FROM THE FRONT | Yarok The Hair Kitchen opens in New York

YAROK FOUNDER and editorial stylist Mordechai Alvow has opened The Hair Kitchen in New York City's Flatiron district.

What is Yarok? "Performance-driven [haircare] products that are healthy for both clients and stylists. Using modified, traditional recipes of nutrient-rich base and essential oils, YAROK products are formulated exclusively from organic, wildcrafted and otherwise responsibly-harvested plant ingredients, hand-picked for their medicinal and sensory benefits throughout history, and sourced from pristine locales around the world. The products are created fresh, in small batches, to preserve their freshness, integrity and performance." There are seven treatment oils for various follicular and scalp ailments, shampoo and conditioner.

Why do you care about The Hair Kitchen? Because you can get a signature scalp treatment (serums, scalp massage... bliss), organic hair colouring, a blow out, a cut (boys and girls both) or an updo if need be and your makeup all did in one place. And all of it's as squeaky green as can be, so none of the usual noxious nasties and fumes you often get in the confines of a salon.

I can tell you from first-hand experience that the Yarok Feed Your Youth hair treatment (aforementioned serum + scalp massage) is a hair changing experience. Go in with ragged roots and emerge all silky maned.

We'll be in Manhattan this week and next so we'll be sure to swing by this address for a real-time update.

The Hair Kitchen, 39 West 19 Street suite 610, New York, NY 10011 (212-876-4293).

SPA WATCH | occo london

THIS ONE is a big old head's up for some spa goodness in 2011. occo london launches its home and skincare ranges in London next month, and there's a new London boutique, which I'm well chuffed for (anything to do with moja Hrvatska and I'm all over it). Seven ranges inspired by seven different locations in Croatia (including Motovun, where you should all visit during the local film festival) with local ingredients and 95% (minimum) natural ingredients (yes, I know there's no clear definition of what is/isn't natural in beauty but just an FYI). I. Want. It.

Know what I want more? To hole up in occo spa(s) they're opening in Croatia in 2011. To think I rented an apartment in Dubrovnik for July 2008 (strictly for legal purposes while applying for that pesky work visa (and to hone my language skills)) and wiled away my days on the laptop with the online biz. Two years too early (and too busy). Damn. Just means I'll have to go set up shop in the walled city again sometime soon. 

Watch this space for more info on occo london -- the brand, the products and the spas. I might even share my pics!

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