Jean Madeline Aveda Institute

The way this school is managed is very disorganized and in my opinion it's corrupt. The administration has totally pulled the wool over the school's owner Mr. Lehman. He has surrounded himself with a bunch of uppity old women who send smoke up his a$$. It's about time the parents of the students who attend this school or who are planning on attending this school - sit up and take note. It will be a waste of your money because your son or daughter will be ignored in class if the school doesn't feel they are the right fit for one of Lehman's salons. There are so many other cosmetology schools within the area. Don't waste your money here.

Pros: close to center city

Cons: waste of money

Posted 08/02/09

I've had 2 good haircuts here so I figured I give them a shot with highlights. Big mistake.

My stylist was totally unprofessional (fighting with other students about borrowed, capes, and other materials) and acted like she was annoyed that she had to do my highlights.

She used 2 different volume developers, 20 volume for the right side of my head, and 30 volume for the top and the left side.
She told another student that she did this so the top and left side would be done faster "because she doesn't like to wait".

I asked her to match the color that was growing out from a previous appointment at a different salon, but her highlights came out WAY lighter, and uneven because of the 2 different developers. She said " So.....what color did you want it to be???" as if it was my fault.....

Her solution was to use a darker toner- close to my natural light brown hair color, but very dull and brassy over the uneven highlights.

I left the salon with DARKER hair, instead of highlights.
I will be calling when they open tomorrow morning to ask for my money back, or figure out if they have any students who know what they are doing who will do a color correction.

Terrible.
The best part is- I tour with a band and have to leave for Europe in less than a week. I'm going to have to spend a whole 3 weeks touring and performing with shit-brown hair. Not the worst thing that could have happened to me, but pretty annoying.

Posted 01/17/09

After reading the rebuttals posted by obvious Jean Madeline employees, I need to set the record straight. I learned facials/waxing here a few years back. I enrolled at JM because I would hear these young ladies raving about how great the education was. The truth is they had nothing else to compare it to. They were brainwashed into thinking no other school could possibly deliver. I certainly didn't fit the JM mold. I was a college graduate, a seasoned massage therapist, and I was looking to add to my repertoire of spa services. What I encountered at JM was pitiful.
The administration played favorites to a chosen few - prepping them for work in JM-owned salons. The rest of us were INVISIBLE. The same students over and over performed services on clients. The immature teacher stood there with a sheepish grin enjoying her power trip. After the waxing clinic was finished, she would ask the rest of us to clean THEIR waxing mess off the floor. We thought this was unfair. She told us we had attitude problems when all we were trying to do was make sure we were being treated fairly. At one point, I was the model for bikini wax instruction. The teacher let a man walk into the class room while my bikini area was partially exposed. This was completely inappropriate. She stood there flirting with him and snickering. Keep in my mind, I was in my late twenties at the time and totally disgusted. Trying to tell this to two old ladies named Boyce and Berkery didn't do any good. They had high opinions of themselves. Laughable, I suppose. I finished at JM. But I was ill prepared for any kind of work in salons and spas. I eventually enrolled at the Int'l Dermal Institute for continuing education in skin care. This is where my skills were improved and I was prepared to audition in a salon setting. I now manage a salon and spa. I can tell you this: JM graduates are rough around the edges, they give elementary style facials. Once they're let go, they file for unemployment.

Pros: It's a good school for a young (fresh out of high school) kid who isn't college material

Cons: way too expensive for what they actually offer

Posted 01/14/09

I get my hair cut here frequently and for $16 plus tip, you can't go wrong! I've always had great results and the hairstylists really customize how they treat your hair, and listen to what you want. In addition to the haircut they do a scalp and hand massage. They tend to take a long time, but it is worth it for them to do a great job. I've had a better experience here than when I've paid close to $100 at other salons. I recommend this place to everyone!

