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In 2025, a significant transformation is unfolding in the beauty industry, one that challenges long-held perceptions about age, beauty, and identity. Across the US and Europe, women are no longer rushing to cover their grey hair. Instead, they are embracing it and even celebrating it. New silver-specific haircare brands like Silverist are leading the way.

A recent article highlighted this growing movement. Beauty veterans such as Evelyn Wang (former Estée Lauder and L’Oréal executive) have created dedicated brands for grey hair, recognising that silver hair has different needs: more hydration, protection against heat and yellowing, and products that enhance its natural beauty.

Lisa Payne of trend forecaster at Stylus has shared that there is a definite shift in consumer perspective on grey hair, from something they have to cover up to something they want to enjoy.

No longer seen as something to hide, grey hair is being positioned as a new beauty ideal, a symbol of authenticity, empowerment, and elegance. Big names like Oribe (Silverati), Daviness (Alchemic Silver Shampoo), and L’Oreal (L’Oreal Professional Silver) are offering silver-focused product lines. And the trend goes beyond haircare, it reflects a wider “mature beauty moment” where brands celebrate women of all ages without pressuring them to “correct” or “reverse” natural changes.

A spokesperson for Oribe noted that the pandemic marked a turning point in consumer behaviour, with more people beginning to embrace their natural hair colour and texture, and that momentum has only grown. It reflects a broader cultural shift.

According to Mintel’s 2023 Hair Colour Market Report, 66% of consumers who colour their hair believe that embracing natural grey is something to be supported, even if they are not quite ready to take that step themselves.

This raises an interesting question: Is the UAE, especially Dubai, ready for this mindset shift?

Dubai’s Beauty Culture: Perfection, Glamour, and Change

In the UAE, and Dubai in particular, beauty is still heavily associated with luxury, glamour, and perfection. Many women here invest significant time and money in maintaining a polished, youthful look, from immaculate blow-dries to balayage to anti-ageing treatments. For many, grey hair has long been seen as something to “fix,” not flaunt.

However, change is slowly happening. Dubai’s beauty consumers are becoming more conscious, more authentic, and more driven by personal wellness over pure aesthetics. Concepts like natural beauty, holistic self-care, and individuality are gaining ground, especially among younger professionals and more internationally exposed residents.

Choosing to go grey doesn’t mean giving up on care. In fact, silver hair often requires even more attention than dyed hair. That’s why brands like Silverist are innovating in this space, offering targeted solutions that nourish, protect, and enhance the natural beauty of silver hair. Salons and consultants who understand these needs can support clients more holistically, not just offering colouring options, but empowerment options.

If the global rise of silver hair is about redefining beauty standards, then Dubai, with its fast-evolving consumer base and openness to innovation, could become a leader in this space, not just a follower.

But for that to happen, brands, salons, and professionals need to normalise the idea that grey can be beautiful and offer guidance on caring for silver hair.

A powerful opportunity awaits those salons who:

1. Lead with conversation: Position grey hair as empowered, not ageing.
2. Offer dedicated care: Introduce silver-toning, hydrating, and protective services.
3. Create inclusive spaces: Consultation rooms free of pressure, whether clients want to go full-silver, blend, or maintain colour.

I believe that for Dubai to become a silver-hair leader, the following must be introduced to our industry:

1. Education for professionals: Workshops on grey-specific product science and styling techniques.
2. Targeted retail: Stock lines like Silverist, Oribe Silverati, and L’Oreal’s grey care systems.
3. In-salon campaigns: Host “Silver Confidence” days, spotlighting real women embracing grey, featuring stylists, community discussions, and product tutorials.
4. Community connection: Build a “Silver Sisters” network – support group for those transitioning, sharing regrowth tips, and celebrating styles.

The future of beauty is about freedom and authenticity. Women should be able to choose what makes them feel confident without being told what is “right” or “young enough.” Going silver is not giving up. It’s showing up with pride.

Whether you’re in your 30s, 50s, or 70s, you deserve to feel radiant in your own skin and hair. And as a beauty industry, it’s time we step up to support that journey, not just with services, but with mindset shifts.

