
The history of hair salons around the world




Hair salons have played a significant role in societies around the world, evolving from simple grooming stations to sophisticated centers of fashion, culture, and social interaction. Understanding the history of hair salons provides valuable insights into their cultural and social impact over the centuries. In this article, we will explore:
- The Origins of hair salons
- The evolution of hair salons through the ages
- Modern hair salons
- Hair salons around the world
- The cultural impact of hair salons
Through this journey, we will see how hair salons have not only adapted to changing times but also shaped societal norms and trends, becoming integral parts of our daily lives and cultural expressions.
The Origins of hair salons
Antiquity
The earliest traces of hairstyling and hair salons appear in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
- In Egypt, wigs were popular, and hair salons located in temples served the elites, using tools like bronze razors and combs.
- In Greece, hairdressers, known as “koureis,” used bone combs and primitive curling irons to create elaborate styles. Public workshops were social hubs where men discussed politics and philosophy while getting their hair cut.
- In Rome, hair salons, or “tonstrina,” were frequented by men for haircuts and shaving, while women used personal hairdressers for sophisticated hairstyles with pins and ribbons.
These practices highlight the importance of hair care in antiquity, laying the foundations for modern hair salons.
The Middle Ages
During the Middle Ages in Europe, hair salons evolved primarily through the work of barbers, who played a crucial role in medieval society. Barbers were not only responsible for cutting hair and shaving beards but also acted as versatile figures, often called upon to perform basic medical procedures such as tooth extractions and bloodletting. Hairdressers, on the other hand, primarily served the nobility and royalty, creating elaborate hairstyles for the ladies of the court.

Barbershops were social hubs where men gathered to discuss local news and public affairs. The tools used were rudimentary but effective, including iron razors, scissors, and combs made of bone or wood. Personal appearance began to gain increasing importance, marking a shift towards more sophisticated grooming practices.
These barbershops, by becoming centers of social and medical life, laid the foundations for the future evolution of hair salons, establishing service and hygiene standards that would endure beyond the medieval period.
The Renaissance
The Renaissance marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of hairstyling practices and sees the emergence of the first dedicated hair salons. Influenced by an artistic and cultural revival, this period fosters the rise of elaborate styles and sophisticated techniques. Hair salons become prestigious venues frequented by nobles and high society members who seek to display their status through intricate hairstyles.
Renaissance hairdressers draw inspiration from art, sculpture, and fashion to create complex hairstyles often adorned with pearls, ribbons, and jewels. Hairstyling becomes a true art form, reflecting the aesthetic trends of the era. Simultaneously, personal hygiene and hair care gain importance, with increased use of natural products like oils and pomades to maintain and perfume the hair.The artistic and cultural influences of the Renaissance are also evident in the training of hairdressers, who now benefit from more structured apprenticeships and enhanced social status. This period of renewal laid the foundations for modern hair salons, establishing standards of quality and creativity that continue to endure today.
The 20th Century

The 20th century heralded a significant transformation in the world of hair salons, characterized by modernization and the introduction of innovative techniques. Advances in technology and changes in societal norms led to the development of new tools and products, revolutionizing hairdressing practices. Electric hairdryers, curling irons, and chemical treatments like perms and hair coloring became commonplace, allowing for greater versatility and creativity in hairstyling.
Fashion icons and the media played a pivotal role in shaping hair trends throughout the century. Celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, and James Dean set new standards for beauty and style, their iconic looks widely emulated by the public. The rise of television and cinema further amplified the influence of these figures, making hair salons hubs of innovation where the latest styles were adopted and popularized.
Among the pioneers of this era is Martha Matilda Harper, a Canadian immigrant who founded the first franchised hair salon in 1888 in Rochester, New York. Harper not only introduced advanced hair care techniques but also revolutionized the business model of hair salons by creating a franchise network, allowing thousands of women to become salon owners.
Modern hair salons
Technological innovations

Modern hair salons have been profoundly transformed by technological innovations, which have improved the quality of services and the efficiency of hairstyling techniques. The introduction of advanced electrical tools such as ionic hairdryers, ceramic flat irons, and digital curling irons has revolutionized the way hairstylists style hair, offering more precise and long-lasting results. Advances in chemical products, such as ammonia-free dyes and keratin hair treatments, allow for safer and healthier hair transformations for clients.
Digital technologies have also made their way into hair salons, with salon management software that facilitates appointment scheduling, inventory management, and customer loyalty. Virtual consultations and augmented reality applications allow clients to virtually try different hairstyles and colors before making a decision, enhancing their experience and satisfaction. These technological innovations contribute not only to the efficiency and creativity of modern hair salons, but also to providing an improved and personalized client experience.
Current Trends
Recent trends in hairstyling and fashion emphasize individuality and personal expression.
Some styles like :
- pixie cuts
- vibrant coloration
- subtle balayage
They continue to dominate the scene, while natural and textured hairstyles are gaining popularity, reflecting a trend towards embracing natural beauty. Clients increasingly seek unique looks that reflect their personality and lifestyle, driving hair salons to offer more personalized services.
The importance of personalization and the client experience cannot be underestimated in today’s hair salon industry. There is a strong focus on providing an exceptional client experience, with welcoming salon environments and quality services. Clients appreciate not only the final result of their hairstyle, but also the overall experience, from the moment they walk through the door until they leave. This client-centered approach helps to build customer loyalty and enhances the reputation of modern hair salons.
Around the World
North America

