Salon & Spa Trends for 2026
With much to look forward to in the New Year, we’ve gathered the top salon and spa trends to pay attention to in 2026. These trends focus on every aspect of your business, supporting your success and growth for years to come.
Increased Use of AI & Automation
More salons and spas will use artificial intelligence (AI) in 2026 to streamline processes and improve efficiency. This will include tools to book appointments and perform simple tasks automatically. AI will also help the industry better understand the needs and behaviors of guests to help make informed business decisions.
Spas and salons can leverage automation to reduce manual tasks, allowing staff to focus on client care. For example, use Meevo’s Wait List tool to automate your front desk. It scans your appointment book every five minutes for openings or schedule changes, then automatically texts clients on the wait list to fill open slots.
Data-Driven Staffing & Retention
In 2026, the most effective strategy for retaining top talent will be data-driven incentives. Your employees expect a transparent connection between their performance and compensation. Reward them for hard work and talent by setting up promotions and perks. The easiest way to do so is with Meevo’s Employee Management Software. You can activate new employee templates on the day you promote your employee and plan for operational expenses, like price and pay increases, all in one tool.
Expansion Into Men’s Grooming Services
Your male clients expect more than a standard haircut. They are actively seeking targeted treatments. To capture this loyal and high-spending demographic, you need to offer results-oriented solutions that directly address their needs.
Consider introducing a straightforward total care or 12-month grooming package. Create marketing campaigns targeting this demographic and spread the word through social media.
Demand for Frictionless Transactions
Beyond beauty trends, convenience often drives booking decisions. Clients expect a seamless experience from booking to payment. Easy online booking and simple account management let clients conveniently update their information from their smartphones. Any friction in this process can seem outdated, which is why you need the right platform to simplify this entire journey for your clients. Meevo’s Online Booking secures appointments with a card on file, making the process from initial booking to final payment seamless.
Adoption of Sustainable Practices
Consumers are increasingly interested in supporting ethical and sustainable businesses. This salon and spa trend will be present throughout 2026. Consumer spending has become a reflection of personal values. People want to support sustainable businesses.
Start by reducing waste and communicating with your clients about your eco-friendly practices. For instance, mention that you use water-saving nozzles at wash stations or partner with a good cause to donate hair with client consent.
Evolving Sales Channels
Consumer shopping habits have changed recently, and we can expect to see an increase in online transactions. Why not supplement your salon’s revenue by selling products on TikTok Shop or your website in 2026? Your clients are already buying beauty products online, and an e-commerce store ensures they buy from you, their trusted expert.
This creates a new, continuous revenue stream that works even when your doors are closed and strengthens your client relationships. Use an inventory management tool like Meevo to easily manage your stock.
Marketing Will Become More Personalized
With branding messaging thrown at consumers 24/7, personalized marketing will help businesses break through the noise. No longer will stock images, generic nurture campaigns or impersonal calls to action convince your clients. In order to create successful marketing campaigns in 2026, you’ll have to provide high-value and personalized content every step of the way.
For example, identify clients who have not booked in 90 days and send them a personalized offer instantly. Or, market a new conditioning treatment to your color service clients. You can rely on intelligent automation to help every client feel valued and build loyalty. Use Meevo’s marketing tools to activate a we-miss-you incentive. The system will automatically track clients who fall within your chosen time frame and send them personalized offers.
Consumers Will Expect Humanization in Businesses
Just like services are becoming more focused on convenience, consumer values are also shifting to counter-balance technology. The beauty and wellness industries will largely benefit from consumers who are still looking for a personal connection and relationship, despite all that technology can offer. Your clients want to know the humans behind the brand, your story, and yearn for long-lasting, quality relationships. Take the time in the New Year to nurture your clients and show them why they can count on you to make them feel their best.
Turn 2026 Spa & Salon Trends Into a Competitive Edge
Let the salon and spa trends shaping 2026 be your roadmap for future growth. Capitalizing on these beauty industry trends requires the right technology to execute your strategy effectively. Meevo is the platform built to help you manage these modern strategies with just one solution. Request a personalized demo today.