Because beauty isn’t about covering up. It’s about showing up fully as yourself.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping our world and the way we live in it. It is no surprise that this incredible technology has now made inroads into the world of beauty. From personalised skincare solutions, virtual try-ons, and advanced diagnostics, AI-driven innovations are revolutionising how consumers experience skincare and cosmetics. From smart mirrors to AI-powered consultations, beauty brands and salons are leveraging technology to enhance customer experiences and results.

With the Middle East’s growing demand for luxury and high-tech beauty solutions, it won’t be long before you see these trends available in your local salons. Here is what you can expect!

Personalised skincare recommendations

AI enables beauty brands to analyse individual skin types, concerns, and goals, leading to customised skincare solutions. Global brands like Proven Skincare and SkinCeuticals use AI-driven tools to craft personalised regimens based on environmental factors, lifestyle, and skin conditions.

Virtual try-ons and Augmented Reality (AR)

AI-powered virtual try-ons and AR applications allow consumers to experiment with makeup and skincare products without physically applying them. L’Oréal’s ModiFace technology and Sephora’s Virtual Artist app enable real-time beauty trials, helping customers make informed decisions. In the Middle East, beauty retailers are integrating AR features into online shopping platforms, enhancing the digital purchasing experience and reducing return rates.

AI-powered skin diagnostics

AI is merging with dermatology to provide precise skin analysis. Consumers can upload a selfie, and AI algorithms detect concerns such as acne, wrinkles, and pigmentation. L’Oréal’s SkinConsult AI and Samsung’s MICRO LED Beauty Mirror offer real-time diagnostics and product recommendations while L’Oréal’s Cell BioPrint device analyses skin proteins to predict the effectiveness of skincare ingredients.

AI in beauty marketing and customer service

AI is enhancing customer engagement through smart chatbots and virtual assistants. Estée Lauder and Chanel both use AI-powered bots to provide personalised recommendations and answer customer queries, creating seamless shopping experiences. Middle Eastern beauty brands and salons are also adopting AI-driven CRM tools to offer tailored promotions, automated appointment scheduling, and real-time customer support.

AI in beauty salons and spas

We will soon see beauty salons integrating AI to optimise services, from smart scheduling to real-time customer consultations. AI-powered smart mirrors and AR consultations will allow clients to preview beauty treatments before committing. AI-driven inventory systems will ensure salons stock the right products, while chatbots can streamline bookings and customer support.

The future of AI in the beauty Industry

The future of AI in beauty is poised for groundbreaking advancements:

• Hyper-personalisation: AI will refine skincare solutions based on DNA analysis and lifestyle factors.
• AI-powered smart devices: Beauty mirrors, skincare dispensers, and robotic beauty treatments will become mainstream.
• Sustainable beauty: AI will enhance eco-friendly formulations and optimise beauty supply chains.
• Inclusive beauty: AI will improve product inclusivity, ensuring shade accuracy across diverse skin tones.
• AI in dermatology and aesthetics: AI-assisted Botox, fillers, and laser treatments will offer hyper-personalised results.

With AI-powered innovations, beauty brands, salons, and dermatology clinics are enhancing customer experiences, improving treatment precision, and setting new standards for luxury skincare. As technology advances, the region’s beauty industry will continue to embrace AI-driven solutions, making personalised beauty accessible to all.

Is your beauty business ready for AI? Now is the time to explore the power of artificial intelligence in transforming skincare and enhancing customer engagement.

The Background

VR Beauty Consulting was contacted by a business woman who was interested in buying a salon in Dubai. This would be her first venture into the beauty salon industry and after several consultations with our Founder and CEO, Valerie Reynaert, during which options such as starting a salon versus buying an existing salon were discussed, VR Beauty Consulting found the ideal salon to buy.

The existing salon had the benefit of an established clientele, branding, staff, an excellent location etc, however, the client’s vision for the salon extended well beyond that, and with the decision made to purchase the salon, VR Beauty Consulting started the process of supporting our client to bringing her vision to life.

Marketing Strategy and Full Rebrand

Our first step was to develop a full Marketing Strategy, which would then inform a full Rebranding of the salon.

