Claire ThompsonEvery month, it’s a ritual for my girls and me to have some kind of a get-together to catch up with life. We do night outs, fine dining, and our favorite: getting pampered.
We just love sitting side by side on spa chairs and gossiping while we get our hair, nails, and skin done. And after every session, there’s always a little discussion about whether the place is worth coming back to or not.
That easily helped us map out our favorite beauty salons in Columbus. So whenever we get disappointed over a new spot or simply don’t feel like trying out new salons, these are the places we know that won’t let us down.
How much do beauty services cost in Columbus?
Beauty services in Columbus typically charge $10 to $40 for basic services, like perms and haircuts. Meanwhile, special services like treatments and facials can go up to a few hundred dollars.
1. Phia Salon
Address: 755 N High St
Phone: +16145457100
Business Hours:
- Tuesday, 1–8 PM
- Wednesday and Friday, 9 AM–8 PM
- Thursday, 11:30 AM–8 PM
- Saturday, 9 AM–7 PM
- Sunday, 9 AM–6 PM
Phia Salon has been operating since 2004 and provides personalized services. Just in 2021, it was recognized by Expertise.com as one of the Best Hair Salons in Columbus.
The salon’s services cover pretty much everything you’d expect, like haircuts, styling, and coloring. And for their treatments, they typically use professional-grade and plant-based products like Aveda and Davines.
What we like most is the pricing structure here, wherein the cost depends on the experience of your stylist. So, it can start around $29 for apprentice-level and can go up to around $100+ for more seasoned professionals.
Basically, you can choose a stylist who fits both your hair goals and budget. We rarely hear something like this, so we found this pretty interesting.
However, while it is a highly-rated salon, there were a few complaints regarding their haircut services, saying they cut too short or didn’t follow instructions.
But other than that, it’s frequently praised as a welcoming and LGBTQIA-friendly space.
Everyone is extremely accommodating
“I have come here twice now, and both appointments were so amazing. Everyone is extremely accommodating, and the hairstylists take great care to ensure that you get exactly what you ask for. Gia was a wonderful hairstylist and knew exactly how to get me my desired style. Would recommend it!”
- Kate Slazinik, Google Review
Very welcoming and peaceful
“Reagan was top-notch! She was thoughtful, kind, knowledgeable, and informative. She kept communication open and let me know every step of the way. Definitely found my stylist! As a first timer, the vibe of the salon was awesome. It was very welcoming and peaceful. Thank you for having me! Already made my next appointment with Reagan!”
- Leslie Lane, Google Review
2. Stile Salon & Spa
Address: 3981 Easton Way
Phone: +16143422133
Business Hours:
- Monday, 10 AM–3 PM
- Tuesday and Thursday, 9 AM–7 PM
- Wednesday and Friday, 9 AM–6 PM
- Saturday and Sunday, 11 AM–5 PM
As a luxury boutique salon and spa, Stile offers a full-on self-care experience rather than a quick beauty stop. It’s the kind of place where customers treat themselves to some pampering.
And of course, they offer the salon essentials, like haircuts, styling, and even event-based services like bridal hair and makeup. But they also include spa services, such as massage and waxing.
And besides basic facials, they can also do aesthetic treatments using medical-grade skincare products. You can even have licensed professionals, like an RN, involved in certain services.
Pricing is on the higher side, but still somewhat accessible. Salon services start at around $40, while spa services range from $50 to over $100.
They do offer bundled services that combine various offerings into a single visit. Not only is it convenient, but it also allows some savings.
Overall, most of the customers love the service and the environment in the salon. The only issue many face is that parking and traffic can be a pain during the holidays or the weekends.
The salon is always spotless, stylish, and full of positive energy
“Stile Salon is absolutely amazing! From the moment you walk in, you can feel how welcoming and relaxing the atmosphere is. Kelley, the owner, goes above and beyond to make every client feel special and taken care of. She is genuinely kind and professional. You can tell she truly cares about her clients and her team. The salon is always spotless, stylish, and full of positive energy. Highly recommend Kelley and her wonderful salon to anyone looking for a top-notch experience!”
- Justine Tuhy, Google Review
The staff is so sweet and really helpful
“I’ve been to Stile twice now for massages and both times have been exceptional. The spa is clean, well decorated and comfortable. The staff up front is so sweet and really helpful. The woman who checked me in took me back to get my robe and poured me a glass of water to have while I waited on my service time. Both massage therapists I had did a great job as well. I’ll continue to drive 40 minutes to go here, it’s well worth that!”
- Ashlee Frisch, Google Review
3. Nurtur Salon + Spa
Address: 1581 W Lane Ave
Phone: +16144873033
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday, 9 AM–9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday, 9 AM–7 PM
Nurtur Salon + Spa was founded in 2006 and now operates in three locations around Columbus. It has even earned accolades such as being named Salon Today’s Top 200 Salons for 10 consecutive years.
The place offers a wide array of salon and spa services. Alongside these, they also integrate sensory elements, like stress-relieving rituals and aromatherapy, making a simple haircut appointment into a pampering experience.
These add-ons are often cited as a favorite part of the experience.
They also exclusively use Aveda products, which are known to be plant-based and eco-friendly. This appeals to clients who are ingredient-conscious.
