It’s hardly breaking news that Ho Chi Minh City is a hub on the rise. With an underrated yet rapidly growing creative scene, all manner of artistic outlets and trend-setting individuals have been attracting attention to the Vietnamese metropolis lately.
Also known as Saigon, the populous locale has earned quiet recognition for its edgy fashion labels and thriving café culture. But beauty aficionados need not fear—there’s also a host of insider-approved hair, skincare and wellness destinations to add to the itinerary for your next visit.
In search of such spaces, Vogue Singapore reached out to two of Ho Chi Minh City‘s coolest creatives—Victoria Lôi, content creator and founder of growing coffee concept Loiloi, and Yến-Nhi Lê, founder of creative studio and collective Saigon Kiss and creative director of magazine Mãi Mãi. As part of a wave of globe-trotting, arts-inclined locals who have been nudging Vietnam further into the international spotlight, these are two women that know the city like the back of their hands.
As you’d expect, their recommendations don’t disappoint. From the city’s trendiest hair salon, to a social club that spotlights the benefits of saunas and ice baths, take in Lôi and Lê’s top recommendations below:
1 / 6
9 Nine Hair Salon
For both Victoria and Yến-Nhi, 9 Nine Hair Salon is an enduring favourite. “This is one of those places I find myself returning to again and again,” says Yến-Nhi. “The founder brought his craft from Tokyo to Vietnam, choosing Ho Chi Minh City because of the deep connections he’d built here, and you can feel that blend of cultures the moment you walk in.”
“It’s a cross-cultural salon experience that feels contemporary, effortless and genuinely elevating—like someone has really taken the time to understand not just your hair, but your vibe.”
Victoria adds, “The space itself is stunning, with a brutalist contemporary design that feels both modern and artistic. [And] you can genuinely feel how much the team loves what they do.”
2 / 6
Khơ Thị Clinic
Yến-Nhi: “When I’m jet-lagged, this is my first stop for a quick reset. Every visit begins with a detailed skin analysis, so the treatments feel tailored rather than ‘one size fits all’. Their Hydrafacial is a hero for travel-tired skin—deeply cleansing, hydrating and instantly brightening. And if you want something a bit more refined, the soft Mesopeel offers gentle resurfacing without downtime, leaving your skin smoother and naturally glowing.”
3 / 6
Lang Spa
Victoria: “Lang Spa is my current favorite place in Saigon for a massage, largely because of the complete experience on offer. The space is designed beautifully, instantly transporting you with its calm, zen atmosphere. They offer a wide range of massages and hair wash treatments, and always end the session with a beverage and sweet treat!”
4 / 6
Haeu Salon
Yến-Nhi: “An essential stop! Their scalp exfoliation treatment is the one I swear by—they start with a detailed scalp analysis, then go in with a deep cleanse to remove buildup and stimulate circulation. It leaves your hair softer, your scalp lighter, and your whole head feeling reset.”
5 / 6
Cá Hồi Sauna & Ice Bath
Both Victoria and Yến-Nhi enjoy unwinding at this social club, set within an open-air garden in Thảo Điền. “If you’re into health and wellness, Cá Hồi is the spot to know,” insists Victoria. “The moment you walk in, it feels like you’ve escaped to an island retreat.” Alongside sauna and ice bath facilities, Victoria adds, “They also host fun events and run clubs—and have delicious smoothie bowls!”
6 / 6
Glow Inc
Victoria: “This is where I go for lymphatic drainage massages and facials. Despite not being your typical relaxing massage, lymphatic drainage truly works wonders! It helps to reduce swelling, detoxifies the body by promoting lymph flow, reshapes and sculpts the body, and supports overall wellness. The staff here are so knowledgeable and kind, and they offer other aesthetic treatments as well.”