The marketing strategy not only looked at the competitors in great detail, but included a detailed review of the consumer group as well as the economy. This information, along with our teams’ decades of industry experience, enabled them to craft a brand positioning and marketing communications plan that was unique, that would allow the new salon brand to compete successfully and most importantly, that the salon clients would love. A significant aspect of this process was to rethink how the salon did their marketing, from social media and email to digital advertising.

The next step was to design a salon brand that leveraged the best parts of the existing salon, but elevated them to new heights. Our branding partner did a stellar job of doing just that, by injecting a youthful energy into a brand that faded into the background in the past. All aspects of the new branding were considered in this process, from logo and brand colours, to product packaging and signage.

The client fell in love with her new brand, and within months the new branding was rolled out and the salon was transformed.

Social Media

With a new vision for the salon in hand, the VR Beauty Consulting team were asked to relaunch the brand online, with social media being the key focus.

The previous owner of the salon had posted content themselves, and a team member in the salon responded to DM’s. Content was largely focused on ‘after’ images and some videos of in the salon. As a result, the performance of these channels was poor with very low engagement and reach. Social media was not driving sales for the salon and this was a missed opportunity for a salon that needed to grow.

A key focus of the content strategy was ensuring that the new brand ethos and positioning, were consistently communicated across all platforms. This approach included:

• Diverse Representation: Featuring models and clients of all hair textures, skin tones, and backgrounds to emphasise inclusivity.
• Educational Content: Sharing expert advice on caring for textured and curly hair, positioning the salon as an authority in its niche.
• Brand Voice Consistency: Ensuring all captions, hashtags, and messaging aligned with the salon’s welcoming and empowering brand tone.
• Visual Identity: Maintaining a cohesive colour scheme, typography, and imagery that reflected warmth, sophistication, and inclusivity.

The first task for the online relaunch was to create visual content that would deliver the above objectives and that could be used across social media, website, emails and digital advertising.

Working with a small team of content creators, including specialist social media photographer and videographer, under the guidance of the specialist VRBC team, soon the client had access to a rich database of images, videos and content that captured the new brand essence, and which was optimised for the various online channels which were relaunched.

The next step was to relaunch the social media channels and to transform them from an ‘energy drain’ to an effective source of business for the salon. The new owner was especially interested in doing digital advertising and was willing to invest in this area.

However, the VRBC team made the following recommendations:

• Increase Posting Frequency: Develop a structured monthly content calendar, with revamped visuals that are aligned to the new brand aesthetics and which is engaging, tailored to the salon’s audience and to the channels on which they were used.
• Brand Launch on TikTok: This channel was identified as a key source for new clients during the market research phase and had to be launched for the salon brand to achieve its objectives. Optimised video content was used to reach a broader audience and increase visibility of the salon.
• Influencer Marketing: This route was identified as a key area of focus and the salon partnered with carefully selected influencers to showcase the salon experience, staff expertise and range of services. These collaborations were done on a barter basis where possible, or at very low costs, and performance and bookings are monitored closely to establish a ROI (Return on Investment).
• Email Marketing: Launch consistent email marketing to existing database as a way to re-engage existing customers, promote offers, and drive bookings.

Results

The impact of these efforts was both measurable and significant.

The client was able to report that within the first 2 months, 40% of all revenue generated in the salon was from new clients.

This demonstrated that the marketing was working to attract a stream of new clients through the doors.

Furthermore, marketing was being optimized for various platforms, and the results speak for themselves:

Instagram Growth in the first four months (Nov 2024 – Feb 2025 vs previous four months)

• Follower increase: +193%
• Video views: 77K (+691%)
• Reach: 23.7K (+362%)
• Engagement/Content Interactions: 2.6K (+906%)

TikTok Performance (Nov 2024 – Feb 2025)

• Video Views: 16K with a 2.8% engagement rate

Influencer Marketing Success

• 4 influencer collaboration videos with a total of 188K video views and 4K interactions

Business Impact in the First Three Months

• New client increase: +35.4%
• Rebooking rate increase: +55.7%
• Website visits: +37%

These results were achieved without any advertising money spent.

The client empowered the VR Beauty Consulting team to invest time and energy into marketing activities that really matter, saving time, money and effort.

