Salon Trends 2026: What Clients Will Ask For Next Year

Summary: The salon world evolves quickly. 2026 will bring refinements in sustainable services, personalization at scale, and a continued blending of wellness with haircare. This article breaks down the most important trends salon owners and stylists should prepare for and the ways clients will shape the service menu.

Introduction

Every year the salon ecosystem shifts — new tools, fresh color techniques, shifting client priorities, and regulatory changes. For 2026, expect the change to be driven by three big vectors: climate-conscious choices, technological augmentation, and a more sophisticated understanding of scalp and hair health. Throughout this article we'll look at practical implications for stylists, front desk teams, and salon owners who want to stay ahead of client expectations.

1. Sustainable color and low-impact chemistry

Clients are increasingly informed about the environmental and health impact of salon chemistry. In 2026 the demand for low-waste color systems, refillable processing solutions, and biodegradable neutralizers will grow. Many brands will expand their no-ammonia and low-volatile organic compound offerings while improving performance. Salons can prepare by starting trials, tracking waste, and training staff on how to market sustainable options without implying medical claims.

2. Personalized, health-first consultations

Color swatches and mood boards remain useful, but the rise of scalp microbiome awareness and personalized formulations will change consultation dynamics. Expect clients to present concerns like long-term density preservation and allergy-averse color matching. Stylists will need to ask deeper questions about previous chemical history, at-home routines, and wellness. Integrating a simple intake form that captures medication use, known sensitivities, and routine hair care will reduce service surprises.

3. Tech-augmented styling and booking

Augmented reality (AR) try-ons will become more accessible and commonly used in salons. Clients will use AR to visualize cuts and colors before committing. Booking systems that allow multi-step services, time buffers for consultations, and automated rebooking nudges will increase client retention. Salons that integrate visual try-on previews into booking confirmations will reduce no-shows and dissatisfaction.

4. Wellness-focused add-ons

Scalp treatments, lymphatic drainage massage, and aromatherapy-infused rinses will be positioned as wellness add-ons rather than mere upgrades. This repositioning will justify premium pricing and attract clientele looking for self-care experiences. Training front-line staff to explain the evidence-based benefits will be essential; clients respond better to precise explanations than vague promises.

5. Shorter, smarter color maintenance

Color systems that allow longer periods between touch-ups without compromising look will win. Expect the continued popularity of lived-in color, root-smudge techniques, and hybrid color services that prioritize low-maintenance results. Salons can design tiered maintenance plans that match client commitment levels and reduce the friction of recurring appointments.

6. Inclusivity and representation in styling

As diversity becomes a core expectation, salons will invest in cross-texture training and broadened product lines. Representation in imagery and portfolio samples — showing all hair types — will no longer be optional. Teams should audit education, marketing, and portfolio content to ensure they authentically reflect the clientele they serve.

7. Hybrid brick-and-click experiences

Salons will blend in-person craft with digital convenience. Hybrid consultations will allow clients to start the conversation via video or chat before arriving, saving chair time and improving outcome predictability. Digital gift cards, memberships, and tiered loyalty programs will be omnichannel, letting clients manage their relationship with the salon seamlessly.

"2026 will be the year salons prove their value by delivering outcomes that combine beauty, health, and convenience."

Actionable checklist for salons

• Audit product waste and trial refillable supplies.
• Train staff on scalp health basics and inclusive techniques.
• Test one AR try-on solution and gather client feedback.
• Create two wellness add-ons with clear benefit statements.
• Revamp online booking to include consultation slots.

Conclusion

Preparing for 2026 is less about chasing every new gimmick and more about aligning services to client expectations of sustainability, personalization, and convenience. Salons that invest in education, a few strategic technologies, and better client intake processes will reap benefits in loyalty and perceived value. The key message is simple: prioritize long-term hair health while making the client experience smarter and more enjoyable.

Published on 2026-01-07. Stay tuned for more reports and seasonal trend updates from the hairsalon.top editorial team.