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Art + Science
Category: Beauty and Spas Hair Salons Hair Salons [Edit]
1554 N Milwaukee Ave(between Damen Ave & North Ave)
Chicago, IL 60622
Neighborhood: Wicker Park
(773) 227-4247
- Nearest Transit:
-
Damen-o'hare (Blue Line)
- Hours:
Tue-Thu 10 am - 9 pm
Fri 10 am - 8 pm
Sat-Sun 9 am - 6 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Good for Kids:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Hair Types Specialized In:
- Straight Perms, Coloring, Extensions, African-American Hair, Curly Hair, Perms, Asian Hair
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
About This Business:
Our unique & trendy stylists are seasoned professionals who love what they do. We have kick-ass products and bring personality to your hairstyle. We… read more »
169 reviews for Art + Science
169 reviews in English
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Review from Roxy A.
Shana rocks my socks.
I like doing fun stuff with my hair, especially when it comes to color and Shana is the perfect one to go to when you're looking to color your hair. I have jet black hair so when I do color my hair I tend to go for the ombre style in coloring because it's also easier for me to maintain. Shana does a great job in listening to what you want done and is great at recommending ways to maintain the color (with use of products/when to come back in for a gloss, etc.). The first time I got my hair colored by Shana was in the fall and I went with a red..when I went back a few weeks ago she showed me the same color tone that I went with last time but also recommended another color that would brighten it up so I added in fuchsia as well. The color came out amazing and I totally love it!!!
I am trying to grow out my hair but also want to let it grow out while making sure my hair is still healthy so I decided to cut & thin out out my hair since it's super thick. Becca was really great in styling my hair and definitely listened to what I wanted..maintaining the length. (I've been to other salons where I told the stylist I just wanted to trim the split ends, keep the length but ended up with my hair being 1-2" shorter than I came in) Becca did a great job in styling my hair and I really loved the way it turned out. I also really liked the mop product she used in my hair that was a lemongrass hairspray.
Art + Science is a great salon if you're looking for a more edgy look or even something classic. It's also a great salon for guys too, my bf gets his hair cut here by Katie. I told him he needed to update his hairstyle and he's been going back to Art + Science ever since. ;) -
Review from Shradha A.
Chicago, IL
3/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
I LOVE SHANA!!!
Please indulge me as I narrate a story:
I was walking past Art + Science more than a year ago and toying with the idea of highlights. I was concerned due to a bad prior experience. She happened to be outside and I started chatting with her and she totally heard me out and suggested a couple of different ways of doing highlights for me that will avoid the issues I had previously. I told her if I ever decided to get highlights, it will be with her.
1.5 years later, I went in. Nervous and second-guessing my decision to get highlights. But I was in such good hands that I would do anything Shana told me to!
10 days later, I'm still loving my highlights and strongly recommend Shana for any coloring service!!!
Thank you, Shana!!! -
Review from Zack Z.
Chicago, IL
2/22/2012
I go to Seven at the Art+Science location in Wicker Park.
Although I love my parents very much, they gave me a terrible head of hair. Imagine unruly thick, dark hair with a mind of its own. What you're thinking in your head is what is on top of my head. For as long as I can remember, I've never found a salon that provides service quite like Art + Science.
Seven is the best of the best. The first time that I saw her, I told her that I wanted something a little funky meets businessman. She was able to take my broad vision and turn it into a reality. The more I go to Seven, the better and better my haircuts get because she keeps a tab on previous haircuts to see where she can perfect from before. Also, she got me hooked on American Crew's Forming Cream, which I would have never purchased on my own. This stuff works wonders, regardless of the length of my hair.
One more thing: I took a leap of faith and purchased a blow dryer from Target with the advice of Seven (she didn't pressure me, but she said that it would help me maintain my hair's craziness) and don't have any idea how I lived without it. She showed me how to use it (as a guy, it took me until the ripe age of 23 aka this year to figure this out). Let me tell you - this $30 tool, which I would have N-E-V-E-R purchased without Seven's help, is a godsend and keeps me looking good.
Claps towards Seven and the rest of the crew at Art + Science - you guys rock! -
Review from Miranda C.
Chicago, IL
2/15/2012
I can't say enough good things about Art + Science, notably Seven and Shana, and I really mean it, as this Yelp box wouldn't let me go on, and on, and on!
