Lauren, a student stylist at the Institute, did an amazing job! She really took the time to listen to what I thought I wanted, but also wasn't afraid to gently suggest a lighter color than I had originally chosen. I'm so glad I trusted her expertise because the results turned out even better than I imagined. My hair looks healthier, feels healthier, and for the first time in a long time, I feel like I have a true style instead of just a haircut. Lauren is talented, professional, and has a great eye for what will work best for her clients. I highly recommend booking with her! read more

I had a generally positive experience overall. I have gone to cosmetology schools to get my hair done for years like 25 years so I know what to expect. The staff and students were friendly, and the check-in/check-out process was easy. The tables at the hair rinse/wash stations were a little different than what I expected, but they were actually a nice setup. I had a full highlight and haircut done. The three students who worked on my highlights were all very kind, and the highlights themselves turned out well. However, the entire appointment took almost 6 hours when quoted 3 hours, which felt very long. During my visit, several students were openly talking about how many hours and days they still needed to make up before graduating in September, which felt somewhat unprofessional to hear as a client. The student doing my service seemed somewhat distracted and unsure at times about certain steps, although the work she completed was done well. There were long waits during the lightening and coloring process, and during those waiting periods no one checked in to see if I needed anything. The haircut portion was not completed by the student assigned to me because she was unsure how to do it, so the instructor, Amy, ended up finishing it. After my color was rinsed out, I still noticed hair dye left on my neck when I left. Toward the end of the appointment, the student was informed she had another client scheduled, and she became very flustered. She told me she could not blow dry my hair because she had another client waiting. By that point, I needed to leave soon anyway, but because the appointment had already run so long, I ended up leaving late and was delayed getting to another place I needed to be. I also understand this is a school and students are learning, which I do respect. However, when students are representing the school and working directly with paying members of the public, I feel there should still be professional standards in appearance and conduct. Clothing such as crop tops and athletic-style mini shorts may be fine among peers in a classroom setting, but it did not seem appropriate while providing services to public clients. read more

TL;DR: I was banned based on a confusing and unrealizable allegation that I could not get details about or respond to. I visited this salon three times as a model client for student haircuts. I was about to have my 4th visit, but received a call informing me that I was banned because "multiple students reported being uncomfortable with my text messages." I was very surprised by this, as I only connected with one student on Instagram upon mutual consent (as I wanted the pictures and she agreed). I did not message any of the other 2 students. When I called the supervisor to understand what happened, I was told that she did not know the details of the reports but was enforcing a ban as a matter of policy. I respect the importance of maintaining a safe learning environment for students. However, being banned based on unspecified allegations, without any opportunity to clarify or respond, was disappointing. I hope the salon can consider implementing a more transparent process when handling concerns involving clients in the future. I would have welcomed the opportunity to clarify or address any concerns prior to this decision. read more

Very nice facial at a reasonable price. They took the time to find out about any skin concerns.

A lot of people here are complaining are expecting the world from students. STUDENTS. They are learning. That's why you go in with an open mind and don't pay an exorbitant amount of money. I have definitely had some lackluster experiences here but again they are students. The teachers are always around and able to lend a hand and usually the students are quite skilled and knowledgeable. I love that they are using Aveda products and I'm only paying half of what I would expect to pay somewhere professionally. The school is usually pretty clean. Recently they added salon beds where you can lay down to get your hair rinsed at the bowl and that is a treat because if you've gotten your hair dyed before or even just washed, you know those seats can be uncomfy. I've been going to the school for at least 4 years now and I will continue to go back. read more

One of the worst experiences ever. After 3 months of supposed training and one day before graduating the student nail technician took 2 hours and 15 minutes for a simple gel nail service. The technician was completely disorganized- she had to retrieve numerous items throughout my overly long session. She seemed to have no idea how to use the little drill. She seemed to have no idea how to effectively remove the old polish. She approached everything backwards as if she were doing her own nails instead of someone else's. She squirted acetone all over the place, including me, because she was so jerky in her motions. But worst, she wasn't at all personable. It seems like she received either no training or was simply incapable of doing her job. Perhaps, she should not be in the service industry. She was unprofessional throughout- she even complained about not getting paid while she was learning. After submitting feedback, instead of apologizing, some employee called to accuse me of being rude. Warning: feedback is not appreciated unless it is glowing. After receiving the rude phone call for my feedback, I can only conclude that this "institute" does not teach manners nor friendliness. Essentially, I was slandered for being honest about my negative experience. Apparently, this Aveda "learning institution" is merely interested in collecting their student' tuition money instead of actually teaching them to become professionals. read more

