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How do I choose the right hairdressing salon lighting?

13 min Time to read

Spiegelbeleuchtung im Friseursalon

Verena W.

The right hair salon lighting is a crucial factor if you want to show your salon in the best light. It is not only important for creating a pleasant atmosphere for your customers, but also for ensuring that you can see and work on hair colors and cuts with precision. So don't skimp on hair salon lighting!

s.luce Atom pendant lamp in a hair salon
s.luce Ring Hängelampe im Friseursalon

Why is hair salon lighting so important?



Many people underestimate how much the color of light in a hair salon can influence the overall result. Natural lighting allows you to see your customer's true colors and achieve the best possible result.


Have you ever wondered why hair color sometimes looks different at home than it does at the salon? The wrong choice of lamp at the hairdresser's can be exactly the reason for this. That's why you should focus on quality when it comes to hair salon lighting.


Whether you opt for classic hair salon lighting or choose a special lamp for the hair salon, there are many options that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. In addition to the color of the light in the salon, you should also pay attention to the positioning of the lighting.


Spotlights from above, side lights, or a combination of both can help to avoid shadows and ensure even illumination. Remember: Good lighting in a salon is Not only

is

it essential for work, but it also influences the perception of your salon.


A well-lit room is inviting, professional, and creates a pleasant atmosphere in which your customers feel comfortable. In conclusion, with the right hair salon lighting, you not only optimize your workplace, but also increase the well-being of your customers. Focus on quality and pay attention to details, because the right light makes all the difference.


If you are thinking about purchasing new lamps for your hair salon, there are a few factors to consider. Energy consumption is just as important as the lifespan of the lamps. LED lights are the leaders in this field and offer efficient and long-lasting lighting for hairdressers.

 


Although they are more expensive to purchase, the investment quickly pays for itself through lower electricity costs and longer durability. The light color of your hair salon lighting should be chosen to closely resemble natural daylight conditions. This is particularly important when coloring hair to ensure that the end result meets expectations. Lighting that is too warm or too cold can distort color nuances and lead to undesirable results.


There are also special lamps for hairdressers that are equipped with adjustable arms and magnifying lenses. These can be particularly useful when performing detailed work, such as plucking eyebrows or applying hair extensions.


The design of your hair salon lighting should not be neglected. A coherent concept that both meets functional requirements and is aesthetically appealing will set your salon apart from the competition. Modern, classic, retro, or extravagant—there are countless styles and lamp models that could be a perfect fit for your salon concept.


Finally, it is important to regularly check and maintain your hair salon lighting. Ensure that all lamps are working and replace defective or outdated light bulbs in a timely manner to ensure optimal lighting conditions at all times. All in all, well-designed and professional hair salon lighting can make all the difference. It not only influences the quality of your work, but also how customers perceive your salon. So invest time and effort in choosing the right lighting and take your salon to the next level.


"When it comes to lighting in hair salons, brightness isn't the only factor that matters. Make sure you choose the right light color for accurate color perception and use accent lighting strategically to create atmosphere and focus."

Expert tip from Guido H.

Managing Director at skapetze®

s.luce Ring Hängelampe

The importance of the right hair salon lighting



Another point to consider when choosing your hair salon lighting is ergonomics. The right lighting can reduce eye strain and fatigue, especially on long working days.


Indirect light sources or diffuse lighting can help reduce glare and strong contrasts, which in turn increases comfort for you and your customers. The light intensity in the hair salon is also crucial. Light that is too bright can be just as distracting as light that is too dim.

 


A dimmable lighting system gives you the flexibility to adjust the intensity as needed. This is particularly advantageous in different areas of the salon—whether at the sink, the cutting station, or in the waiting area. In addition, you should consider how you can use hair salon lighting to highlight certain areas or products.

 


Accent lighting, such as spotlights or decorative lamps, can be used to draw attention to specific products or artwork, thereby enhancing the shopping experience for your customers.


Don't forget about outdoor lighting. An attractive lamp for the entrance area of your salon can attract potential customers and show them the way to your salon, especially in the evening hours. This can not only increase sales, but also contribute to safety. Of course, energy efficiency should not be overlooked in all these considerations. Modern hair salon lighting options, especially LEDs, not only offer excellent light quality, but are also energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.


In summary, hair salon lighting should not only be functional, but also support the ambiance of the salon and reflect its brand identity. A well-lit salon speaks for professionalism, quality, and customer service.

 


With the right hair salon lighting, you can perfectly showcase not only your customers' hairstyles, but also your entire salon. And that will be appreciated by both your customers and your team.



What are the differences between the various types of hair salon lighting?



There are different areas in a hair salon, each of which requires specific hair salon lighting. The optimal hair salon lighting for each of these areas can make the difference between a good and an exceptional customer experience. Let's take a closer look at these areas:


Reception area: This is often the first impression customers get of your salon. Warm and inviting hair salon lighting, perhaps through pendant lights or indirect wall lighting, can create a cozy atmosphere here. Accent lighting can be used to highlight special decorations or promotional materials.


Waiting area: An area to relax. Soft, dimmed light sources and possiblytable lamps create a calm and comfortable environment where customers can relax before their treatment.


