The Grooming Lounge

Fantastic & helpful staff! I went in after the holiday season to use a gift card, a fellow helper gave me, on some beard oil. After reading about it on their site, I figured I would take a gander and smell what they had to offer. Unfortunately they were out of stock, but an exceptionally nice lady at the front offered her advice and even gave me some samples to try out at home. I will definitely be coming out to the Tyson’s galleria.

First time visit beats any other experience I’ve ever had. My visit today consisted of a business manicure and grooming lounge signature foot treatment. At first I was greeted by a young lady named Noor Who Was polite and very inviting, then escorted to a very modern waiting room and was offered a complementary beverage. After waiting for no more than about five minutes I was greeted by Maya Who is my treatment specialist for the next hour and 30 minutes. Maya was so kind, thorough and though she had other appointments made me feel as if I was the only one she had to attend to. The grooming lounge is an all male location so you save yourself the awkwardness of being in a woman’s nail salon for basic services. Maya’s the reason I’d go back.
Prices are very fair for the service. Everything was very clean including the tools used for manicure and pedicure came out of a sealed package.
I highly recommend this location.
Note that they are located on the third level closest to the Macy’s wing.

This review is for a Mens h/​c. After a complete butcher job at a salon in Reston, I rushed my boyfriend here for an emergency fix. We walked in on a Saturday afternoon and explained our situation– despite being completely booked the ladies at the front called two of their stylists that were on break to see if they could help us. My boyfriend sat down in the waiting lounge for about 5 – 10 minutes before he was greeted by a nice older gentleman (I wish I could remember his name.) He took my boyfriend back and fixed the complete mow down from the previous salon! Not only did he accommodate during a sticky situation and a full schedule, he did not charge for the fix (of course he received a handsome tip). Overall this was a great experience and I cant wait to see what this stylist can do when we arent in panic mode. Definitely recommending for the incredible customer service.

It is a hi-​brow men’s barber shop, even if Facebook says it is is a Pet Grooming place. Well some guys may come in looking a little rough, but they will leave looking darn good.
I have had manicure and pedicures as well as facials here, all very good. The massage I had a few years back, left a little to be desired.
I see guys in there getting hair cuts and shaves, and they always look quite good.
It is a bit pricey, and they do push product sales on you pretty hard, or upsell you to the next level of service. Just say no, and choose what you want.

Having had to make an appointment, it was strange that I still had to wait almost 20 minutes after my scheduled time to be helped. It then wasn’t until after I got home that I realized that my bangs had been ignored and were completely uneven. I was able to fix this myself but for a $ 55 men’s haircut this is unacceptable. The rest of the haircut itself was great.
As for the experience… For the money, the glass of water (though I had asked for sparkling), the hair wash, and hot towel were a nice touch, but at the end of the day the haircut itself is what’s most important and on that they missed the mark. It may be that my appointment was one of the last of the day, but I don’t think that should be an excuse for sub-​par service — especially for a first time customer.
The product pushing is something I’ve experienced in the past at other salons but this was a bit excessive. It was in my face from the very beginning all the way to the «customized» silver platter at the end of the session based on what was used on you. The products seemed to be high enough quality and I even bought some of the styling pomade, but I almost didn’t out of principle.
I have a gift card for one more haircut, so I will give it another try. Otherwise, I don’t think I would be returning. Willy’s in Ballston is ¹⁄₃ the price and the service is spot-​on every time.
Update: Went back for a different haircut and the quality was much better with Alexx. Unfortunately she doesn’t seem to work there anymore, so I’m apprehensive to return.

Called and got a 30 minute long voicemail from a guy with a bad English accent (I guess made to sound proper but ends up being really cheesy) and there’s no option to skip it to just speak to a person. It will direct you to their online booking system which doesn’t work from iPhones lol then you try to click chat and the chat person can’t help you either.
Needless to say, this place really sucks. Go to a real upscale salon like Georges in the four seasons in Georgetown or Erwin Gomez on K street because this place is not where you want to go.
Noticing a trend here in these reviews… It’s a shame they don’t. It’s basically a better designed Supercuts or LemonTree now. This is not high end or luxury and they don’t have good service.

