This is a great place but extremely poor customer service. The stylist Nelson was great but person at the front desk didn't honor any of my coupons inspite of me telling him that I checked before coming in if I could use these or not. Plus he was super rude. read more

I Went in today for my groupon and totally got denied. As the lady was putting highlights in my hair she asked me have I been here before and I said yes maybe a little less or over a year. Then she told me my Groupon wasn't accepted. She began to wash the highlights out my hair and said she can't do anything. I'm really upset. This should have been discussed prior to doing my hair and what's even more bothersome is I went on Groupon and looked at the fine print which I posted below and it says first time comers. So my bad but the fact that none of this was talked about before doing my hair is bull. I've spent 95 dollars for my hair and the fact that they wouldnt work with me and just stop is very unprofessional. When asking for a refund she said thays Groupon s problem not mine. Like wtf bitch that was unnessary. Ill never come back. ill never recommend. This is a waste of time. I will contact again to speak to the owner about this shit. You dont start putting highlights in someonez hair then proceed to wash it out because you don't want to take them. Had ive been rude to her I would have understood but I was not. Fuck this place read more

XEX Salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I have been to this salon on 4 total occasions: 1. Received bleach and color - after washing once all the color fell out. 2. Went back to have it fixed a day or two later, left moderately happy. 3. Came back after a couple of months to have the roots touched up and color refreshed and left with an unsaved bleach job and BURNS on my scalp. Weepy, painful burns. Spoke with the manager who assured me the next time they would put me with another stylist, apologized and gave me a giftcard. Note however, he kept saying I'd had an "allergic reaction" which is just simply not true. Same products were used each time. Now I know why he acted like the burns were no big deal because: 4. Returned to try and use the giftcard (which ended up I actually forgetting at home) and ended up with VERY uneven bleach, none of the color I asked for, and MORE BURNS. Painful, weepy, should have never happened because they already KNEW someone had burned me at the salon, BURNS. Do not go to this salon. They are not competent hair stylists, and the management doesn't seem to think that chemical burns on clients are something that should never happen. They basically treated it like "well that can happen" which could not be further from the truth. NEVER AGAIN. read more

Edit: changed my review to two stars because now that I'm home, Im not seeing really ANY color in the back. I feel like I might as well have just flushed my money away because now I'll either be suck with something that looks exactly the same as when I went in, or spend MORE money going somewhere else to get what I actually asked for. I went here because I found the groupon and it was right across from where I work. I saw Regina and it was okay. Regina is super nice and good at explaining things. However while my hair looks good, it's really not what I asked for at all. I asked for an balayage (showed the picture below) which was what my Groupon was for and what I got was low lights at best. If I had been paying more than $70 or whatever the groupon cost was, I would have been very upset. She also used the thinning shears on my hair and didn't ask (I would have said no). I was surprised she used them because having naturally curly hair, Ive always been told (an experienced) that thinning shears aren't a good idea. She also back combed my hair while doing the highlights. Maybe that's just her personal style, but I've never had a hair stylist do that and I never do it to myself because of how long it takes to brush out and how damaging it is. All in all I do like my hair color, it's just not what I asked for and also not what I paid for with the groupon. Maybe she didn't want to do the full balayage because I did have a groupon. She also told me that balayage is like highlights just less intense, which I don't agree with. From what I've seen balayage is like a softer ombré, not highlight. I'll have to see how my hair looks curly because she did blow dry it, but to be honest I'm a little scared in how it will turn out. read more

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I should have written this review ages ago. Eva has been my stylist for over three years...she is one word: INCREDIBLE. Eva learned from a true pro and has grown to a stellar stylist in her own right. I've followed her to two salons and she is well worth it. Long story short, Eva has managed to keep my hair healthy and happy. This is no easy fete for a mixed girl will long, thick hair. I remember when I first moved to Chicago, I would be at a salon for over three hours and listen to stylists complain about how much hard work my hair was. With Eva, I am in and out in an hour flat! She has perfected my blow-dry into a 20-minute process saving my hair from unnecessary heat and damage. She is as sweet as peach cobbler and has the kind of joyful personality that makes your day better instantly. To top it all off, I have NEVER left the salon without receiving multiple compliments about my hair, not just the first day but many days after. In fact I'm sure Eva is partially responsible for all the great dates I've been on...she'll make you and your hair feel fabulous! read more