Some of the key learnings are:

• Consistency matters: Daily posting kept the audience engaged and ensured sustained visibility across platforms. The consistent messaging positioned the salon as a go-to destination for expert salon care, reinforcing its brand message of inclusivity and expertise.
• Video content drives reach: Trend-driven videos, behind-the-scenes clips, and expert tips helped maximize engagement and attract a younger, beauty-conscious demographic. TikTok continues to be a growing platform for the client, where specific content tailored to its audience is being developed.
• Influencer partnerships build trust: Collaborations helped the client leverage social proof and reach new audiences. These partnerships increased engagement and bookings by showcasing authentic experiences from trusted voices in the beauty industry.
• Email marketing strengthens customer loyalty: These efforts play a key role in growing the customer database and nurturing repeat clients by keeping them engaged with exclusive offers, early access to promotions, and personalized content.

Conclusion

These marketing results demonstrate the power of a structured and consistent brand marketing strategy. Through engaging content, influencer collaborations, and email marketing, the salon significantly grew its online presence and increased customer engagement. Most importantly, it positioned the salon as a go-to destination for expert salon care, reinforcing its brand message of inclusivity and expertise.

Our success is ultimately our client’s success and our client’s trust in VR Beauty Consulting has been rewarded many times over.

In 2024, we were mesmerized by the beauty of glass skin – dewy, luminous, and naturally radiant. But as the beauty world turns its gaze to 2025, there’s a new star taking centre stage: glass hair. This trend has redefined the way we think about glossy locks, putting sleekness, shine, and health at the forefront of hairstyling.

So, what exactly is glass hair? Imagine hair so smooth, sleek, and reflective that it looks like polished glass. It’s the ultimate sign of healthy, well-nourished locks – no frizz, no flyaways, no dullness – just radiant strands that catch and reflect the light in all the right ways. Think of it as a glossy glow-up for your hair, a trend that’s as timeless as it is modern.

The buzz around glass hair isn’t just about its aesthetic appeal. It’s a testament to the beauty industry’s shift toward embracing natural beauty, prioritising hair health, and celebrating the transformative power of a polished, flawless finish. For salon owners, this trend is an exciting opportunity to elevate your services, tap into the wellness-meets-beauty movement, and offer clients something truly irresistible.

The Science of Shine: Why Glass Hair Matters

Glass hair is all about healthy hair – and that’s what makes it so alluring. Achieving that high-gloss, reflective finish requires hair that’s deeply hydrated, free from damage, and styled to perfection.

From a technical perspective, shiny hair happens when the hair cuticle lies flat, allowing light to reflect evenly across the surface. Rough, damaged hair scatters light, creating a dull appearance, while smooth, hydrated hair reflects light like a mirror.

But glass hair goes beyond just looking good. It represents the growing demand for self-care through beauty, where the focus is as much on how clients feel about their hair as how it looks.

How Salons Can Embrace the Glass Hair Trend

Glass hair is more than just a look – it’s a service. Here’s how you can incorporate this trend into your salon and give your clients that ultra-glossy finish they’re dreaming of.

1. Sleek Blowouts with a Glossy Finish

Your blowouts are about to get a serious upgrade. Focus on creating that ultra-smooth, polished finish by using heat tools that protect the hair while smoothing the cuticle. High-quality blow dryers, flat irons, and round brushes are your secret weapons.

Add a touch of gloss by finishing with lightweight shine serums or oils that won’t weigh the hair down. Products infused with argan oil, jojoba oil, or keratin are fantastic for locking in hydration and enhancing shine.

Pro Tip: Offer a Glass Hair Blowout Package that includes a wash, precision blow-dry, flat ironing, and finishing products for a full glossy transformation.

2. In-Salon Glossing Treatments

To achieve that mirror-like shine, invest in professional glossing treatments. Semi-permanent glosses or clear gloss topcoats can be applied during a service to enhance the hair’s natural shine and add a protective layer.

For clients who want the ultimate shine boost, offer a keratin or smoothing treatment. These treatments eliminate frizz, smooth the cuticle, and create a long-lasting glossy effect. Be sure to use formaldehyde-free options to prioritize the health of both your clients and your stylists.

