How Does Gen Z Feel About Investing in Beauty and Wellness?

With chrome, the clean girl aesthetic and Barbiecore nails taking the world by storm this year, it’s no surprise that #nailinspiration has racked up 828.9 million views on TikTok. 

Nail appointments have classically been associated with indulgence and often labelled a ‘treat’ which is reserved for special occasions. However, in recent years beauty treatments have become a part of many people’s monthly itinerary. 

In the latest Beauty Trends Report, Fresha can reveal that investing in beauty and wellness is no longer considered an indulgence, but a necessity. 

Over Half of Gen Z View Beauty and Wellness Treatments as Essential

With more than half (52%) of Gen Z viewing beauty and wellness services as essential, there has been a real shift in how manicures, massages and facials are viewed in day-to-day life. 

However, it looks as though this trend actually started with Gen X as 54% of 46-55 year-olds view beauty and wellness services as a necessity (the most out of any age group).

When compared to just 37% of Boomers who say the same, Gen X is the first generation to make this shift from viewing beauty as an ‘indulgent treat’ to an everyday need. 

This trend has filtered down through the generations, with millennials (51%) and Gen Z (52%) following this thinking. 

Courtesy of Fresha

Gen Z and Millennials Don’t Mind Spending Longer Periods of Time in Beauty Salons

In recent years, the beauty industry has aimed to appeal to consumers’ busy lifestyles and societal pressures, with Fresha’s insights showing that 11% of appointments in 2022 were under 30 minutes. 

However, it’s interesting to see that 70% appointments last year ranged between 30-90 minutes, an increase of 18% since 2018! 

Fresha’s findings show that the younger generation are not in a rush to leave the salon, with 60% of millennials and 58% of Gen Z stating they don’t mind spending longer periods of time in the beauty seat. 

It’s clear that consumers are looking to disconnect and detox from digital and societal distractions by dedicating more time for moments of self indulgence that help them feel good physically and mentally. 

“It’s interesting to see that beauty treatments have become a necessity in people’s lives, with much of the Gen Z and millennial age range actually preferring a longer appointment time," shares Steve Rodgers, CMO at Fresha. "The beauty and wellness experience allows consumers to switch off from social media, work emails and phone calls and completely focus on prioritizing themselves. Time away from technology is crucial and wellness appointments really do allow an excuse for this, which could be why people now no longer consider wellness a ‘treat’ but a life essential.”

For more information, you can view the full trend report from Fresha on their website.