Looking Good!

Beauty, the one luxury you can't live withoutby Alexa Watts.In this struggling economy, people are cutting corners in every way in order to save money. But for most people trips to the barbershop and hair salon are a luxury they are not willing to cut back on.Camille Sykes, a 23-year-old MCA major, says she never skimps on her hair. “I will make sure my hair is done, before I buy a text book or like an outfit or something like that,” says Sykes. “My hair has to be done; for a black woman that’s our crowning glory. Our hair is what makes us, us, so that’s important to me.”Sykes is one of many women who feel the same way.According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, personal appearance workers--nail stylists, beauticians, and spa workers--will grow by 20 percent from 2008 to 2018, which is much faster than the average job growth for all occupations. In fact, the demand for hair coloring and other advanced hair treatments such as hair extensions has increased in recent years, particularly among baby boomers and young people. This trend is expected to continue, leading to a favorable outlook for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists. People still have the desire to look good even if their financial situations might not be the best.Gia White, a senior at City College, puts her hair first, even when she's broke. “Yes there were times where I needed to choose between getting my hair done or something else but my hair always won," she says. "When you look at me you will never know that I’m strapped for cash, or that I’m stressed out, because my hair will always looks good.”Many people have the same feeling as White: Looking good helps people feel good. In a period where many people are struggling, liking how you look is important to get through the tough economic times."After I get a fresh cut I feel more confident,” says Clovis Newkirk, a 24-year-old waiter for Applebee's restaurant. “It gets my day started and I feel a little better leaving the barber shop than before I went in."Plus, he adds, "I think I get better tips when I get my hair cut.”