I've been using Ellen at Studio Within for just under a year now. She is a fabulous colourist, and offers excellent advice on both color and style. I always come out looking fabulous, and continue to receive compliments on both cut and color weeks after having it done. Prices are, like any good salon, more than any sane person should pay for a haircut, but the quality, ease of location and confidence is worth it. I'm not much of a talker, so keeping up the small talk during an hour in the chair can be awkward for me, but Ellen's chatty in a pretty easy way, and will usually find us something interesting to talk about. :) If you're in the neighborhood, stop next door at Panes for a truffle, too! :D read more

I originally came in after being gifted a massage groupon, but keep coming back because i loved the service. I've seen Anthony for massage and Priscilla for facials. Everyone in the salon is very down-to-earth and easy to talk to. read more

I went to Studio Within since they were offering a great Groupon deal on massages, and I've actually been looking for a new place since Tirra turned into Indira and raised their rates. So I made an appt with Christine since she had some good Yelp reviews and looked forward to it. As another reviewer said, they do require a credit card number to make an appt. Be warned. I got there, and Rose promptly took me downstairs to the massage room. I assumed she was taking me to meet Christine, but then she started talking to me about my preferences, so I asked whether there'd been a mistake since I had booked an appt with Christine. She didn't seem flustered at all and just explained that things shift a lot. That irritated me because I'd taken the time to read the reviews and pick someone, and Studio Within didn't have the courtesy to tell me about the switch or ask if I'd want to rebook. Strike 1. But I'm a good sport, so I went with it, and Rose had a great energy and attitude - very calm. She talked to me about my preferences and any areas I wanted to focus on, and she delivered on what I asked for. She was very deliberate in her movements, and I felt like she was really feeling for knots and not just going through the motions. There weren't any moments that made my eyes roll back in my head with delight as I've had elsewhere... but it was a decent massage. I admit I was a bit distracted because she was noticeably sick and I'm a bit of a germaphobe, but I just tried my best to enjoy it. Warning: when I first laid on the table and put my face into that hole thing - I felt like I was maced with eucalyptus. There was a tissue dangling right below and I have a feeling someone had put some oil on it and stuck it there... but wow, that was awful. I tossed it as far away as possible. So... be careful. Unfortunately, the room was so tiny that I could tell she was struggling to get around the table at times. And while she put on music, I'm not sure why since there's an air compressor in the room that's as loud as an AC unit and never stopped during the whole 60 minutes I was there. Strike 2. A few other reviews had mentioned the table being really uncomfortable, but the one I was on was totally comfortable/stable and it had a heating element which is important to me since I tend to be cold all the time. Maybe they've upgraded recently? At the end, I just had to run home and shower since it felt like I'd swam in a pool full of oil. I honestly tried to wipe some off using the sheet before I got dressed, but it was difficult to get off even in the shower. I'm not a fan of whatever oil they use - it's not light at all. And I was really grossed out that the masseuse started stroking my face without washing the oil off her hands. Unfortunately, there wasn't a sink in the room so the masseuse would have had to leave and come back to do so. Strike 3. So, I probably won't go back. I've felt much more pampered elsewhere and if you're going to splurge on a massage I feel like being in a quiet room is vital. This felt more like being in someone's tiny basement than being at a 'spa'. But their rates kinda reflect that, so if you're just looking for a quick & dirty massage, this may be your cup of tea! read more

As many times as I've walked past this salon, I never had a reason to go there until my esthetician Jackie started working here. I've been going to her for all my waxing and facials for the last few years at her last salon (which was ridiculously far away from where I live) and could not be happier now that she's so close! Her facials are so relaxing and my skin always looks amazing afterward. It honestly looks like it's glowing! Haha. And while I have zero pain tolerance, I let her wax my eyebrows as well. She's very gentle and makes sure to do a fast and good job so that I don't complain too much. I'm also not a girly girl by any means, but I let her put lash extensions on me as a sort of experiment... anything to not have to put makeup on myself every morning.... and now I'm addicted. They look great and I hardly know they're on me. No one even realizes my eyelashes are fake! Anyway, Jackie is the best. After visiting the salon just a few times now just to see her, I plan on booking appointments for some of the other services the salon has to offer. read more

