Love love love all of the hair stylist they all know hair to cut color and style hair they are so underated!!!

LOVE this place. I normally see Christian however ive also been helped by Monique and Clinten. Everyone here is very talented AND efficient. Fastest color appointments I've ever experienced in the best way possible. I've always been consistent and loyal to my stylist/colorist however it's really nice knowing in a pinch when I need an appointment I'd be happy with whoever is available. read more

My stylist in Oak Park told me that there was "nothing" she could do to help me go grey quickly, because she tried demi color and it did not color my white roots. I knew I would love my natural color, but the thought of spending more than two years growing it out was unbearable. Chicago is a big city, and I knew I could find a master colorist up to the task. I was right! I grew out my roots to about four inches, using a Everpro Gray Away crayon to take the edge off my white at my part. Having a good view of my natural color pattern, Christian bleached the old color out of my hair and gave me a beautiful grey, that blends well with my (mostly) salt and pepper roots. Don't let your old stylist keep you in the color trap, if you want to go grey. While Christian is certainly an expert with color, he can also get you your goal of freedom FROM color fast! read more

The owner, Christian, did a terrific job with my cut and color. He listened very well to what I wanted and is clearly an experienced, artistic, colorist and stylist. He's also a very nice person. Yay! I found my new salon! Color Lab Chicago is a clean, happy place with the latest in equipment. They sell interesting hair products. The prices seemed in line to me. I highly recommend them. read more

Before the COVID shutdown, I had a very bad experience getting my hair dyed grey... and right when I could get it fixed, everything shut down. So, I spent a good amount of time with my hair being half grey and half my natural color. So, by recommendations of a friend, I called Color Lab and was like "I need a miracle worker" and explained what I had to work with, and what I wanted done. I showed up for my appointment with Christian (mind you, everyone else at the salon was great. Looking over, the other clients who were getting their hair done left with great looking hair too), who asked what we were gunna do for the day, and then explained I wanted to get my hair dyed grey the right way- and he wanted a picture of what I had in mind. Turned out so good, I scheduled a follow up for four weeks out. Welp, I left with one of my favorite hair cut and colors ever. Color lab, ya got yourself a new regular. read more

Color Lab salon - Grey - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I came to Color Lab by the recommendation of a friend. I had wanted to find a salon closer to home and Color Lab fit the bill. I made two separate appointments - one for a haircut and one for a white out. Every time I went in I was helped within 5 minutes. The inside of the salon is intimate, which I appreciated. There is never more than a couple of other people getting something done at once. I scheduled both my cut and color with Clinten. Clinten was so professional and really listened to what I wanted. My haircut only ended up lasting ~30 minutes, but not because he rushed it. He'd cut me and let me fluff and play with my hair to make sure it was exactly as I wanted. I had a few critiques, which he adjusted right away and I left the salon a very happy customer. For my color, he blocked out the rest of the evening and really took his time to make sure I was happy. He recommended Olaplex? (helped keep my hair healthy with the harsh bleaching), which I gladly added on. It ended up taking over 3 hours, but looks great! I was wanting something that was blended since I'm not consistent with dying my hair and I didn't want a harsh line when it grew out. Clinten really delivered! Bonus: He's really fun to talk to :) After my dye and cut, my hair looked so much healthier. I've been getting lots of compliments on it! Cost wise I also found them to be reasonable. I would recommend this salon to anyone who is looking for a good color and cut :) read more

Very clean, sanitary, and spaced out. Followed the social distancing regulations as expected! Masks are mandatory for entry and during services. This was my first time coming to Color Lab salon under the recommendation of my friend, and I was blown away by the kindness, welcoming nature, and professional service that was provided by the associates. My stylist was Clinten and he was completely professional and creative. I described how I want my hair to look and he made it exactly the way I want it! His work exceeded my expectations and he was conversational, relatable, and extremely caring with my hair. My hair feels great and looks beautiful! I needed self-care and I am extremely grateful for this service. read more

