How to trim your hair care costs

MANY women see getting their hair done as essential, despite hair care sometimes costing them four times as much as men.

A Moneysaverhq investigation has found that hair maintenance for women typically costs between $160 and $275 every six to eight weeks, while men pay $15 to $40 every three to six weeks.

However, both sexes can find ways to cut their hair-care costs.

Sydney career coach Jacquie Hoyes, 49, said she spent $250 every three months on hairdressing expenses plus an additional $200 per quarter on hair products.

“When our hair looks good, we feel good,” she said. “Finding a quality and trusted hairdresser at a price point that one can afford is important.”

Ms Hoyes said she had saved money by stopping using straighteners, buying shampoo in bulk and sharing with family and friends, and shopping around for discounted products.

Adelaide wealth adviser Phil Parkins, 29, spends just $15 every six weeks at the barber and $8 on supermarket hair products every three months. “Shop around for a cheap barber and don’t be afraid to tell them how you want your hair cut,” he said. “Invest in a good electric shaver rather than getting a beard trim at the barber.”

TONI&GUY Georges Victoria salon owner Jo Smith said women not wanting to spend a lot every six weeks should use the right home hair care for their lifestyle.

Using toners in between visits would help colours look fresher for longer, Ms Smith said.

“We can cover grey roots by alternating the hair line and parting with doing a full head,” she said. “This gives the effect the whole head is done – it’s good for saving money and time.”

Circles of Subiaco Perth owner Sharlene Lee said some of her clients stretched visits to 12 weeks.

Global consumer trends specialist Kristina Dryza said one of the most obvious ways to save money was to avoid buying products from the salon.

“In an age of online comparative shopping, it pays to shop around,” she said.

“You also don’t need to see the most expensive person in the salon. Most junior stylists are hungry to display their talent and skills.”

Ms Dryza also suggested finding recipes online to make dry shampoo or hair masks “from food like olive oil, coconut oil, avocados, bananas and mayonnaise”.