Magical Mysteries

Faerie Grandmother Karen founded Magical Mysteries, which also goes by Magical Mysteries-Silk Sparkle Strands. Karen began working Fairy Hair into her fiber business in 2013 and later made it her full-time work.

The strands are hand-tied to individual hairs without adhesive, glue or crimp beads. They can be washed, brushed, styled, curled, straightened, cut and colored along with the natural hair. Each strand stays in until the hair it is tied to sheds, and adults typically keep them for a few weeks to a few months, with some lasting over a year. Over 55 colors are available, including rainbow. The salon notes that strands lose color and may turn silver after several months of processing, and considers this normal. The salon states that Fairy Hair does not damage hair.

Beyond the salon, strands can go into wigs and hair extensions, where they stay attached to the extension, and wigs can be embellished as a special service. Beards and mustaches can take strands if the hair is long enough. Strands can be added to existing faux fairy hair or tinsel, though the salon cannot confirm the quality of strands of unknown origin. Locs and braids are done only at one of the home salons, which takes longer and costs more. Private appointments are held at the Pikesville salon.

Private parties and events are offered for birthdays, showers, weddings, corporate events, conferences, athletic events, bat mitzvahs, quinceaneras and similar occasions, starting at $400. Events open to the public include school, boutique, shop, festival and fair appearances. Sets are sold in 5-strand increments, starting at 15 strands for $40, with 50 strands at $125 and 80 strands at $200; larger orders require contacting Karen directly. Paying cash earns 2 free strands, and free strands can also be earned through the birthday club, hosting a party, referrals, Google reviews and becoming a Sparkle Fairy. Appointments need 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule, and arriving more than 5 to 10 minutes late may mean being moved to the next opening. Hair should be clean, dry, product-free and detangled beforehand. Children 6 and under are advised to start with 10 strands and must be able to sit still alone in the chair. Strands cannot be shared between people. Extra strands are included because a few may shed in the first days, and tipping is optional.