Pros: Service, quality, value for $

Cons: Slow

Posted 01/09/09

I have been attending Jean Madeline (@ Bainbridge) as a cosmo student since Aug. and I couldn't be happier with the education I am receiving. My instructors are inspiring and always push me to do my best work. They give me the confidence I need to work on clients and give merit where it is deserved. I leave school every day feeling I have accomplished something. It says that the instructors seem to play favorites- I think at times that this is true- BUT,its those students who come to school daily, work hard, and don't spend every ounce of their free time chatting with their neighbor. Take into consideration that many of these students are young, and have just graduated from highschool-they have a lot of growing up to do.

Jean Madeline takes its education very seriously. You must be incredibly willing and dedicated, attendance is crucial, if not- you are charged. They do make you buy an expensive kit and you are required to buy more products if you use them all (they aren't cheap either). The tuition is high and they charge a lot for the services offered, however I find the quality to be superior to any other cosmetology school out there.

In regards to client services... If you are a client looking to come get services performed at our school please keep some things in mind. We are students, services performed take longer than it would at your average salon because instructors must approve and check everything. Saturdays are def the busiest days if you're looking to get in and out , it's not your day to come. Many of the other reviews below state that they never know when a new class is coming or going, so you might not get someone "good". The floor doesn't work like that, students there have been enrolled there for 3 months prior-it's state law. Naturally some students are better than others, it's a school, you're taking that risk. If you intend on getting color done, and havent before ,come get a patch test or you will be denied until it's performed.

Posted 01/08/09

Please do your research if you're thinking about attending any program here. JM is a well known name and looks good on paper, but is actually very disappointing. Most of the instructors are professional and very helpful. There are some who are not. Some rules and regulations seem to apply to some students and not others, which is confusing and unfair. For the tuiton you pay, you would expect to have all the supplies needed to learn, not run out of basic supplies (wax sticks, muslin) every week and have to make do. Also, you need to buy an expensive kit of Aveda products, that you use on all the clients you service. The school does not use their own supply. When you run out of anything you need to buy more. You learn the very basics one day a week and then are expected to churn out clients the addional four days you're there. The front desk/reception is not helpful or professional. Saturdays are a zoo, utter confusion and frustration for both student and client. The best part of the program is finishing and getting out of there.

Posted 12/11/08

I went to the 40th & Chestnut to get my eyebrows waxed. I am really upset because she did a terrible job and don't even apologize. She waxed my eyebrows and ripped off my skin !!! She said I might have a ?thin skin? but I think the bigger problem is the skill of the Esthetician..and the wax was really hot and stung when it was applied. I know it?s supposed to be somewhat hot, but wax too hot can cause a problem. I also got folliculitis from this waxing. Supposedly you can prevent this by waxing in the ?correct? direction. I?m still by no means an expert about waxing, but I know how to get good results! Fyi guys, I dont remember her name but she is a black girl..pretty but STUPID ! I'll never go there again !!!!!

Pros: Friendly receptionist, nice place, good product.

Cons: Don't go there for eyebrows waxing !!

Posted 11/09/08

I went to Jean Madeline at 40th and chestnut to get my eyebrows waxed and i should say that its the worst thing i ever did in my life. I'll never go there again.

Posted 10/28/08

If you just need a once-over, this is the place to go and best of all most affordable option in the city...as long as you don't mind waiting a little longer as the students have to do everything "exactly right". The teachers must approve the color before the application and the students use a brush to get the roots. Take advantage of the delicious Aveda tea while you wait! Also a frequent buyer card is available if you use Aveda products...

Pros: Affordable, correct color application, delicious Aveda tea

Cons: Hectic enviornment, longer process

Posted 05/21/08

I have gone to Jean Madeline to get my hair done twice now. The first time I had a girl who did not know anything she was doing, or even how to begin to cut my hair, she was obviously not even one bit professional.. But then I thought I would give it another try and this time I had a man named Bryce ( which i was nervous about) and it was the best haircut I have ever had. The first thing he did was sit me down in his chair and talk about what I wanted out of my hair, how much time and effort I wanted to put into it every day and everything about what products I need to use and how to get the same look at home. An amazing experience for only $15 bucks!!! It will be sad when hes gone because I wont be able to afford him!!!!!

