Changez Salon & Merle Norman Cosmetics

I’ve struggled to find a great salon but I finally found Changez. Margaret is queen of curls! I’ve never been able to let my curls air dry until she got her shears on my hair. She knows what she is doing and has a great eye. Stephen and Jason the owners run a good business and are hands on. Fair prices!

I’ve gone here a handful of times over the last 15+ years, mostly because it’s close to where I live. I’ve never had a truly remarkable experience — not bad, just not great. I think if you get your hair cut by the owner, all is well. But I’ve gone to several of the staff and did not like the end result… which is why I go here on and off — always hoping the place will improve, but it never does. The last time I went, I got a mani/​pedi — for the steep price of $ 50. When you call, don’t expect there to be an available appt — I think the woman who does them does so on a very limited basis. Also, upon arrival, there was no fancy pedicure chair — and no real pedicure bowl — the woman brought out a pedi basin that you could buy online that merely vibrated and could not keep the water warm. It was pathetic at best. The pedi was supposed to last an hour, the mani a ½ hr — she had me in and out of there in 30 mins total. It looked as though no one had gotten a mani or pedi there in months. After this experience, I won’t be back.

I wanted to like this salon, I really did. I have heard such great things about the owner/​stylist from a few people I know. I wanted to make an appointment with Jason but the first time I called, I was told I couldn’t get an appointment with him because he is too busy of a stylist.
The first stylist I saw cut my hair much shorter than I had wanted. It’s only hair and would grow back so I wasn’t too upset.
Before my next appointment, I was informed my original stylist was no longer at the salon and was then scheduled with another stylist. I have given this stylist three attempts to cut my hair the way I was asking but each time she has not.
This third time was enough for me to try to look elsewhere. I came with the picture of the same cut I had now requested four times. The cut is very similar to a cut I had successfully had done at a previous salon so I know it’s possible. The stylist told me that I couldn’t have what was in the picture. I ended up leaving with an extremely uneven haircut. To make a long description short, I have three very differently cut sections to my hair that do not blend into each other at all.
Based on the conversations I have heard some of the stylists have (among themselves and clients), some of the staff there lack professionalism. On more than one occasion I felt uncomfortable based on the conversations that were taking place.
The salon itself isn’t bad but you have to be very careful who you get an appointment with.

Great

I’m not from the area but, I stopped in on my way home from my daughters tball game to have my eyebrows done. In all 10 years of me having them waxed, I have never loved the shape until now. I can’t remember who helped be but she was so nice, in fact everyone there was very welcoming. She did an awesome job shaping my brows and the prices were great. As a new customer I got a bunch of coupons to try their other services and I’ll probably be traveling the 30 minutes from this salon to from my house to try them for a cut and color. Definitely recommend!
UPDATED 6/​2015***
I still love them for my eyebrows but, I went there today for a color and highlight and was very disappointed. I don’t think I’ve ever cried after getting my hair cut but, today it looked terrible. My stylist cut my layers all weird and uneven the first time around. When I asked her to fix it she insisted I I had 3″ of damage she needed to cut away. She said I would still be able to put it in a pony tail though so I said go for it. Somehow My hair cut went from me getting a trim and my layers blended to literally having a very shot bob. I must have lost 8″ of length. Even now my short haircut looks choppy and uneven. My husband said it looks like I cut it myself :(I have to go to another salon tomorrow to try and hopefully make it look decent or I’ll have to get extensions. Now I have at least another year until this terrible cut grows out and couldn’t me more sad about it. On top of that the stylist got all offended because I didn’t like it, argued that that is what I asked for and stormed off after I asked her to stop being so hostile. It’s sad that one stylist can ruin a great salon. Maybe I’ll try another one next time or I’ll just try another salon all together.

