Review: The Brazilian Blowout Really Works, and Where in Carlsbad to Get One

I’m very low maintenance when it comes to my hair. I no longer highlight or color it and I usually give myself about 10 minutes in the morning to do my hair. Since I have wavy, thick, dry hair, those 10 minutes are normally devoted to a straightening iron. When I wash my hair, I’m stuck with at least an hour of drying time. 

With the summer humidity I finally got sick of having bad hair days and started researching the Brazilian Blowout. Most salons charge upwards of $300 for the process but daily deal sites often run $99 promotions.

I decided to try located at 1207 Carlsbad Village Dr. #C. By mentioning “Yelp” I got the $99 price and didn’t need to print out a coupon or pay in advance.

The owner Kristin did my hair. The process takes a couple hours. First she washed it with special shampoo. Once back in the chair, the product was applied. I was expecting a bad chemical smell or burn but neither occurred. Next my hair was blow-dried into a fizzy puff (see "before" photo). Then Kristin got it pin-straight with a straightening iron. I was instructed not to touch my hair because oils from my hands could get in it. We then went back to the shampoo area and again my hair was washed. Lastly, Kristin blow-dried it again and this time it dried straight (see "after" photo).

I left the salon loving my hair but wondering if it really would last 10 weeks. I was actually a bit worried the whole thing was a gimmick and that the next I washed my hair I’d discover it didn’t work. Thankfully, it worked. I’ve washed my hair several times since the blowout and I’m still impressed with the results. I now spend two minutes on my hair instead of 10. Numerous people have asked if I got a haircut. I think my hair just looks longer and healthier in general.

I highly recommend getting a Brazilian Blowout at Ocean Blo in Carlsbad. If you heard that Brazilian Blowouts are dangerous and full of formaldehyde, relax. The newest line is formaldehyde-free.