really 2.5 stars... such a funky yet cozy space - i could see myself reading a book with a cup of tea here. my massage left me wanting more...which in this case was not a good thing. it started late and it ended a few minutes early too. they have a fancy ipad for you to sign in but they hand it to you and then vanish only to return 7 minutes into your appt while a line has formed (albeit short but still cutting into my time). the massage itself was not relaxing nor did i find any relief at any point which i've never experienced before. i needed to book a massage at my chiropractor that same week. i normally have bodywork done at my chiro but a voucher tempted me to treat myself to a spa experience which i do every so often. there wasn't much of the spa aspect to it at all. maybe i'll return for a facial, based on reviews... read more

Okay, stop me if you've heard this one before: I found Jacob after the worst haircut of my life. I was super nervous the first time I went in and Jacob put me at ease with his thoughtful questions to ensure he gave me a haircut on my 2c/3a hair that worked for my life. Even though I had been wearing my hair curly for years and thought I had "it" down, Jacob taught me a number of tweaks to my routine to help me maximize my results. I was so happy with the results that booked my second cut (AND color) before walking out of the salon and have been a thrilled client for the past three years. Jacob's work is amazing and I have enthusiastically recommended him to anyone who asks, including my straight-haired cousin. The salon is very thoughtful about COVID precautions and it is one of the few locations I have felt truly safe. Book your appointment today, you won't regret it! read more

I've been seeing Gina for over a year and always have a fantastic experience! I opt for the Womens Haircut ($75 before tip) because my short and fine hair isn't curly enough for me to justify getting a Deva Cut, but even still Gina always makes sure to enhance and bring out my natural wave pattern. She's also very kind, which is one of many reasons I keep coming back to her salon chair! (I'll never forget when I was celebrating my 21st birthday and she told me to please be careful with my drinking. So sweet!) But most importantly, she's SO skilled with wavy/curly hair!! I always leave Studio Within feeling and looking great. Thank you as always, Gina! read more

I just want to say that Kyra was awesome. She did a fantastic job and listened to EVERYTHING I wanted. Just chocolate brown hair to match my extensions and a TRIM (I get super paranoid bc previous hair stylists at other places have straight up cut inches off so now I'm a spaz about it.) And that's exactly what I got. Can't thank her enough. My hair feels so amazing and my hair matches my extensions perfectly. Definitely ask for her next time you're in! read more

Having friends who are into science fiction is usually just confusing. I find myself saying, "Doctor Who who?" and the like a lot. But, recently, it was a bit disconcerting. See, I came back from a recent trip to New York City with a rash all over my face. I don't know where the redness came from but while most people asked, "are you under stress?" (yes!) or "are you getting gin blossoms?" (sheesh, I don't drink that much!) from one of my sci-fi friends, I got, "are you turning into a zombie? Let me know when you get the craving for human brains so I know to avoid you." Thankfully, I had a recipe for reverse zombification in my wallet if this was the case. It wasn't some complicated potion I possessed though, it was a Groupon for a facial from Studio Within. Having never gotten a facial before, I had no idea what to expect. I expected to walk into the place and be surrounded by a bunch of ladies of leisure. This is not the case at Studio Within. While I think I might have been the only guy there at the time who likes to see women naked, they definitely have a large male clientele and know how to treat a dude (I got their facial for men to cure razor burn, ingrown hairs, and the like). Even a dude with rosacea (ha, I'm not turning into a zombie!). A free skin analysis began the process and, despite the hippy-dippy music playing in the background (meant to relax and not annoy I'm sure), my aesthetician was all science. She told me what to avoid to keep rosacea in check (the list included spicy food and alcohol, boo!) - better than my dermatologist ever had. Then she set to work about giving me a temporary fix, using only all-natural, sensitive skin products so as not to aggravate the condition. Having never had a facial before, I'm not sure what normal is. But whatever stylistic tricks my aesthetician used, it worked. She completely cleared up the rosacea on my forehead and mostly cleared it up on my cheeks. The clogged pores on my nose were also gone and I was able to breathe easier that I have in months. Heck, maybe years (probably partially from the relaxation provided by the included neck and shoulder massage even though for this, I've had better). It even would have been worth the $80 had I paid full price since solving my own personal zombie problem was priceless. read more