I had given up on a "hair cut" for the past year after one bad salon run-in after another. I resorted to the Aveda Salon school on Clark, which was ok - or so I thought until I got a real, big-girl hair style & color after meeting Seven and Shana. A friend of mine raved about them until I finally decided to check it out - and I am now in there almost every other month, and am probably their biggest fans :)
Seven, as Stylist, just "gets it". She is so friendly, welcoming, not your average awkward salon chit-chat experience. She knows exactly what to do, takes suggestions or requests and even puts up with the pictures I bring in of Jennifer Aniston (I know, I am THAT girl). The hour with her flies by, and I always leave with a huge smile on my face. She has that intangible talent of just making your hair look like you just got out of a photo shoot, and I can always get that same look when I do it myself!
Shana is my Colorist, and has taken me from dark brunette to a summery caramel - for the first time ever I love my hair color. Whereas in college I attempted this, only to look like an extra on the Jersey Shore. This time, we have gradually built color over time, and each and every time I go, it looks different, unique, and the color is so multi-dimensional! Just like with Seven, Shana is someone I could hang out with for hours - I literally love coming in to see them. When I got engaged, they both sent me messages and I was so excited to ask them to be a part of my day for the hair & makeup - and obviously to stay for some cocktails!
The greatest part (besides the fact that the prices are the most reasonable in the city) is that everyone at this salon seems as cool and nice as they are. From the guy I always talk to to schedule my appointments (you are awesome, I am blanking on a name!) to serving wine, water, or coffee while you wait, to the super-clean & hip space, I could not be more in love w/ this place. It's a great group of people you want to befriend, with the added bonus that they totally rock at making you look like a million bucks. Go see them NOW! You will not have once ounce of regret! -
Review from Nikki L.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 3/25/2012
I was pleasantly surprised that the manager called me a few days later after my service to see how I was enjoying my new haircut. When I expressed my concerns, she was apologetic and invited me back in for a complementary consultation and correction with Gil, their master stylist. I agreed and immediately looked him up to see what my fellow yelpers had to say. I was confident, based on the positive reviews that I would be in good hands, ends up...I WAS! Gil is really genuine and personable, he understood my needs and was able to work extremely well with the texture of my hair. I hope to see him again for future cuts and think Art & Science did a great job turning around my experience! I'll be back!
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/21/2012
I'm really, really disappointed with my haircut I received this weekend. It's been impossible trying… Read more »
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Review from Stephanie C.
Chicago, IL
2/9/2012 1 Check-in Here
I needed a new hair stylist after moving to Chicago, and I was pretty nervous about making the switch (Tabatha's Salon Takeover has left me very skeptical about the level of quality/professionalism I should expect).
So, I am happy to report that I have been returning to Tara's chair every 8 weeks for the past 7 months. She does a great job and makes easy small talk.
Perks: they offer complementary water/coffee/wine and always have the most recent magazines for reading :)
I didn't give 5 stars because I've never had an appointment start on time--usually 15 minutes behind schedule. -
Review from Mar b.
Chicago, IL
2/2/2012
Tara has been cutting my hair at A +S since 2005, and I can't imagine going to anyone else. There have been few times that I have experimented with other stylists, but I always come running back to her -usually ashamed :(
Tara has given me a wide range of haircuts and that is very impressive considering how thick and coarse my hair is. I'm currently sporting a short french bob with one side shaved underneath. It might sound a little extreme, but I love it and get compliments all the time. Actually right after Tara first shaved the side of my head, I was stopped by the photographer of Chicago Street Style, and she featured me (and my hair!) on her blog and refinery 29 -a true testament to Tara's sick ass skills! Oh, and I've even referred my sister to Tara, and that's a huge deal because she doesn't trust ANYONE with her hair and rarely gets her hair cut at all. My sister continues to make appointments with Tara for her tri-annual haircut :)
But best of all, she's one of the sweetest people I've ever met. Truly a kind person and soooo easy to work with. Needless to say, ya'll need to pay Tara a visit at A + S...like now! -
Review from Katie S.
Chicago, IL
1/10/2012
It has been a long time since I cared about what my hair looks like. Call it the weather, call it laziness...call it what you want, really. It was long and all one length, and when I did style it- it looked like bed head that I did on purpose. Well, one Sunday afternoon I decided to give Art + Science a shot and OH MY GOODNESS did Becca do wonders with my hair! It has style and body again! She did an amazing job keeping the length and giving me layers that move. It's soft and manageable for someone like me who hates to get up early enough to style my hair.
Becca truly has a gift for not only creating beautiful hair, but for making me feel comfortable. By the end of the appointment, I felt like she was an old friend of mine.
