Despite thesis pressures (I have to hand it in on July 2nd), I took time off this morning to take the bus out to Westboro so I could get my hair dyed (no grey for me) and cut by Vidal Sassoon-trained Joy Parker in her basement chemical-free, odor-free, environmentally-friendly hair salon.
Joy used to own a regular salon in Ottawa but became sensitive to all the chemicals (such as hair-dye and perming agents) that are used in the hair-care industry. So, she remodeled the basement of her house and in 1990 opened up Pure Joy (formerly Shear Indulgence). She only ever has two or three clients at one time (and often its just me) so it’s also much calmer and quieter than regular salons are.
The all natural hair-dye she uses now comes from Europe and is offered in a wide range of shades–this stuff far surpasses henna in tint range, hair-texture, and longevity. Plus it smells nice, sort of like chocolate. The shampoos and products she uses and sells are predominately made of organic ingredients and odor-free. She carries a full range of Aubrey’s hair and skin-care products, Miessence products (including their fabulous line of cosmetics), as well as a few well-chosen products from other lines.
If you have chemical-sensitivities, are sensitive to fragrance, are serious about stepping lightly on the earth, or just want healthier hair, consider Pure Joy for your hair-styling needs in Ottawa.
Pure Joy Natural Hair Studio, Joy Parker, 613-728-4069
June 23, 2007 at 3:29 pm
Just a few days I was wondering how I would find a salon in Ottawa that uses natural hair products! Thanks for your post. Do you happen to know the name of the hair dye product line?
June 23, 2007 at 4:20 pm
I think she uses Schwarzkopf all natural dyes from Germany (not sure of the spelling there). Oh, and she’s on holiday for the next two weeks (until the second week of July ‘07).
July 9, 2007 at 10:42 am
Hi there, do you know if Joy is taking new clients? I’ve had a crazy hard time trying to find an eco-friendly salon….
Thanks!!
Ez
July 9, 2007 at 11:17 am
Yes, she is taking new clients.
October 23, 2007 at 7:59 am
I look forward to my first appointment for a shampoo and haircut on November 1, 2007, 11 a.m. I stopped dying my grey hair, because I didn’t want to be exposed unnecessarily to toxic chemicals, after developing sensitivities to so-called “fragrances.” I may reconsider.
October 21, 2008 at 3:37 pm
The last post about this hair salon was from last year.
Is it still open? If not, any other suggestion for a chemical-free hair pampering?
October 21, 2008 at 3:38 pm
The last post about this hair salon was from last year.
Is it still open?
If not, any other suggestion for a chemical-free hair pampering?
November 7, 2008 at 9:49 pm
Claudia,
I just called and was able to get an appt with Joy. So she a) is still open and b) is accepting new clients. Good luck!
Mel
November 21, 2008 at 4:12 pm
I have recently been dealing with extremely damaged hair due to highlights. My stylist continued to suggest them. I didn’t know there was a healthy alternative for colour. A co-worker told me about Joy, a very experienced talented stylist who uses natural colour. Within 2 months I felt like a new person and 10 years younger. What a difference. My hair is on the rebound. It’s shiny and I can comb though it again. Not to mention the colour is gorgeous. I have never, EVER, had this many complements on my hair! WOW! The smart choice to go all natural has made a HUGE improvement. I can’t even express my satisfaction in words. Joy is at the cutting edge of the fashion front always looking and attending seminars for new looks and hot new cuts. Also the colour is a light footprint on the environment. I highly recommend the experience and change. Thanks Joy…
January 16, 2009 at 4:37 pm
I have an appointment with Joy at the end of January for cut and colour. It will be so nice to come out of a salon and not feeling sick.
February 4, 2009 at 3:34 pm
So Bonnie, how was your appointment? Are you happy with the results?
February 11, 2009 at 5:19 pm
Carla, I was pleased with the results and I’m sure the next time I go for colour, the results will be even better.:)Joy has a relaxed and lovely salon. Most important, I didn’t leave the salon feel ill.
February 24, 2009 at 5:10 pm
Could anyone give me an idea of what her prices are like?
March 14, 2009 at 10:55 am
Joy’s prices are competitive with other quality shops. Especially when you consider her experties and commitment to colouring hair naturally.
May 1, 2009 at 8:15 pm
Bonnie – Very happy to hear your results. Thanks for the reply.
May 3, 2009 at 5:13 pm
Can I just walk in and buy this hair product I have become very sensitive to most hair dye products have tried many , all with allergic reactions
May 7, 2009 at 12:09 pm
Yes you can but i would advice to calling in advance. Joy is busy but always willing to help and take on new clients…
July 2, 2009 at 1:35 pm
http://www.joyparker.ca/