What’s Trending in the Hairstyling Equipment Market
With ground-breaking innovations and inspiring technology, the hairstyling equipment market has made the best use of the global beauty industry’s exponential growth in recent years. In Beauty Launchpad India July 2019 issue, top salon professionals and key market players share their insights on the current dynamics of this niche industry. Here’s are a few excerpts from the exclusive feature:
As per the ‘Global Hair Styling Equipment Market Outlook 2024: Global Opportunity And Demand Analysis, Market Forecast, 2018-2024’, professional users — salons, spas, hairdressers and stylists — contribute to more than 40% hairstyling equipment sales, especially for hairdryers, hot brushes, and straighteners.
“Brands are indeed going to lengths to ensure the availability of the most cutting-edge technology for professionals in salons. I’ve been inspired by how elements are used outside of our industry. While travelling, I saw ceramic technology used in pizza ovens and lava stone used for cooking. We have incorporated them into our tools, both serving as excellent conductors of heat. I have also worked with NASA to incorporate their technology into our tools.”
– Dr Farouk Shami – Founder and Chairman of Farouk Systems (as told to Kamala Kirk of Beauty Launchpad US).
“I do want to enable homegrown brands and have only recently discovered an Indian company – Asbah. I have bought a few things from them – the hood steamer, the wax heater, etc, and so far, I am very pleased. However, when it comes to tools like the WAHL clipper, there is nothing to beat it.” – Natasha Naegamvala – Director, Nalini of Nalini & Yasmin Salon on ‘Homegrown vs International Brands’
“With branded tools, you are sure of what you are buying as brands come with a reputation. They are tried and tested, backed with a lot of research and technology, and also give you good after-sales support. While buying tools, it’s better to do your research on the brand – ask around if anyone has used them before, study the technology behind it, and finally give it a trial run to see how comfortable you are using it.” – Nikhil Sharma, Art Director at Nikhil Sharma Hairdressing on preference for ‘Branded or Not’ tools
“With 45 salons in our group, we spend around INR 1 lakh per month for repairs in tools and equipment. The maximum wear and tear is from blow dryers, tongs, flat irons, clippers, etc, which amount to purchase of INR 50-60 lakhs per year.” – Vikram Mohan, CEO & Co-Founder, SPALON India
“We can’t list down the most exciting new styling tools without the buzzy Dyson Airwrap Dryer. It features a technology far more advanced to gently treat hair without damage – it doesn’t heat beyond 186 degrees C, which makes it possible to use every time you wash your hair. In fact, it replaces your tongs, iron, hot brush, and dryer all in one package.” – Maleeha Jafferbhoy, Style Director, Jean Claude Biguine, Juhu
“If one takes good care of one’s tools, like not allowing styling products like gel and mousse to settle on the barrels or ironing plates, or run the driers for prolonged periods without giving them rest time, tools can last for years. Items like brushes, however, do need frequent replacement as the chemicals they are subject to causes.” – Priscilla Corner, Creative Head -Hair at June Tomkyns
“Yes, I do use (personalized tools), because it cuts down on the time taken per client and also eases my job. For example, my ultra-light hairdryer doesn’t put any strain on my wrist because of its well-balanced design and super-compact size. Also, using personalised/professional tools sets you apart from the rest and it shows your clients that you are always on the cutting edge of what’s latest and unique.” – Sumit Malkotia, Creative Director & National Academy Trainer, LOOKS Salon & Identity Artist at L’Oréal Professionnel
“Longer-lasting power and personalization are the most visible trends being seen in the equipment industry. Moving out of the traditional black/white Clipper-Trimmer bandwagon and experimenting with designs on the lids, has given Andis an edge in the market. Today’s Barbers / Hairdressers want to relate to products in line with their own identity.” – Rohit Sood, Business Head – Asia Pacific, Andis
“We intend to bring in more products to cover the entire spectrum, of course in keeping with our brand vision of quality and innovation. We plan to strengthen our export business as well as consolidate our leadership position in India.” – Rayed Merchant, Director, Beauty Palace