Color Lab salon - Clinten's work - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I've been getting my hair done here for 2 years and wouldn't go anywhere else. The salon is so nice in terms of both cleanliness and decor. Everyone who works there is not only extremely talented but also so inviting and fun. Christian, Monique and Clinton are all amazing people and hairstylists. I think even if they weren't I'd still want to hang out there but LOOK AT MY HAIR. They are the best in the city :) I got a bleach retouch, tone and haircut read more

Color Lab salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Went to finally get my highlights having one solid color for years! Was a little worried due to gray under the color but Christian listened to what I wanted and worked his magic. I will be returning when due for re-touch. Very happy with results. Salon is in excellent condition in atmosphere and cleanliness. read more

Samantha did a total hair transformation for me, going from damaged bleached hair to a gorgeous burgundy crimson color. She was SO understanding when I showed up a bit late, and we had such an amazing conversation for the couple hours I was there. She was incredibly kind, not to mention how talented she is. I've been getting so many compliments on my hair and I feel so confident and beautiful. I've been to a lot of other nearby salons and this was the first time I've felt completely comfortable and cared for, rather than just another potential profit. Speaking of, Colorlab could easily charge 4X what they currently charge -- I never would have thought that I could get a really fantastic all-over color job for less than $100. I'm definitely a client for life now. read more

If you're reading this review, you're either trying to look up Carey or what makes Color Lab different from other salons. I can help you with both. Color Lab appealed to me in two ways: they're all about hair color and they advertise that their services take less time than other salons. I have bleached blonde hair that I am really tired of coloring. It can take 4 hours to touch up my hair. If I can get amazing results in less time, sign me UP. Color Lab has convenient evening hours for those who are 9-5. I booked my appointment online with Carey. I couldn't find much information on him, which makes sense because he is a recent Chicago transplant. He's really fantastic. He suggested shadow roots that make my roots look more natural with the blonde. I went with it and now my hair is gorgeously awesome. Carey did an amazing job! The entire process only took about 2 hours. Thank GOD because I didn't bring anything with me to eat. The cost? More than Hair Cuttery and less than an LA celebrity hair salon. In all seriousness, I didn't have to sell my kidney on the black market. That's a plus in my book. Their services are not cheap but they're not outlandishly expensive. Yes, I am coming back. I will be back! Note: You might see a small critter roaming about the salon. :) read more

Anytime anyone asks me for recommendations about where to get hair cut/colored I immediately point them to colorLab. I have a LOT of hair that changes texture, how wavy it is, etc depending on the weather, hormones, seemingly the direction of the wind that day, but Monique is my savior. I've been going to her for a while and at this point I just sit down, she asks a few quick questions and she's off to work her magic. I've pointed my friends/family to her, all with totally different hair and wants and she always knocks it out of that park. I've also seen her do consultations on other peoples hair, and she is so professional, makes sure the clients vision and hers match up, and that its doable and realistic based on the persons maintenance style, hair type, look they're going for, etc. She would rather make sure it's a fit all around and that she'll crush it, versus letting you get in over your head. I'm also typically not one of those people who likes to chat through my 2-3+ hour hair appointments, but Monique is truly so hilarious, real and can talk to a wall so you end up leaving your appointment feeling like you just hung out with one of your girl friends, plus you look bomb. Clinten is hilarious too, so its always a bonus when both are working, plus now I make my boyfriend get his hair cut by Clinten. Two birds, one stone. As a final note, I found colorLab when I lived in Lakeview, but 1.5 years ago moved to Logan/Bucktown and I still make the journey to Boystown because it's that worth it to go to Monique, though I'd really trust anyone there with my hair. Just book your appointment, you wont regret it! read more