She made me WANT to do my hair in the morning- just as I did today. Ask for Becca, you will not regret it.Comment from Cindy P. of Art + Science 1/10/2012
So glad you were happy! She truly loves doing hair. More » -
Review from Jackie O.
Chicago, IL
2/5/2012
I purchased a groupon for this place which included a conditioning treatment, haircut and style not knowing who would style my hair or how it would work. Can I say I couldn't be happier. I Love my haircut Im so happy I have no choice but to return and I am a picky person when it comes to my hair. A stylist (Becca, I recommend her highly) sat me down talked about what I did and didn't like about my hair. She cut a lot off but we both agreed it would be better for what I wanted and Ive had versions of this haircut many of times, I think she was the first to pinpoint what it was I needed to make me happiest. The cut is perfect. Thank you Becca.
On a side note not reflective to the business but to stress my happiness with the stylist. I have tried a few other highly recommended places within the city with no luck Then settling to only get my hair cut once a year when returning to my home town, having my best friend (also a stylist) cut it. Still even she never hit it on the spot the way Becca did. (Sorry KT :( ) I bought the groupon with high hopes but knowing I am always disappointed so I have nothing to loose.
I just want to say that I love it and Im very happy to have found a stylist who is worth the extra $$ it cost to be in the city. -
Review from Kasia J.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 5/1/2012
It's been a week. My hair is badly damaged from whatever the trainee did to it and breaking off everywhere. It looks and feels like straw and poufs out at the bottom. Looks like I'll have to get several inches cut off so that it at least looks ok-ish. Bummed.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/25/2012
I went to Art and Science for the first time in January. I got my highlights done by Shana and a cut… Read more »
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Review from Sara E.
Washington, DC
11/29/2011
Potentially the cutest haircut of my life with Becka.
Background: I have curly hair and have been growing it out for a while. Tried to give myself layers and it looked "meh". I went to Art + Science on a whim and was able to get an appointment the next day (amazing). I gave Becka pretty minimal guidance on what do to, other than to "make it look better and keep the length". She spent a really solid amount of time (~5-7 mins) listening to me, checking on on options, and then she began cutting my hair piece by piece, both when it was wet and then again when it was dry. We talked the whole way through but I could tell she was being really strategic about my hair and didn't lose her sense of purpose as we were chatting.
After a lovely hour of studied cutting, retouching, blowdrying, and shaping, my self-cut bangs looked all Zooey Dechanel, my long hair suddenly had bouncing volumous layers, and my hair somehow looked LONGER! She didn't seem to have curly hair herself but knew just how to blowdry in softer more controlled curls by twirling the brush the way I do at home, but better. Moreover, she spent the the perfect amount of time on my hair--not too rushed and didn't feel too long or unecessary either.
I love when you can tell someone to make you look good and they have a vison--that's a reason enough alone to pay decent money for a haircut.
Totally recommend Becka--she's new and building up her clientele base so her haircuts are super, super affordable for this nice of a salon too. Hope letting the cat out of the bag about her doesn't mean its hard to get another appt. with her soon! -
Review from Tina N.
Chicago, IL
2/25/2012
After many failed attempts in Chicago, and taking a year hiatus from getting a haircut, I finally gave in and used my Groupon for a hair cut and deep conditioning treatment with Erin. She was great - I actually love my hair cut. Everything about how awesome the customer service at Art & Science (easy to make appts, wine etc) has already been said in all the reviews.
The only gripe I have is that I really really want my hair flat ironed at the end. I've told this to many hair stylists, and they always just blow dry my curly hair. Erin used a few products suited for my hair, but since it wasn't styled the way I usually wear my hair I couldn't tell until I came home (and immediately flat ironed it), how much I actually loved the products.
Also, they only take cash for tips. -
Review from Laura Jane E.
Chicago, IL
11/10/2011
I spent a few years floating around to different hair stylists at different salons and didn't really find anyone who cut my hair well enough to make me want to return more than the requisite two times (one to get to know my hair, the second to really hit it out of the park, so to speak).
About a year ago, I searched around and decided to give Art + Science a try (I enjoyed the name and they sell my favorite product line, truth be told). I have had several haircuts and only superb experiences at this salon, and my stylist, Vanessa, is terrific. I have wavy/curly hair that I like to keep short and she always comes up with something fabulous. They have excellent products available, but I've never felt as though anyone in the salon is "pushing" a product on me.
