Blow-dry bars seem to be catching on in Hong Kong. Following on the heels of Airplay Blow-Dry Bar is the latest newcomer, Amika: Hairdo Bar.
Located on Elgin Street, it's the first styling-only salon in the city from New York-based haircare company Amika. There are no cuts or hair colouring on the menu, although a hair wash is included in blowouts, along with add-on services like oil and mask treatments. As with Airplay, the styling stations mostly face the bar counter, instead of mirrors. The idea is to raise the element of surprise when you see the finished hairdo (though I sit at the lone counter that faces a mirror). Behind the bar are separate shelves that hold bottles of champagne, as well as the brand's signature Obliphica haircare products. The collection of styling tools are neatly arranged in the pockets of the counter, and jars filled with marshmallows and sweets are stacked at the bar.
My stylist hands me the menu, explaining that there are 12 styles to choose from, including a blowout style dubbed the "va va voom", and a "faux hawk" updo. The stylist also mentions that he can create custom styles according to a customer's preference - just bring a picture of the look you want. Skipping blowouts and styling, I ask him to create a casual, but chic, updo.
He suggests the "bun", as I am heading to dinner and drinks later. Updos don't include a hair wash, since it's standard procedure to leave hair "gritty" for a whole day to maintain the style. But the stylist does massage some Amika's Perk Up Dry shampoo to cleanse excess oil and dirt.
The next 40 minutes consist of my hair being twisted, pinned, backcombed (for volume), and clouded in a mist of hairspray. Although I kept an eye on the mirror throughout the styling, I am surprised by the finished look, understated and chic - it's a great updo.
The verdict? Amika is a fun place to relax, sit back, sip champagne and get a great new look. It's a perfect pre-party treat.