I had a difficult color correction as I had been bleaching and coloring my hair with otc vivid colors for years but wanted to go back to a "natural" color with lowlights. It was a long process and at the end of the day for Lexi requiring her (and several others) to stay late but the end result was truly fabulous. Lexi was concerned because some of the old green color might bleed through even though I knew that was the risk I had taken with those colors and she did everything to ensure that didn't happen. It turned out fabulous! Big shout out to her instructor/supervisor as well - I believe her name is Cristiana (my apologies if I got that wrong!) They were all truly fabulous! I've been going there for years for haircuts and have always been very impressed with the students and staff and Lexi and team did not disappoint last night - thank you!!!! read more

Service was amazing!! I was nervous to get a haircut in Madison as a freshman as I'd always went home to my normal barber but it won't so great and she replicated my picture I showed her perfectly!! read more

I had a facial today and it was amazing & so relaxing, everything was so professiona. Ty!

I love coming here!!! They treat you so well, technicians are experienced before taking on clients soyou get a similar experience every time. I've had facials and manicures-- and I plan to come back for pedicure and a haircut next! read more

I visited Aveda when I discovered they had a hair cutting program and needed to get a fresh cut myself. The salon was very organized and clean. The front desk staff were very welcoming and polite. I signed up for the Alpha and Beta make signature cuts and was very impressed with the haircut at the price point ($10-$15). The haircuts took on average 1 hour and there was a haircut teacher who monitored the process/assisted when necessary. The haircuts included a shampoo rinse and towel dry which was very nice. Overall, the atmosphere was very collaborative and fun. I would recommend to anyone who is looking for a nice haircut at an affordable price! read more

I have been going to the Aveda Institute in Madison for 18 years, but it has become increasingly difficult to get an appointment. I just spoke with someone by phone to try to schedule an appointment after trying to schedule one online for the past couple of weeks without any availability. She was rude to me and hung up on me. I will not be going back to this place again! read more

I enjoyed my experience and service SO much! Ella is going to do SO well as an Esthetician! She had great feedback for me and really helped me understand my skin. Thank U Ella! read more

What a fantastic deal! Professional haircut, first-class product, care and attention every step of the way. Learned things too. Was nervous using a "beginner" but totally happy with result. Recommend Albert. read more

Emma did a pretty good job given she was expecting to do a blowout while I wanted a classic cut. My hair looks okay to go out in public. But during the haircut she didn't use a cape, so I was fully covered with my hair. It was quite disgusting to go out like that. read more

outstanding- thanks!. Very experienced student_ -great atmmophere. Will be back soon

Have been going there regularly for a few years now and never leave disappointed! It is a school but has the atmosphere of a high end salon, unlike some other similar places in the Madison area. The students and instructors are all very pleasant, professional and knowledgeable. I have recommended this place to several of my friends who also have converted to going there regularly. The money saved by going here instead of salons in the area is massive. Always have left with exactly the outcome I wanted. Will continue to give Aveda my business as well as recommend it anytime I hear anyone looking for a place to get their hair done! read more

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I have been going to Aveda for awhile now and their service is top notch! Highly recommend!

