Chairapy, a new hair salon specializing in loose and loc’d hair, has opened in Dayton’s Oregon District. The salon aims to serve anyone with textured hair, from waves to coils.
“This is a place where anyone with textured hair can come for service,” said salon owner Asha Parson. “We style loose and loc’d hair and can find a style for anyone on their natural hair journey.”
Chairapy is located at 605 E. Fifth St., the former location of Puff Apothecary. Parson previously worked at Puff Apothecary and took over the space in March when the former owner, Bethany Ramsey, decided to pass it on.
Parson was previously based at Sola Salon Studios at the Mall at Fairfield Commons in Beavercreek. She sought a larger space to offer retail and accommodate more clients.
“I felt ready for a bigger space,” Parson said.
Parson specializes in starting and maintaining locs, protective styles, and curly cuts. She also colors locs and curly hair. Her passion for hair began in her teens when her mother taught her and her siblings how to braid. Although she initially struggled, she eventually mastered it and never stopped. Parson graduated from Upper Valley Career Center in Piqua in 2012 with a cosmetology license and also held an STNA license.
“At the time, it seemed easier to transition into healthcare than into a salon,” Parson said. “Salons were still focused on relaxers, and I didn’t see a place for me.”
Parson pursued a career in nursing, working at Hospice in Troy during the pandemic. The job was hard and exhausting, leading her to rediscover her passion for hair with the help of a life coach. Despite not working in a salon, she continued doing hair for family and friends.
“I recognize that part of feeling good is looking good,” Parson said. “People don’t realize that hair depression is real.”
Currently, Parson is the only stylist at Chairapy. She plans to hire a specialist in silk presses and another in braiding. Eventually, she hopes to take on a mentee or assistant.
Parson is accepting new clients, and all appointments are one-on-one.
Salon Manager Morgan Scott said the salon’s decor is intentional, ensuring that people with textured hair feel represented.
“You’re celebrated here,” Scott said. “It’s not just tolerated.”
Parson emphasizes creating a community-centric environment filled with grace and empathy. She has worked extensively with foster and adoptive parents, providing them with a space to learn and ask questions.
The salon features a painting that reads, “Thank God I’m natural.”
“We’re creating a space for people to explore different style options and be their most natural selves,” Parson said.
