Long Beach has this weird, electric energy that hits different depending on which street you're walking down. You've got the gritty industrial vibes near the port, the polished luxury of Belmont Shore, and then you have those pockets of pure, unadulterated cool. That’s where you find the local haunts that actually matter. If you’ve spent any time looking for a reliable stylist in the 562, you’ve probably heard of Salon Ten Long Beach. It isn’t some massive, corporate-owned factory where they churn through fifty clients an hour. No. It’s a vibe.
Located on East 4th Street—right in the heart of what locals lovingly call Retro Row—this place feels like it belongs there. It fits the neighborhood's DNA.
Let's get real for a second. Finding a hair salon is basically like dating. You go in hopeful, you spend a lot of money, and sometimes you leave feeling like you weren't actually listened to. We've all been there. You ask for a "trim" and leave with four inches missing and a layer of regret. But there is a specific reason why people keep coming back to this spot. It’s the consistency.
What's the Deal with Salon Ten Long Beach?
Usually, when you walk into a salon, there’s this immediate pressure to be "on." Not here. The space is bright, open, and has that specific Long Beach aesthetic—minimalist but warm. It doesn't feel like a cold medical office.
The shop is owned by people who actually live and breathe the community. That matters because they aren't just trying to flip chairs; they're trying to build a reputation that lasts. You'll find a mix of stylists who specialize in everything from lived-in blonde highlights to precision barbering. It’s one of those rare places where a guy can get a fade that doesn't look like a DIY disaster, and a woman can get a complex balayage that grows out beautifully over six months.
Honestly, the "lived-in" look is where they really shine.
Nobody wants to have a "harsh line" of regrowth two weeks after an appointment. The stylists at Salon Ten Long Beach seem to get that. They use techniques that prioritize the health of the hair while ensuring the color looks natural even as your roots start to show. They use high-end product lines—think Kevin Murphy—which, if you know, you know. It’s PETA-approved, sulfate-free, and smells like a literal spa.
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The Retro Row Factor
Being on 4th Street isn't just a geographical detail; it’s a personality trait.
You’re surrounded by vintage clothing stores, independent coffee shops, and dive bars that have been there since the dawn of time. If you’re coming from out of town, or even just from across the city, an appointment here is usually an excuse to spend the whole afternoon on the Row.
You grab a cold brew, get your hair done, and then maybe go hunt for a 1970s leather jacket at one of the shops next door. It’s a lifestyle thing. The salon reflects that "support local" ethos that makes Long Beach feel more like a small town than a massive city.
Why People Actually Book Here
It isn't just about the hair. It’s about the fact that they don't overcomplicate things.
- They listen. This sounds simple, but it's remarkably rare. A consultation at Salon Ten isn't a thirty-second formality. It’s a conversation.
- The pricing is transparent. There is nothing worse than getting to the register and realizing your "conditioning treatment" was an extra fifty bucks you didn't approve.
- The vibe is inclusive. You'll see every type of person in those chairs. From the professional working downtown to the creative who wants neon pink hair, everyone gets treated with the same level of expertise.
Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
If you’re thinking about booking, don’t just show up and hope for the best. Good stylists stay busy. Like, really busy.
The best move is to check out their social media or the specific portfolios of the stylists working there. Hair is subjective. One person might be a wizard with curly hair, while another is the go-to for platinum blondes. By looking at their recent work, you can match your specific hair goals with the person best suited to handle them.
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Also, consider the parking.
4th Street is notorious. It's beautiful, but parking can be a nightmare if you arrive thirty seconds before your appointment. Give yourself a fifteen-minute buffer. Worst case scenario? You walk a block or two and get to look at some cool murals. Best case? You snag a spot right out front and have time to breathe before the cape goes on.
The Technical Side: Why Your Hair Health Matters
We have to talk about the science for a minute because your hair isn't just a fashion accessory; it’s an extension of your health.
Chemical treatments like bleaching or permanent coloring can wreak havoc if the stylist is rushing. The team at Salon Ten Long Beach tends to be pretty conservative with their approach. If your hair is damaged, they’ll tell you. They aren't going to fry your hair just to give you the color you saw on Pinterest if it means your hair is going to fall out in the shower a week later. They prioritize structural integrity.
This level of honesty is what builds E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) in the real world, not just in Google's algorithms. When a professional tells you "no" or "not yet," you should probably listen. It means they care more about your long-term results than the immediate paycheck.
How to Book and What to Expect
Most people book online now, which is a blessing. You can see the availability in real-time.
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When you arrive, expect a greeting that feels like you're walking into a friend's house. There’s usually some good music playing—nothing too loud, nothing too boring. You’ll get a thorough wash, which, let’s be honest, is the best part of any salon visit. The head massage alone is worth the price of admission.
Once you’re in the chair, it’s all about the craft.
Whether it's a dry cut to see how your hair naturally falls or a complex foil placement, the focus is on you. They don't seem to double-book their stylists into oblivion, which means you aren't sitting there with wet hair for forty minutes while your stylist starts three other cuts. That respect for the client’s time is a major differentiator in the beauty industry.
A Note on Maintenance
A great haircut or color doesn't end when you leave the shop.
The staff will usually walk you through how to style it yourself. Because, let’s face it, we aren’t all pro-level with a round brush and a blow dryer. They’ll suggest products that actually work for your hair type. You don't have to buy them there, but they know what they’re talking about. If you want your $200 color service to last, using the right shampoo is basically insurance for your hair.
Actionable Steps for Your Hair Journey
If you're ready to refresh your look, here is the smart way to handle it:
- Audit your current hair state. Is it dry? Is the color brassy? Knowing exactly what's wrong helps your stylist fix it faster.
- Bring photos, but be realistic. A photo of a celebrity with a totally different hair texture than yours is a "vibe" reference, not a blueprint.
- Book in advance. Especially if you want a weekend spot. Salon Ten Long Beach is a neighborhood favorite, and those Saturday slots go fast.
- Communication is king. If you don't like something as it's happening, say it! Stylists aren't mind readers, and they genuinely want you to be happy.
Going to a salon shouldn't be a stressful event. It should be a reset button for your confidence. When you find a place like this that balances high-end skill with a down-to-earth atmosphere, you hold onto it. It's not just about the hair; it's about how you feel when you walk back out onto 4th Street.