I used to love going to Studio Within, primarily to see my favorite masseuse, Charles. Actually, it's the only reason i went there. Anyway, i loved the masseuse so much I bought a gift certificate for my fiance who has a bad back and is very very picky with who he goes to. My certificate was purchased to be specifically used with charles and it even included the tip! Well, they fired Charles yesterday and i kindly asked them to refund my gift certificate that even says, 1.5 hr massage with Charles on it. I explained that it was a christmas gift for my fiance, and the only reason I bought it was for him to go to Charles, not to just get a massage. They were so rude in their response to me and basically told me i was SOL and would have to go to whatever other masseuse they had on hand. This business is all about the service, it's all about the person who gives you the service and I actively purchased something to be used with a specific server, and they were so rude and not understanding. I'm very selective with my christmas gifts and now this is going to be such a blah gift. Since charles is a structural therapist, that's why I purchased for my fiance, he doesn't need to be pet, he needs someone who can actually help him make his back better. I've been coming to Studio Within for 3 years, and have been a loyal customer. I even joined their once a month massage club. Now all I'm asking is for them to understand that this is not the gift i wanted to give and help me out, and they blatantly said read more

This review is one that deserves to be written sooner rather than later, yet I didn't get around to until now (aka later). Studio Within is a quaint salon/spa just west of the Wellington Brownline stop. Once you step in the door, you feel like you're in your own urban art studio. The decor is contemporary-chic, even with a Pac Man arcade machine serving as a table. While it stressed me a bit out having my Pac eaten on various occasions, it was free, unlimited entertainment. The salon remains as 'green' and eco-friendly as possible by: using organic/natural/animal testing-free products (where possible), giving discounts to customers who bring back their used product bottles, and sending all cut hair out to a company that produces oil spill mats. Neat, right? I personally love the hand scrub salts in the bathroom. My hands are as smooth as a baby's bum as I type. Studio Within offers hair care, waxing, skin care, Reiki, and the service that brings me back for more, massages. Charles is the go-to man for massages. He has healing hands of steel, and gives off a very soothing, enjoyable energy to all those in his vicinity. I have just returned to him for my fourth time. He focuses on your particular areas of concerns and uses his experience as a structural therapist to accompany his talent. He is a fan of aroma therapy and is sure to always use a pleasant smelling oil that he mixes himself. A few words of wisdom before your visit: Studio Within loves Yelpers! If you check-in on the Yelp app, you'll get an extra 10% off any regularly priced service (hour long massage is normally $89). They often offer Groupons for massages, so keep your eyes peeled. By referring a friend for a massage, you yourself with earn a free half-hour massage! If you love their massages, ask about their monthly massage membership. Don't pass Charles by! read more

I really hate it when reviews are based on bad experience, but I have to share this because it's the most disrespectful customer experience ive had. I had scheduled an appt for a massage and they called me to remind me. In the reminder I asked if it would be possible to shift the time because i had an important meeting and they said no, there was no availability later. about an hour before the actual appointment, i get a call saying there was a scheduling error and they cant fit me in. they can fit me in later with someone else, but my requested masseuse was busy for the next week. the lady apologized profusely, but that doesn't change the fact that they screwed up 3 times with one appt: once not being able to accomodate me, twice when they cancelled an hour before, and a third time when they put me on hold (an irate customer) to answer another call instead of being more understanding. i will not be frequenting this establishment again. whats most annoying is that i put my health first before business in canceling a meeting, and got screwed anyway. read more

I can now write a review, seeing as I've been here twice for the same service. I got a deal off of Amazon.com for some cheap braxing. Both of my services were done by Nora, a sweet 20-something. Not being loyal to waxing houses, this place has much to boast about. It's clean, friendly, and close my apartment. Not to mention they just started a loyalty card program for waxes. 5 and you get 1 free! Not too bad, seeing some places want you to get 10 before you get a free one, or something of the like. Yoikes! Also...if you check in on Yelp, you get a $10 discount. Ah-yeaah. Now, onto the "experience". Nora is super friendly and talks to you the whole time, which actually made the service less painful and a lot quicker. My only wish is that they would have some sort of air circulation down there (in the basement of the salon, ahem!) or a fan at least. I'll probably stop by here again. It's right by the Wellington stop. read more

