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Ulta 3 Cosmetics & Salon

4 star rating
based on 21 reviews

Category: Cosmetics & Beauty Supply  [Edit]

Neighborhoods: Near North Side, DePaul
1000 W North Ave
(between Kingsbury St & Sheffield Ave)
Chicago, IL 60622
(312) 664-0230
  • Nearest Transit:

    North/Clybourn (Red)

  • Price Range: $$
  • Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
  • Parking: Private Lot
  • Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
  • By Appointment Only: No
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21 Reviews for Ulta 3 Cosmetics & Salon

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Photo of Rob L.

Elite '08

380

353

Rob L.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
06/10/2008

I know what you are thinking, a guy going to a cosmetic & salon store? Even better yet, a guy who shaves his head? Yes. Yes I did shop here. I have bought things for my sisters and my mom here and yes... I have shopped here too. They have a small selection of cologne, men's skin products and for those who need it, hair care products. I bought some Anthony for Men products, unfortunately I had bought some non oil free facial lotion, not good for me, but they took my receipt and made a quick and friendly return. In fact the staff here is friendly and helpful, not over the top super friendly, but just enough friendly to make a trip here near painless. Unless they don't have what you are looking for... well... then it might be painful....

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Photo of Jo W.

Elite '08

28

89

Jo W.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
08/12/2008

I'm really torn about this place because I freaking love Ulta and have worn out my club card many a time taking advantage of all of the great products and sales.  However, this location annoys me since they remodeled.  Yes, it's nicer but all the aisles are so close together I feel a little claustrophobic while I'm shopping.

The people who work here generally suck.  Last night was the first time I had a cashier who actually smiled and was friendly.  I was a little taken aback because I'm just not used to it.  Heck, the last time I was here the cashier walked away while my credit card was processing to stare out the window.  Nice.

Despite the claustrophobia and questionable service, I know I'll be back here because damn...  I just can't get enough.

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Photo of Rachel J.

Elite '08

33

70

Rachel J.

Arlington Heights, IL

4 star rating
04/08/2008

I stopped in on a sunday evening to find a very neat and organized store, friendly staff and the "excalibur" of hairdryers on sale!  

They did not have the item I went there to pick up, due to sudden popularty.  I cannot fault them for that, as they had everything else under the sun!

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Photo of Allison B.

Elite '08

19

44

Allison B.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
03/31/2008

I found nice new products that I wanted to try.  It was well organized and there was lots to look at.  I found parking.  These are all good things.  Three stars.

But would it kill you to frickin' give me some actual customer service?  I know, I know, you want to experiment with the eyeliner and wear the black apron, but making me feel like a heel for asking a question or needing some help?  Have you never heard of upselling?  Lame.

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Photo of Kristin C.

Elite '08

199

435

Kristin C.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
01/16/2008

I think I subscribe to 50 some odd magazines and half of them focus on beauty / health / womanly bits.  Since I am a pretty easy promotional/advertising target (I never got into infomercials because I knew there would be no turning back!) I usually come to Ulta with a mission.   THIS Ulta, although close to my abode, is in the middle of Best Buy's parking lot-o-hell.  In other words, I must want something REALLY badly to shop here.

As my boyfriend circled the parking lot of piranhas, I rushed into Ulta looking for Sue Devitt's facial mist (so refreshing - you must try!).  I went up to the first sales associate I spotted and asked where the product was.  *insert cricket noises here*  After a few more blank stares, the saleslady says, "I've never heard of Sue Macs Debit.  And I've worked here for nine years."  

A) She never got the name right after I pronounced it multiple times
B) She never attempted to look for it at all
C) I KNEW they had it because I, the little research bee that I am, saw it on-line.  

Thankfully, another Ulta associate was nearby.  When sales lady number one repeated my request (incorrectly again), the second associate replied, "Sue Devitt.  Yeah it's right there in front of you."  No kidding.  Nine years, huh?  Looks like someone needs to re-ultafy herself.

In the end, I had my product (but not after waiting in the longest line ever - only one cashier was working) and my boyfriend will never circle that parking lot for me again.  Ever.  Ulta is a GREAT store, but if you are in the North and Clybourn hood, head on over to Halsted.  The staff and parking are worth the trip.

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Photo of rich b.

 

15

106

rich b.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
01/16/2008

I love this store and the Rewards Card (Sephora's is better) and their lovely coupons. I never make it in the store. I can't quite make it IN the store. CB2, Crate & Barrel, Several other intersting stores, Borders, Crunch, NYC Bagel, American Eagle (nothing fits me there), Whole Foods. Then pass out. The walk isn't worth it. Coupon sadly expires.

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Photo of Michelle S.

 

4

61

Michelle S.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
11/19/2007

Heaven!  All the makeup, hair & beauty products, and fragrances one could ever imagine!!  Reasonably priced with good sales, and good coupons too.

