Valerie Villegas began her Cosmetology studies at the Technology Center of DuPage. In 2011 she transferred to and graduated from Regency Beauty Institute in Darien, IL. She then began her ”behind the chair” career at a salon in downtown Hinsdale. Valerie found she enjoyed what many stylists don’t: thick, long, curly, coarse hair. Really any hair type that really needed attention and care, even thin hair types. She has bult a following of women with all challenging hair types.

 

Appreciated for her speedy A+ results, she jokingly developed the title "Blow-Dry Queen." Valerie has also acquired women who have suffered from thin, brittle, and damaged hair. With the help of keratin treatments, scalp treatments, or hair extensions, Valerie has been able to help women who experience unwanted hair changes. Typically hair loss and changes result from chemo, medication, alopecia, chemical, and heat damage. 

 

In addition to working at a full-service salon, Valerie has styled at multiple blow-dry bars including the national chain and product line DryBar. As her styling experience grew, she started free-lancing for Pin Me Up Chicago as an on-site hair and make-up artist for special events, e. g. weddings, proms, photo shoots, Red Carpets, and as a platform stylist for the annual America’s Beauty Show.

 

In May 2018 Valerie established her own salon studio, Beauty by Val, in Willowbrook, IL. Due to Covid-19 Val shut her doors but is offering at-home beauty services. For in-salon services, you can find Valerie at Coco Beauty Lounge in River Grove, Il and Betty's Blowdry & Beauty Bar in Elmhurst, Il. Despite the 2020 challenges, Valerie continues to grow her skill-set to help people enjoy ALL THINGS BEAUTY.