This review is strictly for a massage that I had here a few weeks back. I can't speak to the other services they provide here. First let me start off by saying that the staff was extremely friendly and definitely easy on the eyes. I don't know why, but that matters in a spa. Even the guy working that day was dreamy. The location is very convenient for people driving or taking the L. Even though I used a Groupon, their regular rates seem pretty fair. So, the massages are given downstairs in their basement and the rooms are quite cramped. The tables themselves seem old, like converted mattresses or something. There was something off about the sheets too. It's not that they were dirty or anything, but they just seemed like they belonged in a twin bed from camp or something. The walls are thin -- so thin, that I could hear the guy in the next room telling his therapist about his pulled groin and sore lats. He also plays basketball three nights a week and is pretty intense about his free weight workouts. His new girlfriend is into yoga. Like I said, the walls are thin. And the massage itself was just "meh." It was terrible by any stretch, but I really wanted my back worked over and the girl whose name escapes me just didn't get enough pressure on it. She kept asking if the pressure was OK and I would tell her she could feel free to "beat me up" a little more. I guess she thought it was a joke despite the fact that I said it three times. All in all, my experience was good not great -- a little underwhelming if nothing else. If I could give 3 1/2 stars I would. read more

Studio Within did a great job giving me a pre-birthday cut. I was able to make the appointment about two days before the evening I had my cut. Showed up and I told her I wanted to take quite a bit of length off. Came out to about 8 inches. Nice quick wash. Some Aveda salons will give a nice head massage which I was expecting and wanted but this was not offered. And for 70 dollars, I would believe that would be included. The cut was nice. A bit shorter than we had discussed but it's growing on me. Kristy the owner did the cut who is so nice and down to earth. She has a great studio and where she cuts is a separate room. Maybe that's what you get for the 70 dollars. Did I mention the cut was 70 dollars? I mean this was a cut with no color or high lights not even any layering. All total I was there about 50 minutes. When I made the appointment, the gentleman said the cut would be 55 dollars. As a graduate student, I really can't afford so much money for such a simple cut. It's overall a nice place and Kristy is just the best but I don't think the cut was worth the money but if you have expendable cash, for sure check out this place. read more

I wish I could give this place 5 stars! The people are super friendly and the location is great. I had a wonderful facial here and would recommend that service to anyone. I bought a Groupon for a 90 minute massage and called to schedule my appt. The staff member was really nice and I told her that although I was pregnant I was not far along and didn't want the pregnancy massage they offer because that person was booked for a couple months out. She said to just check with my doctor to make sure it was okay to get a massage. My doctor of course said it was fine but just to avoid excessive pressure around the abdomen and lower back. I was so needing this 90 minute massage and when I went in for it all the person did LITERALLY, was rub my arms and head. We had a talk before the massage and I told him all areas were okay to massage except to avoid my lower back and abdomen. He seemed nice and said, of course, I've done this before. I was pumped. He did not touch my aching legs, feet, back or neck. It seemed like each arm was getting rubbed for about 35 minutes and I was too uncomfortable to say anything. I couldn't believe what was happening! The massage therapist did not even stand up one time during the massage and I could feel him leaning over me at one point to check is cell phone (or something). At the end of the arm and head massage he said, "I think it's best to just concentrate on a few areas rather that try to get everything done in one massage". I was thinking, "That was 90 minutes!" Most massages I've had have been 60 minutes and everything got massaged. I'm not a complainer but had to call the studio to tell them about this strange experience. The owner called me back (was really nice) and told me that the man was confused, that he thought it was a pregnancy massage. I knew this was going to happen and responded that we had had a conversation before the massage started about the 2 areas of my body not to touch. I also told her that even if he thought it was a pregnancy massage he could've touched my legs and feet and neck. She offered me a 30 minute pregnancy massage to make up for it but I felt too uncomfortable to go back and asked if I could just have a refund. They gave me a refund for my Groupon and I was pleased with that. I wish this didn't turn out how it did. I was hoping this would be a salon I could start going to for a variety of services considering how friendly everyone was. read more

