With all of the pressures from everyday life, students are looking for a hip new way to relieve unwanted tension.

Identity Salon & Spa has been doing just that.

Identity Salon & Spa, 850 Pappas Drive in Varsity Plaza, has been booming with business since its opening in March. It’s a full-service salon that offers all hair and nail services including manicures, pedicures and nail extensions.

Body waxing, sugaring, body massages and spa body therapy are just a few more of the services offered.

“I think DeKalb definitely needed a place like my facility,” said Renee Abdullah, the 21-year-old owner of Identity. “There really isn’t a place that’s targeted toward that younger, hipper, in kind of thing.”

With its sleek, Chicago-style interior, black and white decorations and mirrors surrounding the salon, Identity has become one of the hottest relaxation spots in town.

“It’s fun because you have more college students who want to do more fun things,” stylist Heather Ramon said.

Although having fun and relaxing is important, cost has limited the amount of fun or relaxation that NIU students experience. However, Identity will allow customers to enjoy themselves at reasonable prices. A haircut and style start at just $20, manicures at $20 and a half-hour massage at $35.

“Your hair and your looks are the first thing that people will look at,” Abdullah said. “They may not judge you by it, but your hair and appearance define you.”