Recession Hair Is In—But Not For the Reason You Think
There’s a new beauty buzzword making its way into everyday conversations and no, it’s not another TikTok trend. It’s recession hair, and while the name might sound like something pulled from the pages of an economics textbook, the deeper story is one of empowerment, sustainability, and smart beauty choices.
So, what is recession hair? At its core, it’s a shift away from high-maintenance, high-frequency hair routines. Think fewer salon visits, more natural regrowth, richer tones, and effortless color that doesn’t scream for constant upkeep. But don’t be fooled, this isn’t about letting go of your look. It’s about leaning into styles that work with your lifestyle, not against it.
@lavishlooksbygretchen
After years of complex blonding services, multi-step color sessions, and TikTok-worthy transformations, people are returning to what feels sustainable, both financially and emotionally. This trend isn’t just born from economic shifts, it's also a response to time scarcity, emotional burnout, and a desire for authenticity.
Clients are asking for looks that grow out gracefully. Bronde, mocha balayage, and lived-in highlights are back on top. Root shadows and deeper glosses offer a soft edge that blends with natural hair as it grows, meaning fewer trips to the salon and more confidence between visits.
At Salon deZEN, we’ve seen this firsthand: people coming in asking not “What’s trending?” but “What’s manageable? What feels like me right now?” And we love that question.
@lavishlooksbygretchen
What’s interesting about recession hair is that it’s not about giving up, it’s about tuning in. Tuning into your lifestyle. Your energy levels. Your values. Maybe you’re a new mom juggling everything. Maybe you’re navigating career shifts, or simply realizing that you don’t want to spend three hours in a chair every six weeks to feel polished.
@lavishlooksbygretchen
This movement mirrors a larger wellness and beauty conversation: less perfection, more presence. And in a community like Alexandria, where women are leading businesses, families, and everything in between, we’re seeing this low-maintenance, high-impact approach resonate deeply.
At deZEN, we’ve been embracing this evolution for years, prioritizing techniques that honor natural texture, reduce chemical exposure, and support sustainable color choices.
If you’ve been thinking about dialing it back, fewer highlights, deeper tones, longer stretches between appointments know that you’re not alone. In fact, you’re part of a powerful shift. One that says beauty should feel good, look effortless, and adapt with your life, not the other way around.
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