Here are well-regarded cosmetology training options near Crystal Lake, IL, with quick notes to help you compare (address and source links included):

1. Cosmetology & Spa Academy — Crystal Lake (closest, local campus)

• Programs: Cosmetology (1500 hrs), Esthetics, Barbering, Nail tech, Instructor training; community-focused campus in Crystal Lake.
• Address: 700 E Terra Cotta Ave, Crystal Lake, IL.
• Why consider it: right in Crystal Lake (short drive/walk depending on location), offers the full cosmetology curriculum and flexible schedules for local students. (cosmetologyandspaacademy.edu)

2. Aveda Institute / The Institute of Beauty & Wellness — Chicago (Aveda-branded campus in Chicago)

• Programs: Aveda-style cosmetology (strong emphasis on hair, skin and business skills; plant-based product philosophy).
• Why consider it: Aveda curriculum and strong industry recognition; good if you want an Aveda-centered education and connection to Aveda salons/spas. Located in Chicago (commutable from Crystal Lake by car or Metra for students willing to travel). (ibw.edu)

3. Paul Mitchell The School — Chicago

• Programs: Cosmetology (1500–1600 hour options), esthetics, instructor training; branded curriculum and large student salon environment.
• Why consider it: nationally recognized Paul Mitchell training, structured program levels and career services; downtown Chicago location with multiple start dates. (paulmitchell.edu)

4. Paul Mitchell The School — Tinley Park (south suburban Chicago)

• Programs: Cosmetology and esthetics at a suburban campus.
• Why consider it: another Paul Mitchell campus that may be more convenient for students south of Crystal Lake or for those who prefer a suburban campus. (Longer drive than Crystal Lake campus but an option if you want Paul Mitchell curriculum.) (paulmitchell.edu)

5. Other nearby options to check (if you want more choices): Cameo Beauty Academy (Oak Lawn area) and additional community colleges or private beauty schools listed on regional directories — worth comparing tuition, program hours (IL requires specific clock-hours for licensure), schedules, financial aid, and board pass/graduation/placement stats. (cosmetologyschoolsnearme.org)

How to choose (quick checklist)

• Program hours and Illinois licensing requirements: confirm the clock-hours meet the Illinois State Board requirement for cosmetology licensure.
• Accreditation and state approval: look for schools approved by the Illinois Dept. of Financial & Professional Regulation and nationally accredited programs (if federal aid is important).
• Costs & financial aid: compare tuition, kit/textbook fees, and whether FAFSA/financial aid is available. Paul Mitchell and Aveda publish cost estimates; local schools post tuition on their sites. (paulmitchell.edu)
• Outcomes: ask each school for recent graduation rates, licensing exam pass rates, and job-placement assistance.
• Visit/tour: schedule a tour or attend an open house (many schools list open-house dates on their pages).

If you want, I can:

• Compare tuition, program hours, and commuting times for any 2–3 schools you pick; or
• Call out exact Metra/bus commute times from your address to any campus; or
• Pull each school’s most recent consumer disclosure (graduation/licensure rates) and show a side-by-side comparison.

Which of the schools above would you like a deeper comparison for?