I have had Nina as my hairstylist for a few years now and she is fantastic! I have the longest, thickest, coarse, tight curly hair. Honestly I almost feel sorry for Nina for having to deal with such difficult hair. Nina does great cuts/layers on my hair. I have had her do all over color and I've had highlights done by her on several occasions. She gives great tips on how I can improve the health of my hair which I really appreciate! She's super sweet and accommodating. Go to Nina and you will not be disappointed! read more

I've been coming to XEX for well over a year now, I have always had a wonderful experience. Everyone who works at XEX is very friendly, especially Shada, she is amazing - she went out of her way to make sure I was able to get in for an appointment. The last few times I've gotten a full highlight with Stacey, she is great! She does exactly what I've wanted and she has such attention to detail! My hair always looks amazing after she's done! I highly recommend XEX and Stacey for your hair!!! read more

Honestly, I don't get my hair cut often but when I do, I like to treat myself by going to XEX. I moved to Chicago in 2012 and do not feel any need to go elsewhere. Yesterday was my most recent haircut and I had about 11 or so inches cut off (donated to charity, of course). Kourtney was my stylist and she was AMAZING! Super friendly, made me feel very comfortable, and sooo professional! Now my hair barely skims my collarbone and looks really sleek! Frankly, a good haircut definitely gives you a boost in your confidence and has people complimenting you constantly - XEX does this perfectly! Overall, everyone was super friendly, welcoming, and it's just a great environment to be in. Thank you so much XEX and Kourtney for my awesome new haircut! I loveee it! :-) read more

I don't have any experience with the styling services at XEX. However, my husband recently bought some Aveda shampoo and conditioner there, and when he showed me the receipt my eyes just about popped out of my head. It was more than $100! When he tried to return the shampoo and conditioner, he was told that XEX would not accept them back since the bottles were not sealed (which is the way they are sold). The lack of a seal is obviously a design flaw on Aveda's part. However, the staff could have easily checked the bottles and found that they were just as full as when my husband had bought them the day before -- not an ounce less. Beyond that, they never told my husband that his purchase would not be returnable, when they sold it to him. There is also nothing about this "no return" policy on his receipt. So obviously we will not patronize this business in the future and would caution anyone else who's thinking of buying anything there. read more

Update to David's response: Yes, I was told about the toner at the start of the service - my issue is that it was not mentioned anywhere in the groupon. And since I had already paid for the groupon, I was not left with any choice but to pay the additional amount for toner. First of - the service was great! Louis did my haircut and Balayage and it was amazing I came here through a Groupon which included full balayage treatement with haircut and styling. While they honored the groupon, they charged me additional $29 for the toner - this was not mentioned anywhere in the groupon. Seems like a convenient way to get customers in and then charge additional money since they have no other option now but to pay. read more

I went a few weeks ago for a hair cut which was great, so I decided to try the salon again for a Pedicure, I called booked a XEX Spa Pedicure normally $50 but half off in june, I'm so glad I did not pay full price, and actually I'm mad that I had to pay for what I had done! My first bad impression was when, I was led to a back room and told to sit in the chair, when I inquired if the chair was massaging she got up and just handed me the remote, normally nail techs ask if you would like it on, she made no mention of it til I brought it up. Next, I put my feet in a water basin for about 2 min. before she took them out to remove my polish, do a quick buff, apply some cuticle oil and do a quick scrub to my feet only, before returning them to the basin. Then she took my feet out dried them off and applied polish, when she was done she led me to the front and I paid.... This was supposed to be a "Spa Pedicure" it was over and done w/ in about 25min, she never said one word to me, did not ask me how I wanted my nails, nothing, and NO foot massage, NO lower leg massage, NO smoothing the rough spots, NO lotion applied, and NO letting you relax a while while your polish dried, she wanted me up and out the door (well, she did tell me to remove the paper separators in about 10min). I have gone for many, many pedicures in many different places ranging from expensive salons to cheap nail places and this was the worst, basically it was only a glorified polish change. If I could give this zero stars I would, I was looking forward to a nice 60min, relaxing, "corrective and luxurious" pedicure (which is what the description states) but instead got a quick polish change from an unfriendly tech who obviously had better things to do, and I even had to apply my own lotion when I got back to my office. This was Very Disappointing, I feel bad for the people who pay $50 for this service, your better off going to one of the many cheaper nail places that are on every corner in the loop, they at least provide you w/ all the basics that a pedicure should include. read more