Pros: good price, great cut

Cons: some students dont even know what they are doing,

Posted 12/17/07

ipitydafool wrote such negative things about the Jean Madeline Aveda Institute Esthetics program I am forced to respond with my own experience. I attended Jean Madeline and found their skin care program to be just what I needed to get a fantastic job in a top spa in Philadelphia. Jean Madeline really cared about what I learned, about skin care, makeup, and more important they cared about me! They cared about what I learned, how I was progressing in the program, and if I was happy. Plus, to top it all off they helped me get a great job. I AM MAKING CLOSE TO $80,000.00 THIS YEAR WITH MY TIPS, and I have only been working for 16 months! So, those of you who doubt what Jean Madeline Aveda Institute is all about, just go down and check it out!

Pros: Great atmosphere, equipment and instructors!

Cons: Hated to see my training end

Posted 10/24/07

Jean Madeline was supposed to have a great reputation which is why I chose them for my training in Esthetics. The recruiter told some tall tales, i.e. "you'll be making $85,000 your second year out of school." I discovered that Jean Madeline is nothing more than a charm school for misguided teens. Classes are taught by a student who has just graduated from Jean Madeline's Esthetics school. My teacher couldn't pronounce the terms in the text book and was incapable of answering questions about skin. So I moved on to the Magnolia School in Ambler. Staffed with an Esthetics teacher who is a veteran in the business, I completed my esthetics training with Magnolia. People who are serious about learning Esthetics should take a closer look at Magnolia. It was difficult getting a refund on the tuition I had pre-paid to Jean Madeline. Fast-forward. I am now a spa owner who has auditioned Esthetics grads from Jean Madeline for possible employment. In all honesty, a few of these grads are, in fact, well trained. But from my hiring experience, most of these grads are in no way primed for work in a spa.

Pros: cheap services in the clinic

Cons: the administration and teaching staff

Posted 10/16/07

I went to Jean Madeline for the second time about a week ago. Nina cut my hair and she did an awesome job. This is the only spot in Philly where you can get a hand massage, a head massage, and a haircut for $10! (plus tip...and be forewarned, they won't take tips on credit or debit cards - cash only. Seems a little unfair to the students!)
When I went to work that evening, no one could believe I got my haircut from an 18 year old student - they were well impressed.
I'm a big fan of this place, but you will be taking a risk - there was a girl behind me bawling because her red hair dye hadn't come out right.
Nina's gone by March 08, so snap up an appointment while you can.
Jean Madeline is an adventure!

Pros: Cheap, easy to get a last minute appointment, free stuff

Cons: They are students after all...so just have fun with it!

Posted 10/11/07

I recently had a facial and a spa glow at the institute. I was very pleased! The customer service was great. A very professional environment. Very relaxing. Better than facials I've paid over $100 for. I will definitely frequent the institute at bainbridge street. My next appointment is for a haircut and highlights. I can't wait!

Pros: very professional

Cons: none

Posted 09/21/07

Got a facial there over the weekend. It was OK. Not worth $33. I would go to a normal salon and spend the extra couple bucks to feel refreshed. It was about half an hour long, but pretty much useless. Could have done the same thing myself with a mask at home.

Posted 06/27/07

Living downtown is expensive enough and I'm all about cutting corners when I can. After a friend's recommendation, I booked an appt for a facial. No stranger to dropping over $100 for a facial, I was thrilled at the chance to spend a mere $33, but a little skeptical, it is my face afterall! No worries, the girl did a great job, she didn't do extractions but I was ok with that. Keep in mind, it is only a school so anyone getting a facial will be in one big room with curtain separations. They do their best to make it a tranquil experience but as long as you don't need all of the hoopla of a higher-end spa, then this is the best facial you'll get for your money! Will definitely be back!!

Pros: inexpensive, service

Cons: hours

Posted 06/20/07

Just an FYI, I went over there today (Saturday) to get a mani and pedi, but they don't offer the service on Saturdays... ONLY Tuesday's and Wednesdays. Will go back another day, I guess.

