The 5th Element

Business Details

Expert Haircuts & Styling in Reading | The 5th Element

Welcome to The 5th Element, a premier hair salon in Reading with over 500 five-star reviews. Our team of expert hairdressers in Tilehurst prioritises active listening and professional consultation before every service, ensuring precision haircuts, vibrant colouring, and transformative keratin treatments tailored to individual needs. Established to create a sanctuary where clients feel valued and at home, we combine technical excellence with a welcoming atmosphere, offering complimentary refreshments and a client-centric approach.

Our reputation as one of Reading's top-rated salons is built on decades of combined experience, specialising in modern short and long styles, curly hair care, and advanced treatments like Olaplex and keratin straightening. We serve clients from Tilehurst, Caversham, and surrounding areas, committed to delivering results that enhance confidence and individuality.

Services

Haircuts Hair Colouring Keratin Treatments Perms Styling

Highlights and features

We have over 500 five-star reviews from satisfied clients in Reading and beyond.
Our team consists of certified hairdressers with expertise in modern and classic styles.
We offer free consultations to understand your unique hair needs and preferences.
Our salon provides a relaxing environment with complimentary refreshments and Prosecco.
We specialise in advanced treatments like keratin straightening and Olaplex hair repair.

What people say

Fantastic experience Friendly staff Excellent results Personalised approach Relaxing atmosphere

Website

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Services

Haircuts

Precision haircuts tailored to your face shape, lifestyle, and preferences. Our expert stylists offer modern short styles, long cuts, and everything in between. Using professional tools and techniques, we ensure clean lines and balanced proportions for both men and women.

Hair Colouring

Vibrant, long-lasting colour transformations using premium products. From natural highlights to bold fashion shades, our colour specialists create dimensional looks that complement your skin tone. Services include balayage, ombre, and permanent colour with expert application.

Keratin Treatments

Advanced keratin straightening for frizzy, damaged, or curly hair. This treatment reduces frizz, enhances shine, and makes hair more manageable while maintaining natural movement. Results last up to six months with proper aftercare.

Perms

Customisable perming services for men seeking textured waves or defined curls. Using modern techniques, we create low-maintenance, long-lasting styles that add volume and dimension without daily styling effort.

Styling

Professional styling for special occasions or everyday glamour. Services include blowouts, updos, and creative looks using heat tools and styling products. Our stylists ensure your hair stays polished and camera-ready throughout the day.

People

Anna

Senior Hairdresser

Anna specialises in precision cuts and colour transformations, offering expert consultations to understand client preferences. With years of experience in modern styling techniques, she ensures every client leaves confident in their new look.

Philip

Hair Specialist

Philip excels in keratin treatments and men's grooming, combining technical skill with a friendly approach. His attention to detail and knowledge of hair textures ensures optimal results for smoothing and styling services.

Questions

What services does The 5th Element offer?

We provide haircuts, colouring, keratin treatments, perms, and styling for men and women. Additional services include Olaplex treatments and membership plans for unlimited appointments.

How can I book an appointment?

Book online via our website or contact us directly at 01183 2717 80. Walk-ins are welcome during operating hours, but prior booking is recommended for availability.

Are there membership options available?

Yes, we offer monthly memberships for unlimited men's haircuts and women's styling services at a fixed price with no hidden fees.

What areas do you serve?

We cater to clients from Tilehurst, Caversham, Calcot, Theale, and surrounding areas in Reading and Berkshire.

What payment methods are accepted?

We accept card payments through Stripe and Laybuy instalment plans. Cash payments are also available in-salon.

Do you offer keratin treatment aftercare advice?

Yes, our stylists provide detailed aftercare instructions to maintain treatment results, including recommended products and washing routines.

Reviews (7)

Write a Review

Jane Jenner

Jan 16, 2022 Report

Positive:Cleanliness,Professionalism,Punctuality,Quality,Value
I visited for a haircut. I found Philip very informative ,patient ,professional and thorough with excellent attention to detail . I have recommended ed to friends and will definitely return. Spacious and relaxing. Best cut I have had.

Jo Gunner

Dec 24, 2021 Report

First time Ive ever used this hair salon and I will definitely be back for all my future haircuts. Anna was amazing and informed me every step of the way what she was doing, what products she was using and why and transformed my hair into an amazing, sleek, modern hairstyle. I trusted Anna completely with the restyle and she didnt disappoint. Very attentive, calm and made you feel so very welcome. I would wholeheartedly recommend this hair salon no matter what your requirements. You will not be disappointed!

Courtney Hausch

Dec 23, 2021 Report

Positive:Cleanliness,Professionalism,Punctuality,Quality
Anna has been cutting my hair through the pandemic, and has restored it to its former glory after it had been ravaged by stress and medication over the last several years. Her knowledge and expertise have given me confidence, along with the cute hairstyles.
Service:Long haircut

Mariana Gomes

Nov 25, 2021 Report

Positive:Cleanliness,Professionalism,Quality
First time visiting the Salon and it was a great experience! I was able to talk about what I wanted, but also got professional feedback and in the end I'm loving my haircut. Will be coming back in a couple of months

Judith North

Nov 23, 2021 Report

I have curly hair, which is thicker in some places, just above shoulder length and it has been coloured with a product you can buy for 5- 7 from a chemist etc. The stylist spent a good amount if time asking what I wanted from the hair cut and gave me very solid advice about hair products and hair care in general at the same time. After careful consideration he took weight from top of my head by shaping and taking the bulk out. The style now sits really lovely - around my face but covering my big ears- thankfully- my fringe is not so heavy and my hair is much easier to manage. I am really pleased

Anna Smyth

Nov 11, 2021 Report

Welcoming, bright and very clean place that provided me with professional advice on my new haircut that I eventually simply admire, and tips on how to look after my hair. What is also handy, I had opportunity to buy products that I liked and suit my needs straight in salon which is very time consuming and money saving. Phillip did a great job by bringing back to life my dry and weak hair, cant thank him enough! Highly recommend as Im going to definitely come back again.

Pakeeza

Sep 25, 2021 Report

The best hair salon experience I have had in many years! Friendly welcoming staff who took extra care of me to understand exactly how I wanted my hair done. Philip was the hairdresser and was fantastic at not only delivering excellent customer service throughout my time there, but listening and doing my hair exactly how I wanted. It goes to show you dont necessarily have to pay ridiculous prices and go to a renowned hair salon in town, you should put your trust in the smaller salons sometimes too. I was not disappointed and will most definitely be going back there, this time for a colour!