Today I had a facial with new esthetician Mila. She asked me all about my skin care regimen, made suggestions and proceeded to give me a luxurious and relaxing facial. While she applied two different masks to super hydrate as winter approaches, I even received a hand massage. It was just lovely and now my skin is ready for the December weather! I'll be back. Elizabeth P. read more

I was pretty disappointed with my overall experience today. I bought a Groupon for a deluxe facial, which was a 75 minute service. Once I arrived at the salon I added on a small waxing job. The technician only performed a 60 minute facial and after checking the waxing job at home, I realized there were a lot of stray hairs left. When checking out, I asked why the facial was cut short and I didn't get the full 75 minute treatment. They apologized and comped my waxing job. This was a small consolation that I appreciate. Overall - The facial was ok. The wax job was ok. I wouldn't really recommend them. read more

I recently visited Chicago for business and had some additional time before my meetings got started, so I figured...SPA DAY! This place was super Zen and everyone there had such great energy. Coffee or Tea on arrival? Yes, please. I was relaxed right from the start, and coming from NY I was afraid of what I might get in the Midwest but this gem was a very pleasant surprise. I love how the space was broken up into individual rooms...it gave things a more intimate feeling and personalized each of my services. Side note: The hand scrub in the bathroom was incredible. Location was within a stroll to shopping which was great after being pampered at the studio. All in all an amazing space, warm friendly staff and on point services. Fatty Tip: go next door there is a place called Panes that has AMAZING food, get the Super Panes and a monster cookie to complete your blissful day. Yum. read more

I worked with Kate to set up a customized mini spa day for a pre-bachelorette party. Setting it up was a breeze - she was super helpful, got back to me quickly, and gave us a fair deal on our package. I had Karen as a massage therapist - she was great. Perfect pressure, perfect amount of conversation (almost none) and just an all around great massage. I want to say my friend had a man (not Charles) and said he did a very good job as well. 4 stars Lauren did my facial and also did a really great job - she was funny, the facial was relaxing and I was glowing when I left. (We did a mini-facial, so no painful extractions.) 4 stars The only not great job was my blow out. I may not get the full "wow!" of a blow out because I have stick straight hair. I had a different Lauren do my blow out - and, maybe she was having an off day because she had a report to turn in, but I was unimpressed. She barely washed my hair - no massage, didn't wash to my roots, it was just very blah. Then the blow drying - she put in too much product and my hair looked dirty and stuck to my head at the end of it all. All while telling me that blow drying hair is what stylists hate most. And they typically charge $60 for this...definitely not worth it, not even with the deal we got. 2 stars The other girls were happy with their blow outs (and had different stylists than me). The salon was cute (a little fun/quirky, not fancy) and receptionist was friendly - chatting away with us (or, more bride to bride talk with my friend), offering us water, etc. If you want a customized spa day, I would recommend them. They were super easy to work with and we all enjoyed our day there. Will I be back...maybe. Had we not gotten a deal, their prices would be a bit high for me. read more

I've been coming here for massages for a while since getting a Groupon and then getting hooked. I have never had any other services, so I can't speak to those. Overall the admin/desk staff are very nice and patient. You might have to be put on hold when you call, but once they get to you they give you all the time you need. It can be tough if you are in a rush, but I appreciate it because it means they are helping customers in person (so when you are there in person, they will take their time answering questions, handling payment and setting up future appointments. The massage therapists here have also been very good. Many (if not all?) of them are independent contractors, and of the 4 or so I visited they've all asked questions before about preferences and areas to focus. The reason I've visited four was (1) due to my and their availability and (2) the turnover of the massage therapists. But in general they bring in good people, so if you are not too picky there is probably someone for you. Patrick left recently and is starting his own gig, so I'll probably remain a client of his as opposed to exploring even more SWSS massage therapists. Ryan (not sure last name) was also great when I stumbled in with a sore neck one day, but I am not sure if he is still with SWSS. read more

