Barnet Salon - disappointing, hair quality below acceptable
I attended the Barnet, London branch for a hair integration system following an initial consultation.
My first consultation was with Sally, who was excellent. She clearly explained my options and I felt confident enough to book treatment. I understand that Sally moved to another branch shortly after.
At my first appointment, in Feb 2024, I was told my hair was too thin for extensions, so I proceeded with a full mesh integration system instead. I want to be clear that all of the staff I met were kind and well-meaning. However, the way the salon was run made the experience extremely difficult.
Almost every time I attended, I saw a different person. Stylists either left, were promoted, or were supervising new trainees — this happened more than once. In addition, the person doing my monthly adjustment would not wash the hair, which meant there was never continuity or the opportunity to build a proper relationship with a stylist. This wasn’t the fault of the staff; it was clearly a structural issue in how the salon operated.
The system is designed to stay in place for six months, with monthly adjustment appointments as the hair grows, and the hair itself is marketed as lasting up to two years with good care.
My main disappointment was the quality of the hair. I now attend another salon and therefore have a direct comparison.
At one point, the hair became so badly knotted that I phoned the salon in distress. The receptionist was understanding and booked me in for the next day. I paid extra for the hair to be washed. During that appointment, I clearly remember the stylist calling the manager over and explaining that although she was carefully combing and drying the hair, it was immediately knotting again. The manager came over, looked at the hair, said nothing, and walked away. Given the culture of the salon, no one — including me — felt able to challenge that.
I was hugely relieved when I later found another salon closer to where I live in Peterborough. The difference has been significant: the same stylist each visit, far better continuity of care, and hair quality that is vastly superior. The entire experience is calmer, more professional, and far less stressful.
I wish I could recommend this salon, as it was my first experience of this type of system. Unfortunately, due to poor organisation, lack of continuity, and the quality of the hair, I ultimately came to dread my appointments rather than feel supported.