Business Details
30 Years
experience
Award-Winning Hair Salons in Houston
Founded in 1996, The Upper Hand operates three premier hair salons in Houston, Texas, specializing in transformative hair services. Our team of award-winning stylists has earned national recognition through features in Elle Magazine, Us Weekly, and appearances on local and national television programs. We pride ourselves on assembling a highly talented artistic team dedicated to delivering personalized beauty solutions, including advanced techniques like balayage, keratin treatments, and hair extensions. With over 150 media appearances and five consecutive Elle Top 100 US Hair Salon awards, we combine decades of industry experience with cutting-edge methodologies to ensure exceptional results.Our commitment to excellence is reflected in our partnerships with leading brands like Goldwell and Keratin Complex, while maintaining a client-centric approach that prioritizes individual needs and satisfaction. As active community contributors, we support initiatives like CIS dropout prevention programs and maintain advisory roles in cosmetology education. Our reputation has been built one satisfied client at a time, ensuring every visit delivers professional expertise and a memorable experience.
Services
Haircuts
Balayage
Hair Extensions
Keratin Treatments
Hair Color
Ombre
Brazilian Blowout
Partial Highlights
Updo Styles
Corrective Color
Details
- Year established: 1996
Highlights and features
- Five-time Elle Magazine Top 100 US Hair Salon winner
- Goldwell IQ Cutting Certified stylists with national recognition
- Featured in 150+ television appearances and major publications
- Specialized in advanced techniques like balayage and keratin treatments
- Three Houston locations serving Hyde Park, River Oaks, and Memorial areas
Associations and certifications
- Elle Top 100 US Hair Salon
- Goldwell Triple Titanium Award
What people say
Beyond talented
Best salon ever
Amazing results
Professional masters
Hair wizard
Services
Balayage
Balayage is a French hair coloring technique that creates natural-looking highlights by hand-painting color onto hair strands. This foil-free method produces soft transitions and sun-kissed effects that grow out gracefully. Our award-winning stylists specialize in customized balayage applications that complement individual hair textures and skin tones, creating dimensional color that enhances natural beauty while minimizing visible regrowth.
Brazilian Blowout
Brazilian Blowout is a keratin-based smoothing treatment that eliminates frizz and enhances hair manageability. The treatment bonds protective proteins to hair strands, creating sleek, shiny results that last 10-12 weeks. Our certified stylists apply this service to all hair types, maintaining curl patterns while reducing styling time. Clients receive post-treatment care instructions to maximize longevity and maintain optimal hair health.
Hair Extensions
Hair extensions add volume and length using premium human hair products. We offer clip-in, halo, and semi-permanent options like tape-in and fusion bonds. Our specialists consult clients to determine the best extension type based on hair condition and lifestyle needs. The service includes proper maintenance guidance to ensure extensions blend naturally while protecting natural hair integrity through appropriate cleansing routines.
Keratin Treatments
Keratin treatments smooth hair by depositing protective proteins that seal cuticles and strengthen hair structure. Unlike relaxers, this service maintains natural texture while reducing frizz for 10-12 weeks. Our stylists use sulfate-free product systems to preserve treatment effects, offering both Keratin Complex and Brazilian Blowout options. The service accommodates various hair types while allowing styling versatility.
Hair Color
Our comprehensive hair color services include balayage, ombre, and traditional highlights using Goldwell products. Stylists create customized color solutions that enhance natural features while maintaining hair health. With multiple award-winning colorists, we specialize in both subtle enhancements and dramatic transformations using techniques that minimize damage and maximize vibrancy.
People
Rachel Gower
CEO
Rachel Gower founded The Upper Hand in 1996, establishing Houston's premier hair destination. With 28 years of industry experience, she has appeared on local news affiliates and hosted radio programs. A published author and beauty consultant, she maintains advisory roles in cosmetology education while leading her award-winning team.
Questions
What hair services do you specialize in?
We specialize in balayage, keratin treatments, hair extensions, and all color services using Goldwell products. Our stylists hold certifications in advanced cutting techniques and smoothing treatments.
Do you offer consultations before services?
Yes, we recommend consultations for color transformations, extensions, and smoothing treatments to create personalized service plans that match your hair goals and maintenance preferences.
How do I book an appointment?
Appointments can be scheduled through our website or by calling any of our three Houston locations. We recommend booking popular stylists several weeks in advance.
What are your cancellation policies?
We require 24-48 hours notice for cancellations to avoid fees. This policy ensures we can accommodate other clients waiting for appointments with our in-demand stylists.
Are your stylists certified?
Yes, our team includes Goldwell IQ Cutting Certified stylists and specialists trained in Keratin Complex and Brazilian Blowout applications, with multiple award-winning professionals on staff.
Do you use professional hair products?
We exclusively use Goldwell color systems and Keratin Complex treatments, offering sulfate-free product lines to maintain hair health and extend service longevity.
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