Very nice atmosphere, you can relax if that's what you need. Excellent massages and I feel younger with my facial. read more

Aveda Institute Madison Salon - Skin Care Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

Emma, a student at the Aveda Institute, did a balayage in my hair. She was knowledgeable, helpful and kind with my lack of preparation beforehand, and friendly. Emma knew what she was doing, and i would highly recommend her and the salon to others. I like how my hair turned out! read more

Wanted to make an update about the current students. I've had WONDERFUL experiences with both Maria and Megan P, recently. Maria cut and color-corrected my hair. I have a rather severe "V-cut" that I like, and it's hard to get it done right, because a lot of stylists don't realize I know exactly what I want. Maria listened to me and did what I wanted, checking the whole time to make sure the cut was happening the way I like it. I really appreciate her conscientiousness. A few weeks later, I needed my roots done, and Nicole at the front desk managed to fit me in last-minute with Megan P, who did a GREAT job with my roots and was super conscientious and pleasant, besides. I would go back to either one of these students in a heartbeat, and I will be asking them both where they're headed to when they graduate. BEYOND that, Nicole at the front desk was AWESOME, and so courteous. I was panicking to get in since I was already downtown, and she made it happen with a kind demeanor, and made me super comfortable too. I love this place. You can't beat the price. Don't be afraid to be assertive--if you don't tell them what you want, they can't make it happen. But they are SO receptive and lovely, and I really feel like the students AND the teachers want you to not just be happy, but thrilled with your cut/color. I can't sing their praises enough. Thank you Aveda! :) read more

Had an appointment with Dani for a gel manicure. She was very welcoming and friendly, and did a good job! The manicure included a hot towel, aromatherapy, and a hand massage. The last manicure I had was at a professional salon and was not as well done, and the non-polish services I mentioned were not included. Unfortunately, the selection of polishes was somewhat limited- I just wanted black, and they didn't have it. I was told that the manicure program is just starting out here and that they may have more polishes in the future. read more

I tried Aveda on a recommendation and was pleasantly surprised. I called for a basic men's haircut and was offered an appointment about a week from the day I called. I met my student stylist, who was very friendly, professional and engaging. She got to know my style and needs, and took the time to cut my hair carefully. At the end, I received a shampoo and conditioner, along with a relaxing scalp massage. The whole process was supervised by a licensed hairdresser, who offered suggestions and made sure there were no imperfections. The only downside to Aveda is that even a simple cut takes a while, since all the staff are students. My cut, which takes no more than 20 minutes in a typical barber, took about 1.5 hours with the shampooing. Still, you can't beat the price at only $10! One of my better haircuts, and definitely the cheapest. read more

I went in for a simple manicure. My technician was super sweet, but seemed like she had zero training at all in regards to nails, and she was graduating in less than a month!! She didn't get any of the dirt from under my nails, nor did she take practically any cuticle skin off. She would grab them and try to rip them off. Needless to say it didn't feel good. The polish was painted fine, it just doesn't cover my whole nail. I feel like they need to teach a little more professionalism to the technicians, too. It was only $12 but I could have gone two more blocks and had a much better experience for $15. I like to give them practice, but for what I got, it should have been free. Again, super nice girl, but I felt like there was no training at all. read more

Aveda Institute Madison Salon - Skin Care Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

HAIR: I've gone for a few haircuts and it's SUPER cheap which is great, but unreliable. When I just got a trim it was perfect, but when I cut my hair short I would have strands that were about an inch and a half too long on one side if I didn't get my part EXACTLY how it was when they cut it, so had to do some cleanup myself. NAILS: Went with a friend yesterday for mani pedis, and the students were super nice but the brand of nail polish they carry was absolutely awful (thick and chunky) which even the students admitted. Filing and buffing was very minimal, they didn't remove ANY cuticle, and the manicure looks really rough, I probably could've done it better on myself. If it was super cheap I wouldn't mind, but at $37 for a mani pedi just pay the extra $10 somewhere else so that it's decent. I feel bad saying that since the students were so nice and I think it would be better with better materials, but really a bummer. read more

Aveda Institute Madison Salon - Manicure - Skin Care Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

I cannot state enough how frustrated I am at the recent haircut I received. I walked into the salon with roughly 8-inch curls that had been growing for the better part of 1.5 years. I requested to shorten the curls all around and to clean up any bushiness for an upcoming job interview. Despite discussing my intent and looking up reference photos with the stylist prior to the cut, I walked out of the salon with all of my curls gone except for those on the front of my head. The student said she had expertise in cutting natural, curly hair and, instead of giving me the shortened curls I wanted, I got the exact undercut I said I did not want. read more

