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Originally opened in 1995, this basement-level salon sits directly across the street from what used to be the Twin Towers, so it took two years and some serious cleanup post-9/11 before they could re-open again in 2003. What used to be a neighborhood shop is now in the midst of “tourist central,” but otherwise business continues much as before. Product promotional posters crowd the walls, while nearly half of the floor space –and most of the countertops—is devoted to retail, with a huge array of professional products by brands like Biolage, KMS, Aveda, and Bed Head available for sale at 25% off the regular price. In the midst of all that there is room for eight styling chairs, but only four appear to be in regular use. Services include basic shampoo, cut, blow dry, and shave, as well as color, styling, and Brazilian straightening (a treatment similar to Japanese straightening but with softer results). Limited spa services such as waxing, threading, facials, and massage are available by appointment only, and are offered in one of two small, unadorned back rooms. Those who live or work in the neighborhood opt for the “Corporate Hairstyle Member” packages, in which clients pay a flat fee for one year of unlimited services (excluding color). — Amanda Theunissen