I've been twice, so now I feel like I can write an accurate review of Hiwot's service. I don't let many people cut my hair, but I feel good about Hiwot's care. Here's the lowdown on both of my experiences.
Appointment making: The first time, I made my appointment online at 3 or 4 in the morning. The second time, I had to call to make an appointment because they have a new online system for which I wasn't registered (and you have to call to register).
Getting there: I've heard people complain about the small parking lot, but I take the Metro to U Street-Cardozo (10th Street exit), and it's one short block and a half walk away.
Reception: The first time I went, there was a...shall we say brisk lady at the desk; nothing personable about her--she just checked me in and got the job done. The second time, the lady at reception greeted me with a smile, checked me in, and directed me to sit and be comfortable.
Meeting Hiwot: Both times, she was extremely pleasant, talked to me about my hair's needs, and her manner eased my nervousness about scissors coming close to my hair.
Each time, my hair was washed by an assistant, and this last time, I got a deep conditioning treatment, during which they put you under a steamer after applying conditioner. I've heard debates on whether or not steamers make a difference in conditioning, but after my experience, I'm on Team Steam! The steam treatment itself was somewhat unpleasant because the excess water ran down my face constantly, and the steam was extremely hot on my scalp where my hair is thinner, but I'd endure it again for its benefits.
The first time, the assistant blow dried my hair. This time, after my treatment, Hiwot rinsed out my conditioner and blow dried my hair. Then she cut it and flat ironed it.
I'm black, I have very thin and coarse hair, and I don't use a relaxer. I normally wear my hair curly, and that's the best option because of its thinness. In the past when stylists have straightened and curled my hair, it was a nightmare--they made me look like I was wearing a helmet! However, Hiwot manages to flat iron and curl it, AND give my hair body so it doesn't look like a helmet made of thread. Really.
Price: My first visit, I didn't get a deep conditioning treatment, so it was $60. The second time, with the treatment, it was $100. Frankly, I think $40 is a bit steep for a treatment where they're using the same conditioner they'd normally use, and they're not actively handling the client's hair.
Bathroom: I wish the bathroom were a bit cleaner. It's understandable that hair is everywhere in a salon; however, the sink and toilet should always be spotless. As a relative germaphobe, I'm not completely put off by the bathroom, but it could be improved.
Accessibility: A note for people needing wheelchair access. Yelp says the salon is accessible, but to get inside the salon, there's a large step at the door. I have arthritis and it's a bit of a pain. Once inside, the main area is on one level, and there are two short steps to the sinks, hooded dryer area, bathroom, coat closet, and another stylist area. If you think you'll be fine with the step at the door, when you make an appointment, it would be good to ask where in the salon your services will take place.
So, four stars for the wonderful haircare and customer service, and minus one star for the overpriced conditioning treatment and the hairy bathroom. read more