3. Precision Cuts for Sleekness

Glass hair relies on clean, precise cuts that keep hair looking polished and healthy. Split ends and uneven layers can ruin the smooth, reflective look.

Train your stylists to focus on sharp, precise lines – blunt cuts work particularly well with this trend. Whether it’s a chic bob or long, flowing locks, a fresh cut is essential for achieving the glass hair effect.

4. Hydration is Key

Hydrated hair is happy hair, and glass hair is impossible to achieve without it. Offer deep-conditioning treatments as part of your services to restore moisture and repair damage.

Hydrating masks, steam treatments, or bond-repairing solutions like Olaplex can work wonders for smoothing the cuticle and enhancing shine. Pair these treatments with scalp care services to ensure the hair is healthy from root to tip.

Consider launching a Hydration + Gloss Package that includes a deep-conditioning treatment, a scalp massage, and a glossing service for the ultimate in shiny hair care.

5. Stock Shine-Boosting Products

Help your clients maintain their glass hair look at home by stocking up on professional products designed to enhance shine. Look for serums, oils, and sprays that are lightweight and packed with nourishing ingredients.

Educate your clients about the benefits of sulphate-free shampoos, hydrating conditioners, and heat protectants. Provide them with simple styling tips to replicate that glassy look between appointments.

6. Incorporate Biohacking Tools

If you want to take glass hair services to the next level, consider integrating biohacking tools like LED light therapy or infrared treatments. These technologies can enhance the hair’s health and boost shine by stimulating the scalp, improving circulation, and strengthening hair follicles.

Offering these innovative treatments positions your salon as a leader in cutting-edge beauty trends, helping you attract clients who value wellness and innovation.

Why Glass Hair is More Than a Trend

The glass hair movement isn’t just a fleeting craze, it’s a reflection of the growing focus on self-care, wellness, and sustainability. Clients today are looking for services that don’t just make them look good but also feel good, inside and out.

By embracing the glass hair trend, you’re offering more than just a service. You’re giving your clients the confidence that comes with healthy, radiant hair. You’re aligning your salon with a broader movement that values natural beauty, high-quality products, and personalized care.

Making the Most of the Glass Hair Trend

To truly capitalize on this trend, it’s essential to market your services effectively. Here are a few ideas:

• Social Media Content: Share before-and-after photos of clients who’ve experienced your glass hair treatments. Use natural lighting to capture that glossy shine.
• Client Education: Post educational content about the benefits of glass hair services and how they can transform your clients’ look.
• Special Promotions: Create seasonal promotions or packages that focus on sleek, shiny hair for special occasions like weddings, parties, or holidays.
• Collaborations: Partner with beauty influencers or local bloggers to showcase your glass hair services and attract new clients.

Final Thoughts

Glass hair is more than a trend, it’s a lifestyle. It’s about embracing healthy, vibrant locks that radiate confidence and luxury. By incorporating this trend into your salon, you’re not just keeping up with the times, you’re setting a new standard for beauty and wellness.

As we step into 2025, let’s make glass hair the ultimate signature of health and beauty. Because when hair shines, so do we.

As we stepped into 2025, the skin care industry is abuzz with innovation and fresh ideas. But for salons, the challenge isn’t just about keeping up, it’s about leading the way. Your clients are looking for more than just a routine; they’re seeking transformative experiences, the latest breakthroughs, and that wow factor they can’t get anywhere else. So, how can salons leverage the hottest skin care trends to create unforgettable client experiences? Let’s dive in.

1. Advanced Light Therapies: Bring the Glow to Your Clients

Red light therapy has gone mainstream, but salons can take it to the next level. Consider offering personalised red light therapy sessions or bundling it into facial packages. Picture this: a “Glow Boost” facial that uses red light to stimulate collagen production and reduce inflammation. Clients will leave feeling radiant and ready to share their results with friends (and on Instagram!).

2. K-Beauty: Partner with the Best

The K-beauty phenomenon is far from over. Salons can tap into this trend by curating exclusive K-beauty-inspired treatments, like hydrating facials featuring snail mucin or consultations focused on lightweight sun care. Partnering with trusted K-beauty brands also opens the door to premium retail opportunities. Clients will love taking home the products that deliver those sought-after “glass skin” results.

