OUR STORY
Built on purpose,
run with intention.
When Prickly Pear opened its doors in Cary, NC, the vision was clear: create a salon where people feel safe, seen, and genuinely taken care of. After years in the industry, we knew the right environment could change everything for guests and for stylists alike.
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We specialize in lived-in color, low-maintenance blonding, and dimensional brunettes that look effortless and grow out beautifully. What sets us apart is how we get there. We listen first, educate throughout, and pace appointments so there's actually room to breathe.
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This is more than a place to get your hair done. It's a space built on trust, real conversations, and work we're genuinely proud of.
ROOTED IN VALUES
What we believe matters.​​
At Prickly Pear Salon, we believe your salon experience should be laid-back, authentic, and welcoming. This is a space where you can leave feeling uplifted, refreshed, and absolutely yourself. None of the pretentious BS.​
We operate on a pricing model based on time and product, not labels. We’re dedicated to creating a safer space for LGBTQ2S+ clients. That means fostering a judgment-free environment where everyone can express themselves authentically. Our team is trained to provide inclusive services, ensuring every guest feels seen, respected, and celebrated—because great hair has no gender, but it does deserve a place that feels like home.
COMMUNITY
We believe in showing up beyond the chair.
Great hair is the job. But we also believe in doing our part outside the salon. We volunteer our time, run annual donation drives, and show up for local causes because community isn't just about where we work, it's about how we show up in it.
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In the past we've partnered with The Great Raleigh Cleanup, helped sort clothing for Note In the Pocket, and collaborated with other small businesses to lift up our corner of Cary. We're always looking for the next way to be a contribution.
WHAT SETS US APART
The details that make the difference.
We specialize, on purpose.
Every stylist on our team has a specialty - dimensional color, lived-in blonding, fashion color, curly cuts, precision bobs. Ongoing education isn't optional here, it's built into how we operate. You get someone who has really thought about what they do.
Visits tailored to you.
Every new guest fills out an intake form so we have context before you ever sit in the chair. And before each appointment, you'll get a quick customization form covering the vibe you're after, any time constraints, special requests, and fresh inspo if you've got it. First visit or fiftieth, your experience here is tailored to you specifically.
Our team is human too.
We've built a salon where our stylists have flexibility, real breaks, and room to grow. Stylists who feel good do better work. It's pretty simple. That's also why we don't double book and your appointment never feels rushed.