I've always wanted to have ash blonde hair but every salon Id go to would say my hair was weak or that the best they could do was a level 6 or go with golden/warm tones which was ok but not what I wanted. Ive had Color Lab on my radar for some time now and on impulse I decided to take the plunge. Luckily, I was able to secure a last minute appointment for my dream hair overhaul. The salon is bright and clean, simple and unassuming. I was greeted by Christopher and their lovely yorkie Georgie. I was seated and I met Curtis. We talked about what I had planned in mind and showed some pictures and wanted his honest opinion if it was a color that would look great on me. I also discussed the other concerns previous salons Ive been to brought up and he reassured me could make magic happen. What I appreciate is that as early as the appointment stage, they are transparent with pricing. Then during the actual appointment, we went through the process one more time and I likewise did my own research and understood I would see some breakage since we were bleaching my hair completely. I love that open, honest communication. Around 4.5hrs later my dreams of having ash blonde hair came true!!! It was gorgeous and well worth the time and money. I honestly believe that for the level of work they do, they charge a fair price. On top of that, they offer to mix toner for you to take home if you need a refresh or have it done at the salon. They don't force blowouts/styling into their prices and offer it as an option for returning customers. All these options or customizations make their pricing truly reasonable. I highly recommend Color Lab and I am honestly planning to bring my mom for her own hair makeover. Ps. I also appreciate how they offer refreshments and do not forcefully upsell hair products like most places do. read more

Color Lab salon - No filter, promise. My ash blonde hair 5 days after, washed and styled by me. - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This photo does not do justice to the amazing work Samantha did. I came in with a vague, unique concept of the colors of an oil streak with an iridescent effect and she went above and beyond to create a beautiful design. Sam and the staff in general were all super friendly and this experience was a dream. read more

Color Lab salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I loved my balayage experience here with Curtis. The salon was neat and modern, the pup was cute. Anyone know where he went?!!!! Please PM me if you know. read more

Came here during phase 3 for what was now my final cut and color. The law requires everyone to wear masks in places of businesses, and while I was masked, a stylist let his guest go unmasked and eat his lunch in the chair next to me. When I asked my stylist why this was happening, I was reassured that it wasn't a big deal. The decision to give my business to someone more responsible was made in that moment. Byeee! read more

I have nothing to say but incredible things about this place. I got my hair done last night and have already received at least 5 compliments on how good my hair looks this morning from my coworkers!! Christian saved my hair. I came in because I had a bad experience at a different salon and needed an emergency fix. Not only did he correct the brassy streaky color, but he perfectly blended the color and drastically improved my hair's overall appearance. It's not easy for me to give someone 5 stars on my hair--i'm extremely picky about what I like. The fact that random people are replying to my insta story telling me my hair looks amazing speaks for itself. I've already recommended this place to two friends. I will definitely be back. read more

The Color Lab is owned by a very talented artist, Christian Smoker. I followed Christian to his new salon and from customer service, the process of transforming your hair, to the fierce and fabulous finish - Christian delivers, executes, and practices excellence and precision constantly. He is talented with ALL hair types, but I highly recommend him for Asian or ethnic hair of any sort. As I am of Asian decent, I have been spoiled with talented Japanese stylists both in and outside of the USA who not only have but who work with a majority of clientele with Asian hair texture. Christian not only exceeded my expectations but complimented all my past stylists work and even gave a fresh new twist while keeping my hair easy to manage daily and healthily. This salon has a great unique look of a salon and laboratory hybrid - which is perfect, because it's where genius meets creativity. Bravo, Christian and Color Lab Staff. read more

Color Lab salon - Hair excellence by Christian Smoker. - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

I did a lot of reflection before deciding to leave this review--I'm not one of those people who has one bad experience and rushes to leave a negative review. Let's start with the positives: everyone at this salon is friendly (aside from some slightly unprofessional coworker vs. coworker gossip). The salon was always very clean and organized when I visited. Though Curtis' fantasy color didn't blow me away, he did an extremely good job with my haircut the one time I had an appointment with him. However, this salon currently has a perfect 5-star rating on Yelp and after five visits it became pretty apparent that it's not a 5-star salon. It's actually a bit strange that this salon has so many 5-star reviews. I had Marissa for four out of five of my color appointments. In the second appointment she bleached my whole head when I clearly stated that I only wanted the top bleached. She was very gracious about the mistake and reversed it for free, but the reversal ended up being off from my natural color, which was a bit disappointing. I know some people who would leave a one-star review after something like this, but I figured I'd give Color Lab another chance and avoid a search for a new colorist. The end color results from sessions three and four were good, but they faded within 2-3 days (while using expensive color-safe shampoo/conditioner). I assumed this was normal for fantasy color, but the fantasy color from my current salon lasts two weeks or more. I noticed that Marissa was leaving the color in my hair for half of Pulp Riot's recommended time, which may have contributed to this. The last straw for me was an awful, uneven cut I got from Marissa on my fifth visit. I'm not sure if she was having an off day or was in a rush, but my sides were so uneven that a couple of my friends made comments about my hair. I wish I could say the color from this session redeemed Color Lab, but I asked for a blend from pink to purple and ended up with a block of pink next to a block of purple. Luckily the color faded as quickly as the previous sessions, so I only had to wear a hat for a couple of days. Maybe Marissa is amazing at doing natural color, but a salon that supposedly specializes in color should be able to do good fantasy color that lasts more than three days. I would have been able to tolerate the mediocre haircuts if the color was above average, but it became clear that it isn't. I didn't have any experiences with Christian or other stylists, so they might be great, but I guess I'll never know. read more