3. Exosome Skincare: The Future of Facials

Exosomes may sound like something out of a sci-fi movie, but they’re a game-changer in skin regeneration. Salons can lead the charge by introducing “Exosome Renewal” facials. Treatments that repair and rejuvenate skin at the cellular level. Highlight your salon as a pioneer in cutting-edge skincare to attract tech-savvy, trend-conscious clients.

4. Vegan Collagen: Appeal to the Conscious Consumer

Ethical beauty continues to rise, and vegan collagen is stealing the spotlight. Introduce it through facial treatments, masks, or even collagen-boosting drinks served in your salon. By emphasizing the sustainability angle in your marketing, you’ll connect with eco-conscious clients eager to support green initiatives.

5. Microbiome Care: From Face to Full-Body Treatments

Why limit microbiome care to just facial treatments? Salons can offer full-body experiences, such as scrubs and wraps infused with prebiotics and probiotics. This holistic approach aligns perfectly with the growing demand for wellness-focused services, giving your clients a complete “skin health” reset.

6. Ectoin-Infused Products: A Shield for City Dwellers

Living in bustling cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Riyadh means clients are battling pollution and UV damage daily. Position your salon as a sanctuary from urban stress with ectoin-infused facials. These treatments provide ultimate protection against environmental aggressors and leave the skin rejuvenated and resilient.

7. Preventative Skincare: Educate and Empower

Preventative care is becoming a key focus for clients of all ages. Host workshops or consultations to teach clients how to protect their skin before problems arise. Introduce early anti-aging treatments like gentle peels or SPF-focused facials as part of a “Prevent & Protect” package. By positioning yourself as an educator, you build trust and loyalty.

8. Oxygenation Treatments: Breathe Life into Your Skin Services

Oxygen facials and oxygen-infused masks are perfect for clients seeking instant hydration and brightness. Combine these treatments with relaxing rituals to create luxurious, results-driven experiences. Oxygenation treatments are a hit for special occasions and those in need of a quick refresh.

9. Rise of Dupes: Affordable Luxury Options

Not every client is ready to splurge, but everyone loves value. Create “luxury for less” packages that deliver high-quality results at an accessible price point. Stock affordable retail products that mimic the effects of high-end skincare to cater to a broader audience while maintaining your salon’s reputation for quality.

10. Undetectable Beauty: Subtle Enhancements, Big Impact

The “no-makeup” makeup look is influencing skincare too. Clients want natural, barely-there results that enhance their beauty without looking overly done. Offer “No-Filter Facials” that focus on subtle treatments, like light peels or hydrating masks, paired with skincare tutorials to boost their confidence.

Why These Trends Matter for Salons

The trends of 2025 go beyond skincare – they’re about redefining the salon experience. By adopting these innovations, you position your salon as a leader, not just a follower. More importantly, you show clients that you’re not just offering services – you’re becoming a trusted partner in their wellness journey.

So, where do you start? Evaluate your current menu, explore new retail partnerships, and weave these trends into your salon’s story. Your clients will notice, and they’ll keep coming back for more.

Ready to take the lead in 2025? Let’s make it your salon’s best year yet.

It’s hard to believe that VR Beauty Consulting has already reached its 5-year milestone! Time has flown, and what a rollercoaster it’s been.

We officially launched at the end of November 2019 and began operations in January 2020 – right as COVID turned the world upside down. The timing couldn’t have been more challenging. I had just come out of a burnout, with no income for 10 months while I was recovering and traveling to volunteer in search of purpose. With a hefty mortgage back home and no one to share the financial burden, my bank account was nearly empty when I launched VRBC.

Luckily, I signed two clients right from the start. Their support allowed me to cover my initial expenses, but the stress was real. One client put their project on hold indefinitely, but the other trusted me enough to continue online. I’m still deeply grateful to her, as that income gave me the lifeline I desperately needed.

But I wasn’t one to sit back and wait for things to change. I reached out to Professional Beauty GCC and proposed collaborations to help businesses prepare for the post-lockdown world. I pushed myself far outside my comfort zone, hosting webinars, doing interviews, and using the downtime to refine our offerings. When the world reopened, VRBC was ready, and by then, I had signed three new clients. From there, we saw steady growth, and the first three years were golden.

