Profile

Beneath Soho's pulsing stretch of Broadway, Deva Spa is a pilgrimage site for girls with curls—although the salon has its share of straight-haired fans as well. A silvery metallic door in the building's lobby opens up to stark white walls and an olive green staircase that descends to the "departure lounge." There's a definite space-age vibe to the salon, but not in a tacky Star Trek way; it feels more like the set of an ultra-mod fashion shoot, with web-like white netting pulled into long, angled shapes dividing the cavernous room into separate treatment areas. Clients draped in shimmery black or gold robes consult with stylists in front of long slender mirrors, or relax on black leather recliners to enjoy the 10-minute scalp massage and shampoo that’s included with every cut. (Those wishing to really indulge can go for the 30-minute scalp massage, which comes with a brief but fabulous hand and foot rubdown.) Trained in the salon's specific cutting method, which nurtures and encourages natural curls, stylists use the in-house cult faves—sulfate-free DevaCurl and DevaColor products—to cleanse and style hair. Brazilian-style manicures and pedicures, which focus on caring for the cuticle and applying polish to last, take place in a funky little room with comfy red chairs, located across from the reception area.

— Amanda Theunissen

For best results, these curly-hair specialists cut locks while they’re still dry. They use their own sulfate-free shampoo and five of the six lines used in the Departure Lounge spa are organic. Cuts start at $95. They specialize in working curly hair into sophisticated styles, but can also work with all types of hair. For bridal updos, prices upon request.

Related Stories

Featured In

• Top Five Salons for Curls (5/18/09)