With overwhelming schedules that govern students’ lives, setting aside time to relax and focus on oneself can easily become a last priority.
At East Lansing’s newest salon, HEAT Blow Dry and Beauty Boutique, co-owner Molly Chan said the salon strives to provide a relaxing environment where customers can receive quick and convenient services that will leave them feeling better than when they walked in the door.
“You just have to embrace the whole concept of ‘me’ time,” Chan said.
Located on the lower level of the Sparrow Michigan Athletic Club facility, HEAT is a specialized salon that offers haircuts, conditioning treatments, manicures and pedicures, facial and brow waxing, makeup appointments, and hand treatments.
Although they offer a variety of packages, their most popular and unique service is referred to as a “blowout.”
A blowout is a specialized service that allows customers to simply walk in and have the stylist wash, blow-dry and style their hair. At HEAT, a blowout costs upwards of $25. According to co-owner Dan Buccilli, blowouts are very common within populated cities, but the concept is relatively new to East Lansing, and the public is still trying to catch on.
Buccilli said professional blowouts can last anywhere between three days to a week depending on your hair’s texture and style.
“It’s also the experience as a whole,” Buccilli said. “Just being in that sanctuary where you can come and take some time to yourself and just relax and forget.”
As customers exit the salon, the last thing they see is HEAT’s tagline, “See you soon, gorgeous,” displayed in bold letters over the door. Chan said this little detail encompasses their overall philosophy of being a salon where individuals can embrace and enhance their beauty.
“We want customers to leave feeling loved and confident,” Chan said.
Okemos resident Robyn Robins is a returning customer to HEAT who said she enjoys the contemporary style of the boutique and their variety of services.
“It makes me feel relaxed, like I’m getting pampered,” Robins said.
Not only are local residents coming into the salon, but Chan said many MSU students have already stopped by to get their hair done in preparation for sorority events taking place on campus.
After opening to the public on August 4, HEAT stylist Morgane Dalton said she is happy to see the boutique’s popularity growing rapidly, which she believes is a response to the salon’s unique atmosphere.
“I think we are a really friendly, welcoming crew that is ready to pamper our customers,” Dalton said.