This used to be my go-​to salon. I’d been going off and on for close to 15 years, always seeing the same stylist. I guess the bottom line that I’ve recently realized is that I was only going for that particular stylist. Because of some personal changes in her schedule she’s not available and I have absolutely no interest in going to a different stylist at the same salon. I’ll just find someone new.
The place is fairly small and all of the folks chat with one another. Its nice, but somehow lacks refinement and polish. They offer full hair care and styling, but also eyebrow waxing, which is done at the hair wash bowls right in the middle of the salon. Maybe it’s me, but that’s always skeeved me out … I dont want to watch people get hair ripped off their face, nor do I want someone watching me have it done.
There’s a Merle Norman downstairs with all of the MN makeup for sale. I’ve been told you can get a manicure but literally every time I’ve asked about it (over the course of 15 YEARS) I’ve been told the manicurist isn’t available or doesnt work that day.
There’s some sort of points system that’s never really been explained. You get points (I have no idea how many) for pre-​booking, purchasing product, and probably some other stuff that hasn’t been defined. Then, at some point, you get a discount based on the number of points you have. The program hasn’t ever been explained to me; sometimes I have enough points for a small discount on product. sometimes I don’t. Who knows.
There’s a small parking lot with free parking that fills up pretty quickly, but I’ve always been able to find a space.
Overall they do a good job. The clientele here are regulars and everyone seems to have a good relationships with their stylist. But for me, if I’m shelling out $ 150 for a haircut and color, I want to have a little more of a high-​end experience.

Every single time I go to Changez, I am always pleased with my haircut, eyebrow waxes, and manicures — and I’ve been going here for a long, long time. I have major history with this salon, like, 25 years of history. Of course, they’ve changed stylists over the years, but my satisfaction with the service here hasn’t.
Jason, Cara, and every other stylist I’ve had has been absolutely wonderful. They totally understand the style I want, and they are extremely easy to talk to. I love the Redken products they use, too! These guys rock — and the prices are excellent.
I highly, highly recommend Changez!

very disappointed with the hair cut. i asked for layers and i got a straight haircut and not even the length I had asked for.
will never go again.

Awesome nail tech!!! Highly recommend!

I stopped by this morning on my way to work, and was able to get an immediate haircut. I was greeted as if I were a regular customer, and had a great professional haircut done. I was very pleased. My wife and son were also in need of service as we have a wedding to attend next week, so they made appointments for the same afternoon. I’m sure they’ll have good reports.

I’ve passed by Changez almost every day for as long as I can remember, but only once before now have I stopped in, and that was when I was fourteen and they dyed my hair bright pink. I’m generally (and understandably) turned off by things that end in ‘z’ instead of ‘s.‘
However, a couple months ago I needed an emergency haircut due to some bad bangs I had cut myself. Since it was on my way home anyway, I decided to call in. They got me a pretty last minute appointment, no problem. I ended up with Jason who is actually one of the co-​owners. I thought it was cool they didn’t stick me with some reject stylist, which usually seems to be the case with last minute/​walk-​ins like this.
I felt comfortable when I walked in; not like I would have at one of the trendier, more high end salons in downtown Royal Oak. It felt intimate and friendly, with an atmosphere more akin to a neighborhood barber shop. I didn’t have to wait long until Jason greeted me and got me in a chair. Originally I just wanted my bangs fixed but we decided together that I needed to go for an actual cut because of my stringy ends. He was funny and informative, talking me through the cut and offering styling advice when I expressed problems and concerns. I left in a good mood and feeling pretty alright about my hair, which is rare for me.
If I had left it at that, I’m sure I would have chosen a rating a bit higher. However, I went back a second time when my hair started growing out too much; I can’t say I’m exactly pleased with the turn-​out. I wanted to have Jason cut it again, but he happened to be out of town so they put me with Donna. Donna was alright, fine to talk to and moderately informative about the styling process. My main qualm is that I ended up looking kind of mid-​90s TV mom, which happens with me more often than I’d like to admit. I think I probably needed to be more communicative with my needs, and maybe be matched with another stylist. Now, once again, I am impatiently waiting for my awkward layers to grow out. I may or may not be returning, and if I do, I’ll be sure to request Jason. I don’t know if I’d trust anyone else there.
Overall, if you need a quick, inexpensive cut, it’s a fine choice. If you want something nicer, though, you might have better luck braving the masses downtown.