They called 50mins before the appointment (scheduled 4 days in advance) to tell me they could still cut my hair but don't have time to blow dry it because they are running behind. Why would it be ok to do half service? Are haircuts less important than color appointments? They suck! read more

I have always hated my hair. Always. The color was never quite right, the cut was never quite right. It was a source of constant stress. Until I came to ColorLab. The past 8 months have brought me to a place where I LOVE my hair. The color, the length, the cut, the texture. And it's all thanks to Christian and his team. Christian is incredibly knowledgeable and skilled. You'll be blown away by how quickly and beautifully he can accomplish a full balayage. I can't recommend them enough read more

Marissa has transformed my dry damaged hair to the old silky locks I used to have. It was so damaged from someone frying my hair while attempting "balayage". Marissa is always honest and always makes the best recommendations for my hair while also being conscious of my budget. My hair is strong, long, and healthy again. I've referred several of my friends to her and they love her too. Thank you, Marissa!!!!! Be sure to follow her on Instagram: @chicagohairpainting read more

The salon is very nice inside, it's sanitary and welcoming. The employees here are not stuck up, and respect their clients. Thanks to Monique who gave me the "anime girl" pink hair color with blonde undertones I wanted. Thank you again for the hard work Monique!! read more

Color Lab salon - Monique's Work - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

This is absolutely my new favorite place. Jada is an absolute boss and so much fun. I'm so glad I found this place, definitely my new spot. Plus George is the cutest most well behaved dog I've ever seen. :) Everyone needs to come get their hair colored here. I would give them more than 5 stars if I could!! read more

Color Lab salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Root 2 Tip Color $60, and Growth factor was an additional $24.50. EQUIPMENT: Legitimate. On par with salons back in Singapore. TIME: About 3 hours for 2 colors. I'm used to hair appointments taking much longer, so this was awesome! Christian does his best to work with your time schedule though, so if you need flexibility, he's got it. COLOR: I have typical Asian hair that was previously dyed copper and brown. Christian bleached it once, just the part that was going to be pink, and then applied the pink dye. It has been exactly one week (3 washes) and my hair is slowly lightening to the pastel pink I wanted. SERVICE/TREATMENT: Hair treatment and products are tailored according to your hair (and the state of it). Christian was able to tell WHY my Redken Diamond Oil wasn't working on my hair, and how my hair needed more protein, it lacked the structure to absorb the nutrients etc. Christian also vets all his products and chemical dyes; he won't use illegal chemicals on your hair. I read online that many stylists overlook bleach poisoning, even though they work in a salon, but not Christian. He watched the time and checked regularly, even though he was working on a second customer. I really appreciated that. When I complained about some fumes, he immediately adjusted the shower cap for better ventilation and maximum comfort. For me, a stylist who is gentle with my hair is also very important. I hate stylists who are really careless with how they touch my hair, and pay more to stylists who care. It's rare to find stylists who are as gentle as Japanese stylists, but Christian is definitely someone I trust. STYLIST: As a very indecisive customer, I was thankful that Christian was okay with it and worked with my color combinations patiently. He's very friendly and sincere, and even funny sometimes. Please give Color Lab a try, it will be worth it :) read more