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Photo of Caroline A.

Elite '08

386

731

Caroline A.

Chicago, IL

2 star rating
08/16/2007

Ulta is the only convenient place that sells Essie nailpolish and Seche super fast drying top coat.  This location is close to the office, so I made an emergency trip.  

The store is well organized for the most part, but the Essie section is sooo small!!  They didn't have my colors, so I bought my backup.  Yes, there IS a difference between all those shades of light pink!!  

I get to the register, and the woman is taking FOREVER to ring my items up.  She's having a conversation with the dude that works there, talking smack about someone else.  Hand gestures and all!!!

Her: I can't stand that girl.  She's such a b*tch.
Guy: Look of shock.  Nodding head at me, meaning to apologize.
Me: Annoyed, but smiling so I can get my things and go.
Her: I'm sorry for my language.  But she really is a bad person. Just awful.  
Me: No worries.  That's fine.
Her: You have no idea what kind of terrible person she is (she's about half way done ringing up five items and is starting to get aggressive).
Me: It's ok.  I understand. (trying to smile for fear that she's going to hit me with the scanner gun).
Her: Let me tell you...one day...

At this point, she had bagged all my items and I just walked out.

Ulta, please stop hiring scary women who wear insane clown posse make up.   It would make my shopping experience MUCH more enjoyable.

Unrelated, but the Whole Foods next door is fantastic.

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Photo of La Flaca V.

 

78

256

La Flaca V.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
08/17/2007

Since I discovered makeup a year ago I have become a loyal customer. I've even gone to other ulta 3's but this one is still my fav. The selection is awesome and they carry a HUGE selection of Smash box. I also love LOVE (getting a free haircut and flat iron is freaking cool) my reward points that I proudly use when I have some!!

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Photo of Lisa L.

Elite '08

15

74

Lisa L.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
12/03/2007

Biolage shampoo and conditioner - $45

Assorted hair products - $30

Curling Iron and hair straightener - $130

Face soap, moisturizer, etc - $60

make up and nail polish - $75

looking like I got more than 4 hours of sleep yesterday - priceless!

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Photo of Andrea R.

Elite '08

1888

1136

Andrea R.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
03/28/2007

I'm a loyal Bravco customer...always buy all my hair products from them and have been extremely happy, although I do wish they would start taking credit cards one of these days!

Today I passed by Ulta and did a little cheating on Bravco...I figured just a look around couldn't hurt. Right? I asked the smiling woman behind the counter if they sold my favorite (and way overpriced) shampoo Kerastase.  "What's Kerastase?" she asks.  And they call themselves a hair product store?  

Disappointed they don't sell Kerastase I still decided to take a look around...I noticed my favorite chi hair straightening products so another star for them.  I was pretty impressed with the different hair and makeup products they sell, but I still prefer the intimate atmosphere and products that Bravco sells.

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Photo of Jennifer L.

Elite '08

125

272

Jennifer L.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
06/05/2007

On the scale of cosmetic stores, Ulta is above your average drugstore, yet nowhere near Sephora.  It's a good place to get Essie nailpolish and a variety of "only sold in salons" hair products, but shopping here is not a palatial experience.  The employees often strike me as being immature and not really interested in helping customers.

While we're on the subject, hey Ulta employees?  Asking me multiple times if I want to sign up for your store card is NOT the way to rope me in.  If the promotion was like Sephora's, maybe I'd do it, but it's not, so I won't.  So there.

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Photo of Mickey A.

Elite '08

39

122

Mickey A.

Chicago, IL

3 star rating
02/23/2008

Wanted to add another 2 cents since my last visit: I needed to get a new hair dryer and stopped in to check out their selections. Since the store was remodeled, their hair styling tools are now nicely arranged towards the back. Each hair dryer/ flat iron/ curling iron is displayed with a brief description on what that particular product is best for (i.e. ionic v. ceramic or long hair v. short hair or retractable cord v. non, etc.). This was just fine and dandy for me since all I wanted and needed was a simple quick drying one and have at least more than one heat and speed option. Great set-up.
--------------------------
I like Ulta and the coupons/rewards thing they offer. I try to use the coupons I get (via mail or in the Sunday paper) as soon as I get them. Damn them for expiring within a week!  This location was re-done, and it feels like they started carrying a helluva lot more stuff? Unless you're going in there with something in mind, be prepared to spend time browsing around. Keep a look out for the bargain bins. I got, on sale, a back massage pillow to use at work.

I'm glad I don't have a car. While I'm checking out, it's fun watching from the window the cars lined up waiting for spots and hearing all the horns blowing from pissed off drivers. The parking lot shared by the nearby stores looks like complete madness on the weekends but definitely entertaining as I'm bebopping on my merry way.

