accessible oh-car-free-ones). The two owners are super nice and extremely talented. They both once worked at Salon Circe in Dupont; this is their own shop.
I rolled in this week to have my "new mommy" hair transformed back into my "professional 'do." (How did lack of sleep give me so many new gray hairs anyway?!)
Anyway, Hiwot did my do (say her name like Hewitt). I'm super happy. The cut and color were super affordable. I'm about to be back to work (sniff, sniff) with style. Fait accompli.
The salon is very clean and calm, and I know I mentioned it is a conveniently located Aveda concept salon. (fellow hounds--you know what this means!). Great products w/o the GTown/CTown parking horror, or prices, or surly staff.
Double bonus!! Salon Revive is adjacent to Etete--so plan carefully and you can combine a beautiful 'do with food that is beautifully "done!" -
Review from Heathen M.
Washington, DC
5/22/2009
I have been in DC for 10 years, and I have threatened to shave myself BALD for want of a good stylist.
I've found flakes and overpriced idiots. One stylist overcharged me $300 (Three HUNDRED dollars!) and then called me asking to borrow money another time.
Hiwot rescued me. She's wonderful. And sweet. And fast. No more hours and hours in the shop for me, I'm out and looking quite lovely in about two hours- and I have lots of hair. Lots of coily, kinky, perfect circle hair that's sent other stylists screaming.
The shop is tastefully appointed, very clean and the music is pleasant and doesn't swear or yell at me.
I am a fan for life. Hiwot is awesome! -
Review from Sunny D.
Washington, DC
Updated - 11/5/2010
after the best quickie of my life, i am officially in love!!!!
yeah...i know, that doesn't sound right. but my sistahs, you know the value of getting some good hair lovin' in at a salon, in a reasonable amount of time. hard to do, huh? and quick? almost unheard of. not so @ SR; not so in hiwot's chair/care.
now, i know i mentioned in my first review of SR that i was in and out in less than an hour. that was great, and it's generally been an hour whenever i've gone since, give or take 5-10 minutes. so, still very good time. but yesterday a record was broken for all the years i've been going to salons (20+), and especially for the last 2 that i've been 100% natural: hiwot worked her magic on me in about thirty minutes. do you hear me?!?! THIRTY MINUTES!!!!! i don't think you understand the magnitude of that. read on.
i have a mass of wild, thick, bushy, corkscrews & curls hair on my head that is currently shoulder-length when blown out. 'when blown out' is the key phrase there b/c that is a serious undertaking i am rarely sucessful at, at home. i pretty much just wear it curly and crazy and hope for the best, or pulled up and tucked in, in an attempt at some control. up until yesterday i hadn't been to a salon in a few months and hadn't had a trim in a few seasons. so, even though i'm pretty good about getting my DIY deep conditioners on at home, i knew my ends were a frayed mess and was concerned about the state of my hair after a rough summer.
i had a 1:45 appointment for a blowout & trim, and it started right on time. after trading my coat, scarf & umbrella for one of the protective robes they give you, i confessed my trim sins to hiwot and she asked if wanted to do any repair treatment(s) while i was there? i didn't have time, and told her so, promising to make an appointment to come back for one on my way out. i got washed & blow-dried, and hiwot went to town on my ends. after she finished cutting, she whipped her magic wand - a.k.a., flat iron - through my hair. she covered my whole head very quickly yet again. as i said in my last review, nothing about the way she moves or how your appointment goes feels rushed at all though. it's the craziest thing.
when everything was finished, hiwot said to me, "whatever you're doing at home is working; your hair is very healthy. all you needed was a trim, so i wouldn't worry about getting an extra treatment if you keep it conditioned well." say whaaaaaaaat?! a hair care person who is GREAT at what they do and doesn't try to upsell you on unnecessary extras in product/service? yeah, this girl's a keeper.
after admiring my lovely 'do in the mirror and thanking hiwot, i went to the back to retrieve my things. i had to wait a couple minutes to pay b/c the receptionist was on the phone (i didn't mind the wait b/c, judging by her end of the convo she was being peppered to death with questions by a potential new client on the salon & services, and, to her credit, she was very pleasant and answered everything thoroughly - i believe candace was her name). i hopped in a cab and that's when i noticed the time...2:21. like i said, my appointment was @ 1:45. YEAH. wash, dry, trim, flat iron & style, PLUS changing twice and paying, in 35 minutes TOTAL. unbelievable.
did i mention it was pouring rain too? thankfully, i had an umbrella. but that only protects so much. yet, my hair still looks awesome today. it's pretty freakin gorgeous if i do say so myself! absolute MAGIC. hiwot should change her name to merlin, and SR to the magic hair castle! i will be a devoted, loyal subject. i am in love.Listed in: metro accessible, you love me from my hair…, sunny's delights
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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6/11/2010
in and out in less than an hour with shine, bounce, body and all kinds of smell good for only $45 -… Read more »
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Review from Elly V.
