Honestly, walking into a hair salon can sometimes feel like a high-stakes gamble. You’re either overpaying for a vibe that feels too cool for you, or you’re at a "discount" place praying they don’t take too much off the top. Fantastic Sams New Lenox sits in that weirdly perfect middle ground that a lot of people overlook.
Located at 280 E Lincoln Hwy Unit A, right in the heart of the New Lenox retail crawl, this place has become a staple for locals who are tired of the $80 "simple trim" elsewhere. It's funny because when people think of franchised salons, they think of cookie-cutter results. But this specific location has managed to keep a weirdly loyal following, mostly because of stylists like Daisy and Jade who actually listen when you say "just a dusting."
What’s Actually Happening at the New Lenox Location?
If you haven't been in lately, the vibe is surprisingly modern. It’s a woman-owned business, which matters to a lot of us in the 60451 area, and they’ve leaned heavily into being a full-service spot rather than just a "quick cut" joint.
We’re talking everything from basic beard trims to full-blown balayage.
Pricing and What You’ll Pay
Let’s talk money. Prices everywhere are jumping, and Fantastic Sams isn't immune. In 2026, you're looking at a range depending on who’s in the chair and what you're doing.
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- Adult Haircuts: Usually start around $32 to $35. If you’re just doing a clipper cut, you might get out for closer to $25.
- Color Services: This is where it gets interesting. An all-over color is generally starting around $78, while a full highlight or balayage is going to run you closer to $160.
- The Extras: They do waxing too—brows, lip, chin—usually for about $12 to $15 per area.
One thing that kinda stands out is the FS Shampoo Therapy. Most places charge extra for the "experience," but here it’s baked into the service. It’s a three-minute scalp massage that, frankly, is the only reason some of us even go.
The Stylist Factor: Why People Stay
You can have the best equipment in the world, but if the stylist is having a bad day, your bangs are going to show it. The New Lenox team has some veterans.
I’ve seen reviews lately for Daisy, where clients literally mention they don't even have to show her a picture anymore. That level of trust is rare in a franchise. Jade is another name that pops up constantly, especially for people looking for "vision" or more complex color transitions.
It’s worth noting that this isn't just a place for "moms and kids," though they do a ton of $20-ish kids' cuts. They’ve seen a massive uptick in men coming in for "grey blending"—basically a way to hide the salt-and-pepper without looking like you used a Sharpie on your head. It takes about 45 minutes and costs roughly $45.
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When to Go (And When to Avoid)
The hours are pretty standard but the weekends are a war zone.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday - Friday | 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM |
| Saturday | 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
Pro tip: If you try to walk in on a Saturday at 11:00 AM without an appointment, you're going to be sitting there staring at the hair product shelf for a while. They take appointments through the Fresha platform or their own site, and honestly, just book ahead. It saves everyone the headache.
The "Franchise" Misconception
Most people don't realize that Fantastic Sams is actually owned by Dessange International, which is a huge European luxury salon chain. That’s why the products and the training for the stylists often feel a bit higher-end than what you’d find at a typical "budget" barber. They use specific bonding systems and clarifying treatments that are designed to keep your hair from falling out after a heavy bleach session.
They also offer some niche stuff you might not expect:
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- Malibu Treatments: Great for New Lenox residents who deal with hard water buildup.
- Perms: Yeah, they still do them, and they’re actually seeing a comeback with the "perm plus" style.
- Keratin Smoothing: If your hair frizzes the second you step out into Illinois humidity, this is the $160-ish investment you probably need.
Is It Worth the Trip?
Look, it’s not a $300 Chicago boutique salon. You aren't getting a glass of champagne when you walk in. But for a place located in a strip mall off Lincoln Hwy, it’s remarkably consistent.
The biggest complaint people have? The price increases. Like everywhere else, the cost of supplies has gone up, and some regulars have been caught off guard by the new 2025/2026 pricing tiers. Always ask for a quote during the consultation—which, by the way, is free.
Actionable Next Steps:
- Check the App: Don't just show up. Use the Fresha app to see which stylists are available. Look for Daisy or Jade if you're doing color.
- Ask for the "Shampoo Therapy": Ensure it’s included in your cut; it’s the best part of the visit.
- Consult First: If you're doing a big change (like going from brunette to blonde), book a 5-minute consultation first. It’s $0 and prevents a "color correction" nightmare that could cost you $200 later.
- Hard Water Check: If your hair feels "crunchy" after washing it at home, ask them about the Malibu treatment ($20) to strip the mineral buildup.