The salon staff are also very friendly, both on the telephone and in person. -
Review from Sarah N.
Chicago, IL
1/15/2012
I have been seeing Vanessa here for quite a while. She does an excellent job, and is currently helping me through that awkward "growing out" stage.
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Review from S. S.
Chicago, IL
2/8/2012
So glad I read the Yelp reviews on who to use. I chose Becca and used my Groupon to get a haircut. She was super attentive and very friendly. I will definitely come back to her again for a hair cut. Nice chill place, I'm glad to have found a great stylist in the city!
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Review from Carrie B.
Los Angeles, CA
9/20/2011
Lemme put it this way: I live in LA now, but will leave my hair un-cut for months just to have Paul cut my hair when I'm in Chicago. That guy understands hair texture and movement like no one else.
If you have curly or otherwise textured hair or weird cowlicks or anything else that is a little "outside the box" I would highly recommend him. You will get a hair cut that looks amazing with no help, no product, straight from the shower. Sure, he's a little pricey, and in all actuality out of my budget, but I always find a way to afford him. He's that good.
Words cannot express my love for his work. -
Review from Carol J.
Chicago, IL
3/17/2011
I had an excellent experience with Guy at this salon. I have naturally wavvvvyyy hair that is not the cute kind of curly but Guy worked some great magic with it, helping define some layers and also embrace the curl!
I am going to save the 5th star for my return trip when I rock a cut and color but I have to say this is a very clean, trendy and professional salon. The front desk was cheerful and pleasant and very accomodating from start to finish. The salon is spacious so you feel a sense of privacy when speaking with your stylist and the music and mag selection is spot on.
They also offer discounts on Mondays for stylist training which is closely supervised, completely professional and seriously a steal. -
Review from Arelys V.
Chicago, IL
7/15/2011
Justin is a doll! I volunteered to have my hair blown out and absolutely loved the experience. I've had some awful blow drying experiences where my hair just gets bigger and bigger and frizzier and frizzier. I left Art + Science with some smooth and shiny hair that was complimented about 5 minutes after I left. Twice!
On Mondays it's all apprentice training and I think that it really says a lot about a salon that dedicates an entire day to training their future stylists. No wonder they have some great reviews. -
Review from Darkling S.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 4/10/2011
My first review was 3 years ago .. when Charlie left and Isobel stepped in ... Isobel has since left and Charlie has returned ... but I have found ...
Vanessa! I need not review the salon a second time, rather I need to applaud Vanessa's ability to give me a great cut every time and yet reinvent my super short style to keep it interesting. She is also quite a character in her own right .. sharing bits of her life, her interests, her opinions but maintaining a polite and professional relationship.
She simply brightens my day.Listed in: My Neighborhood
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/20/2008
First off - i found this salon via Souk next door - sadly another victim of the gentrification of… Read more »
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Review from Maureen M.
Chicago, IL
1/4/2012
Totally agree with Sara E., Becca May is fantastic! I used to see Becca when we lived in Minneapolis and needless to say, I was totally crushed at the thought of losing my favorite stylist when moving to Chicago. For a year or so, I would only get my hair cut when I was home in Minnesota. So I am absolutely THRILLED to have her so close in Chicago now.
Becca delivers. I'm completely high maintenance with my hair and walk in with specific ideas for her. She listens very closely and then adds in her expertise so I always walk away excited with my new 'do. She just gets it. Plus, her prices are easier on your wallet than similar services at the high end salons in the city.
Five stars aren't enough for Becca, she truly rocks. -
Review from Joanie R.
Chicago, IL
1/13/2011
I was feeling broke and took advantage of the deal they give you if you work with a student stylist of Art + Science, who turned out to be Guy.
Guy was great. He was very friendly and listened to what I was looking for, while also offering his own expertise for the best results. He was very attentive to detail and took the time to show me how to style it.
Two days later, I love my haircut!! It's so cute and I would totally go back to him again. I even took pictures of it so I can remember it later. Thank you Guy and A+S! -
Review from Nate W.
Chicago, IL
1/12/2011
Hmmm...
I guess I'm the only male to review this spot. I started going here because I decided to grow my hair out and Bo Rick, Joe Barber face and all of their friends coalesced against my endeavor. However, I knew one Stylist at A&S would know what to do with my asian-fro-ee-wig piece hair on top of my head. Her name is Jessica Pearl and she wields some of the best shearing skills in the city. Andrew, the scheduler is always really professional and nice to talk to. So I give the staff 5 stars and I would name solar systems after them if I knew which website to go to, to do this.