We like that they’ll really assess your hair and preference; therefore, pricing is tailored during consultation. But similar to higher-end salons, the range depends on the stylist’s experience. (Just note that a 20% deposit is required upon booking).
Additionally, there’s a rewards program that allows loyal visitors to earn points.
I really like this place
“Nurtur Salon + Spa is always a great choice. I had a lovely blowout with Ella today – she was great! And they give a complimentary mini facial and hand massage, which is wonderful, especially in this dry air. They take walk-ins when there is availability and that is great because I can be very last-minute with my schedule. I really like this place and the Aveda products. The staff is always super nice and I’ve never had a bad experience there. I highly recommend it!”
- Sharon Gregory, Google Review
Top-of-the-line hair care
“Rachel always provides me with impeccable, top-of-the-line hair care. She has been managing my grays for some time now and keeps my hair shaped and styled perfectly. She is also hilarious, bubbly and makes the time in her chair fly by. Her 20 years of experience with Aveda really show each and every time I walk in the door. Makayla is my go-to gal for all things waxing. She makes the process quick and seamless, and keeps me laughing the entire time with her fresh thoughts and stories of her life. She’s a gem!”
- Meredith Stone, Google Review
4. Rendezvous Hair Salon
Address: 2514 Summit St
Phone: +16144472600
Business Hours:
- Monday to Friday, 10 AM–9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday, 10 AM–6 PM
For over 14 years, Rendezvous Hair Salon has been known for its vibrant and inclusive environment. It’s frequently cited as one of the best hair salons in Columbus and even received an inclusivity award from Pantene in 2020.
Rendezvous is also known for its vivid and creative color transformation—let’s say split dyes, raccoon hair, and the like.
It’s basically the go-to salon if you’re looking for professionals who know all the trendy styles. From wolf cuts to even rainbow hair, the stylists are known for being creative and will work with customers to achieve even the craziest looks.
They also offer other services. These include waxing, treatments, nails, and even products for maintaining colors at home.
Pricing is even based on the level of their stylist, but they do have starting prices published on their website for a little bit of transparency.
When it comes to what people say about them, many regular customers not only come back for the talented stylists but also for the non-judgmental environment. Just note they get booked out for weeks, so booking in advance is essential.
Did such a wonderful job with my hair.
“Maxim did such a wonderful job with my hair. It was my first salon experience, and it was everything I could’ve hoped for. I was so nervous about getting my hair cut by someone else, but as soon as I spoke with them, my fears melted away. Wonderful with conversation and ultimately a standout stylist. Thank you so much for everything, Maxim!”
- Breanna Greene, Google Review
Everyone there is stellar
“Trinity Williams here! I LOVE going to Rendezvous Hair Salon. Everyone there is stellar! So nice and welcoming, I moved to Columbus 12 years ago and was so fortunate to have met Vanessa. I haven’t had anyone else cut my hair since. She is a wizard, always knows exactly what I want, and is very accommodating when I want to try something different. I also feel fortunate to know her as a person, so warm and friendly, funny and sincere. I have received services from some of the other stylists there also, and have never been disappointed.”
- Jason Williams, Google Review
5. Lacquer Gallery
Address: 444 W 3rd Ave
Phone: +16142302589
Business Hours:
- Monday to Saturday, 9 AM–5 PM
- Sunday, 9 AM–5 PM
From what started as a team of two back in 2011, Lacquer Gallery Nails has grown into a well-recognized salon with over 70 artists. While famous for nails, it’s a full beauty hub with hair services, spray tan, cosmetic tattoos, and more.
Many customers have regarded the team as highly artistic people, so it’s no wonder that their service range is pretty extensive.
What really makes them special for us is that the salon unapologetically encourages inclusivity and self-expression. They emphasize being a safe space for all colors, genders, and backgrounds, which actually earned them quite a big loyal following in the queer community.
While costs vary, customers can find their service menu with the prices on their website. They offer seasonal specials and up to 20% off discounts for new clients as well.
However, they seem to have issues with overbooking clients, leading to rescheduling or canceled appointments
I’m excited for my next appointment
“Leah was so amazing with my haircut! It’s been a while since I’ve been to a salon, and Leah was so considerate of my nerves. She was collaborative in helping find the right haircut, based both on my inspo photos AND what would work best with my hair, leaving me feeling incredibly confident. I’ve never booked a follow-up appointment, but I’m excited for my next appointment with Leah! Beyond that, their reception team was so helpful and considerate in helping me book my appointment. As someone who hasn’t been to the salon before, they were prompt in communication, understanding of my newness, and so helpful to get me the right appointment. Highly recommend it!!”
- Stephanie Rybicki, Google Review
Excellent job
“I have been going to Lacquer Gallery Nails for the past 3 years. Joie Demchak has been my go-to every time! She does an excellent job at taking care of me, is always kind, and makes sure everything is just the way I like it. Lacquer has an amazing selection of gel polishes and I get something different every time I go. Joie particularly works with natural nails, and wow, I cannot say enough about how amazing my nails look and feel after getting gel done by her for the past 3 years. My nails grow very fast and are super strong. I get compliments on my nails often and people are wowed by the fact that my natural nails are so long! Thank you Lacquer, for being my obsession and thank you, Joie, for always taking care of me! 💖💕”
- Elena Fisher, Google Review
