In a revealing TikTok video, hairstylist Daisy Gowin has shed light on a notable shift in women’s hairstyle choices that mirrors broader economic challenges. According to Gowin, the rise in popularity of low-maintenance hairstyles among women is a clear indicator of financial constraints.
Gowin, known for her insightful commentary on beauty trends, shared her observations on how economic downturns influence personal grooming preferences. She draws a parallel between the early warnings of economic trouble perceived by certain professions and the current trends in hairstyling.
“Just as strippers might notice a drop in clientele during economic recessions due to reduced disposable income, hairstylists are seeing a similar trend with the rise of natural and low-maintenance hairstyles,” Gowin explained in her video.
She highlights that women are increasingly opting for styles that require less upkeep, such as low lights, smudged roots, and the “old money blonde” look, which reduces the frequency of salon visits and overall maintenance costs.
Gowin noted that this shift is driven not only by financial limitations but also by time constraints. “It’s not just about saving money; many women are also juggling busy schedules that leave them with little time to maintain high-maintenance hair colors and styles,” she said.
The trend reflects a broader shift in priorities as women confront rising costs and stagnant wages. Many are making sacrifices in personal care, with beauty treatments becoming less of a priority. The StyleSeat survey underscores this trend, revealing that women are cutting back on expenses for makeup, nail and hair salon services, and skin care during times of financial strain.
A growing number of women are turning to DIY methods to manage their hair care. With access to numerous online tutorials, many are learning to cut and style their hair at home to save on salon costs. While the quality may vary compared to professional services, the financial savings make this approach appealing to those feeling the pinch of inflation.
Comments on Gowin’s video echo the sentiment of many facing economic difficulties. One viewer remarked, “I can’t afford $500 every four weeks for salon visits anymore. It’s just too expensive.” Another shared, “I’ve been doing my own hair for years now, saving thousands annually. The salon was overpriced and inconsistent.”
This trend towards more self-sufficient hair care and natural styles highlights the significant impact of economic conditions on personal grooming habits. As financial pressures continue, many are reassessing their priorities and finding ways to adapt to a challenging economic environment.
For many women, the decision to embrace more manageable hairstyles is both a practical and economic one, reflecting the broader struggle to balance rising costs with limited resources.