I bought a groupon for a $30 haircut & blow out and was very happy with the whole experience. The receptionist guy is nice and helpful, plus my hairstylist was really great about making sure she undeI'llrstood exactly what I wanted. She answered all my questions, gave good recommendations and even wrote down a type of highlighting I should try next time. XEX is located inside the Leo Burnett building right across from Starbucks and they're open Mon - Sat, so it's really convenient from work. Based on the great groupon deal and the good experience, I'd definitely go back! read more

My friend referred me to XEX as I needed a new hair stylist in the Loop. I was scheduled with Luis and he was great! He was cordial and listened to my desires. All I needed was a hair cut, but he provided a great service. Because my friend referred me and I was a first time customer, I received a nice discount and she will receive a discount on her next visit. The salon was a bit noisy, but was busy (which was a good sign to see almost all the chairs with customers in them). Overall, this was a very pleasant experience and I see myself returning in the future. The only caveat I can think of for XEX is that they don't offer waxing services. I was really hoping to get my eyebrows waxed during my visit and was very disappointed to find out they discontinued this service. This forced me to make an additional appointment at another salon that offers waxing. read more

Today I got a full highlight and cut at xex and it was a good experience. I can't think of anything particularly negative about it, but my salon at home in Dallas is fancier and cheaper. Hmm... So I'm not giving it 5 stars, but I would still highly recommend it to other people. I got highlights done by Tracy, who was nice to chat with and they turned out nice. David cut my hair and did a good job making what I ask for work. They offer you wine or beer when you arrive which was nice. Only bad part was that it was a little expensive. $150 for highlights and a cut AFTER the $40 discount for being a first time customer. I dunno if i wanna pay $190 next time.... Its also a little hard to find. When you go into the Winston and Straum building, there is a little mall tucked away in the back behind all the elevators. read more

This review is long overdue as I had my haircut here a little over two weeks ago. I saw that XEX was giving Yelpers 50% off haircuts so I decided to give them a try since it's located 5 min from my office and I have walked passed the salon many times. When I arrived I was greeted right away and was taken back within 2 minutes by my stylist Gary. I'm currently trying to grow out my hair so I was looking for a trim with some style and thick side swept bangs. I told Gary that and he took a look at my hair and seemed to know exactly what I was talking about. So far so good. During the haircut we had great conversation which is a rarity for me because I'm not much of a talker during haircuts or colors. At one point I mentioned how I wanted to color my hair but I was unsure of what to do and he called over the colorist to talk with me and give me some ideas. I thought that was really nice. 25 minutes later I had a great haircut with a great blowout. I am very pleased with my haircut and even more pleased weeks later. I have wavy hair and I'm often too lazy to blowdry in the morning and the cut Gary gave me works great with my waves as well. Probably one of the better haircuts I have had and I'm planning on going back there for my next haircut even if I have to pay full price! read more

I originally came here because a friend gave me a coupon for 50% off for first time clients. I ended up coming back because Darrah is awesome! She is so personable and we are able to chat it up the entire time. I love the way she cuts, colors and styles my hair. Plus they give you wine to drink while you ware there! I'll definitely be back :) read more

I was in desperate need of a new salon & stylist in the Loop since I'd moved to South Loop and have been working in the Loop for a while now. Being a woman, and one who takes pride in myself, I've been leary to leave Nikki at Salon Siren in Wrigleyville/Lakeview but the commute was killing me. If you live in that area - she's awesome at cuts and color - you'll love her! On to XEX...I tried them out and I'm crazy happy with my results. Dana was my stylist and I'll definitely be going back again and again. I hadn't had my hair shaped and cut in 8 weeks which is a long time for my style since I wear it in a contemporary bob cut...meaning, a lot of shaping and maitenance for the stylist. She's very personable and Michael (the receptionist) was great on the phone and in person. They took my coat, got me a glass of water when I came in and are an Aveda salon so my hair had a great scent when I walked out as well. Plus, they're open on Monday so I was able to sneak away during my lunch time and get my hair beautifully redone during the day - bonus! And to boot they gave my 15% for being a first time client. I'm a new regular at XEX and will be sticking with Dana. I was thinking of getting highlights and she actually told me to stick wth my natural color because it's so shiny and beautiful - what a great stylist - definitely not trying to push product or services. Give them a shot if you're looking for a great salon in the Loop! read more