Pros: Close to my apartment. Friendly.

Cons: No manicures/pedicures offered on Saturday!

Posted 06/08/07

This is THE BEST service for your dollar!!!!! They are students but they use the best products and have a teacher that they have to approve everything with. I am new to the city and found out about it on Craigslist and I will never go anywhere else......the only downfall is you get a great stylist then they graduate and you have to pay like $300 for them now......lol

Pros: highlights, very affordable

Cons: takes a long time and sometimes the person you get is not very good

Posted 04/03/07

...By Fillygirl. When you go to the Jean Madeline Salon/Spa SCHOOL please be aware before booking your appointment that these students are not professionals, they are students trying to learn. In order to learn, they need real clients in order to get the most out of their education. You sign a waiver when you check in for your appointment, basically warning you of the risks that could be involved when you get a service by the students. To say they have "a collective IQ of 80 and never shut up" is completely unfair, since most of the girls (not all, but most) in the cosmetology program are straight out of high school and still have a lot of learning to do. To also demeen them by calling them amateurs is also quite rude and doesn't really get your point across very well. Of course they are amateurs, they are in school! So my advice, if you are looking for services that are considerably cheaper than a professional spa/salon, then try out the Jean Madeline school. You ARE at a risk, but as long as you know that beforehand, you really can't complain afterwards unless they physically harmed you (they aren't THAT bad, sheesh). I know all this because I was in the esthetician program, and I have had my hair cut by one of the students. Sure, some parts of my hair were a little bit longer than others, but it was nothing my usual stylist couldn't fix :) They're there to learn, first and foremost, and you just help the students acheive their goals, which we were always very grateful for! The same girls that you said have a collective IQ of 80 are the same that are in the professional spas and salons today, only with a license! Give them a break, they do a nice job and they try very hard (because their grades are on the line, too, which makes them care just a little bit more). Check them out!

Pros: Considerably less expensive than a regular salon

Cons: The parking, you are at a RISK because these are students, not professionals (yet)

Posted 10/11/06

I have been to Jean Madeline twice, and I didn't get what I wanted either time. The first time, I was very clear about what I wanted (wanted to keep the length I had, layers on the sides only, bottom cut like the bottom of an oval) and what I got (after sitting for 3 hours) was pretty different. The second time, I was fairly clear about my desires but maybe a little less emphatic; at first, I thought it was perfect, because the sides looked really nice (this time it took 2.5 hours), but then I got home and saw the back, which didn't look at all like what I wanted (I asked for an oval, and it was cut straight across, after a pretty severe drop from the side layers). Both times the students were very nice, but they just don't seem to have enough experience to deal with anything beyond very, very straightforward cuts.

Pros: nice atmosphere, friendly people

Cons: super slow, didn't get the cut I wanted

Posted 09/11/06

I walked into the salon for a touch-up on highlights that I had done in Miami three months ago. My hair, before they touched it, had beautiful honey colored highlights, sunkissed and warm. After the students and the staff at Jean Madeline were done with me, I was left with nothing but ASHES. My hair was left ASHEN - an ugly, grey brown. I went from a sunny blonde to a dull brunette, and it took them six hours to do this!!! Also, beware of them further wasting your time with a 24 hour before color "patchtest". The problem with this, is that they don't tell you when you schedule the appointment, and so waste your time with you running into the salon the day before so that they can "check your skin for allergies." My scalp stilled burned from the toner they used. The staff is filled with excuses, and the students have a collective IQ of 80, and they DON"T SHUT UP. My advice -- STAY AWAY. Better to pay a little more elsewhere with professionals than waste your time with these amateurs.

Pros: You don't ever have to go back.

Cons: I went once.

Posted 09/07/06

she is great. i loved my cut. now they are using bio ionic hair dryers. it is the best place anywhere for me to get my hair cut. and a purescription treatment.

