These days a visit to the spa, hair salon or barbershop costs . . . well, a lot! And after an expensive treatment, many of us balk at forking out even more for pricey products recommended by stylists, whom we might suspect of pushing items simply because they earn commission. So what do you need to consider?
“There’s no one size fits all,” says Sheldon Tatchell, owner and CEO of SA men’s grooming parlour chain Legends Barbershop.That’s why it’s important to pay attention when a professional recommends a product after a treatment, says the barber, whose high-profile clients include rappers Nasty C, Riky Rick and Cassper Nyovest.
Many beauty experts agree that conscious consumerism seems no longer to be merely a trend but a new norm that’s informing whether we choose to save or splurge on products. “During the pandemic there’s been an increase in self-care, wellness and beauty”, says Kelly Fung, a South African beauty, fashion- and retail-trends expert. Suppliers of beauty products are acknowledging that because we all have unique skin and hair needs, customising is key. This is particularly true when it comes to ageing.