Just wanted to say this salon is pretty high quality. I've gotten two massages and one hair cut fix that another "all that" salon succeeded at completely messing up. Wasn't able to wear my hair down for about 3 weeks, until I came in SW and.... I'm so bad with names... Erin (?) fixed it all up for me in a cinch. The massage from Amy I had previously was also one of the best professional I've had. She's a tiny little girl, but proves that massage is beyond a big set of muscles to pound on you. AND, they let you tip on credit card, what's up with that with a lot of salons read more

Loved it... Got a gift certificate for a massage from my bf for Christmas... Was my first massage ever, I admit - but it was great! Easy to make an appointment and very friendly staff. My massage therapist, Justin, was great - he listened to my concerns and targeted my massage on these areas. Very relaxing atmosphere, calming warm and inviting. Would definitely go back if I werent moving out of the city in a few weeks. Overall, highly recommended, and Justin was great. read more

Loved my Deva cut haircut with Jacob! It looks and feels so light and so much more curly than before. Jacob really showed me how to care for my curls from shampoo to styling and using a defuser. I can't believe I was so clueless before! The salon is quite and peaceful. I'm going back in a few weeks for hair color. read more

I followed Lynzie Smith from Urban Lift to here new digs here at Studio Within. I would follow Lynzie anywhere. Having been through multiple stylists in Chicago, she has emerged as the champion. With Lynzie's help, I've learned how to tame my curls. She uses the Diva line and does Diva cuts--my hair has never been so healthy or so easy to style. And because of the way she cuts it, I'm also able to blow it out straight for when I want to look a little more polished. All in all--Lynzie is the woman to see if you have curly/wavy hair. She knows how to work with it. I love her new place at Studio Within. It's calm, comfortable and the staff are very friendly. Tip: the owner makes this homemade exfoliating scrub that is amazing. Make sure to wash your hands just for the joy of the scrub! read more

I came in on a groupon that my hubby gave me. I just wanted a little toddler free time and a back rub, but I got so much more! Hanna was wonderful, very easy going and made me comfy right away. She found tension I didn't even know I had. I left feeling great and will be back next month. Hanna is awesome, ask for her!! read more

Hands down the best salon in the city for waxing! Katie is amazing and calm and friendly and she does everything she can to make it a nice experience - not stressful, calm and relaxing and it doesn't hurt nearly as much as other places I've been in the past. The prices are very reasonable as well. I can actually afford to spoil myself at Studio Within.... spread the word!!!! read more

I have been to this salon twice for two different services and loved both of them! I have to say this will become my new regular hair styling salon. Kristy is awesome and so down to earth. I've had the deva curl cut twice there and loved it both times. Definitely going back for curly cuts. she convinced me I had curly not frizzy hair. Then I had my hair colored by Andrea. I loved Kristy's color and was quickly introduced to Andrea for my own fall inspired look. Her color combination was just perfect and what I wanted. She was also really great and so down to earth. Will definitely go back for touch ups and seasonal changes. Love this salon :-) with so many options in chicago, this one def stands out read more

Studio Within Salon Spa - Loved the hair color and style - Skin Care Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I used to go to Studio Within for massages but haven't been back in awhile. I visited Andrea for a corrective color for the first time today and she is a lifesaver! I had gone to another salon a couple days ago for highlights, and the highlights turned out way too light, streaky, and not right for my skin tone. Andrea calmed my nerves by telling me that it would be an easy fix, and she took the time to tell me what she would do to correct it and what colors would work best with my hair and skin tone. She added in a dark brown and used toner on some original highlights to create a perfectly blended color that I absolutely LOVE. I also appreciated her recommendations on the best shampoo/conditioner to use for my hair and her thoughts on other great hair products. I will definitely be back to see Andrea in the future! Yay! read more