Washbasins: Relaxing yet functional hair salon lighting is required

here

. Soft, glare-free light is ideal for providing customers with a pleasant Give a feeling while at the same time having a clear view of the hair.


Cutting and styling areas: This is where you need the most accurate hair salon lighting. Daylight-like lamps provide realistic color rendering, which is essential for cutting, coloring, and styling. Adjustable hair salon lighting can be helpful here to place light exactly where you need it.


Coloring stations: Precision is crucial when selecting and mixing hair colors. Here, the light should be bright and the color rendering as accurate as possible so that you can assess and mix the colors correctly.


Product display area: Spotlights or accent lighting can be used here to highlight specific products and draw customers' attention to them. Good hair salon lighting can promote the sale of care products and styling tools.


Relaxation or spa areas (if available): If your salon offers additional services such as massages or facials, the hair salon lighting in these areas should be particularly soothing. Dimmable lights or candles can create a particularly relaxing atmosphere here.


Toilets and changing rooms: A combination of functional and pleasant hair salon lighting is important here. It should be bright enough for customers to find their way around easily, but not so bright that it becomes uncomfortable.


In summary, each area of your salon requires a different type of hair salon lighting. By lighting each area individually, you can create an optimal working environment for yourself and your team while offering your customers an outstanding experience.


What do I need to consider when choosing the light color for my hair salon lighting?



The light color in a hair salon plays a crucial role in both the function and atmosphere of the room. The color temperature of light is measured in Kelvin (K) and can range from warm (yellowish) to cool (bluish) light. Let's dive deeper into the meaning and selection of the right light color for your hair salon lighting:


Warm light (2700K – 3000K): This light has a yellowish tint and creates a cozy, homely atmosphere. It is particularly well suited for waiting areas and reception zones to give customers a feeling of warmth and relaxation when they enter the hair salon.


Neutral white light (3500K – 4100K): A balanced light that is neither too yellowish nor too bluish. It is ideal for general lighting purposes and can be used in various areas of the salon, e.g., when washing or at the reception desk.


Daylight white (5000K – 6500K): This light is similar to natural daylight and has a blue tint. It offers excellent color rendering, which is essential when coloring, cutting, and styling hair. With this light, hairdressers can see the exact hair color and structure, leading to more precise and better results. Daylight white light is particularly important in the main work areas, as it best reflects the natural color of hair and skin.


Why is light color so important?


Color accuracy: Especially when it comes to coloring hair, it is crucial that hairdressers can see the true color of the hair. Incorrect salon lighting can cause colors to appear distorted and prevent the desired result from being achieved.


Customer comfort: The right light color can help customers feel more comfortable and relaxed, leading to a better overall customer experience.


Employee ergonomics: Appropriate lighting is easy on the eyes of staff and reduces fatigue, especially in long working days.


In summary, choosing the right light color for your hair salon lighting is crucial for both the quality of service and the well-being of customers and employees. It is worth investing in high-quality hair salon lighting options that offer accurate color rendering and show the entire space in the best light.


Friseursalon mir Decken- und Hängelampen
Haarewaschen beim Friseur

What CRI value should be used for hair salon lighting?



The CI value, better known as the Color Rendering Index (CRI), is a measure of how accurately a light source renders colors compared to a reference light (usually daylight). The CRI value ranges from 0 to 100, with a higher value indicating more accurate color rendering. In the context of hair salon lighting

,

the CRI value is particularly important for several reasons:


Hair colors: When dyeing hair, it is crucial to see the actual color of the hair accurately in order to achieve the desired shade. A light source with a high CRI value ensures that the colors the hairdresser sees are as close as possible to the natural appearance.


Consultation and diagnosis: Before styling or coloring, hairdressers need to assess the condition and color of the hair. Accurate color rendering allows the hairdresser to analyze the hair correctly and make appropriate recommendations.


Customer satisfaction: Customers want to see the final result of their hairstyle or hair color in realistic light. If they leave the salon with a hairstyle or color that looks different in daylight, this can lead to dissatisfaction. High color rendering in hair salon lighting can minimize such discrepancies.


Overall aesthetics: A high CRI value not only improves the appearance of the hair, but also the skin. This helps customers feel comfortable in their own skin and get a realistic picture of their overall appearance. For hair salons, it is recommended to choose hair salon lighting with a CRI value of at least 85, but ideally above 90. High-quality LED lights often meet this requirement today, and many lights designed specifically for hair salons emphasize their high CRI value as a key selling point.


In summary, the CRI value is crucial to ensure that both hairdressers and customers experience accurate and realistic color rendering. When investing in hair salon lighting, this value should therefore be a key factor in the decision-making process.


weiße Hängelampen im Friseursalon
Customer in a hair salon

What aspects are required for optimal hair salon lighting



Hair salon lighting is far more complex and sophisticated than one might think at first glance. In this industry, lighting is given special importance because it directly influences work results, customer satisfaction, and employee well-being. Let's dive deeper into the subject of hair salon lighting:


The goal of lighting: The main goal of hair salon lighting is to create an atmosphere in which hairdressers can perform their work with the utmost precision and customers feel comfortable. This is not just a matter of brightness, but also of color accuracy, shadow minimization, and atmosphere.