I have no idea how I did not know about this salon sooner.
The reviews I read about this salon were glowing so I decided to give it a chance and book an appointment with Jason, one of the co-​owners. Winter and harsh products had done a number on my hair, leaving it dry. I was in desperate need of a hair cut.
From the minute I walked in, this salon the epitome of class. The décor is warm — nothing is over the top. Many salons focus on their look and ambiance, but Changez excells in having a fun and professional vibe without getting too crazy. I was immediately asked if I wanted water or coffee by the woman in reception — excellent!
Jason greeted me and told me he’d be with me shortly, and I was happy to wait. From the minute he started to work with me I not only had a blast, but I felt like I was truly in the hands of the professional. This is significant because I have had a lot of bad haircuts due to stylists not being educated enough, good listeners, or patient. Jason was a complete gem — he asked me what I was looking for, what haircut I had previously that I loved and why, and he took the time to look at my hair to see what needed to be done. I love my locks long and lush and he assured me that by the time I left, he’d breathe life back into them — he delivered on his promise.
What is so special about Jason is that the man understands curly hair because he has it himself. He cuts it differently than someone would if you had straight hair. He took a lot of the bulk out of my hair and left it long. My hair now has more body, it feels healthier, and all of the build up from the old products I was using is now gone. He explained every step, told me every product he was using, and was patient when I had questions.
I had no idea someone could do so much with curly hair. He styled it in a way I had never seen and by the time I walked out of the door, my hair had bouncy, gorgeous curls and stayed that way! Jason has a lifelong client in me — I will always return there and can’t wait for my next appointment.
I am stickler for great service and fantastic results, and if you are, too, you won’t be disappointed. For everything I got, including hair cut, products, wash, style, and a free treatment, it was about 63 dollars! I pay 50 normally for a hair cut at my other salon and have NEVER left a place as happy as this!!!

I’m a bit torn about Changez. I have gone here on and off for about 2 years and decided to try someplace new when my old stylist left (Cami). I went to another salon and really liked the stylist but once I received a «special offer» letter from the owners, I decided to go back and take advantage of the deals.
Heather has been my stylist the past 2 visits and I really like her. In addition to being incredibly nice, she is extremely talented. I haven’t had my hair professionally colored in years and she really did a fantastic job. It’s a bit darker than I am used to but it’s a nice change. The recent cut is a little short… but I blame that on me and not her. I wanted something with more volume and she gave it to me.
The reason for 3 stars (though Heather would get 4.5) is because it’s just not a very friendly environment. The woman who works the front desk, takes the appointments, is really unfriendly. She has no phone etiquette. I walk in for my appointment and there is no «Hello» or «Welcome to Changez». A stern, annoyed «Can I help you?» is all she seems able to muster. This might not be a deal breaker for some but I am one of those girls who looks forward to getting her hair done. I walk in upbeat and happy and this person instantly sours my mood. I may go back to see Heather, I like her alot. But I may try a few other spots along the way to see if I can find a place a bit more my speed. A bit nicer, friendlier.
It’s also very dark inside… that may contribute to the buzzkill walking in.
Heather is worth a try but avoid eye-​contact with the bitch upfront. You may turn to stone.

Conveniently located in a tiny strip mall on Crooks. Parking has never been an issue. I’m always able to get my appointment when I want it, if not, pretty darn close. I’m pretty sure they accept walk ins too. There is a family like vibe in the salon, everyone is friendly and seems to get along well. I’ve been to other salons that overbook and I seem to be there forever, not the case here. I’m in and out in a jiffy! Prices are decent. Though I haven’t taken advantage of this, they have facials, massages, pedicures, and manicures to offer too. check it out!

