Blow dry salons are not yet so common as inexpensive nail salons but they’re definitely a new – and welcome – phenomenon. And now leading full service beauty salons are getting on the bandwagon.

We’re talking about $35 to $40 for a shampoo and blow out. This is a good deal provided the “do” lasts for more than a day or two, assuming there’s no special occasion when a day will do. The operative word is “last”. And that depends on who is doing your hair. I’ve tried Blo which is expanding across the city (just saw they opened in the Village of Merrick Park) with mixed results. There’s also a new one on Ponce de Leon and in Aventura called SoBlo. They offer a $25 special Monday to Wednesday and Friday from 7:30 to 11 a.m. If you go and get a good hairdresser,  be sure to make note of the name for next time.

My best luck is with Sean Donaldson Hair at 1674 Meridian Ave #100 T.(305) 397-8460 , just a block away from the municipal parking garage (love it when there’s no hassle to parking). And Alex Diaz is the man. The proof? My friends all commented on how they loved what he did (“much more contemporary”, “you look younger”—isn’t that one of the ultimate compliments for women or men of a certain age)? He uses a leading brand of shampoo and conditioner, customized to one’s hair type. It’s a bright, spacious, lovely salon, and they always offer coffee and water. And it’s just $35. Plus, they’re open 7 days a week and until late.

I’m not particularly into hair products – so many and most of them all seem the same – but I was impressed with a special boost I got from Keratin’s Vanilla Bean Deep Conditioner (included in the price) and also got a Keratin Vitalshot that left my hair extra smooth and shiny (an extra $35).

Now I’m hooked on the blow drys and go weekly since I find that they last me four to five days even considering I go to the gym often and sweat. Most of all, it makes me feel so pampered.