Zone lighting: A modern hair salon has different zones—from the reception area to the washing area to the styling stations. Each zone has its own hair salon lighting needs. The reception area should be warm and inviting, while the styling stations require uniform, shadow-free,

and

color-accurate hair salon lighting.


Technology: Choosing the right technology is crucial. LED technology dominates today because it is energy-efficient, durable, and available in many different color temperatures. In addition, advanced LED systems allow hair salon lighting to be adjusted throughout the day or as needed.


Color rendering index (CRI): A high CRI value is essential for hair salon lighting. It indicates how accurately the light source renders colors compared to natural sunlight. For color work, especially when dyeing and tinting, a CRI of over 90 is almost indispensable for recognizing the true color tones of the hair.


Glare and light scattering: Glare, especially from shiny surfaces, can make it difficult to see and lead to fatigue. A combination of direct and indirect hair salon lighting can help reduce glare and create a comfortable environment. Specially designed luminaires that diffuse light evenly prevent shadows and ensure clear visibility.


Adaptability: Since hair salons are often open from morning to evening, daylight can vary. A system that Adapting to these changes—whether through dimming, color temperature changes, or even smart controls—can increase comfort and efficiency.


Energy efficiency and sustainability: A sustainable hairdresser values energy efficiency. Choosing energy-efficient hair salon lighting solutions not only reduces operating costs but also demonstrates a commitment to the environment.


Aesthetics and design: Hair salon lighting also influences the aesthetic perception of the salon. Designer lights can serve as decorative elements while ensuring functionality. Overall, optimal hair salon lighting requires careful planning and knowledge in various areas – from technology to aesthetics to ergonomics. A well-thought-out lighting concept can make the difference between an ordinary and an extraordinary salon. It is therefore worth investing in these aspects and seeking expert advice.


Human-centered hair salon lighting: This approach takes into account how lighting can influence human well-being, mood, and productivity. In a hair salon, this may mean changing the type or intensity of lighting throughout the day to support the circadian rhythms of staff and customers.


Refreshing, cooler light in the morning can boost energy, while warmer light in the evening promotes a relaxed atmosphere.


Light temperature: The color temperature of light, measured in Kelvin (K), can significantly influence the atmosphere and perception of a space. Cooler light (5000K or higher) can be useful in areas where high precision is required, while warmer light (3000K or lower) creates a cozier feeling in waiting areas or sales areas.


Emergency lighting: For safety reasons, it is important to consider emergency lighting. In emergencies, the route to the exit should be clearly visible, and emergency lights can ensure that employees and customers can leave the building safely.


Lighting control systems: Modern lighting systems allow lighting to be controlled via remote control, smartphone app, or automated systems. This not only offers convenience, but can also help to save energy by providing light only when it is needed.


Innovative technologies: OLEDs (organic light-emitting diodes) could be the next wave in salon lighting. They offer a flat light source instead of point light sources, resulting in softer and more even hair salon lighting.


Accent lighting: While functional hair salon lighting is crucial, accent lighting can help highlight specific areas or products. This can be useful for emphasizing a particular product offering in the salon or simply to create a certain aesthetic.


Investing in quality: Cheap lighting solutions can cost more in the long run. They may fail sooner, not provide the desired light quality, or have a negative impact on energy efficiency. Investing in high-quality lighting solutions from the outset can pay off. pay off in the long term.




A synthesis of psychology, dynamics, and art



The lighting strategy in hair salons is an essential part of the overall salon experience. Every detail, from reflection control to vertical hair salon lighting to the use of natural light, plays a crucial role in terms of functionality and aesthetics.

 


Especially with wet or treated hair, it is essential to avoid reflections and glare through targeted light positioning. Modern technologies also offer dynamic lighting solutions that adapt throughout the day and innovative lighting concepts that optimize energy consumption.


It's not just about the right light, but also about understanding the deep psychological impact of light. Warm light, for example, can create a welcoming atmosphere, while cool light is often perceived as invigorating.


In addition, cultural differences in light perception can play a role and should be taken into account in salons that serve a diverse clientele. Finally, hair salon lighting should be viewed as a holistic investment. It influences the customer experience, employee productivity, and overall business success.

 


A well-designed lighting system takes both technical and human aspects into account and transforms the salon into an impressive lighting experience.


s.luce Ring Pendelleuchte im Friseursalon

Conclusion – How to do everything right!



Hair salon lighting has a significant impact on the overall experience for customers and employees. It not only determines functionality, but also shapes the atmosphere of the room. Well-thought-out lighting design emphasizes professionalism, promotes well-being, and underscores brand identity. Investing in high-quality and suitable lighting solutions is therefore essential for the success of the salon.


If you are still undecided about how you want to implement hair salon lighting in your hair salon, please feel free to make an appointment. Make an appointment with the lighting designers at skapetze® for a personal consultation and the development of a customized lighting concept.


You are also welcome to visit our lighting studio in Simbach am Inn.


If you already have a specific idea of what the lighting in your salon should look like, we can help you turn that idea into reality—our in-house workshop makes it possible.


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