When I first went to Changez sometime last year, my hair had grown so long and was so frizzy, they nearly needed a weed whacker to get through it!
The first stylist I had there was just OK, and I seriously considered changing it up the third time I went back. My hair looked limp, lifeless and too fine. I knew if it was cut correctly, I’d have plenty of bounce and curl in my hair. That stylist left and saved me the trouble of making a decision about trying another stylist.
I ended up with Jennifer after that, and have been consistently pleased with my haircuts. My hair looks thicker, and the curl doesn’t dissolve into a mass of fuzz with Jennifer’s cuts.
I also like the fact that I can get other services there (like eyebrow waxing) – where the salon I’d previously gone to didn’t have such a full menu of services. Prices seem fair enough, and they have a couple of different kinds of loyalty punch cards so you can earn a free service (the «Beautiful Brows Card» gets you a free waxing after you’ve purchased 10).
If I had any criticism, it might be that they sometimes stress selling product more than I’d like. I hear Caitlin about the «Z» thing, but the place has been there for years, so I don’t blame the newest owners for keeping the name when they bought it a half dozen or so years ago!
More on the plus side, folks there are friendly, it seems pretty easy to make an appointment with a day or so notice, and it’s super convenient for me because it is within walking distance of home for me.

I would have never thought to go to Changez when my mother (who pops up a lot on Unilocal) made an appointment for me. I was suspicious of the location and the z to be honest.
I was wrong. This is a great place to get a haircut. Jason (who I think is the owner) did my hair. He was wonderful. This is the first place where I left knowing how to style my hair. Jason told me about my hair type and how to style it so it is straight or curly or wavy. I am thrilled!
He is also a very entertaining hairdresser. No awkward conversations! Great place!

I have been a patron of Changez Salon since it opened, and actually when it was called the Hair Forum under different owners. After moving out of the Royal Oak area, I tried a couple of different salons, but went straight back to Changez. The owners, Jason and Stephan, are fantastic and extremely knowledgeable about cut, color and style. Heather, who has been my stylist for a number of years, is wonderful, current with the latest trends, and works wonders with my ever-​changing hair. The staff is great — at times I feel like Norm from Cheers, as soon as I walk in they call my name with a smile, offering me a cup of coffee and great conversation. Changez also has a wonderful Merle Norman Cosmetics department that has been totally renovated in the past year. Manicures, Pedicures, Spa Treatments, and cosmetic makeovers are offered by trained, knowledgeable staff. I’m pleased to say I have enjoyed it all! Unless I move totally out of the metropolitan area, I can rest assured knowing I have a great salon I belong to. [Side note… the staff at Changez stay very involved in charitable causes, which speaks volumes about the company.]

I always went to walk in places before I started going to Changez. Beth is about my age with my kind of hair (curly and unruly). For the first time I am enjoying my curls instead of trying to get rid of them. I am even paying for coloring instead of doing it myself. Its mid price with high price quality and service. Go there.

Super trendy inside. Not overpriced like the salons in downtown Royal Oak. Excellent staff. Very personable.
Having naturally curly (frizzy) hair, it is difficult for me to tame. I was browsing salon ratings around the Royal Oak area on Google and I saw a lot of positive comments on Changez and most recommended Jason, the owner. So, I had made an appointment with him. Wow. I can’t even explain how much he had helped me! I used to have my hair thinned and relaxed so it did not appear so thick. Instead, he used a different cutting method, which took off the thickness, as well and shape it perfectly to the frame of my face. No more chemical relaxers! I usually would get a haircut no more than once a year. I dreaded going to the salon. Now, he has given me some tips and tricks on how to maintain it and made me excited about my hair. I’ve been there 3 times within the past 8 months. And it just keeps on getting better and better.
I wish I had known of Changez when I was in grade school. I certainly wouldn’t have been teazed about my frizzy hair.
I recommend it for everyone.
ps. they take only cash tips.