Here goes the hater face.
I hate the plastic couch thing they've got going on. I had to single out couch, because it's one huge molded piece of not very functional plastic that they shoved in the window. It is also hunter orange and it makes me wonder, what kind of machine produced this thing and why did someone invent it if this is what it produces...not, what am I supposed to tell Jessica Pearl about my hairdid? The hunter orange plastic paneling that is kind of stuck to everything makes my eyes sore too...and so does the Ikea looking drawer sets. It was pretty cool looking when they first opened their doors, but they should think about updating their own look too! -
Review from Casey C.
Chicago, IL
2/27/2011
FINALLY!! After eight and a half years in Chicago, I have found a hair stylist who doesn't make me cry!!
I have an extremely tumultuous relationship with my curly hair. It has been either my favorite attribute or greatest arch nemesis. And, unfortunately, its also been thinning and not looking quite so fabulous over the last few years. As a result, most stylist don't know what to do with it (or my incredibly neurotic vibe when I sit in his/her chair). Also, stylists tend not to listen to this simple instruction - don't make super twined, defined curls turning me into a pube head.
But, alas, I found SEVEN. She is amazing. The best stylist in Chicago. Seven listened to me, thought out a plan, and executed a beautiful cut. She is good. Very good. I can recommend her whole heartedly.
Thanks, Seven; you rock. You have reformed my ways (one haircut a year...). See you in 8 - 10 weeks. -
Review from Jackie P.
Chicago, IL
12/22/2010
I was getting sick of my hair color and decided to be cheap and buy the boxed dye, thinking it was going to be a GREAT idea....WRONG. Too dark and I resembled a vampire, but not a beautiful Vampire like the ones in Twilight.
So I made a call to Art & Science in Wicker Park and they got me in pretty quickly. I saw Sofia for color and let me say: I LOVE MY HAIR COLOR. I've had so many compliments on it and I just feel good about it. She did a partial on my hair to lighten up the color and applied a toner so that the carmel highlights didn't make me look like a zebra.
I also got a free bang trim.
Overall, my experience was great at this location (and the Lincoln Park one is good, as well, which I would recommend). -
Review from Eeeee L.
Chicago, IL
12/14/2011
Great cuts, nice stylists.
Appointments are easy to make (and reschedule if necessary). Waiting times are either right-on-time or only a little bit behind. I usually go in the evenings on weeknights, so I understand that they probably get progressively backed up on occasion. Stylists are the right amount of talkative. You form a bond with them...without worrying that they will accidentally cut off your ear while telling you about something crazy they saw on the CTA that morning.
Overall, this place is wonderful. Bonus points for their community outreach efforts. -
Review from Tricia D.
Chicago, IL
12/12/2011
I recently moved to Wicker Park and was referred to this salon from a close friend- now my fiance and I both go here. We LOVE this salon!
Charlie cuts my hair- and he is fantastic! I have thin, long hair- and he was able to cut my layers so my hair is full and has lots of volume. I am very, very pleased with the results.
Susan does my color. She is AMAZING! I am very specific with my hair color- and she was able to blend my previous highlights AND keep a very natural look (which is what I like).
I am beyond pleased with all of the services at Art + Science. I highly recommend this salon to anyone who is looking. -
Review from Elizabeth J.
Chicago, IL
6/18/2011
I have been going to Gil for years, and LOVE him! I have super curly hair and before Gil I would straighten it almost every day. However, for the last 5 years I can happily say that I hardly ever use a straightner! Gil understands curly hair better than anyone I have ever met before! Thus, when I got married last October, there was no question that of course I would go to Gil to get my hair styled, and as usual, it was perfect! Thank you Gil!
I also want to give a shout out to Nyssa, the wedding coordinator at the salon. I also scheduled my bridesmaid to have their hair done and worked with Nyssa to coordinate. She could not have been more helpful! Not only did she ask the stylists to come in an hour early, she also had pastries and mimosas for all of us to enjoy while we got our hair done. She is wonderful! -
Review from Fabio F.
Chicago, IL
2/1/2011
They have my Vote.
The Experience:
I gave art + science a try after I heard my main barber was fired from an old spot I used to go for simple haircuts. (Mainly using clippers.) So I was pretty shocked when I first found out that the stylists here didn't use clippers to cut mens hair. I was skeptic at first but I went for the ride. I asked the stylist what type of cut I was looking for and she put in great results. I've been going to this place ever since. The prices are a little steep, but to be honest I don't think I've never been this happy with a haircut in ages. So yeah I minus one star for the price but from my understanding neck trims are free, so I'm all for that deal! lol.