Highly recommend hair services with Jacob! I went to Studio Within about 2 months ago for hair extensions with Jacob. I was impressed from the moment I walked in the door. The salon is fabulous with a professional yet laid back atmosphere. The staff was terrific, friendly, accommodating. Jacob met me for a consultation and a few weeks later I got the extensions. I have never loved my hair so much in my life. Jacob was knowledgable, helpful, attentive, experienced, patient and an all around great guy to work with, I trusted him absolutely. Plus he's got really nice tattoos. For any hair care services, extensions, coloring, Jacob does amazing things with hair. I don't know how to post pictures, before and after, but I'll do my best. If you don't see them, take my word for it, my hair is gorgeous. read more

First of all let me say that I am only reviewing Charles the massage therapist. I have never had any other services done there. My husband and I both get massages from him and love it. He is very smart and knows a lot of interesting facts about the body. He is able to explain why certain things may be bothering you and then fix it. I had some lower back pain after having my baby and it is now gone after 2 massages. He also has helped with my jaw pain. He is very easy to talk to and I feel you could ask him for whatever type of massage you would like. I prefer stronger pressure and that is exactly what I get. My husband and I both really like how he has big, strong hands. After having mostly female massage therapists in the past we both prefer this instead. The price is great and you can get $10 off if you book another appointment in advance. read more

Gina is AMAZING! She did my Deva Cut back in May and we just did Pintura highlights yesterday. She's helped me transform my hair to what I always wished it could be. I am so blown away by her knowledge of curly hair and the techniques she uses. She knows exactly how to give you the look you desire. Book with Gina!!! read more

Great local business that is amazingly supportive of the community and environmentally friendly, that's a triple threat! Check out their Instagram for some incredible Deva Cut transformation pics! read more

This was my first time getting my hair colored, so I was very nervous. I purchased a groupon for a balayage and haircut. Jade did an amazing job, she listened well to what I wanted and did exactly that. I'm seriously obsessed with my hair, I can't stop looking at myself! It was a great environment, very cute and gave me delicious tea. Will definitely be back. read more

While Studio Within is mostly known for their hair salon, my first experience there was in 2006 when I went to get a deep tissue massage, and Studio Within was a big hit with me - I LOVED it! The staff is very nice and outgoing. No stuffy or snobby attitudes here! When you walk in, you're not only greeted by the friendly staff, but the overall environment is calming with a beach style look and feel to it. Plus their prices on all their services are very reasonable too. For my massage, Kristine was my massage therapist, (I had previously heard great things about her, so I was happy to have her for my first time deep tissue massage) and she made me feel so comfortable and welcome. The spa room has a pretty and cozy environment; dimly lit with candles glowing, a super soft warm massage table, and gentle soothing music in the background. Prior to my massage, I told Kristine about my painful muscle tension, especially in my neck and shoulders, and not only did I find Kristine to be very nice, knowledgeable, and professional, but she also applied her personal massage techniques to suit my specific needs that I had discussed with her. The massage was sooo relaxing but also quite effective and helpful. What I especially liked about Kristine was how engaged and focused she was during the entire time of my massage, and how genuine she was in helping me to get rid my muscle tension. And it worked! I walked out feeling so much better! Calm, yet invigorated. Relaxed, yet centered. Gone was all the tension and pain I had walked in with, and as I left, I was SO relaxed, it was actually hard for me to get off the massage table, lol! I don't think my body had ever felt that relaxed and centered before. I was highly impressed with my entire experience with Studio Within, and I have been back since then to see Kristine, and I'm planning on seeing her again sometime soon - and I'm looking very forward to it. And they don't just offer deep tissue massage, they have other types of massages that you can find on their website to suit your personal needs. If you need a massage, definitely ask for Kristine, she works wonders on the body - and soul :) read more

One thing to mention, for Men that like to get pampered this place is excellent. Not uppity like lots of chicago salons, not dingy like the rest. The ladies are sweet and the experience is relaxing. read more

