Are salons prepared to retrain staff and introduce treatments and services for male consumers?
According to market research reports, the male grooming industry in India is projected to grow at over 11% CAGR between 2024–2028, driven by rising disposable incomes and Gen Z consumers who value self-care as self-respect. The Indian male consumer is evolving, seeking salon experiences that go beyond basic hygiene to offer indulgence, rejuvenation, and personal style. The silent killer isn’t a lack of clients or the growing competition, it’s ignoring the man who’s already walking through your door.
The rise of social media influencers, celebrity grooming routines, and increased visibility of men’s skincare have collectively transformed grooming from luxury to lifestyle. Salons that once relied on female clientele are witnessing an entirely new demographic walking through their doors, men who view grooming not as vanity, but as empowerment. Yet, despite this surge in demand, many Indian salons remain caught in a traditional service model. The “men’s section” often consists of a single chair tucked in a corner, a few basic hair products, and minimal attention to experience.
This oversight is not just aesthetic, it’s strategic. Every salon that fails to cater to the male grooming segment risks losing a rapidly expanding, high-value audience. Studies show that men spend up to 30% more per salon visit when provided with premium, customized services. The desire is there; it’s the opportunity salons must seize.
Sharing his insights on the same, Ankit Viramni, Director, Esskay Beauty Resources, said, “We’re witnessing a cultural reset in the grooming space. Over the past few years, we’ve seen a significant rise in salons actively seeking men’s grooming solutions that match the sophistication of their female clientele. This isn’t a passing phase; it’s a structural shift in how beauty and wellness are perceived. For salons, the opportunity lies in curating premium experiences that reflect this evolution, services that speak to confidence, individuality, and modern identity.”
When international brands adjust their strategies for India, it’s a signal worth noting. Earlier this year, RICA, a globally recognized luxury brand, introduced its Opuntia Oil for Men range in India, crafted with the rare Opuntia (Prickly Pear) oil, known for its deeply nourishing and rejuvenating properties. This launch is more than just another product; it’s a response to India’s rising demand for male grooming. RICA’s entry into this segment underscores what data and trends have been signalling: India’s men are ready for high-performance, indulgent care, and salons that cater to this expectation stand to lead the next decade of beauty evolution.
