For long, makeup has been a form of self-expression, boosting our confidence and making us feel good about ourselves. And, when we play with makeup to our heart’s content, without a worry about what anyone else has to say, the happiness is unmatched. That is dopamine glam. Vidhi Arya from Professional Beauty India explores how dopamine beauty extends to services in salons.
Dopamine beauty has been the talk of the town for a long time now. Trending all over social media, the concept has broken all rules and has taught people to truly build upon the aesthetics that please them. Bright eyes, bold blush, embellishments, whatever it is that you like, dopamine beauty suggests you to try it out. It encourages you to create looks that ignite your creativity, spark joy, and signal your brain to release the happy hormone, dopamine.
For the uninitiated, dopamine is a type of neurotransmitter and hormone. Dopamine is a ‘feel-good’ hormone that is responsible for giving you a sense of pleasure. Furthermore, it is also the hormone that motivates you to do something that makes you joyful. Dopamine, a part of your body’s reward system, helps you be focused, peaceful, motivated, and consequently, happy.
The term was first coined by Sir John, the celebrity makeup artist famous for his work with stars like Beyoncé, Margot Robbie, and Zendaya. Since then, the trend has opened floodgates of looks that are bold and beautiful. Embellishments, metallic hues, floral designs, neon colours, and everything that’s not traditionally mainstream are now being used and celebrated without inhibitions.
Extension of Dopamine glam beyond cosmetics
An extension of dopamine beauty goes beyond merely cosmetics to cover beauty and hair treatments, too. Giving us a renewed sense of rejuvenation, relaxation, and self-love, beauty, hair, and wellness treatments have long been associated with joyous rewards in the cacophony of life.
As hair treatments at salons, such as a fresh colour or cut or even a haircare treatment, provide us with a whole new look, they fill us with new-found confidence. Consequently, these treatments help us relax, feel satisfied and joyous. A good transformation in our appearance often triggers a dopamine release, making us feel good about ourselves and improving our overall mood.
Similarly, beauty treatments also trigger dopamine release in your bodies. How many times has it happened with you that you went in for a facial after a hectic week and slept off during it? Only to wake up to glowing skin and a happy feeling. Do you realise the therapeutic impact of an indulgent pampering session? Well-done beauty services not only enhance your looks but truly help you indulge in self-care and relaxation, promoting a positive state of mind.
In a world where several aspects of your lives trigger stress and worry, turning to beauty to trigger your happy hormones with optimism and zeal is truly a fresh breath of air for all.
How can salons be supportive of dopamine beauty?
As people aim to experiment and feel joy, salons can play an important role in supporting dopamine glam. By creating environments and offering services that enhance both physical appearance and emotional well-being, salons can be central to the journey. Here’s how:
- Salons can tailor treatments to individual needs, ensuring clients feel valued and understood. Provide clients with personalised consultations and customised services, such as haircuts, colours, or skincare treatments. Be respectful of their choices and mindful of your reactions. As
- Aim to create a calming and luxurious salon environment that can positively impact a client’s experience. Soft lighting, soothing music, and comfortable seating contribute to a sense of relaxation and well-being, which can trigger dopamine release and enhance the overall mood.
- You can also include wellness services such as scalp massages, aromatherapy, or stress-relief treatments that can enhance both appearance and emotional state of being.
- Providing your clients with expert advice on self-care and maintenance routines can empower them to continue feeling good beyond their salon visit.
- Build a friendly and supportive relationship between salon staff and clients. It can create a welcoming atmosphere for the clients, making them comfortable and confident. As a rule, don’t judge their choices, don’t be rude, and don’t be intrusive.