The Staff:
I'll keep this short and concise. The staff are very enthusiastic, talkative, and professional. A definite plus for returning customers. -
Review from Angy E.
Chicago, IL
11/6/2011
I was a model for a class here, so this review is based on that. My stylist was great. She took the time to talk to me even though I was just a model, and gave me great tips for my hair. The haircut was too cute. The bob was so precise I kept getting asked if it was a wig! But that probably has to do with the fact it was blue at the time too ;) Great atmosphere and friendly customer service in the entire salon.
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Review from Bethany C.
Chicago, IL
9/21/2010
DON'T BE EVEN ONE MINUTE LATE TO YOUR APPOINTMENT, OR IT'LL BE GIVEN AWAY!!!
that's what happened to me yesterday. i ran into the salon at 3:33 for a 3:30 appointment with guy and was told that i was three minutes too late. guy was apologetic, but said he was forced to give away my appointment at 3:30 because that's just how they run things there. yeah? if that's true, then that policy is HEINOUS and really customer-unfriendly. my guess is that i was lied to and that guy double-booked the time-slot...which may be a common occurrence, judging from other reviews on here.
if it really is the salon's policy to give away appointments for even a minute of tardiness, then i REALLY wish guy had communicated that to me when i booked with him via email. i had hired a babysitter, driven across the city for 45 minutes, paid to park (after several failed attempts because of 4-6pm parking restrictions in the area), and then literally run to the salon from a couple blocks away...all to be told that i no longer had an appointment.
my husband spoke with a+s's manager, who was apologetic and seemed eager to speak with me about the situation. but so far i have yet to hear from him.
i've been a patron of art+science for years. i'm really grateful for the apprentice program this salon has, and that they offer free services to people on mondays. i've paid full-price for their services and products numerous times, and i've also gotten a free haircut from time to time. either way, free or not, i'm a customer. and i deserve to be treated well and told the truth. no free haircut is worth the hassle and frustration i endured yesterday, so i'm done with this salon. -
Review from Allison V.
Chicago, IL
2/15/2011 1 Check-in Here
I went here for a wash and blowout.
From what I understand this place puts employees on a year long internship and on Mondays they offer this promotion.
The girl that took care of me was new. Apparently the salon made her change her name because another girl already had her name ? ? ? I had Piper....the other Tara.
You need to remember that most of the stylists are in training and you need to be patient. Don't make plans for what you think is going to be the end of your appointment because sometimes they have to start over.
Piper took the time to learn how to make my very long straight hair look curly. She twisted it all and then diffused the hell out of it. What a pain, but she did it with a smile on her face. She did a great job and it came out super curly.
Bike parking is out front. -
Review from Lady M.
Chicago, IL
12/21/2010 2 Check-ins Here
I don't mind looking shabby chic for 358 days out of the year, but 'tis the season that I spend 7 very long days with the family in the land of the sleek and well coiffed and I am not about to disgrace my family any further than I already have:P
I also will not return to Karen Marie Salon despite having a positive experience there as they are out of my price range as I'm transitioning from under-employment into the ephemeral realm of student-loan living.
Thank you Katie for being naturally affordable.
I'm sorry I cheated on you - 'twas the irresistible urge to use a coupon. Never again!
Katie's talent for tailoring tresses is just as strong as stylists with a few more years behind the black apron. Why pay $10-$30 more?
Despite never deviating from one of two styles, I always come prepared with the same trusty, crumpled Kate Moss, baby-fine haired photo-collage that I've offered as reference for 3 years running.
Katie doesn't need it of course and could shear me blindfolded with one hand behind her back.
In addition to being fairly priced she takes Celiac Disease seriously and searches the ingredient listings before she uses product on me.
We use MOP organic shampoo and conditioner - FYI avoid Bumble & Bumble and ABBA hair products as nearly all of their formulations include wheat.
As this was my 2nd check-in at the salon via Yelp I unlocked the special '20% off coloring service with Sophia' coupon and decided to make my commitment to black hair official.
I've been dying my own hair at home for the last decade and am particularly attached to the gluten-free Palette By Nature hair color line to save money and avoid reactions.
I brought this 3rd party product in as we initially planned for Sophia to apply it professionally (in direct opposition to my imprecise, leopard spotted, home-dye disaster jobs).
