What to expect before, during, and after.
No mystery, no pressure. Here's the exact step-by-step from your first phone call to walking out — including what to bring, what to wear, what to ask for, and what happens if the result isn't perfect.
Step 1 — The consultation.
Every first-time color client gets a 30-minute in-salon consultation before booking. This allows to confirm the best technique for your hair, and provide exact pricing. Consultations can be booked online or by calling the studio.
Your goal color or look · current hair condition · most recent color/treatment · 2-3 inspiration photos · what you've tried that didn't work · timeline (one-visit or multi-session)
Artist match · technique recommendation (balayage / single process / custom colors / correction) · exact price quote · time estimate · pre-appointment prep instructions · realistic outcome (especially for multi-session goals)
For first cuts, blowouts, glaze refreshes, brows or lash services — book directly online. The consult is specifically for color planning where multiple variables affect the price.
Step 2 — How to come in.
A small amount of prep makes a big difference for color accuracy. Cuts and styling don't need any prep beyond showing up.
Hair washing
For color: washed within 24-48 hours — not freshly washed (color won't grip oily roots; freshly stripped scalp irritates with developer). For cuts: wear hair the way you usually do day-to-day so we see how it actually sits.
Photos to bring
2-3 inspiration shots of what you want — taken in natural light if possible. 1-2 photos of what you DON'T want — the negatives matter as much as the positives. For correction work, send a current photo of your hair before the appointment.
What to wear
A dark top with a wide neckline — easier to slip the cape over and protects against accidental color drips. We provide capes and aprons but extra protection is welcome. Avoid white or expensive fabrics.
Step 3 — What happens in the chair.
In-chair color consultation
Confirming the goals and technique. This takes about 10-15 min before any color is mixed.
Application + processing
Every color formulation is customized and applied with your hair's health as our absolute priority. We constantly monitor your hair throughout the processing time to protect its integrity and ensure a flawless, safe result. While your color processes, please feel free to bring a laptop, read a book, or connect to the studio's Wi-Fi.
Toner + finishing style
We formulate and apply a custom root shadow and toner to perfectly melt, blend, and balance your color. This is followed by a relaxing wash, and finished with a professional blowout and signature styling.
Aftercare consult + booking next visit
Personalized aftercare: products, wash schedule, glaze-refresh timing, when to rebook. Most color clients book the next visit before leaving so the artist's calendar is held.
Step 4 — What you'll pay.
Pricing is service-tier-based, not artist-based. The artist doesn't change the price — the service does.
Final quote is confirmed during your IN-SALON consultation before booking. See full services & pricing for cuts, blowouts, treatments, extensions, and skincare.
Everything else everyone asks.
New clients turned regulars.
"I have colored my hair in many different salons over the years. CK salon offers quality hair coloring. They take their time and really analyze your hair to know what will work best. My hair has never looked this good!"
"I am so happy to finally be back at my favorite salon. Cristina has been my hairstylist for the past 5 years. I absolutely adore how passionate and talented she is. The whole world needs to know about Cristina and her incredible skills."
"I had an incredible experience at CK Studio Salon today! The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. My stylist, Cristina, took the time to really listen to what I wanted and gave me the perfect haircut. Thanks again and for sure I’ll see you again."
Hair salon serving Chicago's North Shore.
CK Studio is based in Skokie — minutes from Evanston, Wilmette, and the North Shore. Clients drive in from across Chicagoland for our color and extension specialty.
Book your first visit in 60 seconds.
Or call to start with an in-salon consultation — especially recommended for color, correction, or multi-session goals.