Today we’d like to introduce you to Sarah Bandy.
Hi Sarah, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
Hi! Well, I’m a holistic hairstylist. I specialize in women’s hair loss, scalp conditions, and hair affected by autoimmune disorders.
I grew up in Austin and was always drawn to theatre & film. I moved to Portland, OR in 2001 to work in the film industry as a hairstylist and makeup artist. But after working on a few projects, I realized my passion wasn’t there. I love being in a salon environment and helping women connect with their confidence. I worked in a few independently owned salons in Portland before moving back home in 2015.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
After years of working with chemicals, I developed chemical sensitivity and an autoimmune condition. I came back to Austin to be near family and heal. It was a difficult time for me. I had to walk away from the business I spent years building. And since I wasn’t able to be in any contact with chemicals, being in a salon wasn’t an option. I was 40 and starting over from scratch.
I spent a few years trying different things and learning more about myself and what drives me. I started to think about how many women are struggling with similar health issues and how deeply it affects their self-esteem. As time passed and I healed I became more and more determined to open a salon where I could offer solutions to those women.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Since I’m a holistic stylist, my space is free of chemical fragrances and I only work with organic botanical-based products and low-toxin colors. I do offer traditional salon services like balayage and grey coverage but my main focus is treatments to heal scalp and hair issues.
My experience with autoimmune disease is not unique. These conditions are on the rise but there’s a shocking lack of knowledge in how to deal with it. Finding help and support can be difficult if not impossible. So, I love showing my guests their hair and scalp under a microscope and educating them on why they’re experiencing whatever issues they face.
It’s my aim to empower through knowledge and be a support to help my clients overcome the feelings of hopelessness and desperation that often go hand-in-hand with these conditions. I feel a sense of responsibility to share what I’ve learned and I take that responsibility seriously.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My parents were amazing dancers! They were always dancing in the house to my mom’s records. My dad taught me to Jitterbug when I was about 5 and I’ve loved dancing ever since. I’m now a swing dancer and instructor for the Austin Swing Syndicate and that is a direct line to my folks…
Pricing:
- Scalp Analysis $60
- Rebuilding Treatment $105+
- Hair Loss Treatment $125+
- Custom scalp Treatment $150+
- Grey Coverage $125+
- Balayage & Cut $365+
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wisporganicsalon.com/
- Instagram: @wisporganicsalon
- Other: https://form.jotform.com/211728111054141
Image Credits
Cassy Bittner
