Smoke + Mirrors isn’t just a salon—it’s a vision brought to life by a stylist deeply committed to organic beauty and wellness. Located in Baltimore, the salon was created to provide a space where luxury hair services and eco-consciousness coexist. Every element of Smoke + Mirrors reflects a dedication to holistic beauty, from the carefully sourced non-toxic products to the serene, intentional atmosphere designed in collaboration with local artisans. In this interview, we explore how Smoke + Mirrors has built a community that prioritizes health, sustainability, and artistry, and how the salon continues to inspire clients and stylists alike to embrace a cleaner, greener approach to beauty.
The Story Behind Smoke + Mirrors Baltimore from Leah Micheal Taylor
After nearly a decade at one of Baltimore’s pioneering organic salons, I knew it was time to create something uniquely my own. From a young age, I dreamed of owning a business—a space where beauty, artistry, and well-being could coexist. That dream became Smoke + Mirrors.
The art of hair is more than just a craft to me; it’s a way of expressing creativity while helping clients feel their best. But beyond that, I wanted to create a salon that goes deeper—one where both our clients and staff feel safe, supported, and valued.
Designing this space with intention was a huge part of that vision. I worked closely with local artisans to bring it to life, ensuring that every detail reflected our commitment to beauty, sustainability, and community. This collaboration is something I plan to continue, blending local craftsmanship with the natural, nurturing atmosphere we’ve created here.
Many people believe that less harmful alternatives can’t perform as well as traditional products, but I’ve made it my mission to show that’s simply not true. At Smoke + Mirrors, we use holistic, organic products that are just as effective—if not more so—without compromising health or the environment.
More than just a salon, Smoke + Mirrors is a community—a place where beauty, health, and artistry come together. And just as importantly, it’s a safe, welcoming environment for both our guests, the talented stylists and support staff who make it all possible.
What makes your salon unique in terms of the services you offer and the products you use?
What sets Smoke + Mirrors apart is our commitment to using exclusively organic and non-toxic products. We offer a range of services, from traditional haircuts and coloring to specialized treatments that enhance hair health and vitality. Our team is trained in holistic techniques, ensuring that every service not only looks great but also supports the overall wellness of our clients. We take pride in crafting personalized experiences that leave clients feeling rejuvenated inside and out. Each artist has their specialized experience, allowing guests to find the best fit.
How do you educate your clients on the benefits of organic or holistic hair care?
Consultation + education are the cornerstones of our approach at Smoke + Mirrors. We believe in engaging our clients in meaningful conversations about the benefits of organic hair care during their appointments, sharing insights on how various ingredients impact hair and scalp health. From our social media presence to the in-salon experience—whether at the backbar or behind the chair—the results often speak for themselves.
What’s your favorite clean beauty product(s) or product line that you offer, and why do you love it/them?
O&M has been a favorite color line at Smoke + Mirrors since it first arrived in the U.S. It was the very first color line we introduced when we opened in 2015, and I love their commitment to listening to the industry’s needs and continuously evolving their products. They’ve given us the tools we need behind the chair to create an even better experience—not just for our staff but for our guests as well by getting rid of the nasty chemicals that have been linked to causing skin irritations and even cancer. I am here to tell you, they ARE NOT NECESSARY!
In addition to O&M, we carry Oway, Mr. Smith, and Cult + King, all of which combine high performance with natural ingredients. Their commitment to sustainability perfectly aligns with our salon’s mission. These products not only deliver incredible results but also smell amazing, making the experience even more enjoyable for our clients. Knowing that these brands are sourced responsibly and actively work to reduce their environmental impact gives me peace of mind.
What does being part of a clean beauty movement mean to you and your salon’s mission?
Being part of the clean beauty movement is at the heart of who we are at Smoke + Mirrors. It’s about more than just healthier products; it’s about advocating for a healthier lifestyle and empowering our clients to make informed decisions about the products they use while also creating artistically crafted hair in a safe environment. Our mission is to promote beauty that goes beyond the surface, inspiring a holistic approach to self-care that honors both inner and outer well-being.
By embracing organic and eco-friendly practices, we’re building a community that values sustainability and wellness. Having embraced this journey, I know there’s no going back—using traditional products at the cost of health is simply not an option.
