Rising Haircut Costs Shift UK Trends Towards Longer Styles

In the wake of escalating living costs, the UK hairdressing industry is witnessing a significant shift in hairstyle preferences, with short haircuts declining in popularity as consumers opt for longer, low-maintenance styles. This trend comes amidst a reported 30% increase in average haircut prices since 2020, as indicated by government data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) released in July 2025.

The ongoing cost of living crisis is reshaping consumer choices, with many individuals seeking hairstyles that require less frequent salon visits. Phil Smith, owner of Smith England, a salon in Salisbury, has observed that both men and women are gravitating towards longer hairstyles that can endure the test of time. "We’re still in a cost of living crisis," Smith remarked. "Most people are struggling. Anything that’s going to give your hair a bit of a longer life is going to stay in fashion."

Smith noted a marked decline in the popularity of skin fades, which demand regular upkeep, in favor of taper fades that maintain more length on top and appear stylish even as they grow out. He explained, "When the taper grows out, it looks a bit cooler and messier."

Women are also adapting their hairstyling choices, particularly in coloring techniques. Traditional dyed roots, which typically necessitate salon visits every 10 to 12 weeks, are being replaced by balayage, a technique that allows for growth without the immediate need for touch-ups. This trend aligns with a broader move towards services that offer longevity amidst rising costs. According to Smith, his salon has raised prices by approximately 15% to 20% due to increased operational costs, including inflation on salon products and national insurance hikes.

The challenges faced by the hairdressing industry are echoed by Bobby Gordon, owner of Fella, a men’s barber shop with locations in London and Kent. Gordon confirmed that the economic climate has forced him to reevaluate pricing and service offerings. He stated, "There’s a limit to what people will pay for certain things. I think the work has been cheapened for a very long time and we’re playing catch-up."

Gordon emphasized that the demand for high-quality haircuts has risen, noting that clients are increasingly knowledgeable about their desired styles, influenced by social media platforms like Instagram. This shift has led to an increase in the time required for each appointment, further justifying the need for price adjustments.

The landscape of hairstyling is evolving as salons cater to changing consumer demands. Richard Scorer, the creative director of Haringtons, a premium women’s salon chain, noted a similar trend towards longer-lasting hairstyles and higher-value services. He remarked, "Time is a big issue for people. People used to come in every week and have a blow dry. Now, they’re coming in less regularly, so they want services that last."

As the industry grapples with these challenges, the implications extend beyond hairstyling preferences to encompass broader economic and social considerations. The rise in haircut prices reflects not only inflationary pressures but also the changing nature of consumer behavior in response to financial constraints.

In summary, the shift towards longer hairstyles in the UK can be attributed to a combination of rising costs and a desire for styles that offer durability and ease of maintenance. This trend not only highlights the adaptive nature of consumers amid economic challenges but also underscores the ongoing evolution within the hairdressing industry as it seeks to meet the needs and preferences of a changing clientele.