The Cheap Chic Cheat Code
Skip the salon sticker shock this summer. Tennessee's cosmetology and esthetics schools make it surprisingly easy to leave with a fresh look while keeping plenty of cash in your wallet.
Big Style, Small Price Tag
Across the state, many of these schools are opening their student clinics to the public, offering professional beauty services at deeply discounted prices while future stylists and estheticians build real-world experience under the supervision of licensed instructors.
One of the best bargains is at CDRS Academy in Clarksville, where adult haircuts start at just $10. Color appointments begin at $40 for all-over color and full highlights, while silk presses start at $45. Chemical services also include a cut or trim and style, adding even more value for anyone ready to freshen up their look without paying full-service salon prices. Check out their full list of hair care services here.
The savings don't stop there. In Columbia, Mark Anthony's School of Cosmetology offers a wide range of affordable salon services, while Arnold's Beauty School in Milan provides discounted cuts, color, styling, manicures, and more through its student clinic. And in Johnson City, Crown Cutz Academy offers barbering services ranging from haircuts and color to waxing and beard trims, making it easy to find a budget-friendly appointment no matter your style.
A Little Pampering Goes a Long Way
If skincare sounds more appealing than a trim, The Ivy Institute of Esthetics in Memphis focuses on spa-style services designed to leave your skin glowing. Guests can book facials and specialized skincare treatments performed by students using professional products from brands including Dermalogica, OFRA Cosmetics, BIO-THERAPEUTIC, and Satin Smooth. Every service is completed in a supervised clinic environment, giving students valuable hands-on experience while clients enjoy treatments that cost far less than they typically would elsewhere.
Appointments at teaching clinics generally take a little longer than traditional salon visits because instructors review each step of the process, but that's part of what makes the experience worthwhile. Students receive practical training, instructors ensure quality work, and guests walk away with professional services at prices that leave room in the budget for the rest of summer.
Whether you're overdue for a haircut, thinking about trying a new color, or simply craving a relaxing facial, Tennessee's cosmetology and esthetics schools prove that looking your best doesn't have to come with luxury salon prices. Your next beauty appointment might also help launch someone else's career, and that's a pretty great bonus!
Ready for even more pampering? Visit https://www.guidetotennessee.com/health-beauty-retailers.
