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Full Service Salons Not Just For Women Anymore

Burlington, Vermont - August 26, 2002

Most men try to give off the impression that their appearance isn't important to them. But, businesses that help men to look their best are proving that theory wrong.

Getting a little off the top is something most men do about once a month. But trips to some salons are not just for trims anymore. More salons, that are just for men, are cropping up.

At Gentleman's Top Option, or GTO, in Burlington, men can get everything from a massage to a manicure.

"Times are changing and men care more," said Penny Badke-Jones, owner of GTO. "That's why we created GTO, so they can pamper themselves. It makes them feel special."

And all of that pampering is done in private rooms, in order to preserve masculinity.

"They can come in and get whatever service they want without the world knowing what they had done," said Badke-Jones.

Aside from haircuts, the most popular services are facials, face shaves and waxing.

"It definitely makes my feet feel good," said Eric Gray, who was getting a pedicure. "I leave here relaxed. I deal with a lot of stress. When I first started, most of my friends were going to barber shops. Now most go to men's salons. It's a new trend."

But it's a trend not tracked by the state. However, officials do agree these men-only salons seem to be on the rise in Vermont. The biggest reason -- vanity.

"People you think don't care -- care the most," said Badke-Jones. "It's a good time to work in a mens' salon."

A salon that's good enough for a woman, but made for a man.

Darren Perron - Channel 3 News