Finding a hair salon that actually listens is harder than it looks. Most of the time, you walk in, explain exactly what you want, and walk out looking like a different person—and not in the "wow, I love it" way. But Kut Above Salon Munster has been sitting on Ridge Road for over 40 years for a reason. They've outlasted trends, economic dips, and the rise of those massive corporate chains that treat you like a number on a spreadsheet. Honestly, staying in business that long in the beauty industry is basically a miracle.
Located at 923 Ridge Road, this place isn't just a spot for a quick trim. It’s a full-on day spa. Most people in Northwest Indiana know it as the purple-branded building where you can get your roots done, but it’s actually much deeper than that.
What Really Happens at Kut Above Salon Munster
When you walk into Kut Above Salon Munster, you aren't just getting a stylist who graduated last week. Their team is seasoned. They handle the "bread and butter" stuff—men's and women's haircuts—but they’ve leaned heavily into the spa side of things lately.
They’ve got this dual-suite setup at 919-D and 923-D Ridge Road. One side is where the hair magic happens, and the other is where you go to forget your life exists for an hour. We’re talking Swedish massages, deep tissue work, and even prenatal massages for moms-to-be who are past their first trimester.
Pricing That Doesn't Give You Sticker Shock
Let’s be real: salon prices have gone crazy lately. At Kut Above, the pricing is actually pretty transparent, though they do the whole "starting at" thing because, well, long hair takes more work and more product.
- Men’s Haircuts: These usually start around $26.
- Women’s Cuts: You’re looking at about $38, or $45 if your hair is long.
- The Color Game: A standard color and cut is roughly $95. If you’re going for the full foil, color, and cut experience, it’ll run you closer to $139.
It’s not the cheapest place in town, but it’s far from the "boutique" salons in Chicago that charge $300 for a blowout. You get what you pay for here—which is usually stability and a stylist who knows your name.
The Spa Factor You Might Not Know About
Most people think of them for hair, but their massage menu is surprisingly legit. They offer dry brushing, which is great for exfoliation and circulation, and foot therapy sessions that involve hot stones and hydrating masks. If you've been on your feet all day, that $45 for foot therapy is probably the best money you'll spend all month.
They also have a strict policy for bridal and special occasion styles: come in with clean, dry hair and wear a button-down shirt. It sounds like a small detail, but it’s the kind of "pro tip" that prevents you from ruining a $75 bridal updo because you had to pull a t-shirt over your head.
Why Longevity Is a Competitive Advantage
In a world of Instagram-famous stylists who disappear after six months, Kut Above Salon Munster is a bit of an anomaly. They’ve been serving the Munster community for four decades. That kind of history means they’ve seen every hair trend come and go—from the perms of the 80s to the balayage of today.
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They carry professional-only brands in the shop too. If you liked what they used during your service, you can usually just grab a bottle on the way out. It beats trying to guess what’s good at the drugstore.
Actionable Tips for Your Visit
If you're thinking about booking, don't just wing it. Here is how to actually get the most out of Kut Above:
- Book the Package: They offer combined services that usually save you a bit of cash compared to booking a facial, massage, and haircut separately. Just remember, they require a $60 deposit for spa packages to keep things fair for the therapists.
- The "Long Hair" Rule: If your hair is past your shoulders, expect to pay the "long" rate. It's not a scam; it's just the reality of product usage.
- Timing: Since they've been around so long, they have a very loyal base of regulars. If you want a Saturday appointment, you'd better call at least a week or two in advance.
- Consult First: If you’re doing a major color correction or a permed-to-straight transformation, don't just book "color." Call them at 219-836-1840 and talk to a pro first.
Kut Above isn't trying to be the trendiest, most "aesthetic" spot on your feed. They’re trying to be the reliable, high-quality local staple that actually knows how to handle a pair of shears. For a lot of people in Munster, that's exactly what matters most.
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To get started, check their current availability online or stop by the Ridge Road location to see the retail selection. If you're planning a wedding, ask specifically for Mackenzie—she's been a standout for bridal work in recent years. For any massage services, make sure you mention any specific pressure preferences when booking so they can match you with the right therapist.