I highly recommend seeing Tonya for your skin care needs. She has the kindest disposition - always greets you with a welcoming smile and a gentle handshake. Before you know it, you will feel like you are the most important person in the world! She creates a soothing atmosphere with low lighting and relaxing music. Once you settle in, she'll give you a quick skin analysis and before you know it, the gentle cleansing and massage begins. The massage is "to die for"! Her hands are just amazing. If you are anything like me, you will fall asleep and wake up 60 minutes later when it's time to go home. My skin continues to look healthy for weeks after each appointment, and unlike facials of the past, I have never broken out under Tonya's care. So, treat yourself to this amazing experience. You deserve it! read more

They did a great job fixing a dye job I was not super happy with. Now I love my hair and I am very happy with my experience with Studio Within. Would definitely go back. read more

I received the WORST massage I've ever gotten here this morning! I bought a Groupon for a 90 minute massage and wasn't really expecting 5 star treatment, but geez! I try to get a massage every few months and I have never once had such an awful experience! The upstairs hair salon is super cute, but the downstairs is like a dungeon. The massage room was not presentable and didn't make me comfortable what so ever. The lighting was just one strong light bulb in the left corner, which hurt my eyes when I was back side up. I understand that you have to work with the building, but maybe put some effort into the rooms themselves. I can't remember the man who gave me the massage. I think his name was Alex, perhaps? Anyways, his phone went off three times during our session. You would think, he would have turned it off the first time, right? He asked if he could step out halfway through our session as well. I assumed it was because he had some emergency because of the phone messages he was receiving. However, he didn't even take his phone! He also yawned extremely loud, maybe 5 times. I guess I was boring him? The massage itself also sucked. I have a torn meniscus and I put that in my file, as well as verbally telling him. I specifically said to not touch my knees and what does he do? He went right for my knees after the back massage. I told him I wanted him to focus on my neck and he only spent about 10 minutes working it. I honestly felt like it was more of a "rub down" than an actual massage. I definitely would not recommend coming here for a massage! Save your money and go somewhere else. read more

I originally went to this salon because of a groupon for a massage. The massage was awesome and they even gave me a $25 gift certificate on my next service so when I was in need of a haircut I immediately thought of the salon again because my experience there with the staff was so wonderful the time before. I was referred to Kristy for a haircut and she did an amazing job. I went in so confused as to what I wanted to do with my hair and she took the reigns and made it look great. The following week I decided to get partial highlights and I was booked with Erin. I cannot say enough about the quality of her highlights. She did an awesome job and I left the salon feeling so good about my new do. I've received tons of compliments on it! Erin is funny, friendly and creative. I enjoyed her very much and look forward to my next appointment with her in a couple of months. AT LAST after a year of living here I have finally found a stylist I will return to. Kudos to Studio Within Salon & Spa!!! read more

All about Erin! What's worse? Losing your favorite hairstylist or saying goodbye to your hair length after realizing you just weren't ready to go "short." Luckily... since I have lopped off my locks, I have said hello to Erin. Erin is amazing, talented, and beyond funny-sweet. I was worried my hair would go through this awkward middle-length stage, but with Erin at the helm, it looks great. I had a "dusting" today and it's perfect length! Thanks, girl! read more

I give the salon 4 stars, and my massage therapist 5 stars. I went here with a Groupon, not knowing what the expect. The location was perfect for me, the decor very vintage and cute, however, the massage rooms were kind of tricky to get to, but I've been to some just as similar. My massage therapist, Thomas, was awesome! He listened to all of my problems, and took note to my previous car accidents, and where I felt the most pain. He used perfect pressure, and always made sure I was okay with it. He was very good at explaining things, and it was nice to have a massage with some stretching and deep-tissue pressure for my bad back/hips. I will be returning in the future! I will say the music was great, for the most part, but some more relaxing music without so many words would also be nice! Overall, my experience was great, Highly recommend! read more