Aveda made us pretty ladies for a wedding! Our entire wedding party stopped in here early on a Saturday morning prior to getting dressed and heading out to the wedding. The bride had already gone for a practice session and warned us that the students take a bit longer than your typical stylists. I just wanted my hair down, curly with a few pieces pinned back to add some volume. My student was about to leave in 2 more days so she certainly knew what she was doing, but looked exhausted. She did my hair fast in comparison to the other more time consuming updos, and then moved on to my makeup. She did a fine job with my makeup, but I fixed a few things to look more like myself. Overall, great prices and great job for a wedding party! Great idea by the bride. read more

The one star I am giving Aveda VICI comes from one determinant only, one which I believe is the most important-- the final product. There were other aspects of the experience and service that could have easily gotten even four or five stars, but since the final product was a complete disaster, unfortunately the rating must reflect that I did not get what I paid for-- that is, a French pedicure that would stay on for more than 24 hours. I had booked appointments for myself and two of my friends-- a pedicure for myself and manicures for my two friends. My assigned student, Jennifer, was friendly, engaged me in conversation and seemed competent. She gave me an excellent, relaxing foot massage and lotion and all of the other stuff that comes with a standard pedi. One of my friends waited for her student, Stevie, for at least thirty minutes before she was bothered to show up and do her manicure. When Stevie did show up, she proved untalkative and rather unengaged in my friend's manicure. While the French manicure turned out alright (but not great), the service and attention left a lot to be desired. My other friend's student, while trying really hard, delivered such a distastrous-looking manicure that it reminded me of when I used to try to do my own nails when I was eight. It was an uneven, runny-looking peach-colored polish over a French manicure. She admitted the teachers at Aveda had never taught her how to do one before (!) I hate to say this, because I really found Jennifer to be very sweet and hard-working--- but while I liked my pedicure when she first completed it, as soon as I stepped out of the appointment I started seeing flaws in Jennifer's work. While waiting for the polish to dry in the lobby of the salon, I noticed that on one of my toes, the French polish was smeared, leaving a bit of it unpainted. Soon after, the polish on my big toe began chipping in two places. The very next day after the appointment, without any help from me, and not resulting from any strenuous activity that could have hastened its demise, the polish on another one of the toes had come off completely! It has now been three days since my pedicure, and the polish on a third toe has come off. At this rate I wouldn't be surprised if in two days, the polish on my toes comes off altogether. Thus, although I enjoyed chatting with the students at the salon and very much appreciated the relaxing pedicure process itself, the whole thing ended up being a complete waste. It is now Tuesday, I got the manicure on Saturday, and for the $15 plus very generous tip for Jennifer all I got was a measly twenty four hours of completely painted pedicured toes. Oh --and did I mention-- while all three girls were working, their teacher came by to check on them. She glanced nonchalantly over their work, heard the sloppy manicurist remark that she had never learned the French manicure, and gave absolutely no guidance or criticism, only making small talk. In the future, I'll look to places that guarantee quality. I'd rather spend $50 on a pedicure that lasts than $20 on one that doesn't. Frankly, I'm quite disappointed, and strongly recommend against patronizing Aveda VICI-- at least for their nail services. read more