Recently I booked an appointment for a massage at Studio Within. It was my birthday, I wanted to treat myself, and as such I was excited... but left disappointed. The shabby-chic decor was quirky, cute, and intriguing, and I'd had hopes that this bold and unique atmosphere would also be reflected in the services. Sadly, this did not happen. (I should have known... I prefer spas that make you feel like you're in heaven, not your grandmother's living room). Regardless, I filled out my intake forms and tried to appreciate the vintage interior. I was a bit startled when I was informed that my masseur was a man... I would have preferred to have the option of a fellow woman, just like I would in a doctor's office. This might not bother everyone, but I was slightly disappointed as other spas have given me the option over the phone when I reserved my appointment. However, as expected and hoped for, he was very professional and knowledgable of his trade. I was led down the spiral staircase to the massage room in the basement, which was sparsely decorated save for a boom box and a single bottle of lotion, which I'm not even sure was used. I admit that I'm the sort of spa-goer who appreciates, if not requires, the atmosphere to be just as relaxing and indulgent as the services. There was no music, no aromatherapy... it was strictly business. After my massage I was sore for several days and could hardly carry my handbag on my shoulder. Needless to say, it was a lackluster experience. If so many other spas do this so much better, why bother returning to this one? read more

They are great!! Receptionists were welcoming as usual. Kristy is awesome, I've been cutting my hair for a while with her and I definitely recommend her as the best Deva Curl hairstylist in the city. She is sweet and pay close attention to what customer asks and also holds a good conversation with her customers. I have been seeing the same hairstylist for years before moving here and was terrified to try someone new. After much research and stressing I made an appointment at Studio Within with a Deva Curl specialist. I was especially stressed because my previous hairstylist used a different product, and Studio Within uses Deva Curl. But after all my research I decided it was worth switching because of Studio Within Salon/SPA good reviews. Well I can tell you that after having my hair done at Studio Within it BLEW away my old stylist. Not only was my hairdo perfect, it lasted twice as long. The way she did my roots allowed my hair to grow out for almost 3 months and still look intentional. Love this place. It's expensive for sure, but if you are looking for true professionals this is the place. read more

Great ambiance, great massage, but glad I got a Groupon. While the receptionist wasn't the friendliest person in the world, the massage I got was in an adorable rustic-themed roomed with one of the women (forgot her name :/). She was tiny, so at first I was apprehensive she could give me the kind of hurts-so-good deep tissue massage I like. But I was overall impressed! Nice music, comfortable setting, and her massage was the perfect little escape. When I came out, the receptionist kind of killed my post-massage buzz by really trying to push a follow-up appointment and upwell of everything. While I understand you need to get repeat clients to make the Groupons worth it, when I looked at the normal prices, I wasn't impressed. If there's another Groupon I might go back, as the massage was nice. But I don't think I'd go out of my way to get here otherwise. read more

Came here with a groupon deal about 3 weeks ago. Definitely going back. Have been to red door, kohler, and a couple others downtown, but I'd probably come back here first due to a non-pretentious atmosphere. Had a 90 minute massage with Jessica who I swear had 8 hands- I may have snoozed on the table I was so relaxed. Then I had a deluxe facial (feel bad, forget her name) which was a bit more treatment focused than I generally prefer (I'm all about the massage aspect) but definitely left feeling hydrated and extremely relaxed! The salon and spa are both an adorable interior, though the spiral staircase down to the treatment rooms might not fare well for some. If you are looking for a cute, relaxed spa experience, check out Studio Within! read more

First time ever wanting a facial and I've heard so much about Jackie, I booked an appointment. Fabulous doesn't begin to describe how good my skin felt! She was so knowledge and patient with me being new to this. 3 days later my skin is still feeling amazing. Can't wait to go back to see her! After my facial, i had an appointment with Jacob who a friend has been seeing for some time. I have never been happier with my haircut. Jacob took his time asking questions getting to know what I wanted and made suggestions. The studio, Jackie and Jacob are a must do! read more