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Photo of Laura H.

Elite '08

47

170

Laura H.

Washington, DC

4 star rating
05/07/2007

I come here to get my fix of new nail polish.  I do my own nails aside from the occasional pedicure, so I like to splurge and buy the good stuff... strictly OPI.  I think they have every OPI color ever made plus top coat, quick dry, and everything else to meet your grooming needs.

I have also found good deals on shampoo, body wash and moisturizer.  Some of the brands I use can be bought at walgreens, cvs, etc., but I'm an avid price checker and ULTA usually has a better deal.

Oh, and the location is right next to best buy, whole foods, peets coffee and american eagle if you feel like multi-tasking.

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Photo of Stephanie D.

Elite '08

26

99

Stephanie D.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
05/20/2007

I ran in to ULTA in desperate need of a haircut this weekend - and walked out with a great cut, an awesome blow out and a new favorite stylist. His name is Josh and he works at the North location on Saturdays. He is awesome and gave great product recommendations.

Ulta is my one-stop shop for everything in my bathroom. Definitely become a member of the club for the coupons, etc. They carry products that I have trouble finding  elsewhere. Beware: it's hard to walk in and buy just one thing! Their return policy is awesome - within 60 days and 3/4 of the product has to be left. GREAT for trying new things!!

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Photo of Jessica Y.

Elite '08

5

84

Jessica Y.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
01/09/2008

I've been looking for a good stylist in Chicago and I think I finally found him!  Samuel is amazing, and I had my first appointment with him last night.  
I went with a friend who wanted a cut - I was in need of a good color, but not desperate, so I figured I'd go with an open mind and opt out if I didn't like what I heard.  My friend ended up waiting for me cause I decided to go with a cut and color.  I got a partial highlight and lowlight and a quick trim which made my hair look much more natural and took out all the brassy tones (I'm a light brunette who gets color to be more blond).  
I found out Sam's been doing hair for ten years ( I was quite surprised, he looks like he's in his mid 20s), which shows as he was very knowledgeable and friendly.   I walked out feeling fabulous.  Not to mention, the prices for salon service are VERY reasonable and its a bonus that you can stock up on hair and make up while you're there.   The store has rows and rows of styling products, cosmetics, and other accessories.   I'm definitely going back!

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Photo of Kelly M.

Elite '08

124

211

Kelly M.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
11/06/2006

I love this place, I find lots of stocking stuffers (yes I'm already Christmas shopping because I try to avoid the crowds!) for my female friends and relatives.  They have a great selection of bath products and I spent about an hour yesterday smelling most of them; brands range from their own label to brands like H20+; they also seem to carry almost every brand of hair products you could want (not everything though, I still have to count on my salon for some things) They also carry a lot of nice brands of cosmetics, in addition to the drug store varieties, and probably most of the same brands of perfumes and colognes you'd find in nice department stores, without the annoying sales girls in your face the whole time

The layout of the store is pretty open which makes shopping more enjoyable.  I'm a product junkie, especially when it comes to bath and shower stuff like scrubs and lotions, which is why I love places like Ulta and Sephora so much- and thiis place is just as much fun as Sephora in my opinion.  I would definitely recommend stopping here if you're shopping in the North/Halsted area

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Photo of Diana M.

Elite '08

27

101

Diana M.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
11/02/2006

Once I walk in I can't seem to walk out.  I always find all my cosmetic needs.  I walk in for 1 item and walk out with 10.  They have everything you can think of and their club card is great.  You receive special offers and coupons for Ulta just by having their club card.  They also have a vast selection of perfumes and colognes.  

They have a great variety of hair care products all the way from your regular drug store products to your fancy pants products.  They also have a hair salon there which I have not tried but curious to try.

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Photo of Michelle M.

 

1

24

Michelle M.

Chicago, IL

5 star rating
11/06/2006

I could spend hours in here.  Who knew I need this muvh makeup and hair products......  Make sure you be come a member so you are able to get lots of great coupons!

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Photo of Jennifer W.

 

0

3

Jennifer W.

Roselle, IL

1 star rating
12/01/2007

This shop is actually located in the Shops at Kildeer - near Long Grove
This salon has ruined my hair - not only was it cut too short - it wasn't evenly cut -one side had been over cut -  Not only was my hair poorly cut
The color process damaged my hair - I blame this on little experience.
and bad customer service given to the client. They need to
PAY ATTENTION to the client in their chairs - and not co-workers around them distracting them. especially when it is the salon manager -  "Fran"
very unprofessional woman!
I would not go back here again.

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Photo of M M.

 

38

52

M M.

Chicago, IL

4 star rating
10/19/2007

another of my favorites for personal care and grooming...lots of great items, very helpful staff (sometimes too helpful) however when I'm in the area most likely I'm stopping in!

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