I have noticed a slight change in the service offered. I usually get my haircut here, and my recent experience was less than the stellar cut that I am used to. I have noticed that they cut back on the alcohol offering as well. Hopefully this will get better soon.

This place is worst for little kids’ haircuts. The manager was rude to us and asked the stylist to stop when my son started crying during his haircut. She also threatened us about calling mall security. I guess the store needs a lesson or two in customer service.
Also, if this place cannot cut little kids’ hair, then they should let customers know while making appointments.

I’ve been coming here for the past few years now, so I figured it was finally time to add my two cents.
The Grooming Lounge is a great, unique «man spa» that really does a solid job of offering a wide range of high-​end services for men inside an environment that any guy will feel comfortable in.
As for services, they offer a full suite of haircuts, shaves, massages, manicures, pedicures, facials, and waxing, all with several different price levels. I won’t say that the haircut you’ll get here will be the best you’ll ever have, but it certainly will qualify as a well-​done cut; better than you’d get at, say, Hair Cuttery. The other services, however, are top-​notch all the way through. No matter if you get a manicure/​pedicure, massage, or facial, you will leave beyond satisfied. Well, alright: I’ve gotten better massages elsewhere, but GL’s are still very pleasant and effective. I’ll give Kirsten a special shout out: she handles all the facial work, and she is wonderful. I love my monthly appointments with her.
Now, the prices are high– there’s no doubt about it. The thing is, you get what you pay for. I know many people don’t like that saying, but sometimes it really is true, and this is such a case. I won’t say that the place wouldn’t be better off if it offered a few lower-​cost options (or simply lowered the price on those they already have), but what are you gonna do. It’s still very much worthwhile.
I’ve seen many reviews criticizing the after-​appointment product-​pushing. Yes, it is a part of the Grooming Lounge experience. However, it is by no means expected of you to purchase anything once you’re on your way out. If you’re not interested in hearing their recommendations, just say so– everybody here from the front desk to the stylists is nice and helpful. I really don’t understand the guys who make such a big deal about this… just say no thanks.
On the other hand, though, if you DO enjoy going more high-​end with your care products, the shop offers a great selection of hair, face, and shaving products, along with specialty deodorants and colognes. They also have their own razors, but quite frankly I’ve seen better (and at fairer prices) elsewhere. I always pick up one or two things when I’m there– and just as a tip, Grooming Lounge’s own brand of products is very nice.
They used to offer free cocktails and beer for all customers, but that stopped awhile back now. Something to do with the liquor license. It’s a shame that this luxury is gone, it really went with the atmosphere and was a real treat, but it doesn’t ruin anything, and they’re still more than willing to offer you water, soda, coffee (even espresso), or anything else you’d like.
All in all, Grooming Lounge is a wonderful spot for guys who care about how they look. That doesn’t make this place right for everyone, but even the most indifferent men would enjoy themselves here.

I’ve been getting my haircut at The Grooming Lounge since 2005. First at the DC location, and for the past few years at Tysons Galleria. My stylist is great; he knows actually what to do when I’m seated and does it extremely well.
However, for $ 60 I used to get the hot towel wrap on my face before the haircut, and the quick shoulder massage after. Unfortunately the past few times I’ve been here these services have quietly gone away though the price tag remains the same.
Here’s what I’d recommend to the owners of GL.
1) Introduce a $ 35 haircut for those who are thinning/​almost bald. No joke– I know there are a number of folks (myself included) who love coming here but our appointments obviously don’t last as longer as those with a full head of hair.
2) The current interior design of this location (I’m guessing DC too) was conceived over 10 years ago, and is due for a renovation. The dark wood works, but could use a facelift. Sorry but the logo could use a makeover too. I’m guessing follow the rule (s) of hotel interiors and identities, that go through 10 to 12-​year cycles of renovation and reinvention and are constantly evolving. For the Tysons store in particular: the idea of having a TV is great, but no matter which side of the bench you’re seated on your have to literally tilt your head at an almost 90 degree angle to watch. Not comfortable.
3) Please, please, please: try to get someone that knows how to thread eyebrows (and other areas of the face/​neck/​hands/​arms). Start with maybe a day or two a week, and see where it goes. There are a ton of guys out there that want to get their eyebrows threaded, but: a) don’t want to sit in a kiosk in a mall where thousands of people are walking by or b) are tired of putting up with funny looks from the women who work at the various eyebrow outposts in Tysons.
4) Scalp exfoliating treatment. Very few places offer this and I wish GL had someone that could provide this service. Again, a lot of guys want this but don’t want to frequent a salon being the only male getting this service.
5) Walk-​ins should be more readily accepted, especially for the waxing services.
6) Some outreach with the LGBT community/​customers? A number of gay men visit the GL with great loyalty, and it would be nice to see at least some visibility of the brand at various events, organizations, publications within the gay community in DC.
My overall ranking for this place is 4 stars, as I am most certainly a fan. I love the fact that a place like this exists just for us guys. The product line is excellent, and the website is one of the best internet shopping experiences I can recall. The staff is always very friendly, and is generous with samples!