Received a groupon for a massage and I keep coming back. Anthony is hands down the best masseuse I've ever had! I asked for firm pressure and I got what I asked for. He combines different techniques that are tailored to your individual needs. As someone who works out daily, I didn't realize how tight my muscles were. After my first session I felt like a new woman! I highly recommend anyone looking for a fantastic massage visit Anthony!! The salon/studio itself is very convenient, the staff is very polite and sincere. The environment is calm and relaxing. Thanks groupon for the great find!! read more

I got two 90-minute massages on Groupon, one for me and one for my boyfriend. I had Rose and he had Juan. We were in separate rooms, but at the end of it both he and I thought it was an "ok" massage. Nothing amazing, nothing terrible, but just 'fine.' First of all, I was in a massage room that had a wobbly & loud bed. Every time I shifted, the bed made a noise. So..nothing kills your zen like a loud friction sound. Rose spent about 60 minutes on my upper back. I didn't even request that as a focus area, so it was bizarre that she spent so long there. She barely even touched my lower back, and she gave very little attention to my legs, arms, hands or feet. She didn't target any specific muscle groups (except in my upper back) so the whole massage left me pretty uneven. I've had some pretty stellar massages and I can tell you, this wasn't one of them. read more

i purchased the groupon for full highlights, haircut, blow out and deep conditioning. i could not have had a better experience. the vibe of the salon is cute and welcoming. the receptionist was warm and helpful. i was immediately greeted by my stylist, shyanne. she listed closely to what i was looking for and performed exactly what i wanted. she fixed my hair color and gave me a lighter all over blonde look with dimension. she could not have been nicer or more accommodating. overall my experience was a 10/10. i would highly recommend this salon to anyone i know. read more

Studio Within Salon Spa - Skin Care Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

You'll like this terrific spa within a chill and relaxed setting. Stroller mommies, casual guys, Hipster Heathers and Granola Gretchens will love this eclectic, funky, laid back place that offers a plethora of spa services for relatively low prices. It's a non-nonsense place, but if you need a lot of additional services, schmancy digs and foofy-foo pampering, you might have to look elsewhere. It's a tidy space in the neighborhood for haircuts, massages, facials and such, and the people are always super friendly. They offer a subscription service which is reasonably priced. read more

This review is strictly for my brazilian wax with Melissa. I really hate to do this, but the brazilian wax I had from Melissa was the worst I have ever had. And I've had a lot from a lot of different people! I think I left with more hair down there than when I arrived. I'm really not sure what happened or where it all went wrong, but it certainly went way wrong, that's for sure! It was quick and wasn't very painful at all, but now I realize that was because she wasn't actually removing any hair. Wow, such a disappointment and a waste of money. Needless to say, I won't be going back. I was excited about finding this place, but the search is still on for finding a place/person that's convenient, reasonably priced, and thorough! I have an appointment scheduled with Fabiola from Salon 1800 for mid-November. I don't think I've ever been more excited about an appointment to have my lady parts de-haired than I am for this upcoming appointment with Fabiola. Melissa was a really sweet girl, the receptionist was great and very pleasant and the salon, itself, was really cute. Alas, none of that made up for the fact that my brazilian wax appointment didn't actually include any removal of hair from my private parts. I really hate that this was the review I had to write about my experience at this salon. Hopefully, my experience was the exception and not the rule! read more

I've had great experiences at Studio Within and always request Eva when I am in for my facials. She does a through skin consultation and walks you through the process and products she'll be using, which is great for learning and knowing what's being done to your skin. The space is nice and cozy, definitely a relaxing atmosphere. I look forward to my future visits! read more