Here's the thing to always expect: Aveda is inconsistent in their salon services, prices, and staff services. BUT, I've had one or two students that have done an awesome job, though no matter what, they don't cover for the inconsistent services received by staff and instructors. I give it two stars for the few services that I have received and liked because they were with students who were about to graduate. There are a few shining stars who have fixed bad hair for me, or showed me how to style my hair, or offered a sample of a product before I bought it. Those people are what received this place the extra star. This is my story: I had gone to Aveda for almost four years. I love getting a fun and crazy cut or color. I don't just go for standard trims and a single color. I love layers, angles, purple, blue, red, you name it. I would hope that because I don't just get such safe hairdos, students can actually try more complex things, and I'm okay with letting them use my hair to practice. When I find a student who does a great job, I ask to book with that student every visit until they graduate. I understand that finding that student takes trial and error, and not every cut and color is perfect, which I know going into the salon. But if I find the person who understands my needs, you'd better believe I'll keep requesting them until they graduate. Now, I have had appointments with new students take 7 hours before, I've had my hair cut so short that I felt pretty naked, I've had some adventures for sure. But I'm pretty tolerant with mistakes by students. It's the instructors and the staff that I have the major problem with. Yesterday was the last time I will visit Aveda. I specifically requested the girl I had been seeing for months, only to be given someone else (without any warning). I said "But I requested this person?" "Oh, well she called in sick today, here's someone else." I asked if this new girl was still advanced like my regular stylist, and they claimed she was. I was already so frustrated, because I specifically waited weeks for my regular girl, but by then my roots were SO bad and my hair was WAY too long. So, I hesitantly gave the new girl a shot at trying to understand my styles. In the past, I've gotten crazy reds and purples, so I decided to opt out of it this time to avoid too much re-explaining. I just wanted an angled cut and a bright red color. The instructor worked with this student for over 30 minutes before my hair was even touched, going over coloring techniques and how to cut my hair. Apparently a test strand had to also be bleached to see if it would hold up against the colors I have ALWAYS gotten at Aveda, and somehow this time, my test strand failed. Even though I had been getting their same red and purple for months, it wasn't allowed to happen this time. I had to settle for a dull, demi-permanent auburn. I had no idea how I'd been able to get the bright colors put in every time until now, but I tried to move on from it. The stylist cut my hair before dyeing it to cut down on color bowls needed (since it's extra cost for bowls). It took another 30 mins to cut it, and that was just to get a general shape. The dye took a full hour, and somehow it took 3 bowls. My hair is above my shoulders now and I've NEVER needed three bowls of color, even when it was past my shoulders. How did it take this much dye? A total of 4 hours were needed for this single-color dye job and a cut (only needed about 3 inches taken off). The angled cut isn't an angle at all, in fact, it's longest on the left side. It's not longer in the front at all. The hairs by my neck are actually shorter than any other hair, so I can't pull it all back in a ponytail for work, now. I'm not even that mad about the cut, though, because I now know she's a newer student. I can forgive this and move on. It's just hair. What I am FURIOUS about: The instructor didn't check the cut at all to make sure it was symmetrical or angled. The receptionist lied to me about having a more experienced student like my regular stylist, which I clearly didn't. I was given arbitrary prices for my hair cut and color. THAT is where I drew the line, officially. The cut should have been $12, not $18, for a beginner stylist. The color should have been $40 for two bowls of dye. I was first charged $55 for all-over highlights and had to explain that I didn't even get highlights since I didn't pass the stupid strand test. That should not have been my job to explain, anyway. So then the color was $40 PLUS $15 more for the extra HALF bowl of dye I didn't even need. It was ALWAYS $5 in the past for any extra bowls, but no one told me of the new price change. So I still had to pay $55 at the end of the whole discussion. That's officially it for me with Aveda. I'm never going back. I'm sick of the inconsistency. I'm sick of being charged random prices that I didn't get told about first. I'm sick of being lied to. I'm just done. read more

This is a great place to get a bargain haircut. Haircuts are given by students of the institute in the presence of an instructor. You get a scalp massage, shampoo, cut, and dry for 12 dollars. That's cheaper than cost cutters and cost cutters won't even shampoo or dry your hair. The salon also offers complimentary bang trims between haircuts. As long as you come into this place knowing what you want and keep in mind that you are only paying 12 dollars, I think you'll leave rather satisfied. read more

A previous reviewer said it. This is a school. This is a $12 haircut. This is not going to be a cream of the crop experience, but if you have an uncomplicated hairstyle, it does the job. I have had my hair cut here probably a dozen times and only once did I have to go back and have something corrected (which they do for free). I love that they use the aveda products, including the aromatherapy head massage. For those looking to have a successful experience, some tips: - This is a slow haircut. Plan to spend an hour and a half getting it done. - Be very clear about what you want or if you want something to be different. For example, I usually get some "face framing" layers in the front and I have to ask them to blend them in each time otherwise it looks pretty choppy. But after asking them to do it it looks great. read more

