Pamper a Vet for Veterans Day with Massage, Classic Razor Shave

Darkita Patton cut hair for eight years at Naval Outlying Landing Field Imperial Beach. There the emphasis was on speed and quantity, but Patton believes she was able to maintain quality and a welcoming atmosphere.

During her time at the Naval Exchange, she heard about the kinds of services sailors were able to get overseas, like pedicures and a hot towel and neck massage.

"I was like 'Why can't we just do that here?' Because actually the hot towel and neck massage is old school barbering, razor finish and things like that," she said.

Patton opened her barber shop and spa in September to offer hair cuts, manicures, pedicures, facials, and foot and back massages in an atmosphere where men, especially local sailors and service members, can feel comfortable.

The End Zone BarberSpa will offer $10 hair cuts for veterans and active duty military Sunday and Monday. All hair cuts come with a hot towel and neck massage.

"I just wanted to put that all together and give the guys what they like cause women have a lot of these places," she said.

Instead of scented candles, rows of beauty supply products or art often seen at spas for women, there's a pool table, and flatscreen televisions play the latest sports game. Football is Patton's favorite sport, hence the name End Zone.

The End Zone's services can be a gift to help a man look or feel good, but a massage can benefit general health or recovery from fatigue, and a pedicure can help avoid ingrown toe nails in boots, Patton said. 

Discounts are regularly available on haircuts for military personnel, police and fire and public safety workers.

To see a full list of services visit The End Zone's website.