Been coming here for about 3 years and always greeted by friendly hosts and my stylist knows exactly what to do with my hair. Always leave pleased with my haircut.

Love it! Sara is an amazing stylist: thourough, nice, talented, etc. Without a doubt one of the best parts of my month is visiting the grooming lounge!

I was really disappointed with my experience at the grooming lounge. For $ 50 I was expecting the best haircut of my life and all I got was a mediocre haircut, a worthless massage, and a sales pitch for a bunch of crappy hair products.
I’m sorry but the overall Unilocal reviewer 4 star rating for The Grooming Lounge is misleading due to the fact that the reviewers don’t know the difference between a good haircut and a bad one. If you don’t believe me take a look at the profile pictures of the reviewers’ who gave this place 4 – 5 stars (again sorry guys but the truth hurts).
Don’t think I know what I am talking about? Good example of a «Brush Cut», Brad Pitt Oceans 11, bad example of a «Brush Cut» Tom Cruise Mission Impossible 1. If you can’t tell the difference between the two then by all means go to The Grooming Lounge, you’ll love it.

I am a big fan of their products, but if getting a shave here, don’t be disappointed when someone who is not an experienced barber with a straight razor gives you your shave. (The last time I got a shave here it was from a woman… not sure how much experience she had in shaving a face. If an old school shave is what you are looking for I recommend The Art of Shaving or finding a Barber shop in the district that still staffs real barbers) Was unhappy that they discontinued their beverage service (you used to be able to get a drink while waiting). Having said that, the overall shave was a good experience.
In my opinion, products and treatments are highly over-​priced. Probably a function of where they are located. Bottom line, Grooming Lounge is focused on selling a name and style and not focused on the product.

After having tried several different products from the Gooming Lounge website, I thought I should head in to try out some of the various services that are offered. I got a package called «The Senator» as a gift card, which entitles me to a haircut, hot lather shave, and a manicure. I live in Maryland and after already driving to Viriginia to browse through the Galleria I realized I did not have my gift card with me. I immediately called GL and they said that it should be fine. I was pleased to know I did not have to drive back to MD before my appointment.
When I got there I sat for a few minutes before meeting Kristy, who would be giving me my haircut and hot lather shave. She said she would like to do the haircut first so then I could relax during my shave. I explained to her my normal haircut procedure and she did a great job, which I was expecting given the pricing. Next, the hot lather shave. The shave really goes above and beyond. It is about 45 minutes long and is very relaxing and is an overall great shave. After the shave I had to wait about 15 minutes before the manicure since there is only one manicurist at the GL. This was no problem and the manicure itself was pretty nice and was accompanied by a forearm masssage at the end.
At the end of all of my services the GL receptionist was able to look up my gift card in their system and apply the gift card to all of my services without any problem. If any are wondering, «The Senator» package costs more than all three of the services added up separately because it includes the tip. I also got a bag full of some nice free samples. Overall I was very satisfied with all of my services. I would say the hot lather shave really is the best service I received and will definitely be back for another one in the future!

