U.S. Media: Rising Prices of Chinese Hair Products Leave Atlanta’s Black Community Concerned
U.S. Media: Rising Prices of Chinese Hair Products Leave Atlanta’s Black Community Concerned
According to a June 1 report by WABE, titled “Atlanta’s Black Hair Industry Relies on Chinese Imports. How Tariffs Are Affecting the Price of Braids and Wigs,” rising tariffs are reshaping the cost of essential hair products in Atlanta.
Before the humid summer arrives in Atlanta, Brittney Sims would usually visit a salon to get her hair braided. This year, however, prices are higher. As a result, she plans to pay only for her teenage daughter’s and son’s summer hairstyles. Sims is one of millions of women who regularly spend money in the Black haircare industry. She says that after returning home from the gym, she now has to “figure out how I’m going to do my hair in the morning.”
Tariffs Push Up Costs of Essential Products
U.S. tariff policies are driving up the prices of many products that Black women consider essential, placing added pressure on both consumers and stylists.
Most synthetic braiding hair, human hair extensions, wigs, styling tools, and braiding gels are imported from China or packaged there. Since April, these items have faced cumulative tariffs of up to 145%.
Because of hair texture and professional workplace expectations, many Black women require specialized hair maintenance. Monthly salon visits for extensions, weaves, or braids can cost hundreds of dollars.
Reporting by Associated Press includes interviews with Black hair experts, wholesalers, and nearly 20 hairstylists. Some said that even as business slows, they have no choice but to raise prices.
Marty Parker, a supply chain expert and professor at the University of Georgia’s business school who previously worked in the haircare industry, said that for many goods there is “no relief in sight” in the coming months. Rising business costs are being passed on to American consumers, while supply shortages are becoming more noticeable.
Stylists Feel the Pressure
Some Atlanta hairstylists say that as overall living costs rise, the number of customers is declining, while prices of Chinese-made hair products continue to increase. Several wholesalers report higher costs or expect additional price hikes in the coming weeks.
In early May, stylist Dajiah Blackshire saw the price of a hair product she regularly uses jump by $100. If costs keep rising, she may have to increase her service prices. “That would be very difficult,” she said, “especially for clients who already have to choose between getting their hair done and paying their bills.”
Janice Lowe, who runs a salon in a low-income neighborhood in southeast Atlanta, has begun asking customers to bring their own hair products because she can no longer afford to stock certain items. “I’m barely making ends meet,” she said.
A $3.2 Billion Industry Facing Uncertainty
In 2023, the global Black haircare industry was valued at approximately $3.2 billion. Black women’s spending on haircare is estimated to be six times that of other demographic groups.
Predictions vary regarding how much prices will rise and how long increases will last. Industry professionals and consumers may continue to feel the full impact for months.
Cornell McBride, president of Design Essentials, said the company is trying to delay significant price increases until 2026 or 2027, potentially by cutting staff or pausing promotions to reduce expenses. “No one wants to pass costs on to consumers,” he said. “But ultimately, they will be the ones who pay.”