The evolution of hair salons in the United States has been marked by great diversity and innovation. In the early 20th century, the rise of Hollywood culture popularized iconic styles and influenced global trends. The 1960s and 1970s saw the emergence of African American hair salons, which played a crucial role in the Black community by providing hair services and social spaces.
American hair salons have continuously innovated by incorporating avant-garde techniques and styles, meeting the growing demand for personalized services such as creative coloration and advanced hair treatments. The adoption of digital technologies, such as online booking and virtual consultations, has also enhanced the client experience, making hair salons in the United States leaders in fashion.
In Canada, the influence of European styles, particularly from France and Britain, has shaped hairdressing practices. Canadian salons have embraced international techniques while developing a unique approach that celebrates the country’s cultural diversity. The integration of technologies and a focus on personalized services have also contributed to the evolution of hair salons in Canada, ensuring a high standard of quality and innovation.
Europe
Europe is renowned for its major influence in the field of hair fashion, with several countries playing key roles in the evolution of trends and hairstyling techniques. In France, hair salons have always been at the forefront of innovation, inspired by Paris fashion shows and haute couture icons. Sophisticated coloring techniques, such as balayage and ombré, have been perfected and widely popularized there.
In Italy, hair tradition is characterized by natural elegance and sophistication. Italian salons stand out for their attention to detail and their ability to combine tradition with modernity. Italian hairdressers are renowned for their precise cuts and timeless styles.
The United Kingdom, on the other hand, has been the birthplace of many avant-garde hair trends. London, in particular, is known for its bold and experimental spirit, with hair salons constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity. Punk styles, asymmetrical cuts, and vibrant coloration all found their origin or rise in this dynamic city.
These major hair fashion countries in Europe continue to influence the rest of the world with their innovations and trends, making European hair salons global leaders in style and technique.
Asia
Hair salon practices in Asia, particularly in Japan, Korea, and China, are distinguished by their uniqueness and innovation. In Japan, hair salons are renowned for their exceptional customer service and precision cutting techniques, often inspired by fashion and pop culture trends. Japanese hairdressers master techniques such as the “dry cut” and are known for their meticulous attention to detail.

In Korea, hair salons play a crucial role in spreading “K-Beauty” (Korean beauty) trends, with styles influenced by K-pop idols and celebrities. Korean salons constantly innovate with creative coloring techniques, advanced hair care treatments, and complete transformation services.
In China, hair salons often combine elements of traditional Chinese medicine with modern practices, offering holistic hair treatments that include scalp massages and the use of natural products. The influence of both traditional and modern cultures is particularly strong, with salons integrating ancient practices while adopting contemporary trends.
These unique practices and the combined influence of traditional and modern cultures make Asian hair salons pioneers in innovation and style.
Africa
African hair salons are distinguished by their unique characteristics, rooted in a rich cultural tradition and influenced by contemporary trends. Traditional hairstyles, such as braids, twists, cornrows, and locks, hold a central place in many African countries, symbolizing identity, social status, and rites of passage. These complex styles require great skill and artisanal precision, often passed down through generations.

With the growing influence of media and celebrities, African hair salons have also embraced modern trends, incorporating techniques such as coloring, relaxing, and hair extensions to meet their clients’ desires. This fusion of traditional hairstyles and contemporary styles allows African hair salons to create unique and diverse looks that celebrate natural beauty while adapting to new global influences.
The importance of hair salons in Africa goes beyond aesthetics, they are places of socialization, cultural sharing, and community bonding. These salons play a crucial role in preserving and transmitting cultural practices while innovating to meet the needs and aspirations of current generations.
The Cultural Impact of Hair Salons
Hair Salons as Social Hubs

Hair salons play a crucial role as places for social interaction and exchange. They are not just places where people go to get their hair cut, but also spaces where individuals gather to talk, share news and ideas, and strengthen community bonds. Particularly in many cultures, hair salons are social hubs where clients can relax, confide in one another, and connect with others.
In popular culture, hair salons have often been depicted as microcosms of society, reflecting social dynamics and the concerns of their time. Films, television series, and books portray hair salons as places of confidences and solidarity, where characters share their joys, sorrows, and hopes. These representations highlight the importance of hair salons as community pillars, contributing to the reinforcement of social ties and the promotion of a sense of belonging.
Hair Salons and Fashion
Hair salons exert a major influence on fashion trends, shaping the styles and looks that dominate runways and magazines. As trendsetters, hairdressers constantly innovate, introducing new techniques and ideas that captivate the fashion world. Hairstyles are not just complements to outfits, they are often central elements capable of transforming and elevating an entire look.
The collaboration between hairdressers and fashion designers is essential for defining current and future trends. During major fashion weeks in Paris, Milan, New York, and London, hairdressers work hand in hand with designers to create cohesive and avant-garde looks. These collaborations allow for the exploration of new artistic possibilities, where hairstyling and fashion meet to offer inspiring visions.
Hair trends born in hair salons often find their way onto runways, in advertising campaigns, and in fashion editorials, highlighting the importance of this creative synergy. Hairdressers influence not only contemporary fashion, but also the way the public perceives and adopts these trends, making hair salons key players in the fashion industry.

Hair Salons: pillars of history, fashion and culture
Hair salons have come a long way since their ancient origins, constantly evolving to meet the needs and expectations of clients through the ages. From Antiquity, where the first hairstyling techniques emerged, to the Renaissance with the advent of dedicated salons, and through the technological and stylistic innovations of today, hair salons have always been centers of history, fashion, culture, and socialization.
Today, hair salons continue to play an essential role in our society by integrating modern trends and advanced technologies. They are not only places of beauty and hair care but also spaces for socializing and sharing. The future of hair salons looks promising, with emerging trends focusing on personalization, innovation, and the client experience.
At Bangz Hair Studio, we are proud to continue this tradition of excellence and innovation. Our services, ranging from precision cuts to avant-garde coloration, are designed to meet your unique needs and enhance your natural beauty. We invite you to discover our range of services and enjoy an unparalleled hairstyling experience. Visit us and let us transform your look while providing you with a moment of relaxation and pleasure.
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