Healthier hair, happier you: Where to find the perfect hair treatment

Growing up, many of us loved watching "The Princess Diaries". Mia Thermopolis's transformation was one of those moments that stayed with us, especially the scene where her wild hair is finally tamed. 

This moment showcases how hair is more than just an appearance; it reminds us that it is often the first thing people notice, and the right treatment can enhance its natural beauty. 

From smoothing frizz to restoring shine, treatments like deep conditioning masks and keratin therapies not only improve appearance but also nourish and protect hair.

In Dhaka, the salon scene is saturated enough, making it hard to choose the right one as many claim to offer the best treatments. 

Unfortunately, these promises often turn out to be marketing gimmicks. Subpar products and poor-quality services can leave your hair in worse condition, sometimes causing irreversible damage that's difficult to repair.

Not all salons recognise that different hair types require specific treatments. A quality salon understands this and avoids offering a "one-size-fits-all" solution. Instead, they take the time to learn about your unique hair type and provide the specialised care it needs.

Keeping this in mind, The Business Standard has spoken to some professionals and listed a few trustworthy salons in Dhaka offering professional, effective, and quality hair treatments that will leave your hair healthy and glowing.

The Glam Bar

The Glam Bar, a name known to many, located in Uttara, has quickly become a local favourite in just two years. Owner Fahmida Shabnam Chaity shared that their treatments are carefully designed for different hair types, ensuring everyone gets the care their hair needs.

One of their most popular treatments is the organic hot oil massage, priced at Tk800–Tk1000, depending on hair length. For those dealing with hair fall, their in-house hair fall treatment, which costs Tk1400, includes a specially made oil and pack to address the issue.

If your hair feels damaged or unmanageable, their hair spa, starting at Tk1,500, is perfect for repairing and softening hair. For senior clients, the organic henna treatment is a favourite. Priced at Tk1,000, offering natural care and a touch of colour.

Fahmida clarifies some common misconceptions about keratin treatments. Many people view these treatments as a means to achieve smooth, straight hair; however, proper aftercare is essential for maintaining the results. At The Glam Bar, keratin treatments start at Tk12,000 and can last up to eight months when properly maintained; however, neglecting aftercare can lead to further damage.

Her advice? Staying consistent is what really keeps your hair healthy and shiny. Regular treatments, follow-ups, or even a simple hot oil massage twice a month can make a real difference. 

Celene Spa 

Celene Spa offers a wide range of hair treatments to suit different needs. Urmi Islam, a hair expert at the spa, shared that many clients struggle with rough, frizzy hair, and she recommends the Nano Moisture Havenbet treatment, which starts at Tk2,800 and goes up depending on hair length.

Their hair treatments are divided into two categories: basic and advanced. For advanced treatments, the Olaplex Hair Treatment, starting at Tk4,000, is ideal for those with damaged, colour-treated or rebonded hair that hasn't been properly cared for. 

Another popular option is their Lock Treatment, priced at Tk1,500, which they recommend about three days after any chemical treatment to lock in moisture, set the hair, and make it smoother for longer.

If you are looking to simply relax or give your hair some care, Urmi also suggests their Hot Oil Massage, starting at Tk1,000, or the Anti-Dandruff Treatment, starting at Tk2,500. The anti-dandruff treatment is especially popular in the winter season when dandruff tends to be more of an issue.

Swing Salon

Swing Salon, with branches in Dhanmondi and Banani, is a favourite spot for many in Dhaka. 

It started as a dream project of its owner, Ramisa Parvin, who began her journey as a freelance artist. Over time, she pursued certifications in hair colouring to provide premium services and fulfil her vision of running her own salon.

When it comes to hair treatments, Swing Salon takes a personalised approach. Ramisa shared that their team first analyses the hair's texture, length, health, and type. For instance, they check if the hair is virgin or has undergone previous treatments like colouring or chemical processes.

For general hair care, they recommend the Olaplex stand-alone treatment, priced between Tk5,000–Tk7,000, or the Bond Fusion treatment, costing Tk3,500–Tk5,500. For issues like dryness or simply relaxing, their hot oil massage or protein treatment with oil massage starts at Tk1,500.

For those dealing with hair fall, Swing Salon offers a special treatment using B6, biotin, and a high-frequency comb to help reduce hair loss. 

Keratin treatments are becoming a popular choice for taming frizzy, unmanageable hair, but Ramisa wants to make it clear that keratin and rebonding are not the same. 

While both treatments smooth the hair, keratin is semi-permanent and uses different chemicals than rebonding. She encourages people to understand the difference before choosing the right treatment for their hair.

That said, Ramisa strongly discourages those with healthy hair, especially curly-haired girls, from getting keratin treatments unnecessarily. 

"Healthy, bouncy curls are beautiful as they are," she says. "It's much better to focus on nourishing and enhancing those natural curls with treatments that hydrate and protect, helping them stay soft, defined, and full of life, rather than turning to chemical treatments."

Lastly, Ramisa advises everyone to do a little basic research before choosing a salon. She encourages clients to make sure the salon is transparent about the products they use and the aftercare needed. 

"Cheaper treatment package deals may initially sound like a steal, but they can potentially end up causing irreversible damage that ends up costing you more, both financially and emotionally," she says.

Kensho

Alavee Hossain, the director of Kensho, has always had a passion for hair and skin care, which she believes are key to boosting confidence and leaving a lasting impression. Having lived, worked, and travelled in different cities across the world, she found spas to be her personal haven for relaxation amid busy schedules.

Photo: Kensho

When Alavee returned to Bangladesh, she noticed a lack of high-quality salons and spas. Many offered subpar services, used unsuitable products, or didn't maintain proper hygiene or ambience. Determined to change that, she created Kensho—a soothing space where people can truly unwind.

Alavee, who also owns Yugen, has drawn inspiration from her travels and incorporated unique treatments into Kensho's services, many of which you won't find elsewhere. 

She is particularly influenced by Japanese culture, which is reflected in treatments like the Nap and Sleep Hair Spa. This relaxing session, priced at Tk2,500 for 25 minutes or one hour, offers more than just a hot oil massage.

Clients are treated to a cosy blanket, a dimly lit room, and an herbal eye mask with ingredients like eucalyptus. You can even take a nap while they wash your hair, leaving the salon with refreshed hair and a relaxed mind.

Another standout treatment is the Gua Sha Head Spa, which combines Japanese deep conditioning with the healing effects of gua sha. It helps relieve tension, supports scalp health, and leaves your hair deeply nourished, all for the same price.

For damaged or chemically treated hair, Kensho offers advanced treatments like Olaplex or Bond Fusion to repair bonds and restore softness. But if you're looking for something simpler, their classic hot oil massage is a great choice.

"The special thing about our hair oil is that it's made in-house with 14-15 carefully chosen ingredients, many of which are imported," Alavee explains. Kensho even collaborated with Hamdard, a renowned Ayurvedic company, to perfect their formulas and deliver the best results.

"At Kensho, every treatment starts with a consultation, ensuring your hair gets exactly what it needs. Whether you're looking to relax or repair, Kensho has a treatment tailored for you," Alavee Hussain concludes.