Posted 05/13/06

Where else can you get an amazing haircut and highlights for less than $50? The students at the institute are certainly well trained (judging from the amazing hair the customers were walking out with). Monica did my h/lights and cut. Took about 2 1/2 hours but the result was worth it. I have never had a better haircut!!! Tea and a complimentary hand massage was offered to me. Overall, will definitely go back again!

Pros: great value, good results

Posted 04/10/06

I love it at Jean Madeline Aveda Institute. The students do a great job, and are very good at giving me the style I want. Allison Z is especially great, she exceeded my expectations 100%! The prices are wonderful, as is the atmosphere. Also, you get free hand and scalp massages! It's really a wonderful place. Try it out, you won't regret it!

Pros: Great work, Prices, Freebies

Cons: No night hours

Posted 02/09/06

Out of curiosity, I had to call this morning...and they were able to fit me an hour later! I went to get a facial...and it was a better than the ones that have received (for 4X the price) at a regular spa! Sandra was great!!! I had a very stressful weekend...and this treatment was exactly what I needed. My skin feels so soft---and I couldn't be happier!

Pros: Excellent Skill, Great Setting, Wonderful cust. serv.

Cons: Gossiping Students, Poor receptionist

Posted 01/31/06

I went to Jean Madeline a bit nervous...This was the first time I had gotten my hair done at a school and I didn't know what to expect. Upon arriving I was impressed with the professional and relaxing atmosphere. I was assigned to Miesha, who I can't say enough great things about! She immediately put my mind at ease with her pleasant demeanor and charming personality. Not only was she great company I GOT THE BEST HAIRCUT I'VE HAD IN YEARS!!! I have baby fine curly hair that is always frizzy, not only did she give me a versatile layered cut I got a great blowout without frizz. She also showed me how to acheive the look at home and explained how to care for my hair. I still can't believe she is a student...she's gonna go very far...GET HER WHILE SHE'S STILL CHEAP!

Pros: scalp massage, professional, cheap

Cons: parking

Posted 12/15/05

After having my hair cut I was very happy with the style and the price. I am coming back for a manacure. I recomend the salon. Just make sure that you are aware of the time inside because they constantly check the meter's.

Pros: Inexpensive

Cons: Parking

Posted 10/20/05

I went to Jean Madeline and was happy with the result. I mostly liked the price. Everyone there seemed to be helpful. I would go there again

Pros: friendly

Cons: Parking

Posted 10/19/05

the salon was good and the people were nice. i would come again.

Posted 10/16/05

I'am new to the city and signed up on Philadelphia Citysearch website ( a very helpful site I might add). I have never been to a hairdressing school to get my hair cut but after reading about your school and the terrific comments about Mandy I thought "alright what the hey". Last week I got my haircut by Mandy and love,love it and thought she did such a good job on my haircut that I made an app. that day for a color highlight. Well that color highlight app.was today and I love,love my hair. What a terrific tallent she is and I to,will surely be back. Thank You Citysearch.

Cons: none

Posted 10/10/05

I have been a long time client of the school. I have always been pleased with my services- cuts, color, highlights, facials. The students have always been excellent. The staff is helpful and courteous. I will continue to be a loyal client.

Posted 10/09/05

Went to Jean Madelines on based on the wonderful reviews. Greeted by friendly staff and offered comfort tea, which I would need when told by the manager that Mandy is not here; I can give you someone else. I explained that I had made the appointment two hours ago. She repeated that Mandy was gone. Looking at the clock, (I had arrived early) I suggested that she may have gone to lunch. The manager told me firmly and with some patronizing attitude bordering on arrogance that this is a school and the students are free to come and go. Let me put it this way, it wouldnt be the first time. I explained my hair issues and the wonderful reviews I read about Mandy . She went off to look for a student to help me and returned only to tell me that Mandy was available. Mandy/great and good cut!

