What to expect at a Dominican Style Hair Salon

A growing trend among New York City hair salons is that of the "Dominican" hair salon or "Dominican Style" hair salon. Once a closely guarded secret of low-income neighborhoods, Dominican hair salons were only common place in areas where the populations were predominately Hispanic. The establishments were notorious for having non-English speaking stylist who toiled tirelessly from the wee hours of the morning until the wee hours of the night. While most hair salons would have staggering prices, it was once a mainstay that services at these salons begin at just $20.

In recent times that has mostly changed. A "Dominican Style" is a moniker for meaning "we can do any type of hair". Being of diverse ethnic backgrounds natives of Dominican Republic have learned to adapt to differences in hair textures descended upon them through their African Slave, Indian and Spaniard ancestry. As licensed stylist they are masters of manipulating all types ofethnic hair, including the "normal" hair of most Americans.

Prices are stereotypically low at these establishments and comparable to going rates within the area. While Dominican style salons are usually very successful in acquiring loyal followings and clientele, there are several complaints common among such hair salons.

1. Waiting

There is usually a very long waiting period for service. Most stylists request that you come in very early if you are in need of a service that takes a long time. Even with an appointment most people are in the salon for at least 3 hours.

2. Language Barrier

While not a staple to all, most of these salons have generally Hispanic employees that do not have English as their first language. New non-Spanish speaking clients looking to try out a new place sometimes are turned off by not having a stylist they feel they can not effectively communicate with.

3. Price Variances

Most professional salons have a menu with pricing scales. On sight a patron will know what the low and high end cost of a service is. Typical among Dominican salons is that the main senior stylist will perform a consultation on a client and seemingly come up with a price out of thin air. Regular customers can verify whether or not the pricing seems within range, however newer clients have no verification that this is the "normal" price for a service. Newer clients sometimes come away from one of these consultations feeling like manipulated or like they are being taken advantage of.

Dominican hair salons are important service centers in the communities they are found. If you get a chance to visit one, it would be worthwhile for anyone of any hair type looking to try a new experience. Come early, and be prepared to hurry up and wait.

 Article content by: Irene Ocasio, NY Hair Styles Examiner