Okay seriously AMAZING SALON. In honor of national women's day let me start by saying that the salon owner Kristy is a bad a***. You can tell she is doing something different than most from the way the salon is organized and the customer service you receive from the second you walk in the door. They have top of the line products and a really cute vintage feel. If your looking to schedule a hair or makeup service make sure to book with SHYANNE! She's a perfectionist and will give you exactly what your asking for whilst being the sweetest girl on the planet. read more

I am a regular client of LMT Shannon Wolfe, and I wanted to convey how wonderful I think she is! I was diagnosed with scoliosis about 30 yrs. ago.. And with that a chronic tightness and discomfort as a direct result. Shannon has been able to relieve my tightness and increase my flexibility and energy level and, to be honest, my quality of living! I've had many massage therapists before, and she is a very sweet soul, who listens, and who truly regards her client's well-being with great importance. I HIGHLY recommend Shannon! read more

I wish I could give more than 5 stars to Studio Within. I had my first haircut appointment with them just yesterday and they definitely exceeded my expectations. Jacob, who's Deva Curl certified, cut my hair (since I have curly hair) and he did a superb job. I told him it was my first Deva cut and he made sure to not only explain every step, but also explain all the products he used on my hair. He even demonstrated how to properly work in the conditioner when washing my hair. He did not seem to mind my million questions; instead he seemed so eager to teach me everything about the wonders of Deva Curl and curly hair in general. I can't wait to come back for my next hair cut! read more

After years of looking for a curly hair expert, I had such a wonderful experience with Kristy and will return again asap! Highly recommend that curly girls get their butts in her chair. read more

I had to update my latest visit to Studio Within as I went a while ago for both a wax and a massage. The wax was actually relaxing. There was something about the wax--made from plant extracts--that barely hurt. The girl who was doing my waxing was nice and friendly. Now the massage...all I can say is WOW. I'd have to say one of my most memorable massages was with Charles. I was a little nervous about going because I usually get female therapists but there was nothing to worry about with Charles. He was very professional and not intimidating at all. I only had a 30 min massage, but it was wonderful. Something about the way he was able to take out some of my knots with one finger was just so effective and felt amazing. Nothing but great experiences and reasonable prices every time I've been here! I started off with Groupons but will continue coming as a regular customer. read more

I first found out about Studio Within through Groupon. I purchased a massage and thought - why not, I'll check this place out. Turns out, I ended up getting a massage every month for four months after my first one! It wasn't until after I moved that I stopped going. They sell wonderful products, everyone is friendly, and the massage therapists are incredible. Treat yourself - and check out Studio WIthin! read more

Came in for a rëzo cut with Gina and had the BEST experience. I am extremely low maintenance and had no clue what I wanted and she helped me find a look I was comfortable with and executed it perfectly. She was super sweet throughout the whole process and a month later my curls are still defined and beautiful and my heavy hair feels so much lighter without having to sacrifice major length. Thank you Gina!!! read more

As a male, hair salons can sometimes be overwhelming and intimidating. In most places I've visited, there seems to be so much going at once, and all of it directed at women. I've not had this experience at Studio Within, I've felt comfortable and welcomed. I've not experienced the spa; I come more to have my hair done by Lynzie. In full disclosure, I followed her from her past salon, simply because she made me feel relaxed, clearly communicated everything she was doing (and why,) and showed such enthusiasm in her chosen career. She's constantly furthering her education, and I think any guy should jump at the chance to be styled by her. As for the salon itself, I think "rustic, but modern" would be a good descriptor. It's set up so every chair is in it's own little room, each decorated differently and fully equipped. There's this vintage charm about it, as if everything has been lovingly constructed from reclaimed materials, and given new life. All the staff I've run in to are friendly, professional, well kept, and stylish. The prices are competitive, and even if they weren't, I'd still be a customer. read more

I came here because of an affordable Groupon for a single-process color and cut. I was blown away by the service from my stylist, Jacob, and the receptionist. Not only was my hair exactly what I wanted, but the experience was great all around! read more

Great massage and hair services! Super cute decor & friendly staff! Great experience overall. Very cozy!