Transforming your client’s ‘do from drab to fab and watching her gaze in amazement at her reflection afterward is a joy you’ll never get tired of. But that’s not the only reason you’re proud to call yourself a beauty boss.
Research shows that the demand for hairstylists in America is slated to jump by 11% — faster than the average — between 2021 and 2031. That means you can expect to enjoy job security for years to come.
However, developing or running a salon properly requires keeping up with current trends. So here’s a rundown of the salon industry trends in 2023 that you should follow to stay ahead of the competition. Let’s jump in!
What’s Trending in the Salon Industry?
Digitalization and Technology
The salon industry in 2023 is witnessing a transformative shift with the increased emphasis on digitalization. This trend is not just about convenience; it’s about revolutionizing the client experience and operational efficiency through technology.
For instance, if you don’t currently give your clients the option of booking their hair appointments online using automated technology, this is a must in todays world. Otherwise, you will miss some serious sales opportunities.
After all, Generation Z users and millennials prefer to book appointments online. In addition, many salon customers schedule visits outside of their salons’ opening hours.
Online Booking and Scheduling Systems
As mentioned, offering online booking is essential. However, the trend goes beyond just basic online appointment scheduling. Advanced systems now offer features like:
- AI-Powered Scheduling: Utilizing artificial intelligence to suggest optimal appointment times based on client history and stylist availability.
- Mobile Optimization: Ensuring that booking platforms are fully functional and user-friendly on mobile devices, as a significant portion of clients book via smartphones.
- Integration with Social Media: Allowing clients to book directly through platforms like Instagram and Facebook, tapping into where potential clients spend a lot of their time.
Automated Client Management
Automated technology for appointment confirmations and follow-ups is crucial, but there’s more to explore:
- Personalized Communication: Automated systems can now send personalized messages and recommendations based on client preferences and history.
- Appointment Reminders: Utilizing SMS and email for appointment reminders, reducing no-shows significantly.
- Feedback Collection: Automated post-appointment surveys to gather client feedback, helping in improving services and client retention.
Virtual Consultations and Services
The pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual consultations. In 2023, this trend continues with:
- Video Consultations: Allowing clients to discuss their needs with stylists before physically visiting the salon, saving time for both parties.
- AR-Enabled Hair and Makeup Trials: Augmented reality apps let clients try different hairstyles and color options virtually before making a decision.
Data-Driven Decision Making
Salons are increasingly using data analytics to make informed decisions:
- Client Behavior Analysis: Understanding patterns in booking, preferences, and spending to tailor services and marketing strategies.
- Inventory Management: Automated systems track product usage and sales to optimize inventory levels and reduce waste.
Eco-Friendly Digital Practices
With a growing emphasis on sustainability:
- Digital Receipts: Offering clients digital receipts instead of paper ones, aligning with eco-friendly practices.
- Energy-Efficient Salon Software: Using cloud-based systems that require less energy compared to traditional in-house servers.
Leveraging Social Media
Make sure that you are also more active than ever before on social media in 2023. This will allow you to gain more access to younger and new clients.
Plus, the more you interact with your social media audience, the more you’ll learn about the styles and treatments they prefer based on the advice of the beauty influencers they follow.
You can also post your own social media videos promoting the value of add-on treatments. Then, when clients come into your shop after watching your videos, upselling your clients on these products or services will be easier.
Sustainability
Another 2023 beauty salon trend worth following is an increased focus on sustainability.
For instance, consider utilizing more environmentally conscious products and treatments and trying to minimize waste. Keeping your salon system online and becoming paperless is another way to show your clients how “green” you are.
The more ethical you are as a cosmetologist, the more customers in 2023 will be willing to patronize your business.
Inclusive or Gender-Neutral Services
Finally, make sure that your salon is more inclusive than ever in 2023 to stay on trend.
This means providing services and products for all hair types, from straight to textured and curly hair. It also means introducing price lists that are gender-neutral rather than listing pricing for males and females only.
How We Can Help
The leading salon industry trends in 2023 include digitalizing the process of booking salon appointments, follow-ups, and pre-consultations. They also include providing inclusive hair care services and practicing sustainability.
Fortunately, The Salon Professional Academy offers top-of-the-line training for hair stylists seeking to take their businesses to the next level. So get in touch with us to learn more about how we can propel your business forward in 2023 and beyond.
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