However, 2023 and the start of 2024 were some of the hardest times I’ve faced. In hindsight, 2023 was a big learning curve. I made the mistake of bringing on full-time employees, which became a huge financial strain as their costs far outweighed their contributions. It was heartbreaking to invest in people only to realize it wasn’t working out. Adding to this, I collaborated with a family-run company to develop a LEAN course and revisit our training offerings. With no clear budget in place – out of trust and respect – I was blindsided when the final bill came. It hit the business hard, especially given the subpar quality delivered. That experience was one of the worst of my career, and it taught me a harsh but valuable lesson: Trust is not a business strategy.

Determined to rebuild in 2024, I rewrote the business model. I decided to focus on what VRBC excels at: strategy. Instead of hiring full-time staff, I partnered with skilled freelancers and strategic collaborators who could work on a project basis. This eliminated unnecessary overhead and gave us the flexibility to adapt to demand. I’m proud to say that our team now consists of incredible experts, and the collaboration has been seamless.

Even with the right decisions in place, the emotional toll of the previous year lingered. By mid-2024, I recognized that burnout was creeping back. I made the difficult but necessary choice to take two months off in the summer, knowing the industry would be quiet during that time. It was the best decision I could’ve made. By prioritizing my mental health, I was able to start fresh in September, and by October, VRBC was thriving again.

The Lessons of 5 Years

Over these five years, I’ve learned some hard truths:

• Being self-employed is not for the faint-hearted. Financial uncertainty is constant – there’s no paycheck when you’re on leave, and a bad month hits you personally.
• Trust, especially when money is involved, must be earned. Whether it’s family, friends, or colleagues, every agreement should be clear and documented.
• Not everyone who smiles at you has your best interests at heart. Protect yourself and your business.

I’ve also realized how difficult it is to achieve the results I know are possible. When I worked in corporate roles, I turned struggling businesses into success stories. With VRBC, I’ve had a clear vision for every client I’ve worked with. But often, due to budget constraints or premature decisions, I’ve had to step away before the full transformation could be realized. Seeing businesses struggle after they’ve gone it alone is tough, especially when I know how it could’ve been avoided.

On the flip side, running VRBC has brought incredible rewards. The freedom to design my own path is priceless, and the opportunity to work with passionate, talented women from all walks of life has been deeply inspiring.

Why I’m Sharing This

For those thinking of starting a business: be prepared for the unexpected. It’s not a walk in the park – mentally, financially, or emotionally. And for anyone running their own business who feels like they’re struggling, know that you’re not alone.

The key to surviving this journey is to stay dedicated, listen to your mind and body, and keep adapting. If something isn’t working, change it. As Walt Disney said, “If you can dream it, you can do it.”

Here’s to resilience, growth, and the beauty of the journey. Thank you to everyone who’s been part of VRBC’s story. Here’s to the next chapter!

The beauty industry is undergoing a transformation. It’s no longer just about how we look in the mirror but about how we feel, how we age, and how we can optimize our well-being over time. Enter the exciting world of longevity and biohacking – two concepts that are reshaping the way we think about beauty, wellness, and self-care. For salon owners, this isn’t just a trend; it’s an opportunity to redefine what beauty services mean in the modern era.

What Is Longevity?

Longevity isn’t just about adding years to life, it’s about thriving at every stage. It’s the art and science of maintaining youthful, radiant skin, staying energised, and feeling your best for as long as possible. From the food we eat to the treatments we choose, longevity is about proactive care and building a foundation for a healthier, more vibrant future.

For the beauty industry, this means shifting the focus from quick fixes to long-term solutions. It’s about helping clients not only look great but also feel energised and confident, knowing they’re investing in their overall well-being.

And What About Biohacking?

Biohacking takes the concept of longevity to the next level by empowering individuals to optimize their health and beauty through science, technology, and lifestyle changes. Think of it as a personalized approach to beauty and wellness – tailoring treatments and routines based on each individual’s unique biology and goals. From monitoring sleep patterns to using high-tech tools like cryotherapy or LED light therapy, biohacking offers endless opportunities for innovation in the beauty space.

