This salon is fantastic! It is definitely a hidden gem.  Thanks to my bff, Jayd Lovely for helping me stumble upon this little treasure.

Shampoo Ink is located in the Windsor Square historical district. The homes in this neighborhood date back more than eighty years, giving the area an old school charm that is unmatched.The salon itself compliments the neighborhood quite nicely with an array of antique furniture and an old style salon feel, despite it being freshly remodeled.  The interior is decorated with fresh, edgy art work from local artists which gives a nice hip contrast to the otherwise very “back in the day” vibe.

The Twist:  This salon will be opening up an adjoining tattoo parlor, hence the name Shampoo Ink.  I have never seen this before, and in my personal opinion will be a beautiful way to expose the feminine quality of a salon to the masculine feel of a tattoo parlor.  The parlor is expected to open in January 2011.  I will be sure to keep everyone posted on this.

I had the pleasure of interviewing the owner of Shampoo Ink, Abel Escoto, who also works in the salon as a stylist and beyond that is also a tattoo artist. I don’t know which is more interesting Abel or the salon itself.  I was so impressed with Abel and his commitment to have a business where his employees are encouraged to be their own bosses and take responsibility for their client’s satisfaction.  Abel is hell bent on not having to babysit his staff but at the same time encourages them to take it to the next level in their craft.  Another impressive thing was the determination to create a business that is far from the typical, mundane, cookie cutter salon you see on every corner in Phoenix.

My experience at the salon: I went in for a haircut a week ago just to check the spot out.  I was first impressed by the mini fridge stalked up with alcoholic beverages, which we all know I adore. I was greeted by Abel who introduced himself to me and then promptly started asking me what I was looking for as far as the cut I was going to get.  He paid particular attention to all of my requests.  During my haircut the conversation flowed as if I had known him my entire life.   This by far exceeded my expectation of the first time at a new salon, no awkward silence or weird moments.    Not to mention, the prices are beyond reasonable, haircuts starting at twenty five dollars.  Beat that.  I give this salon five gold stars!

Shampoo Ink- 695 E. Colter St. Phoenix, AZ, 85012; Phone: (602)759-8755