Posted 08/31/05

After reading the reveiws on your website and hearing all the buzz about Mandy I decided to give the "best bet" Jean Madeline's a try.Two weeks before she was avalible but made my appointment with Mandy. My hair looks fabulous. She gave me long layers, full top and carmel highlights. Mandy suggested the carmel highlights being my hair is a dull dark brown and I wanted something with not to much of a contrast, I love it! I never had a hair stylist spend so much time on my hair and myself. The price is unbelievably low for center city but the value is in the result of my hair. Now I know what the 'buzz' about Mandy is. I will definitely be back. My tip to her was not enough and my tip to you is "this truly is a best bet", good-bye Pierre and carlos hello Jean madelines!

Pros: great value, give you what you wan, much talent

Cons: parking

Posted 08/11/05

I requested Mandy and got an amazing layered haircut! Honestly, however, the vast majority of students seemed to be very professional and highly skilled--especially for being students. However, the girl next to me hated her haircut, but this could happen anywhere, and it still looked fine but wasn't what she wanted. Maybe take a photo of what you have in mind? The teachers supervise a few students each and only seem to intervene when something is going wrong, but then they do everything to make sure you get a great haircut and the student learns. Take at least $3 in change for parking. Since they are students, your haircut will probably take a long time, and the police seem to check the meters constantly. Also, their prices have gone up slightly from what is posted on their website. My haircut was $12--still a great bargain! I will definitely go back!

Pros: professional, use of Aveda products, great bargain

Cons: slight risk involved, parking meters

Posted 08/09/05

I never wrote a review before, but after reading the comments on your web page I decided to try Jean madelines and also the stylist, Mandy that everybody seems to be buzzing about. I had to wait 2 weeks to get an app. with her, she was unavalible untill then, but thought if she's that good, I'll wait. Well my app. was today and I just got back. Now i know what all the BUZZ is about, I agree also with your reviews that she is wonderful, my hair looks fabulous and what a sweetie. Good-bye pierre and carlos', Hello Jean Madelines MANDY.

Posted 08/09/05

Went to Jean madeline"s and loved my hair ...the place....and the people,sometimes when you go to a salon they can be so snobby. Not so here, I feel they do a wonderful job and price can't be beat.....it's on my best bet list.

Pros: great

Posted 07/20/05

I also went to Mandy and she is very very good,only thing is, she graduates in january "06" and will be working on the main line not the city. I think it's a good idea for Jean Madiline"s to post what salon's there student's go to after they graduate.That way you can follow the stylist to her salon providing it's not to far, but than again the price will also be much higher!!

Pros: great price, wonderful stylist, friendly

Cons: sat.crowded

Posted 07/20/05

I came to your school/salon 2 saturdays ago after a friend recommended your hair stylist/ student mandy( an addorable little blond ).Well my hair has never looked better ....the color...the cut and to boot the price!!! I have been to the best salons from Philadelphia to New York and Jean Madeline's "Mandy" by far is the best stylist I have ever been to!! Hat's off to Jean Madeline"s ,you teach your student's well and as for Mandy...Thank you !!! I love my hair!!!

Posted 07/18/05

Even though Jess is a student she did a fantastic job with my hair! I'm absolutely in love with it! The staff makes an effort to be nice and helpful which is nice to see knowing how some salons can give arrogant vibes. The prices cannot be beat plus they have small complimentary services (ie hand massage, head massage) Can't recommend this place more!

Pros: prices, attitudes

Cons: none

Posted 06/17/05

Well, after paying out the wazoo for ritzy Rittenhouse Salons. I tried Jean Madeline as advised by a thrifty friend. For only$9.50 I got a style, haircut and blowdry that rocked my world. After this wonderful surprise I went back and tried their facial and a bacial only $50 for both!! Can you imagine. Smells great, felt great and no stinging like the usual facials at Rittenhouse spas.. Well 3rd times a charm and since Susan; my hairdresser was such a natural at styling my hair tried some color with diamond highlights. Gorgeous and cheap. So a haircut, style, blowdry, diamond highlights and permanent color --- only cost me $52.50!! At my old ritzy rittenhouse salon.. it would've cost me well over $200! Do you think I would recommend Jean Madeline Institute ... I already have!

Pros: great products, creative, professional & cheap

Cons: students

Posted 05/17/05