Lined with eateries, sari-sari stores, and bakal gyms, a new salon sticks out like a rose among the thorns along F. Manalo Street (San Juan City)! Solara Hair and Nails is the rebranded Cre8 Salon, and I went to see if the services and treatments are as extraordinary as the salon’s freshly renovated space!
Solara advocates for accessible beauty and pampering
I couldn’t help but mutter “Wow,” the moment I stepped in. Blending industrial interiors with modern mid-century furniture and wall art, the place is cozy and inviting. The glass walls make the space bright while the high ceiling gives it good ventilation. Comfy recliner seats with throw pillows are lined against one of the walls. Above them, a huge replica of Roman Casas’ famous “After The Dance” painting hung, perfectly setting the salon's atmosphere.
The salon’s nail area
Inside, the salon boasts two neatly arranged rows of chairs, each with its mirror, offering a sense of personal space. A stylish shelf displays a mix of local favorites and internationally renowned hair care products, while dark green curtains elegantly conceal the shampoo area, adding a touch of privacy.
The salon’s hair area
The salon’s hair area
The receptionist greeted me warmly, offering refreshments and guiding me to my seat. Before starting, the nail technician quickly asked about my preferred nail shape and color. Another staff member thoughtfully provided a portable tablet to pass the time, though I opted to enjoy the soft '80s music playing in the background.
The nail service was a treat. The technician worked gently yet meticulously on my cuticles and delivered a thorough, relaxing foot spa. Once done, I was ushered to a salon chair to begin my hair treatment, a smooth and thoughtful transition in an atmosphere of calm and care.
Portable screens are offered to guests for in-house entertainment
My nail color of choice!
For my dry, damaged hair, the stylist recommended the U Collagen treatment (Php 2,500), known for its anti-aging and anti-frizz properties that restore shine and vitality. As the treatment worked its magic, I had the opportunity to chat with one of Solara Hair and Nails’ young yet seasoned owners, Jose Solideo.
In his late 20s, Jose is no stranger to entrepreneurship. A Financial Management graduate from De La Salle University, his business journey began during college, where he managed a shawarma stall under the Animo Business and Innovation Zone (Animo Biz)—a program allowing students to bring their business ideas to life on campus.
Post-graduation, Jose expanded his horizons by franchising a barber shop in Quezon City with his girlfriend, brother, and three of his college friends. Immersed in the beauty and wellness industry, he noticed a trend: regular bookings from female clients. Curious, he asked why they preferred a barber shop for haircuts and coloring. One client’s answer struck a chord: “It’s no-frills, quick, and the prices are more affordable than a salon.”
This insight inspired Jose to investigate mid-range salons catering to middle-class consumers. Visiting multiple establishments, he observed recurring issues: cramped spaces, low-quality products, and minimal effort in delivering services that failed to provide a relaxing experience. While many clients accepted these shortcomings as part of the trade-off for affordability, Jose saw an opportunity to redefine the salon experience.
Determined to elevate mid-range salons, he envisioned a chic, inviting space where quality and comfort met affordability—a place clients would proudly share on social media. This vision became the foundation of Solara Hair and Nails, marrying practicality with style for the modern middle-class clientele.
Cre8 Salon before the renovation
Jose shared his idea of expanding into the salon business with his partners, confident that their experience running a barber shop had equipped them with valuable knowledge about hair treatments and grooming services. After weeks of brainstorming, a promising opportunity presented itself: the San Juan branch of Cre8 Salon was up for sale. Seizing the chance, they acquired the business with plans to renovate it into a visually appealing, client-friendly space. To manage costs and ensure a faster return on investment, Jose tapped into his construction team, completing the transformation in just four months. Solara Hair and Nails was ready to open its doors.
Solara Salon aims to provide accessible beauty to all.
What I love most about Solara is its dedication to providing affordable beauty treatments for every budget. Whether you’re low on funds and need a quick foot spa to address that pesky ingrown or feel indulgent and ready to splurge on a bold new hair color, Solara has you covered. Their menu offers a variety of nail and hair treatments at accessible price points.
“Beauty for everyone is our motto. If barber shops can deliver affordable, quality services, why can’t salons do the same?” Jose’s vision is clear and reflected in Solara’s pricing.
A regular manicure costs just Php 150, while the classic foot spa package with gel manicure and pedicure is Php 1,000—upgrading to premium adds only Php 700. Polygel nail extensions are priced at Php 1,500, and haircuts start at Php 250, with rates varying depending on the stylist.
Hair cuts start at P250
After learning about Solara’s inspiring mission, I couldn’t help but admire their team’s commitment to making quality beauty accessible. As my visit concluded, senior stylist Dan completed my U Collagen treatment with a precision haircut and blow-dry. I left with the smoothest, softest layers and a renewed appreciation for their thoughtful approach. One thing’s for sure: Solara is now my go-to spot for a beauty refresh without breaking the bank.
Follow Solara Salon on Instagram. For bookings, contact 0954 294 0747. Open daily from 9 AM to 9 PM.