Olympic Village Salon Experience: Athletes Get Stylish Makeovers in Paris

The Paris Olympic Village has been a hub of mixed experiences for the athletes competing this summer. While some struggled with cardboard beds and lack of air conditioning, others found solace in unexpected places, like the village salon. One such athlete, track star Gabby Thomas, shared her positive experience at the salon with her TikTok followers.

Thomas, who went on to win gold in the women’s 200-meter final, raved about the salon’s ability to style her afro-textured hair. She was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the blowout she received, noting that she felt cute and ready to race the next day. The salon, sponsored by Procter & Gamble, offers free products and styling services from major P&G brands, including Mielle, Pantene, and Gillette, with at least one Black haircare professional on staff.

The salon also provides a variety of styles for different hair lengths and textures, with products like Mielle’s rosemary oil being used for styling. In addition to the salon, P&G has opened the first-ever Olympic Village nursery, a dental clinic, and laundry rooms, as well as providing menstrual products in the bathrooms throughout the village.

While the Olympic Village may have its challenges, the salon experience seems to have been a bright spot for many athletes. With the support of P&G and the talented stylists on hand, athletes like Gabby Thomas can focus on their performance knowing that their haircare needs are being met.