I arrived a minute or two before my 11 am appointment. I walked out the door at 1:30. A huge transformation occurred in the interval. I was coiffed, caffeinated and calmed.

First, a consulation with Dan Suzuki, my stylist. Although this salon, Watanabe Hair Dressing, has a reputation for really cool, artsy styles, we agreed on a cut that is easy to care for. After a delightful herbal shampoo, Dan cut off about eight inches of damaged hair. He smiled quietly to himself as the locks hit the floor.

Then a conditioning treatment. My hair was painted with goop and I sat under a steamer for twenty minutes, drinking tea and reading the latest issue of Elle UK. The conditioner was rinsed off and I was treated to a head, neck and shoulder massage. Ten minutes of bliss, really.

My hair's never looked this good. It's smooth and shiny and much shorter. My next appointment's already set.