Washington, DC
6/1/2011
I did NOT enjoy my salon experience here AT ALL. First of all the shampoo lady kind of hurt me by pulling my hair and straining my neck. Then I got bounced around from chair, being told to "sit here, move here" like I was in the way. Hiwot did a mediocre job cutting my hair... nothing special for $60. Worst of all she wasn't friendly and actually made me feel like an annoyance rather than a client. It was definitely not an enjoyable, relaxing, salon experience. I will never go back here or recommend it to someone unless they are a masochist and enjoy being uncomfortable.
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Review from Lela M.
Washington, DC
5/18/2009
I made an appointment with Vonetta after reading her stellar reviews on this site. She was every bit as good as her reviews led me to believe.
I've bounced from stylist to stylist for the 8 years I've been living in DC and I really think I've found The One. I'm half Black and half Mexican (Blaxican if you will) and it's not always easy finding someone who knows how to deal with multicultural hair. This salon is really nice, it's calming and in a convenient location. I was in a chair right at 3 (my appointment time) and Vonetta talked to me about what I wanted to do to my hair. I wasn't really sure myself, but when I walked out of that place my hair looked great. The cut and layers were fantastic.
The *only* drawback is that it was a little pricey. $110 for a touch-up and $65 for a cut. But if there's one thing my Mom always told me, it was splurge on your hair if you can! It's worth it! -
Review from Barka T-W S.
Towson, MD
7/19/2009
I set an appointment with Tizita, this woman has magical hands! Her fingers were like wands granting every wish until the mirror on the wall finally said you!
I didn't have to wait long after I got there and the second time she still made room for me (with two other clients) even though I got stuck in rush hour and was an hour late.
I got a nice cranial massage while she washed my hair followed by a quick and painless straightening.
The prices are way lower than what the Dominican shops are sporting!
Tizita in her native tongue (Amharic) means "a memory" I surely won't forget... -
Review from Kristin S.
Chicago, IL
5/5/2010
The receptionist promptly greeted me, took my jacked, and was very nice. All in all, my experience with the services I suppose I can say was a good one, but I nevertheless will continue my search to find a new salon here in DC. It was somewhat sub-par compared to other salons I have been to.
Alyssa did a good job on my hair. The color looks really natural and she absolutely listened to all of my input on the style of cut I wanted. While Alyssa has evidently recently been voted #2 best stylist in the DC area by some dc magazine's readership (she bragged a little about this to me), I really didn't think that there was anything about her hair styling skills for my cut or for the woman I saw her cut before me that were particularly impressive. While my cut here was definitely better than the one I got at Parlour Salon, it otherwise ranks as average among my Chicago and Indiana hair experiences.
The salon itself was what really underwhelmed me. I was never offered water or coffee as I am used to. I poured myself a cup of some kind of tea, which was honestly really disgusting. When I was directed to the seating area of the salon for my highlights to process, I sat down next to a pot of heating wax. (really? put that somewhere else. Or do you wax your customers' eyebrows right in the front window?) The salon is sparsely decorated and is sort of oddly placed among convenience stores and ethnic restaurants. There is no posh feeling the way an upscale salon should be, and is definitely not the kind of beauty refuge where one would come to relax.
While I was having my haircut, another customer was in the changing room and the door got stuck with her inside. If that weren't problematic enough, the music was so loud that no one heard her in there for several minutes. Thank goodness the owner's husband was there to help her try to get out!
So in short
-reasonably priced. $130 for my cut and partial highlight
-Alyssa is a good hairstylist
-great for someone who wants to get in, out, and on with her life, but not for someone who comes to a salon for any sort of "experience" -
Review from Linn C.
Washington, DC
1/27/2009
I've seen both Hiwot and Yodit at Salon Revive. They've done color, highlights and cut my hair for two years. This place is simply fantastic.
Their coloring is second to none and I've never had a complaint about a cut. They also are so easy to work with if you're busy. I can almost always get a same day or next day appointment and they are open in the evenings and on weekends.
For an Aveda salon their prices are quite good. I went once in Georgetown and won't make that mistake again. -
Review from Erin W.
