University of Aesthetics & Cosmetology - Downers Grove, Illinois

Travel A. S.

This review is for the client services side, not for the educational side.

This place is a hit or miss. It's either 100% great or 0% bad.

My friend took me here for a facial last summer and the gal was absolutely wonderful (she was about to graduate). I told her I would love to have someone like her in the future so she told me to be specific when I make my appt b/c that allows the instructors to pair up the right student to the client.

During the course of the facial, she was mentioning how many service she got for her hair w/ the hair students. She said they were desperate for new models b/c "you can only do each other's hair so much." She said they were all really good and since I normally am just getting a trim, I decided to try a low risk haircut.

The gal I got was really good (she was in the process of interviewing for a high end salon in Naperville, being almost ready to graduate). When she heard I get my hair trimmed every 6 weeks, she said she would be taking her final appts at that time, would I want to come in one more time before she left the school?

Unfortunately, she only had appts left on Saturday. Saturdays are not great days for me but I reworked my schedule to meet her availability.

A week before my appt, I got the reminder and was asked to confirm. I confirmed, and then also sent the facial specifics and also two photos of haircuts I was considering so they could be forwarded on to the stylist. (Being a student, I thought she might need time to talk to her teacher or ask questions before the appt). I asked to please confirm receipt of the email. No response. I tried calling twice - always went to voice mail, even during their "open hours."

I called two days later, left ANOTHER message and someone called me back the day before my appt. It was a teacher; she was clearly rushed and did not want to spend time on the phone. In short, nothing had been done - the photos were not sent to het student and they did not pair me w/ the person based on my facial instructions. I tried to explain about the previous student's instructions but the teacher was trying to get off the phone and told me "I don't know who told you that or why. Every student can do a facial. There's plenty of time scheduled for the haircut so just show the photo when you get here."

I asked if anyone checked the email box and first she told me it was checked by students and they are "very busy with classes" and later she said it was a bot. So I'm not sure which is true or if both are true.

Then, the next day, 2 hours before my appt, the school called and cancelled BOTH appts. The student originally calling stated the students were there but had to take classes. I was then transferred to a teacher and she told me neither of the students had shown up. I felt so bad for the teacher.

The bottom line is: this is a school, NOT a business. As long as you know that going in and accept it, you'll be fine. That means, kids don't show up. There isn't a full time receptionist. No one responds to emails in a timely fashion.

The teachers are there to teach the kids and that is their focus, which is as it should be.

Samantha L.

I went to see Danielle for some skin services and it was amazing! My eyebrows are perfect after the waxing and my skin has never felt or looked better because of her facial. She was friendly, knowledgeable, and obviously passionate about her work. I learned so much about skincare and makeup as well. I would definitely recommend her services!

Catherine K.

The facials are amazing and they use the same products as professional spas. I have had 3 facials here with 3 different students and they have all been great experiences.

Brenda M.

Holly did an amazing job! We were both so happy with the results. 😊 I have another appt scheduled for highlights, I can’t wait!

Maureen D.

I recently came in for a facial and it was a heavenly experience. Dani meet me at the door with a friendly greeting, was very warm and friendly. The facial itself was lovely with Dani explaining the process step by step. Then instructor that came into monitor was very nice and engaging as well. I would go back again.

Y M.

Drove 45 minutes to get a tour of the school. I had to approach a random student to notify Emily I was there. After waiting 12 minutes and no one on sight I decided to leave it did not feel welcoming at all. As I was walking out, I noticed a blonde woman Emily, who again didn’t say hi or acknowledge me, as I was walking out. I had to ask her if she was Emily and she said yes, I asked her did you know I was leaving? She said “I don’t know what you want me to do?”, and she knew who I was. Clearly she didn’t want to do her job that day. I’m just upset I wasted my gas and time for it, very unprofessional.

Respond to the owner: there was no misunderstanding, and just because you called me after the review, does not mean I’m obligated to give you any more of my time. Emily was rude, unwelcoming, and very unprofessional and inconsiderate of others times. Hopefully you don’t do this to anyone else

Kristin M.

My friend Courtney and I went in for facials Wednesday night and our Esthetician's were students Erin and Tiffany. They greeted us with smiles and were amazing! They both helped us determine our skin type (mine is normal) and helped us with skin care products that would best suit us. I am pregnant and they were knowledgeable and utilized the correct products specifically for me. I felt very comfortable there. Their instructor, Miss Lauren, was wonderful too! She introduced herself and helped us check out. I would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for an affordable and amazing skin treatment! I will definitely be coming back!

Amy W.

Was tired of paying over $130 dollars at my regular posh Oakbrook salon for color and cut and looking for an alternative. Had visited a few schools providing these services and stumbled upon this one which was practically in my backyard! Hidden gem. I didn't know it was here. I was nervous about letting students work on my hair but my fears subsided when I saw how serious and professional the students were and how closely supervised they were by their instructor, Matt, who was very knowledgeable and experienced. He suggested a few minor changes that were spot on. The facility is clean and beautiful, looks like a high end salon. I had my stylist, Gia copy what my regular stylist had been doing but I feel confident enough to try a different cut next time! Will definitely return. Can't beat the $33 dollars I was charged for a quality cut and color AND got more attention and suggestions about my hair than I do from my regular salon. Looking forward to trying their other services. Just remember to allow a little extra time because the stylists are students in a teaching environment. They are a small school and the stylists are busy at peak times, so best to schedule an appointment or call ahead if you are a walk in to see if they can take you. Tip: The color turns out just a tad darker than samples, which I was told, but still gorgeous. To the school: Please post price list on your website.