Profile

Formerly a full-service salon and boutique, the venerable Paris-based J.F. Lazartigue—one of the pioneers in vitamin-based hair care, and a favorite of beauty editors—shifted its focus to hair and scalp analysis in 2004. At its homey Madison Avenue second floor space, decorated with elegant sofas, club chairs, and dark wood cabinets, first-time clients are treated to a complimentary consultation using a capilloscope, Lazartigue’s signature magnifying hair camera. After a technician analyzes images of the hair bulb, ends, and scalp, a product regimen and type of treatment—administered at one of three Manhattan partner salons—are prescribed. Specializing in combating both hair loss (a common affliction of both men and women) and the effects of color processing, the company’s products, including shampoo, pre-shampoo treatments, styling creams, and home hair-dyes, all contain high concentrations of premium ingredients like alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), collagen, and Vitamin B. Staff here promises virtually immediate results and encourages clients to return for follow-up analysis after three to six months, to track their tresses’ progress both above and below the scalp. — Carolyn Murnick