According to the Service Annual Survey from the Bureau of Census, since the year 2000 demand for personal care services has consistently gone up, bucking the trend of numerous other industries struggling within the recessionary economy. In 2008, hair, nail, and skin care services brought in some $22,488 million dollars in revenue.

How could it be that the personal care service sector is continuing to grow despite poor economic conditions?

Here are a three good reasons:

It’s one of life’s affordable luxuries. Like candy, alcohol, and movies (all of which are doing well these days), services such as hair styling and facial treatments are a simple luxury that is still within the reach of most budgets.

It’s helping people age gracefully. As the baby boomer generation gets older, this largest segment of the population is seeking products and services that will help them to feel and look younger and more beautiful.

Do-it-yourselfers are at a disadvantage. Though there are many personal care products on the market, it may be hard for most people to get the same results from their own efforts as compared to a professional salon or spa. They also miss out on the service aspect of the business-i.e. that feeling of being pampered and attended to as well as all the experience and knowhow that salon personnel can provide.

Source:

2008 Service Annual Survey Bureau of Census