Color Lab salon - Before/After Root 2 Tip color, $60+ - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I have been a client at Color Lab for quite some time now and let me preface this by saying that by coming to this salon, you will 100% be working with the best of the best. Each of the stylists has unbelievable talent but my personal experiences with both Monique and Clinten have been nothing less than perfection. They take extensive amounts of time with each client in order to ensure that the client is getting EXACTLY what they want, meanwhile making the experience enjoyable and finishing each appointment in a timely manner (without rushing of course). Clinten and Monique hold their talent and artistry to the highest of standards which does not go unnoticed within their work. I have done everything from a simple haircut to full process, balayage, as well as full highlights, and have never stepped out of the salon without having enjoyed my experience and being ecstatic with the results of my hair. Just for reference, I have an ungodly amount of hair that is dryer and very, very curly . . . let me say that dealing with this can be a hefty task. At this point it's easy for me to say that Clinten in particular has been my hair savior and within a few short minutes of arriving at the salon every time, he is able to visualize and execute a color/style that matches his vision in a realistic, non-damaging, flattering way. He offers up suggestions based on his client's hair type, texture, style, etc. and also takes the time to give recommendations relating to products and after care. He is able to hold conversations through a 3-4 hour appointment that leave you feeling not only like you've been taken care of to the highest degree, but that you've made a friend at the salon. I have nothing but incredible things to say about this salon and since starting to come to Color Lab, I have never received so many compliments about my hair from friends, family, and strangers. I will continue driving all the way from Wisconsin time and time again in order to get my hair done by Clinten, and rather, any of the staff at Color Lab. They absolutely kill it! read more

Clinten is the absolute best thing in my life. Such a great colorist and so willing to listen to what you want and give you his honest opinion and best recommendation based on your specific hair. I always do blonde and he knocks it out of the park by all of my friends that I have sent to him for different things always love him as well. I went pink this time and have never been more obsessed, he's an absolute angel. read more

Color Lab salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

See all

I called Color Lab after my red hair was ruined at another salon. They were able to see me quickly and did AMAZING work. I walked in with maroon roots and brassy ends and left with glowing red blonde that I love! Christian and his staff make sure you get what you are truly looking for in your hair color. I'll be back for a haircut! read more

I cannot say enough good things!! I came in needing a major blonde refresh, but wasn't sure exactly what I needed. Clinten helped me figure that out and got right to work. We had great conversation and he really took the time to do the work well. When all was said and done, my blonde was EXACTLY what I had wanted for years. I really appreciated the time to explain what products he was using and why. I cannot wait to go back and have Clinten work his magic again !! read more

Christian gave me the best, most subtle/soft balayage I've ever received! I was worried it would be streaky because my hair was darker than it ever had been but he reassured me he'd make it natural. He DELIVERED! The result was EXACTLY what I wanted, super natural--looks like I've been spending lots of time in the sun. There are no streaks and it's absolutely stunning. The perfect lightening for summer! I got a haircut later that week and the hair dresser actually ASKED me if I colored my hair. She said she couldn't tell cuz it looked so natural...need I say more?!? read more

Loved, loved, loved my experience at Color Lab. I told Christian about my negative experiences with blonde highlights in the past that had always gone too golden, or were applied too chunky, etc. He completely understood what I wanted and knocked the color out of the park! I haven't, in recent memory, gone to a salon and knew immediately (before blow drying) that the color would be spot-on. And it was pretty awesome to have no fear that it wouldn't be the right color after he blew it dry and we'd have to start over. Christian completely eased all of those fears! Not only that, but he was genuinely kind, interesting, and engaging. The price for a partial highlight (foils) was $109 pre-tip. Bonus: Georgie, Christian's small pup, is at the salon as well...she was friendly and always wanted someone to hold her...so cute. read more

My man Clinton gave me an awesome haircut and coloring the other day. He filled up my cup of tea as soon as it went dry. He is super chill and easy to talk to. He knows his stuff! Get him when you book your appointment! read more

I cannot say enough good things about colorlab. I have been struggling to find someone that could give me the icey blonde hair I have been searching for and let me just say the search is over! Christian gave me exactly what I wanted. He is clearly a very talented colorist. And to boot, he is super nice! read more