7/9/2008
My favorite hairstylist EVER, Alyssa, moved to Revive recently so of course, I followed suit. The salon itself is fine - clean, friendly people, next to Etete (see my review - the best Ethiopian food in DC). Why I recommend this place with 5 starts however, is Alyssa's skills with the scissors. I have very curly hair and Alyssa has done a great job helping me over the years work it into a curly lopsided bob of sorts so that I can surf that happy medium between long tangled curly dreads and hair so short that I risk getting mistaken for a boy. She really knows what to do with curly hair and has an eye for what type of hairstyle would fit a particular face shape.
So go try this place and ask for Alyssa (in my opinion esp if you have curly hair). Then maybe you'll understand why she is the only stylist whose cell no. I carry, who is a friend on Facebook, and who I have invited to visit me in my new home in Mexico! -
Review from Cassandra B.
Silver Spring, MD
10/5/2008
This is probably the best hair salon. I didn't wait at all. My hair was beautiful, bouncy, and shiny when I left. Also the prices are reasonable and there is a parking lot across the street. I truly enjoyed the experience.
I have very thick natural hair and Hiwot worked wonders. I highly recommend Salon Revive. -
Review from Emick J.
Arlington, VA
2/20/2010
I am such a Fan ... I have been a Aveda user for more than 10 years and REALLY love the product line... I was recommended by friend to go and see Yodit at Salon Revive... The best advice I have ever taken ... Yodit was awesome ... I went natural in 2007 and just couldn't fine a salon or stylist that really understood my hair type, without charging me an arm, leg, foot and first born... so I was just about to give up on finding a fab salon in DC... But a ray of sunshine came into my life name Salon Revive and Yodit... my hair feels and looks awesome! I have already booked my next 2 appts... I am def. a fan ...
okay so the reason I gave it 4 stars instead of 5 is because ... the front desk girl .. she was pleasant but not inviting, a little turned off ... Maybe it wasn't her day ... she went through the motions but that was it ... and the shampoo girl she can massage a girls scalp well .. but OMG can we work on detangling ... I am not tender headed .. but I felt like I was yesterday ... Please change to wide tooth combs when detangling... other than that is was a good experience ... Super impressed with Yodit ... -
Review from Serena B.
8/28/2009
I adore this salon! Hiwot is wonderful and the pricing for an Aveda Salon in DC isn't too bad (the only less expensive option in the city is at the Institute at Gallery Place, but I had a bad experience there).
They always do a great job here and Hiwot offers suggestions on slight changes for my color and cut, which turn out well. One time I think it it processed for a bit too long, but the toner seemed to fix that.
Definitely give it a try, I can usually get in for an appointment within a week of the day I call. -
Review from Rebecca C.
Manhattan, NY
9/9/2009
Aveda products relax me and make me feel safe. I previously went to Salon Cielo on Connecticut a couple years ago, but when they stopped using Aveda colors, I left & followed my stylist to this little place on U and 9th. As you can see from my picture, I'm not African American, so I don't have much insight on Salon Revive's talents there, but the reviews seem good. I go to Alyssa, who no one has mentioned and she's great! She's a perfectionist when it comes to cutting - she will make sure it is JUST right even when i don't care that much at times :) She also does a great blonde - and even a good brunette if you've been blonde for forever (like I had) and want to switch it up. The salon itself is clean, well-run, and efficient. The music is weird sometimes, but that's NBD.
It's off the beaten path, and I'd recommend trying sassy Alyssa out for a cut/color. -
Review from liz h.
Washington, DC
11/21/2009
I have blond hair that I keep long and get cut and highlighted (foil) every 8-10 weeks or so. I've gone to Tizita twice now and I just love her. She does a great job and she's clearly thoughtful about color and cut. She is also very sweet but she won't talk your ear off, which I seriously appreciate. Both times I've felt that she really listened to what I wanted in terms of how I wanted the color to come out and the cut I was looking for. I'm even happier this time than I was last time.
Prices are in line with what I had been paying in Boston before I moved to DC ($150 for cut+partial foil, $175 for cut+full foil, not including tip) and Tizita was sure to let me know that even though she wanted to use two different shades of color it would still be the same price. That kind of thoughtfulness goes a long way in my book.
I also love their online appointment booking system. You can search by stylist or just pick the first available and it will give you all the options on the day you're looking to book. They will send you an email confirmation and also call to confirm your appointment. This was one of the big reasons I picked Revive in the first place, and I'm glad I did. Another bonus is they let you put the tip on your credit card, huge life-saver for people like me who never have cash on hand!
I have found my DC salon and I highly recommend Tizita!