I went here last week with my mother (63) and niece (16) for pedicures and waxing. They were able to fit us all in for pedicures at the same time, which was nice and I was not sure they would be able to do when I called. My student (Ellen) was the most personable/friendly of the 3, and she was excellent. She did my pedicure ($15) and brow wax ($9) and both turned out great. The waxing did take a little longer than having it done elsewhere, but was fine - I would rather her take her time and not feel rushed, and it turned out well, the best brow wax I've had in Madison *ever*. Also, I felt that the pedicure was far more sanitary than at some of the "Asian pedicure factory" salons - the foot baths were taken apart and sanitized piece-by-piece after each use. Highly recommended - if I lived closer I would go more often! read more

I had a fantastic experience at the Aveda Institute Madison. I arrived a few minutes early. After I checked in, I was offered a choice of coffee, tea or water while I waited. The facility is clean and organized. My appointment was on the weekend right before the holidays. It was busy but did not seem chaotic. Pasia was my colorist and stylist and Stacy was the instructor. Before we got started, we all talked about what I wanted to do with my hair (trim, side swept bangs and going lighter with my highlights) and how I typically style it (just brushing and blow drying). Pasia and Stacy had great suggestions - balayage and lighter colors that would work for my hair and suit my skin tone. They discussed the process and bounced ideas off each other. They were both friendly, upbeat, knowledgeable and professional. As Pasia cut and colored my hair, Stacy would periodically stop by to check on the progress. While waiting for the highlights to develop, Pasia gave me a relaxing hand massage. And when it was time to shampoo, she gave me a much needed scalp massage. She finished with a beautiful blow dry and style and suggested some products that are compatible with my hair. The instructor came back to do a final check and made just a few tiny tweaks to the cut. Just to note, I have very long and thick black hair and the appointment took about three hours. The color came out great and the cut was exactly what I wanted. I will definitely be back! read more

The prices are really the only thing to come here for, in all honesty. Yes, the building is nice and all that, but you can get a haircut of these calibers at any Cost Cutters or any other place in Madison. I'm not too fond of the service here, either. Because it's so cheap, you need to make an appointment to come in rather than just plain walk-in--which is surprising considering how many people they have in there on an average day. However, this may also be because some of the staff/students specialize in waxing or trimming or what have you--so keep that in mind. Since the staff are mostly students, they don't really bother to engage the customers--they're too busy focusing in on not making mistakes. I understand this and I'd rather have it this way. I realize hair grows back, but to some people--this might be an issue. Another thing to consider with this fact is that haircuts usually take much longer than what you might be used to, especially because they need to have the teacher/supervisor check off on what they've done. As far as my personal experience goes, I've had some mediocre hair cuts coming from this place--not once during the two times I've been here have I been asked about whether or not I liked it. Instead, they tried to shove selling their products down my throat. It's not a bad place, especially if you're strapped for cash--but I like Nogginz much better and though it's more expensive, I know I can get a great cut and service there for a few more dollars. read more

(Note: this review only deals with haircut services.) The main thing to remember at Aveda Vici is that you're being taken care of by students. That's not to say they won't be good, but you should expect them to take their time. If you want a quick, in-and-out cut, don't go here--they take longer than at other salons, because their work needs to be checked before & after by an instructor.- If you communicate what you want clearly with your student, though, and you have a little patience, you'll definitely be satisfied here. The prices are unbeatable, and I actually got a little more than I usually do at my "home" salon. Kelly B. (not sure if there are other Kellys there) was great--not super chatty, but I usually prefer to relax when I get my hair done, so that was totally fine with me. She gave me exactly the cut I wanted, plus a full blow-dry/style, which I don't normally get at my "home" salon (which is twice as expensive!). Love it. read more

I made an appointment, took off of work, drove downtown, paid to park downtown, sat and waited for a colorist, picked out a hair color and then the instructor comes over and tells me they can't color my hair because I used a semi permanent Garnier hair color box 5 months ago. Apparently it "doesn't work well with Aveda color". Are you kidding me? You couldn't have asked me about that when I made the appointment? I was so mad. So then, I called my friend who works at an Aveda salon and she has no idea what they were talking about. I called another Aveda salon in town; they have never heard of this problem the instructor was talking about either. What is with this place? If there is such an issue with box color (that apparently actual Aveda salons don't know about), they should have asked me about that when I made the appointment. This issue, coupled with the fact that everyone I encountered had an attitude will keep me from ever going back. read more