I found this place through the first time customer discount while looking for a salon close to work/school. I like convenience. I saw Sheena, who did a great job on my poor tresses (after moving to the southside and far, far away from my high-priced salon up north, they had gone somewhat. . .neglected!!) Anyway, being a no-fuss girl who is trying to just grow my hair out, I had no interest in a salon that charges 80 bucks for a stupid trim. On the other hand, I had already suffered from my miserliness thanks to the Hair Cuttery butchers who give new meaning to the "you get what you pay for" rule of thumb. I wanted something in between. Sheena did/does a great job, never tries to talk me into getting highlights or going just a "little more blond". She doesn't try to convince me that everyone is doing bangs now, nor does she push product into my hands or attempt to coerce me to come in more often than I need to. I am so incredibly grateful to have found a stylist who listens to what I want and can deliver a great look without all the unnecessary upsell you get at other salons. Everyone else at the salon is incredibly friendly--price, location, quality and friendly staff. I couldn't ask for more. So glad I found XEX!! read more

I love this salon... From the moment i walked in i was made to feel extremely cared about in every way possible... I am ridiculously particular with salons that i choose because my hair can be a bit rough to deal with if you're not used to "ethnic" hair. :) I was in great hands with T.J. he was not the least bit intimidated with my tight curls when i explained i needed a cut and blowout... He made this Puerto Rican feel like Farrah Fawcett herself... that is a HUGE.... read more

This hair salon is awesome! I was able to get an appointment right away and every one there is super friendly. I got my hair done by Kourtney, she was amazing! If you are a blonde that needs highlights, definitely go to her! I have been getting my hair cut and colored by the same person for 10 years and she did by far the best blonde color job I have ever gotten! She cleaned up my ends and made my hair soft, healthy and radiant. And she did it all fast! (didn't have to spend the day in the salon) They are located in a great location right in the Renaissance hotel at State and Lake. I will definitely be back to get my hair done by Kourtney next time! read more

XEX is a great place to get your hair cut! Im a curly- haired, volume to the max, finest texture since whipped cream and length past my bra buckle kind of gal, so finding a good hairdresser is next to impossible! I have never had a hair cut that I was satisfied with until I met Gary at XEX. He is Italian and his mother was a hairdresser, I believe, so he has been around curly-haired people A LOT. He spends a good amount of time cutting my locks and making happy conversation. And at the end of my appointment, I walk out feeling fabulous! A few months ago, he even convinced me to get bangs (which I havent had since I was 7)... Put your trust in Gary and you can't go wrong! I am a true believer in developing a relationship with your hair stylist to ultimately get the best results. I will keep going back and I am sure I will soon amend this review to give it a solid 5 stars! read more

Regina is an angel! I needed a last minute cut because I was going out of town for a wedding. Not only was the male front desk worker super nice and responsive, but they were able to get me in with like 3-4 hours notice. Regina was able to give me a 2 inch trim, clean up my layers, and do a beautiful blow out ON MY LUNCH BREAK. (My hair is pretty long/thick too) She also gave me specific shampoo/conditioner recommendations for my scalp issues which I tried and it worked! She is my new go-to stylist after being with another one for over 4+ years. read more

I just came back with a very awesome hair cut by Barbara. I LOVE my new cut. She did a fabulous job. The staff is very friendly and helpful. I have nothing but good things to say about XEX . The salon is very unique. It is inside an art gallery and the salon uses Aveda products. Very convenient location in the loop. I am definitely booking my next appointment here. Very reasonable prices, discount for first time clients and you get a discount card, once it is marked 5 times you get a free cut. How cool is that. read more

Mark did my hair today and he was too good . Took care of my colour and hair without a hassle:) read more

I recently went to this salon for my brother's wedding. The bride, bridesmaids, mothers all got their hair and makeup done here. There were several staff assisting our group and everyone was very professional and did a great job. I have short hair so there's not much you can do to it, but John made it sleeker and fancier than normal so I was pleased. The woman who did my makeup did an awesome job as well and it last all day and through the night. The salon also offers airbrush makeup that the bride had done and it looked great as well. I did not pay for my services, but I took a look at the price list on the website and it's pretty reasonable and worth the money in my opinion. Best part of the salon was that they offered us coffee, tea, water, wine when we got there - 10am is definitely wine time! There is a Yelp check in offer for 30% of hair color and cut (I think, I deleted it since I don't live in Chicago and would never use it). read more

I had a great cut and I will be back in the future. They have a convenient downtown location, the place is clean & bright, and the employees seem to really know their stuff. Everyone there seemed happy. I love that they are an Aveda salon, because I know Aveda has standards for stylists & products (unlike a non-affiliated salon which could have no educational requirements for stylists). read more

Quick accommodation - I set up an appointment the night prior and they got me in the following morning with a wonderful hair stylist. Loved my hair cut! Will return. read more