Bummer massage. 90 minutes and it felt like the girl was running out of "moves". I don't go for massages terribly often, but I've had enough to know good technique and I've been looking for a good place to go regularly, but it isn't going to be here. It wasn't...horrible, per se, it was like the therapist got bored or something. Cursory attention paid to limbs, way over did it on the upper back and neck, and just the same 3 techniques over and over. I don't know how to describe it other than it felt like her massage "vocabulary" was limited. And then the massage was just...over. There was no wind-down, or closing the energy of the massage or anything. Very abrupt. I was especially disappointed because they use Eminence products and I wanted to try a facial, but the massage was just so...mediocre that I don't care to go back. read more

I visit this spa a few times a year and always have a relaxing and enjoyable experience. I love to take a random day off of work sleep in and book a massage and facial here. It's a great neighborhood spot that does not disappoint. The decor is eclectic warm and vintage. I love the old salon chairs as seating in the waiting area. I've always been greeted warmly and asked if I'd like water. Many of the services are provided in the basement and the space is a little tighter although it's never bothered me. I've always been guided through the space by the pleasant staff. Massages, facials, and the occasional brow wax - always done with finesse and accommodating to my preferences (music, pressure, scents, steam, etc). I usually just book with whomever is available but I've had Jessica twice for a massage and she's AWESOME. I only wish their groupons were available to returning customers although they do offer good deals if you pre-buy which I'm kicking myself for not taking advantage of last time I was in. Love Studio Within! read more

I have been coming to the salon for several years now, and I think that it is a great place to get a good haircut or spa service at a reasonable price. Having taken advantage of services there many times, I am surprised to see some negative reviews. The staff have always been nice, attentive, and respectful of my time. I am sure that things happen from time to time, but I've never waited more than 5-10 minutes. As for the haircuts, they are my favorite! Where else can you get good conversation, a cup of coffee and a reasonably priced haircut? I've been to lots of salons and paid waaaay more for far less. I think people need to keep in mind that this is not some commercial day spa with warehouse sized space and me size fits all treatments. This is a small intimate space to relax and come out looking good, where the treatments and services are far more tailored than a big box salon/spa. The team led by the owner have always been remarkably friendly and accommodating. I can't think of anywhere else I would rather go for my haircuts and occasional massage/service. read more

I purchased a Groupon for an organic airbrush tan this morning and was able to get an appointment for later today. I'm very pleased with my experience. Stripping down in front of someone can be awkward but I felt totally comfortable the entire time. Kristy did such a wonderful job that I purchased another airbrush before I left the salon. read more

Weird website. No address/phone #. I want to book appt but first would like to know WHERE they are located!!! Friend referred. I finally see their location info when I got to YELP. How are you expecting business if you remain so mysterious! Fail. read more

Hello lover..... I love this place. Seriously. Everyone was really nice. I came here for an hour long massage from Kristine, and left feeling more refreshed than I have in a really long time. I LOVE Kristine. She has this amazing laugh and a great attitude that makes you feel right at home. Pretty much standard price for an hour massage ($80/hour). They also have Aquage products, which I love. I will definitely be back to try their other services. Oh. also right by the El, so easy to get to! read more

This place is amazing! If you are a new client check groupon to see if they have any good deals. I've been here many times for a massage and Tom is hands down the best massage I've had in my life and I've had close to 30 by now. He can be harder to get an appointment with but well worth the wait. His brother Charles is also very good. I also had my hair cut here and it was great! I don't live in the city anymore otherwise this would be my go-to place for all salon services. It's a cute location, the staff is always friendly and courteous, and they have high-end products. read more

SO, I'm a Groupon Junkie! I can't resist a good deal, 'specially when its right down the road from me. When I saw Studio Within's massage deal, I had to scoop it up! I made the appointment in person and they got me in the very same day. I didn't have a massage therapist preference and ended up with Charles. He was very cordial and asked me if I wanted hard or soft pressure. I told him hard and he gave me more of a deep tissue massage, concentrating on my back, which was absolutely AMAZING! I felt parts of my back I honestly didn't know existed. He answered my questions when I asked them, and let me relax quietly when I wanted to (some therapists can be windy). The music was soothing, the room and table were comfortable and the receptionist and other employees milling about were super cool. A great experience all the way around. Upon leaving, Charles did warn me I could be sore the next 48 hours and he was right. II felt slight discomfort in the middle of my back the next day. ** FYI, this is not unusual for deep tissue work, so don't be alarmed if this happens to you. I've already booked my next massage and would highly recommend Charles and the staff at Studio Within! PS. In the bathroom, there was a tray of brown goop with a spoon in it on the sink... my next visit I plan to ask what the mystery mush is. =) read more