First time new client. Marissa was wonderful and worked her magic. Extremely friendly environment and very good at what they do. I am glad I found this place and booked my next appointment before I left. read more

Color Lab salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Warm welcome. Lots of laughs and most importantly, my hair looked amazing and was exactly what I was going for! The pups were an added smile factor! read more

Color Lab salon - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

My hair was done absolutely lovely. There's no doubt that they know what they're doing with color here. However, I was surprised to see how many reviews talked about how nice and great Christian was. He seemed kind of stuck up to me. He barely talked to me, which was fine because I'm always awkward talking to hair stylists anyway. We ended up doing a completely different color than what I came in for and although I do like it, I was very unsure when I was in the chair about the color. It was only after I said that that he became a lot nicer to me... Honestly, I would go back because when it comes down to it they do know how to color, but I'd be curious to see what another stylist is like maybe. read more

Pros: This place is intimate, clean, modern, and very chic. I came in for my appointment and was attended to almost immediately. Christian is definitely a professional; he knew exactly what to do with my color to make sure that it fit me and I walked away very happy with it. I got a very extreme color change and my hair feels very healthy for it to be so soon after the processing. Cons: I got the feeling that no one in the salon was very familiar with my texture and wasn't sure what to do with it; while all the customers around me were getting product recommendations and tips I wasn't getting much of anything. I also specifically asked if the bleach would change my hair texture and Christian answered that it would only be drier, but right after the bleaching I had curls so much looser than my original texture that I ended up having to cut them off because they were hanging everywhere. I wouldn't be mentioning this except that I came in almost two weeks before for a consultation just so that if there was some unfamiliarity that it would be addressed in that time, but it really doesn't seem like it was. In the end I ended up styling my own hair before I left, and choosing my own conditioner to maintain my color with no suggestions or help from anyone there. Disappointing, because other than for my hair he seems to know a lot about upkeep and styling. So basically if you have very curly to kinky hair and you do not want it straightened, be prepared to do your own styling before you leave and your own research for upkeep. A little annoying. read more

Color Lab salon - Color and style after I got home and was able to utilize my own products and tools. - Hair Salons Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Amazing experience! My grays were popping through and my summer color needed refreshing. I love the idea of a service specific salon- they've got to be great at what they do, right?-so I booked an appointment with Color Lab through Whittl (https://www.whittl.com/listing/color-lab-chicago-il). Christian, the owner, is a super nice guy with an infectious laugh who makes you feel instantly at ease. The complimentary champagne certainly helped too! We discussed color and he quickly and expertly went to work. A quick fifteen minutes under the dryer and I was ready to rinse. I must mention that the shampoo chairs are the most comfortable ever! It's unreal. Christian and his associate blew out my hair and I walked out of the salon about an hour after I walked in. Seriously. I got my hair colored and was done one hour and ten minutes later. And, since I booked on Whittl, my card was charged without even having to reach for my wallet. Wonderful experience. I'll be back at Color Lab once the pesky greys start rearing their ugly heads. read more

Monique is the ONLY person I trust now to do my hair!! She is one of the kindest, sweetest people I've met, and is one of the first hair professionals that genuinely listens to exactly what I want and really does a lot to ensure I am happy with the results. She is hands down the best hair stylist I have ever met. Could not recommend her and the whole salon enough. read more

This will be a two-fold review. First, color lab is the newest secret treasure of the north side. If you want a color job and a personal setting: you've got it. It's intimate and the owner, Christian, is involved with every client and stylist. The only reason I found this gem is because I follow my stylist, zackery, anywhere he goes. He's cut and colored my hair for the past two years and I will never trust anyone else again. I've gone to him knowing exactly what I wanted and he stuck to my guidelines particularly. I've also gone to him not knowing what I wanted, just a change, and he's never steered me wrong. He adds his opinion and everytime it's a great success. Great thing about zackery at color lab is, because he's fresh meat over there, his availability is pretty open. I almost don't want to spread the word because I don't want anyone to have as great of hair as I do. But I guess I'll let the world know that he is, by far, my go to man for hair care. Check out color lab. You will not be disappointed. read more