I went in for a partial foil and a trim a few weeks ago and left very dissappointed. The highlights were brassy and didn't extend the whole way down my hair. She also didn't get very close to my scalp, leaving me with roots that made it look like I had my hair done 3 weeks ago, not 3 hours ago. They also weren't spaced evenly leaving me with big blonde splotches. I paid but didn't tip when I left, but upon later inspection called back to speak to a supervisor to either get my money back or come in to get my hair re-done. I left a message but no one ever called me back. I picked Aveda because of their good reputation and was very underwhelmed by the quality. I've had my hair done at schools before (Gene Juarez Academy in Seattle) and always left satisfied. Oh well. read more

Aveda Institute Madison Salon - from Kelsey's review on 10/21/11 - Skin Care Near Me - Madison, Wisconsin

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I've been coloring, highlighting, you name it- my hair forever. Since I'm a student at UW, Vici seemed like the perfect option because it is so inexpensive. HOWEVER, as of last week I won't be going to Vici anymore... I had an appointment schedule for Saturday morning at 8am. They called me at 7:30am to cancel it. I had to reschedule for Thursday afternoon. As mentioned, I've colored my hair own & am familiar with the whole process.. Not only were they running a little behind, but they decided they need to do a test strand of my hair prior to applying new color. They said this should take about 10 minutes, but I ended up sitting there, alone, for at least a half hour... Only to find out that they "couldn't" color my hair since I had color underneath. There is little truth to this for a few reasons... 1. They applied a 40 volume bleach, that regardless is going to lift dark hair at least to a medium brown. I've done my own hair & used a 20/30 volume & I have seen legitimate results. Not to mention I was at Vici in February & they had no problem at all. 2. When they came back with the strand test there was absolutely no moisture on the hair, hence something sketchy was going on? Did they even apply bleach? 3. The instructor simply said they "couldn't" do it & offered me a deep conditioning treatment. My hair is extremely soft as it is this just seemed ridiculous. 4. I WENT TO NOGGINZ HAIR SHOP IMMEDIATELY AFTER & THEY AGREED THAT SOMETHING STRANGE WAS GOING ON AT VICI. THEY WERE ABLE TO LIFT MY ROOTS TO PURE BLONDE USING A 10 VOLUME & APPLIED AT 30 VOLUME TO MY ENDS. MY HAIR WAS LIFTED AT LEAST 3 LEVELS BY THE TIME I LEFT. In conclusion, I paid about $10 more + tip at Nogginz but the overall experience was much better. They didn't leave me sitting alone for a half hour, nor did they have some bullshit excuse to why they couldn't do it. Lifting dark hair is a process & I completely acknowledge that, but I think you should give your students the experience of lifting & toning hair. They're going to have to do it in a real salon. read more

Wow, what a lot of negative reviews. Yes, it's a bit hit-or-miss. You know why? Because it's a SCHOOL! So of course it's hit or miss. For a very little amount of money, you get a shampoo, and little scalp massage and a haircut. It's a complete bargain and the results are good. I'm a guy -- my needs are pretty basic. Usually the haircut at Vici Institute is very good, and I've never had anything bad happen. One time my stylist kind of messed up, but the instructor came by and neatened it up. If I weren't going to Vici Institute I'd go to some campus barber and get some grizzled old guy who smells of cigarettes. There would be no shampoo, and I'd get something totally utilitarian. It would be more expensive and far less pleasant. So set your expectations, and if you have specific requirements be clear and bring in a picture of what you want. Look in the mirror and take charge if you don't like what you see. read more

Note: Experience only with Hair Services I wouldn't go so far as to say this place is terrible. I think it really depends on the student and their confidence. This is, after all a school - It will take longer, even for a simple cut. I was very pleased that the supervisor comes and checks out the student's work - that was very reassuring. It's all about the finished product anyways, and every time I have been here, I have been satisfied. And for the price, you really can't beat this place. I would recommend being very specific with your cut - and if you're in a rush, don't count on this place. My only complaint is that the last time I went, I was sitting getting my hair cut and directly to the right of me were three students chatting it up (LOUDLY). It was very distracting and the supervisor even walked past and did nothing - very unprofessional and obnoxious. read more