Spa days aren’t just about massages and facials. Why not pamper your scalp, too?
By Libby Nichols
Founded in 2016 by Jacob and Erin Poindexter, Neon Heart Salon + Spa in Johnston was born from a desire to create something more than just a salon — a place where beauty, confidence and wellness naturally intersect.
The “head spa” service, for example, is a luxurious, multi-step experience designed to cleanse, restore and relax, and it’s inspired by scalp spas in Japan that have caught on with Western tourists. Whether you’re dealing with buildup, dryness, thinning hair or simply seeking a moment of peace, the service promotes beauty and wellness in a single soothing session.
A traditional head spa journey begins with a scalp analysis. At Neon Heart, a specialist uses magnification tools to assess your scalp’s condition and identify specific issues to target, such as oil imbalance, clogged follicles or general irritation.
Next comes a deep cleanse that uses gentle, nourishing products to remove impurities and buildup. This is followed by a slow, rhythmic scalp massage that promotes blood circulation, relaxes facial muscles and stimulates hair follicles. Steam therapy and targeted serums are applied to hydrate and balance the scalp, leaving it refreshed and revitalized.
After the treatment, a second scalp analysis allows you to see the results, which can include cleaner pores, healthier skin and, often, a noticeable boost in hair texture and volume.
“It’s like a facial for your scalp, not only is it a relaxing, stress-releasing experience, it deep cleanses your scalp to help stimulate hair growth and slow down the aging process,” said Jessika Mayberry, a head spa specialist and stylist at Neon Heart.
The service is popular among women, but more men are discovering the benefits of scalp care, especially when dealing with stress-related hair loss, dryness or buildup from styling products. A head spa treatment offers a low-maintenance, high-impact solution.
Neon Heart feels more like a wellness retreat than your typical hair studio, with lush greenery, cozy seating and a tranquil ambiance from the moment you walk in. Guests are even treated to lattes — a nice touch.
The salon and spa is located at 6110 N.W. 86th St., and you can book appointments online, whether you’d like to improve your health or simply enjoy a peaceful escape from your daily routine.
Contributing writer Libby Nichols is the creator and founder of Meet DSM, a digital brand that showcases Greater Des Moines.