Ann Shimm and the grooming lounge has been an integral part of my beautification in the last two years.
I’ve done following services (and I’m a straight, male)
–Haircut (every 5 weeks)
–Manicures (7x)
–Waxing (don’t tell — it’s like I wear a sweater) (7x)
–Massage (2x)
–Shaving (1x)
All the services are great. This place is great at twice the price. This place makes a huge difference in how I feel about myself and how I view services grooming. Thumbs up!

Went here yesterday to get my first haircut ever at their lounge.
First off you have to realize that your not going to your usual barbershop when you come into this place. Your surrounded by professionals who care a lot about what they are doing (both employees and people getting hair cuts). This is not your average next door $ 12 hair-​cuttery. The staff takes their time with you, warm towels, massages and they talk to you about their products and what they feel would work best for you. If you are someone who doesn’t care about style or customer service then i wouldn’t recommend this place to you, if you are a professional who cares about how you look and want good service this is the right spot for you (I personally have been to over 30 barbershops in the area and this is my new favorite).
The girls up front were extremely helpful, quick, courteous and know everything about the products they are selling. The stylist who shaved me up was great and friendly. Very clean and sanitary. I ended up buying a «six pack» (pay for 5 services and get one for free). I got a warm towel on my face, nice massage and great service. I would and will highly recommend this place to all of my friends and family!

Beautiful location and great service. They really make you feel comfortable, give you a coffee or cappuccino, you can read the Economist and watch CNN while you wait, and they definitely take their time with the entire haircut process.
That said, the prices are completely ridiculous, and the entire time you’re being sold «The Grooming Lounge» brand products. If it wasn’t for the hard sales pitch throughout the experience and if it cost about 25−50% less it’d be one thing, because everything about the haircut itself was actually pretty good, but price can’t be ignored. For that cost I can get three haircuts at Dominion Barber Shop in McLean that are close enough in quality. Either charge a premium price and give a premium experience, or have a more reasonable price and give the hard sales pitch throughout. Premium price for a sales presentation is unnecessary.

One word. BECKY.
Just to give you an idea of how much both Jon and I love Becky, we travel from Durham to get his hair cut by her.
She’s the only other woman that I will allow my boyfriend to see, for appearances anyway. Becky has been cutting his hair for a few years now. And, although he was reluctant to go into a «beauty shop» as he called it, he came out an addict. And my shaggy haired man has the hottest haircut on the block. It’s stylish, it’s modern and most of all, she cuts his hair the way it NEEDS to be cut. The cut compliments the characteristics of his crazy hair and he comes out looking awesome every time. He’s no longer a skeptic and doesn’t mind spending a few extra bucks for the quality of the services, and even the products. He’s a big fan of the products as well.
He loves the experience, not just the haircut but he really looks forward to the shave as well. He raves about what a relaxing experience it is, and how nice it is to get a close shave without sacrificing the skin.
If you’re considering the grooming lounge as a gift, or even a self pampering. I would highly recommend the Grooming Lounge. And I highly recommend Becky. She’s the best!

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I just received a $ 10 off coupon in the mail. Since $ 50 haircuts are way out of my price range, I’d be happy to pass the saving off to someone else. Just send me a message if you want to give it a try.
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I’m definitely a fan of this place… but not a fan of $ 50 haircuts. I just did a walk-​in instead of an appointment. My suggestion is to make that appointment, come a little bit early, so you can enjoy your 2 complimentary drinks.
Despite the name… there really isn’t much of a lounge. In fact it’s a small booth that sits 2 people with a coffee table of magazines and a flat panel TV.
I sat down, and my drink was poured, and then 30 seconds later, I was ushered off to my hair stylist. Admittedly she didn’t do a perfect job (that you would expect for $ 50)…but it wasn’t bad. The thing I liked most after the stiff drinks of course… was that they put a hot towel over your face. Oh my… that did feel pretty good.
I liked being able to sip a drink while having my hair cut… definitely took the edge off especially after not having my hair professionally done since I was like in high school.
Thing that doesn’t make sense is that they wash your hair BEFORE the cut. That’s RETARDED. The wash should be AFTER the cut… so you don’t have to be walking around the mall dropping traces of DNA everywhere you go. Shheeesh.
The hand massage at the end of the cut was a nice touch, but I have to agree with Jake… it was weak. I would have prefered an extra hair wash.