I lamented the fact that PbN doesn't offer black - due to the toxic effects of PPD - and decided I'd go back to black one last time IF their line didn't contain wheat. Their blue-black temp dye did, but the permanent version contained soy protein in place of wheat protein?!
We proceeded to apply the raven solution and 20 minutes later any remnants of my auburn-ished origins and platinum affairs were permanently overcome by a rich onyx-colored cosmos.
Was the outcome worth the risk of PPD accumulation - decidedly yes! Everything in moderation, n'est-ce pas?
Thanks Ladies! -
Review from Nick L.
Chicago, IL
5/21/2011
I hate finding a new stylist, and having recently moved I had to do just that. Thankfully this place is right around the corner and had good reviews, so I figured what the hell. Scheduling was easy, I was able to get in the next evening and at a convenient time. Got my hair cut by Guy, who I feel did a great job of figuring out what I wanted (which is particularly difficult, as I typically don't know myself when it comes to hair).
I'm a few days out from having got it cut and am very happy with it. I can't really review the decor, the quality of free beverages, or any other spa-style services, as I was looking more to just get in, get a good cut, and get out, but the base cut and style service was worthy of 5 stars. I can say, however, that as a dude I didn't feel like I was on the set of a chick flick, which is definitely a vibe I've gotten at salons in the past (and I don't miss!).
Their prices seem to vary, but mine was $55. Pretty much what I'd expect for a salon in the city. Free trims between cuts, too. -
Review from Rachel s.
Chicago, IL
1/7/2011
I don't think I've written a review for here yet, and I can't imagine why. I used to have super long hair, and since it has been short I have been missing Art & Science.
Charlie is the best there is. Hands down.
He is the only person I trust with my hair.
I have paid twice what he charges for some seriously awful haircuts.
I miss you, Art & Science, and I will for sure be back as soon as the faux-hawk grows out and it is time for a cut! :) -
Review from Diana F.
Chicago, IL
2/19/2011
I'm new to chicago, so I was unfamiliar with the good salons around my neighborhood. After reading reviews of this place, I thought it sounded like a good fit for my style. Wrong. The front desk people were awesome...and actually my hair stylist was really really nice....she just didn't know how to cut my hair. I have pretty standard...good hair. It's long and thick enough..already has layers in it...and I feel i gave a pretty good description of exactly what I was going for. I even brought a picture!
She left my hair heavy. if not left to dry naturally in a very particular way...it looks one length...i asked for lots of layers. She could NOT cut a swoop bang claiming it was MY hair....I wonder why my other stylist cut my bangs amazingly? She took forever on my hair....blow drying it and trying to get a natural curl...my hair is naturally a bit wavey already.
My bangs ended up blunt like and not a nice curve.
I'm not sure if I would go back....I would definitely request another stylist.
No offense to her personality...like i said, really nice girl....not a good stylist.
UPDATE* Cindy the manager was so kind to me and offered to reschedule a haircut. You can tell a good business by their genuine concern for their clients. I'm excited to give them a second try and will let you know how it turns out!
UPDATE 2* Jessica saved my hair! She was awesome!! She knew exactly how to execute my overall ideas of how i wanted my hair...very communicative and extremely nice. I finally found a place and stylist I know I can go to and have my bangs cut exactly the way I want them. This is a huge relief for me! So you know, my first experience was just an off one...but note: always say something right away if you feel that you aren't satisfied. Art and Science will make sure to fix your hair problems to the best of their ability and have you leaving happy. Great job, guys! -
Review from Lindley E.
Chicago, IL
12/29/2007 ROTD 2/22/2008
Since moving to Chicago 3 years ago I haven't had a regular go-to place for my hair. For the first 2.9 years that was fine - I had long hair and resolved not to cut it, so I didn't unless I was out of town. All that changed after a trip to San Francisco, a sudden desire to get rid of the hair, and a fairly bad 'do that needed some serious fixing.
Through Yelp I found a salon in Chicago that did a good job and was fun. I made three appointments there over a 4 month period (short hair grows fast!). The first two times that I went I was there for at least 2 hours in the chair. But I was patient. Grouchy after 2 hours, but patient. This last time though...first my appointment was pushed back by 30 minutes. Then I was summarily dismissed when the next appointment walked in, a friend of my stylist. My hair was not finished to my satisfaction and I left very displeased. Angry, in fact.