Why These Trends Matter for Salons

The rise of longevity and biohacking represents a massive opportunity for salon businesses. Clients today are more informed and curious than ever before. They’re looking for services that go beyond surface-level beauty and address their broader wellness goals. By integrating these concepts into your salon, you can position your business as a leader in forward-thinking, innovative beauty solutions.

Here’s what this could look like in practice:

1. Age-Defying Treatments That Deliver Results
   Anti-aging isn’t a new concept in the beauty world, but the approach is evolving. Clients are no longer satisfied with creams and serums alone – they’re looking for treatments that deliver visible, long-lasting results. Incorporating longevity-focused services like:

• Collagen-boosting facials with cutting-edge ingredients such as peptides and plant-based stem cells.
• Exosome therapy to stimulate cellular repair and rejuvenation.
• Microcurrent technology to tone and lift facial muscles naturally.

By offering these services, salons can cater to clients who want to invest in their skin’s long-term health.

2. The Rise of High-Tech Tools
   From LED light therapy to cryotherapy chambers, biohacking tools are quickly becoming must-haves for salons aiming to stay ahead of the curve. These technologies go beyond traditional beauty treatments to target issues like inflammation, collagen depletion, and oxidative stress – key factors in aging.

• LED light therapy: Incorporate it into facials to boost collagen production, calm inflammation, or fight acne.
• Cryotherapy: Offer localized treatments or full-body sessions to tighten skin, reduce puffiness, and improve circulation.
• Oxygen infusion facials: These deliver an instant glow while supporting cellular health.

Investing in these tools may seem like a leap, but they’ll set your salon apart as a destination for cutting-edge care.

3. Personalized Beauty Plans
   Customization is the future. Imagine being able to offer your clients a beauty regimen tailored specifically to their skin type, lifestyle, and even genetic profile. Advances in DNA testing and wellness tracking now make this possible. Salons can partner with biohacking and wellness companies to provide personalized plans that:

• Recommend treatments based on genetic predispositions (e.g., susceptibility to sun damage or slower collagen production).
• Suggest supplements or topical products tailored to individual needs.
• Include regular check-ins to track progress and adjust plans as needed.

By offering this level of personalization, you’ll build trust and loyalty with your clients.

4. Holistic Wellness Offerings
   Longevity and biohacking aren’t just about what happens in the salon; they’re about creating a lifestyle. Salons can expand their offerings to include holistic wellness services that support beauty from the inside out, such as:

• Nutritional consultations: Help clients understand the connection between diet and skin health.
• Wellness workshops: Teach clients about the benefits of mindfulness, hydration, and proper sleep for glowing skin.
• At-home self-care kits: Curate products and tools for clients to use between appointments, ensuring they stay consistent with their routines.

Education Is Key

Introducing longevity and biohacking concepts to your salon requires educating both your team and your clients. Here’s how:

• Train your staff: Ensure your team understands the science behind these trends and can confidently explain the benefits to clients.
• Host events: Organize workshops or seminars to introduce your clients to the latest innovations and how they can benefit from them.
• Content marketing: Use blogs, social media, and newsletters to share information about longevity and biohacking, positioning your salon as a thought leader in the space.

Building Trust Through Expertise

When it comes to longevity and biohacking, clients want to know they’re in good hands. Salons can build trust by:

• Partnering with reputable brands and suppliers.
• Staying up-to-date on the latest research and innovations.
• Providing clear, transparent explanations of how treatments work and what clients can expect.

The Business Impact

Incorporating longevity and biohacking into your salon isn’t just good for your clients – it’s good for your bottom line. These services often come with higher price points, and clients are willing to pay for the expertise and innovation they offer. Additionally, offering unique, forward-thinking services can help attract a new demographic of clients who prioritize wellness and are looking for premium experiences.

Looking Ahead

The concepts of longevity and biohacking are still in their early days within the beauty industry, but their potential is enormous. By embracing these trends now, salons can position themselves as leaders in a new era of beauty – one that’s focused on helping clients look and feel their best for years to come.

Are you ready to take your salon to the next level? Start small by introducing one or two longevity-focused services, or go all in with a full suite of offerings. Either way, the future of beauty is here – and it’s yours to shape.