2019 is here and the salon industry’s digital revolution is still picking up. Beauty consumers are booking online in droves, looking for on-trend treatments at times that work for them. That’s great news for smart business owners. More and more customers booking online means even more opportunities to show those browsers and bookers just what you’re bringing to the table – and make sure it’s what they want right now.
Keeping an eye on the horizon is important for any business, but that’s even more true for the salon industry, where customers’ priorities and fashion choices can change at breakneck speed. Let’s take a look at the 6 beauty treatments you need to make sure are on your menu now, before your customers start asking for them.
Brows: Nanoblading
The next generation of microblading – a semi-permanent form of cosmetic tattooing. Nanoblading involves the same technique, but with super fine, flexible needles. This allows for a more ‘natural’ look, achieved with further precision and accuracy. With microblading bookings up +503% YoY, the nano-needle version may be next year’s big hit.
Think natural-look bushy brows, with definition at the arches, and hairs brushed upward.
Hair removal: Sugaring
The rise of the plant-based lifestyle is showing no signs of slowing down, and sugaring is the perfect example of what that looks like for the hair and beauty industry.
Sugaring involves applying a cocktail of lemon juice, sugar and water to the skin that removes hair from the root – with nary a chemical in sight.
Expect to see this popping up everywhere this year – sugaring bookings on Treatwell jumped 240% just last year.
Hair colouring: Colour romanticism
Not just for the out-there anymore; ‘Colour Romanticism’ has arrived for 2019; all-over experimental hair colour in ‘sophisticated’ hues. Expect more requests for out-there, high maintenance hair colours – block shades of rich emerald greens, luxe metallic blues, and romantic rose pinks.
Nails: Custom manicures
A trend on the catwalk, and in real life – nails that defy conformity, to celebrate personality instead.
Visits to your salon become real conversations, as consumers ditch the everyday ‘average’ manicure in favour of complete customisation, adding a personal touch to their nail beds. Think decorative prints or lettering. Nail jewellery will remain on the scene too.
Men’s hair: Blow drys for blokes
Absolutely one of last year’s top risers in the beauty industry, the brazilian blow dry will only pick up steam as more and more men get involved in booking themselves beauty treatments.
Straighter hair without the time investment and damage of constantly applying heat? No brainer.
Grooming: Beard trimming
As our increased numbers of men seeking professional help with their facial hair on Treatwell last year (+153%!) suggests, the bushy, hipster beard looks like its way out. Instead, expect to be treating men looking for a more controlled, cleaner, and more stylised look.