Pricilla would be a very worried wife every time James* tells him that he will be stopping by for a haircut in the evening. She’d seen Tiktok videos of skimpy-dressed 22-year-olds dancing on barbershop customers while they were being groomed.
The schedule was so bad that James would always book an appointment a day ahead of time because the barbershop was always packed. 35 to 60-year-old decent men would frequently wait 2 hours for a haircut and a relaxing massage at the barbershop. This is the story of Kenya’s boujee barbershops.
Barbershops have long been a gathering place for men, serving as more than just a place to get a haircut or shave. They have served as social hubs, where men can engage in conversation, build friendships, and discuss various topics ranging from sports to politics.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of women taking over barbershops with tantalizing services such as massage, face scrubs and pedicure.
So, what’s driving this change? And how are barbershops adapting to the influx of female services at the barbershop? Let’s dive deeper into this fascinating trend.
Why Are Women Taking Over Barbershops?
1. Increased demand for hair services
Women are taking charge of their grooming and are seeking out professional hair services more than ever before.
According to a report by Grand View Research, the global hair care market is expected to reach $94.2 billion by 2025, with women’s hair care products being the largest segment.
As a result, barbershops are expanding their services to cater to this growing demand.
2. Diversification of income streams
Men love to be treated like Kings. To wade into this otherwise ‘female services’, many barbers are diversifying their income streams by offering massage services, manicure, face scrubs, pedicures and hair services by women.
This has led to a sharp rise in clientele and an edge over competitors.
How Are Barbershops Adapting to Female Clients and Barbers?
Barbershops are adapting to the influx of female clients and barbers in various ways. Here are some examples:
1. Redesigning the shop environment
Some barbershops are redesigning their physical environments to be more inclusive and welcoming to women. This includes adding private rooms for female clients, updating decor to be more gender-neutral, and providing amenities such as complimentary drinks and Wi-Fi.
2. Offering specialized services
To cater to female clients, barbershops are offering specialized services such as dreadlocks, weaves, and wigs. These services require different techniques and products than traditional men’s haircuts, so barbers have to learn new skills and invest in new equipment.
3. Hiring female barbers
As more women become interested in barbering, shops are hiring female barbers to meet the demand for these specialized services. This not only provides more job opportunities for women but also helps to create a more diverse and inclusive work environment.
What Does the Future Hold for Women in Barbershops?
The future of women in barbershops looks bright. As more women enter the profession and demand for hair services continues to grow, we can expect to see even more female barbers and clients in the years to come.
As more women become barbers, we can expect to see a wider range of hair care services offered specifically for women. This could include specialized cuts and styles, as well as products and treatments tailored to women’s hair types.
We may start to see more representation of female barbers and clients in media and advertising. This could help to break down gender stereotypes and promote greater acceptance of women in traditionally male-dominated industries.
