Patch Picks: Best Local Hair Stylists

Finding a good hair stylist is always a challenge. Whom do you trust? We tend to accept recommendations by friends and family. And that’s what I did. This week’s installment of Patch Picks is a list of local hair stylists used by friends or personally visited by yours truly. Let’s collectively say good-bye to bad hair days.

• Walkin Salon by Robert Cromeans: Considered to be a hair industry icon and visionary, Robert Cromeans and his team in Pacific Beach are some of the most respected hair artists in the beauty industry. Cromeans has consistently been voted artist of the year by hairdresser peers. Cromeans was previously the Global Artistic Director of John Paul Mitchell Systems, which helped set the tone for the beauty world. The legendary platform artist later opened his flagship salon in downtown San Diego, which has now expanded to five locations, including at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. Visiting the location in Pacific Beach, clients at Robert Cromeans salons will have a hair-raising experience. Treat yourself to an unforgettable hair experience. Walkin Salon by Robert Cromeans is located at 969 Garnet Ave., Pacific Beach, 858-270-9975.
• Model Call La Jolla: The salon has been in business for 28 years in La Jolla providing an atmosphere for beauty and well-being. Roger Tuttle is the owner and head stylist, who has worked on shows such as Fashion Emergency and Sweet Sixteen. Tuttle specializes in men’s and women’s haircuts, styling, color, and highlights. Model Call has three L’Oreal educators at the salon in La Jolla, and carries four luxury exclusive product lines: Bumble and Bumble, Unite, N.4, and L’Oreal Professional. A bonus here is that Model Call also has spa services such as facials, waxing, body bronzing, makeup, brow treatments, microdermabrasion/peels, and perafin treatments. Special bridal services are also available.Model Call La Jolla is located at 7553 Girard Ave., La Jolla, 858-454-3812. They have an additional location in Hillcrest.
• Robin Peters at Salon Del Mar: Robin Peters has been a hair stylist for over 25 years, and in Del Mar for 15. Peters said she enjoys her profession because of the conversations she has with clients and helping them feel good about themselves. And she has heard it all, from the young clients to the elderly ones at Salon Del Mar. Peters specializes in and is knowledgeable in giving precision cuts and color treatments. She always looks forward to working with new clients, giving them her fullest attention and positive energy to make them feel and look their best. Salon del Mar, 1101 Camino Del Mar, 858-792-7229.
• Little Locks: Kids need activity when they get haircuts, and Little Locks is just the place to keep the little ones occupied. , which has locations in La Jolla and Carmel Valley, is suitable for kids aged newborn to early teens. Kids can enjoy sitting in styling chairs shaped like cars, watch TV or DVDs, play Nintendo or on a play table. Little Locks offers a variety of hair products geared towards the special delicate hair strands of a child. Be prepared, Little Locks is also a toy store, so wandering hands may want to take something home. Little Locks, La Jolla: 5665 La Jolla Blvd., 858-551-5161; Carmel Valley: 11130 East Ocean Air Drive, 858-794-8697.
• Ryan Thomas Hair Studio: Dedicated to providing the best in service and satisfaction, the Ryan Thomas Hair Studio styles run the gamut from avant-garde to classic. Since moving to San Diego form New York City, Thomas quickly established a loyal clientele from working in La Jolla and Del Mar salons. He soon founded and became the Artistic Director for the Ryan Thomas Hair Studio in Encinitas, which offers a number of hair and beauty services. The studio is also known for their wedding services, including going through a trial run before the big day. Ryan Thomas Hair Studio is located at 1031 South Coast Hwy. 101, Encinitas, 760-436-4247.
• Sports Clips: Not your typical salon experience, but for some guys (my guys), is the best place to go. Men and boys can relax and watch sports while getting a quick trim. Sometimes it’s over before they know it. To prolong the experience, guys can get an invigorating scalp, shoulder and neck massage, followed by a hot steamed towel. And if you’ve got the facial hair going, beard trims and detailing are available too. Sports Clips has several locations, including: La Jolla - 8855 Villa La Jolla Dr., 858-657-0255; Del Mar - 2632 Del Mar Heights, 858-523-0057; and, Encinitas – 276 El Camino Real #D, 760-942-8100 (opening in July).