MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – You may have noticed that your stylist or barber’s prices have increased recently.
Some people consider their hair an investment and go above and beyond to take care of it.
The Wall Street Journal reports that costs for barbers and stylists have increased by more than 27%.
Hair has personal value for some, reflects beauty and youth for others, and many are ready to spend almost anything to maintain that appearance.
“Jheri curls in the ’70s were going from $65 to $85. Now you can buy them for $800,” said Melanie Salisbury, hairstylist, owner and educator at Memphis Skin Academy.
Salisbury also said there are good reasons for the price increase.
“It’s the economy. Products and supply stores have gone up. So whatever we do, to make a profit, of course it has to go up,” Salisbury said.
As product prices increase, she says add-ons such as colors or specific styles can take hours.
She said if you want your hair done properly, your average Joe or Jane can’t do it. Must be done by a professional. Salisbury also explains that social media is driving up prices.
“Of course social media affects everything, so if you look at other celebrities, celebrity stylists are putting price tags on certain things and people are paying for it in places like LA and Atlanta. Other stylists who provide similar or even better services are doing the same thing and we understand that,” Salisbury said.
Over the past year, she has noticed an increase in the number of people leaving corporate American roles to work in the highly lucrative beauty industry.
According to Forbes, the global beauty industry generated $570 billion in revenue last year. Salisbury expects that number to grow even further in the coming years.
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