MANAYUNK

By Melissa Anderson

We talked with Stephen Falvo, owner of Art + Science Salon & Spa, about their "Haircuts for a Cause" event, the services they offer, and the trends you may want to try this spring!

What led to the creation of Art + Science?

"I wanted to create an environment for hairstylists that they could feel creative and also feel like it's a career," Stephen started off. "I also wanted it to be a green environment, so that we were doing the appropriate things that are good for the environment."

What does the salon practice to benefit the environment?

The salon recycles everything and makes sure to print double-sided on all of their paper. Stephen also pointed out that the construction of the building was an entirely green process. The carpeting is made from corn, all of the paint has no VOC, anything that's wooden in the salon is made from reclaimed Chinese rubberwood, and they have tankless water heater systems and low-flow toilets. On top of this, to keep it warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, Stephen said, "all of the windows have film on them to help reflect light out and keep the sun from coming in."

When it comes to your salon experience, Art + Science also uses completely organic and green sustainable products.

What brought you here to Manayunk?

"I wanted to be somewhere that there was community," said Stephen. With Art + Science making Manayunk its home since 2009, Stephen added, "I felt that Manayunk had a community of people that lived here, but it was also centrally located to allow people from the Main Line and Center City to visit easily."

Of all of the services that are offered here, what do you recommend clients try first?

Stephen believes that you need to try the salon's color first. "The reason being is that it's 96% naturally derived, and your hair will actually be in better condition after you get it colored than it was before."

Do you know of any spring trends as far as hairstyles?

"Grown out pixies have become a big trend this spring," shared Stephen. "These are shorter pixies with a bit of a rougher edge to it."

If you could cut any celebrities hair who would you choose?

After taking some time to think about his choice, Stephen said, "Goldie Hawn. I think she's had those bangs and long hair for way too long and I think she'd look amazing with a shorter haircut."

What are you looking forward to this spring in Manayunk?

Stephen said he's looking forward to all of the events that happen in Manayunk. "It allows us to get to see and meet new people who come into the town."

What will you be offering at your "Haircuts for a Cause" event?

On Sunday, April 23 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Art + Science will be having their "Haircuts for a Cause" event, where they will offer $35 "waterless" haircuts, which are normally $50-$90. This means that the hairstylists will only be using the salon's dry shampoo and dry thermal conditioner.

"We are having this event is to raise awareness for clean water around the world, and all of the proceeds go to Clean Ocean Action," explained Stephen.

You won't want to miss this great event, where there will also be a raffle for an $800 basket of products and services for Art + Science.

How long have you been working alongside Clean Ocean Action?

Clean Ocean Action is a non-profit that Art + Science has been working with since the salon opened its doors. Stephen added, "Clean Ocean Action is local and they work to clean up New Jersey beaches as well as provide education."

Why should a client come to Art + Science Salon & Spa over somewhere else?

"The level of service that we provide to people. We view every one of our clients as someone who's coming into our home," Stephen said, adding that something Art + Science is known for is how well they treat the clients that come in.

"Clients receive complimentary services included in the price of the haircut." One service includes the "stress relieving ritual," which is a three-minute head, neck, and shoulder massage.

"I think one thing people forget is that we also offer skin care options, and we do have an esthetician on staff that provides facials, waxing, and body treatments, as well as spray tans."

You won't be going to Art + Science for just a haircut, you'll going for an experience. Stop in to the salon at 4259 Main Street for their "Haircuts for a Cause" event on Sunday, April 23. Check out their services and make an appointment today on their website: www.artplusscience.com or by calling them at 215-482-2242.