Beauty services like hair and nails shouldn’t be labeled as a “luxury.”

I keep noticing providers say that hair, nails, etc., are a luxury and that people should just go where they can afford, even though prices are similar everywhere. The problem is that the average American is their main customer, and most people don’t have luxury budgets. What we’re now seeing instead is a decrease in how often people go, and more opting out altogether to DIY.

I understand that supplies, rent, and operating costs have gone up, and stylists need to make a profit. But when services are priced as “luxury,” customer turnout drops. There needs to be a balance where professionals can earn money without pricing out regular clients. Otherwise, the number of visits will keep going down, and fewer salons will stay open.