Chris kept groping me, and rubbing his junk on my shoulders whenever he got the chance. Not kid friendly, I had my 6 year old daughter with me, and he kept asking if she had a father; if not he could be her dad and my daddy. So sick! read more

My second visit to XEX was on the third week of June. I decided to add some color, as recommended by Barbara. Tracy, was my Colorist and she is FANTASTIC!! I'm getting compliments almost everyday on the new look! Thank you, ladies! read more

Booked a last minute appointment and Ashley M. saved me from looking like a trash bag with legs in front of all my coworkers. She is awesome!!! read more

As an update to my last review, I was contacted by Charles not long after the review was posted and he offered to give me a partial refund since the pricing wasn't clearly explained to me. I really appreciated this. Charles is always a pleasure to work with, and it is super easy booking appointments through him. I've been getting my haircut by Kara and am always happy with the results! The customer service at XEX is outstanding, and everyone is so friendly. I feel like they really listen to your needs and offer really useful suggestions. read more

Came here with a Groupon first. There was a misunderstanding on what I wanted and what I got (I was so worried about losing length, I understated the amount I wanted off. Not the stylist's fault). I realized it the next day, because my hair didn't feel healthy like it usually does after a good cut. I called and made an appointment to see Luis (sp?) within a day. That time, I articulated what I wanted better (get rid of the dead ends!) and I got exactly that. He is awesome, and so is XEX. The only thing is that they're pricey for a student like me unless you have a discount/deal. read more

In Chicago for work, badly in need of a cut and color. Haven't had a cut and color since last August. Ugh. Happened on XEX, wanted something close to downtown. Luis was great! I now have what I'd consider the best root touch up for greys, and the perfect...perfect highlights that I asked for. Subtle and perfectly evenly blending in with my natural color. He listened carefully to my specifics on the cut. It's just the Spring pick-me-up I needed. Walked in with ragged drab and walked out with a healthy shine and cut. Thank you Luis! The only reason I rated this 4 rather than 5 is the price. Certainly a bit more than where I'm from, but love the results. I must add a comment about the cleanliness of the place. It felt clean and staff wiped down sinks and seats after each customer. Everyone was masked up. I felt very safe there. Thanks all! read more

Once I found the place in the 'basement' of a business-ey looking building, it was smooth sailing from there on. My stylist Darah was very friendly, knowledgeable, and gave me exactly the hair color I described! The plus about this salons is all the Murano glass on display/for sale, which really makes for a visually appealing experience. read more

I walked in to the salon with orange hair after a horrible highlight situation and after I tried to fix it myself! Luis saved my hair! He color corrected the orange added balayage, conditioned and styled it beautifully I wish I could give more than 5 stars!! He's a true artist read more

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I went to XEX on my lunch break - I wanted a place that was nearby, quick, quality, and not outrageously expensive (which can be hard to find downtown) - and this place was perfect, given the first time deal, my cut was only $29 with Gary, who I believe is the owner? he did a FANTASTIC job! I am very very very happy with the cut, and he was quick, in a good way, too. This place is in the Leo Burnett building, so it's not a humungo studio but its really nice ...I guess part gallery too as they have lots of bright colorful artwork throughout :) Note that they only take cash tip, I didn't know this and so had to run a few blocks down the street to my bank. read more

I've been having a lot of trouble finding an inclusive salon in the downtown Chicago area.... that is until I stumbled on XEX. I got a balayage from Kristina and let's just say, I will be looking no further for another salon. She is such a sweet soul and is AMAZING. I honestly didn't have a perfect idea of what I wanted my hair to look like, and she set me up with exactly what I wanted. THANK YOU!! read more

Great experience with Luis. I have thick hair and I told him i wanted a shorter hairstyle and he made the layers blend seamlessly and my hair feel so much lighter. He did balayage too and spoke with me in detail about the color i wanted. Great hairstylist- looking forward to going back! read more

I have gone to Victoria for my color, which includes all over, balayage and occasional touch-ups, for years. She was a referral to me and several women in my former office are also loyal customers. She is the best - so easy to communicate with, she willingly offers ideas and suggestions and she is just a genuinely nice and professional stylist. Very low drama and positive results. I also think XEX is a good value in Chicago and I can always get in for appointments without long waits. read more

I booked a cut and color here while I was in Chicago on business. I worked with Keith who was wonderful. He took time, got to know me and what I wanted and translated that into a great cut and style. I'll come back any time I'm in Chicago and highly recommend. Cost was extremely reasonable and everyone was very friendly. read more