I've been going here for massages for several years. Their membership is the best value in town. I get a very high-quality 90-minute massage every month for $88! Nic is the best massage therapist. Conveniently located near Wellington brown line stop. read more

Ah Groupon how I love you! You set me up with excellent deals, like the one at Studio Within Salon and Spa! I walked in to a nice, clean, completely EMPTY spa, and when asked, discovered that they stayed open that Sunday just for myself and one other person who requested appointments that day! Talk about service :) I had a facial and Kate was excellent. She was really nice, informative and knowledgeable, and gave a super wonderful facial (best I have ever had, in fact!). My skin has looked beautiful for weeks after this treatment and Kate gave me a ton of Dermalogica samples! The only reason I gave 4 stars and not 5 was the atmosphere of the spa. While the location is nice (if you like the Lincoln Park/Lakeview vibe), the downstairs of the spa looked kind of worn. I know it is a really old beautiful Chicago building, but I don't know, something about it didn't feel luxurious yet practical, the way I like my spas :P No big deal, and definitely worth checking out!!! read more

Juan gave me the best 60 minute massage I have ever had. I told him my trouble spots and he spent most of the massage focusing on them - which was WONDERFUL. He was intuitive and knew when to ask if I needed less pressure -but I never did because he was WONDERFUL. So good. I've never had such a good leg massage. As a runner/climber/dancing maniac, YES PLEASE. The studio does require credit cards to book appointments, which is annoying, so be prepared. The space is adorable and cozy. I already pre booked my next massage because it was so stinkin' good. I cant wait to go back! read more

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 got introduced to Studio Within a few weeks ago through a Groupon although they claimed I had visited them previously 9 months ago with a Groupon. I don't remember ever having visited them. When I called for an appointment, I did mention redeeming a Groupon but they did not follow up with any questions. After my appointment with the masseuse, they told me I could not redeem my Groupon because I had supposedly been there 9 months ago. I asked to speak to a manager who was not there. I asked them to take my Groupon and if they can't do it, for them to talk to me. They said they would contact the manager and for me to expect a phone. However, I never got a call. They claimed they called me and left me a voicemail but I don't know at what number. I never got a voicemail or a missed call. When I emailed them, they emailed me back without a name or title, saying that they refuse to honor the Groupon. When I called them, I always get their voicemail. They never pick up the phone and will only call you back on their timeline. What really peeved me is that they charged my credit card without telling me. I gave my credit card number for canceled appointments, not for them to charge me for a service I already paid for through another channel. I had a difficult time reaching them and when I did finally reach "Kristy", the owner, after multiple attempts, she doubled down on the line "you were here 9 months ago. The Groupon is for new customers only." When I explained that it's possible I may have booked the appointment for someone else and I don't remember ever being there, she went back to the same line. This is a huge wasted opportunity for them. They could have tried to work something out with me and I would have been amenable to some kind of arrangement where maybe they could redeem my Groupon and apply the charges on my credit card towards another service that I could pay more for. But they insisted that charging me without my knowledge is the right thing to do. That made me not trust their integrity and is also a violation of various IL consumer protection laws. They are not oriented towards building long term customer relationships; they only want to bilk you out of money as quickly as they can because deep in their hearts, they know they're not going to last much longer. Very disappointed in the experience and left a terrible taste in my mouth. Also, the facilities were dirty. For example, the bathroom had crumpled toilet paper on the floor. The massage room had a very dirty rug and "sheets" that never seen to have been washed. 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

I had a wonderful waxing experience with Eva. I had a Brazilian, underarm, and upper lip wax. Eva was extremely professional and very thorough! She explained the entire process and made me feel very comfortable. I'm prone to getting ingrown hairs and I haven't had any thus far. I highly recommend her and will def be back!! read more