For 1-1/2 days I fumed about my haircut. It wasn't right. I was explicit in my instructions but my stylist didn't listen because she ran out of time. And that was it. I was done with her. But I still had to get my hair fixed. In desperation I searched Yelp again for a new salon, a new stylist, focusing on Art + Science after I saw a woman with great hair who told me she went there.
I made one phone call to Art + Science and explained how my hair needed to be fixed. I needed a stylist with short hair experience, the ability to fix my 'do, and availability the next day. I was desperate. The receptionist slotted me in with Isobel, a cool cat with 3 years of experience at the salon. Only in her early 20s, Isobel has been cutting her own hair for years and possesses the confidence and skill of someone much, much older and experienced.
Isobel was punctual and friendly and very accommodating. Because she didn't wash or dry my hair, she charged me only $30 to fix what I had originally paid full price for at the other salon. She listened closely to what I told her I wanted and was surprisingly conservative with some of her recommendations ("let your hair grow out and we can fix it as we go"). She was fast. And fun to talk to. Or maybe I was just super amped on caffeine. Oh dear. I hope she wasn't bored by my chatter.
Isobel, I'll be back.
Post script:
Srini V, ascii artist extraordinaire and NY Yelper, provided these ascii representations of my Art + Science experience:
Before ...
/o\
// | \\
./ \.
After ...
/o\
- | -
./ \.
http://sriniv.yelp.com -
Review from Mike H.
Los Angeles, CA
11/3/2005
One time me and my friend had coupons to get free haircuts here and we both told our "stylists" that they could do whatever they wanted.
The girl who cut my hair decided that "she liked what I had going already" and just used a razor to "thin my hair out a little". When she was done I was told that the original price for my haircut was $80. What? She didn't even cut my hair?
The girl that cut my friends hair talked about how hung-over she was the whole time she was cutting, and when she was done my friend's hair looked like a swim cap from the 60's. $120.
The atmosphere is snotty-chic like you'd expect it to be, and they LOVE to try and sell you all the over-priced hair care stuff too.
In conclusion, I will cut your hair for $10. Any type of hair. Just send me a meassage. I'm totally good. Or, at least I'm cheap.Listed in: **OVERRATED**
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Review from Tiffany K.
Chicago, IL
11/20/2010
I don't want to be "that person" who writes a review right after they've just been at an establishment, but HOT DAMN I LOVE MY HAIRCUT and I need everyone to know!!
I had an appointment with Seven and my mind (and hair) was BLOWN. After a less-than-life-changing experience at an unnamed hair salon, I heeded the advice of friends and made an appointment here at Art & Science.
I rolled out of bed, wanting a general idea of what I wanted - cute bangs and a shorter hairstyle. I went in and everyone was so friendly and prompt. After asking me what I wanted, Seven went straight for my hair. She was super attentive and let me know what she was going every step. It's like she read my mind the entire time - everything she did was just perfect!! Nothing was cut too short, no stray hairs were left behind, and every inch of my hair was showered with attention.
So, bottom line is this: this place is great. Believe the hype. As long as you vocalize what you want, your stylist will take care of you and make sure that you're getting what you asked for.
I will be coming back here for a free bang trim and some product shopping soon! Yay! -
Review from Colleen C.
Chicago, IL
4/30/2007
A tid bit snobby, but ok, I'll get over it. For now.
I go to Lindsay to get my hair colored...she is an apprentice, and utterly awesome. For $15 (plus tip!) you get an amazing color job at a high end salon in Wicker Park.
(If you want to schedule with her, just message me and I'll give you her email...you can't schedule with the salon directly to be a "model.") Thanks for the heads up Jamie K! :)
Can't beat that. :)
(She will be done as an apprentice by end of summer 2007) So hurry!Listed in: Cheap! Cheap!, Hair Salons, Cheap Chops and Color
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Review from Ari R.
Chicago, IL
Updated - 1/20/2011
So I wanted to go dark and get bangs. Susan found the perfect shade and walked me through our strategy, allowing for exit plan if I decided the jump was too extreme. Paramount. Loved the color, loved the change, loved the security that if I woke up day 2 and hated it that not all hope was lost. It's week 4 and I'm ready to go back and maybe even go permanent.
Tara was booked, so Seven cut my hair. Wow. Seven has bright eyes and meticulous hands. She was intense about my bangs and I appreciated it. Job well done, cut makes my pumpkin face look humanoid.
Added bonus, they offer complementary bang trims in between full cuts.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/9/2010
Art + Science is my haven. Susan and Tara make me presentable, and the entire staff nourishes with… Read more »
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