Artificial Intelligence Is Changing Hair Salons in China: Machines Instead of Human Hands
A new phenomenon is emerging in hair salons in China—automated hair washing using artificial intelligence. This trend, which is spreading rapidly, especially in the southern parts of the country, represents a significant change in traditional hairdressing services, as reported by Chinese and Czech sources.
How AI Hair Washing Works
According to information available from the media, these AI systems are capable of completely washing and rinsing a customer’s hair in approximately 13 minutes. The devices use sophisticated infrared sensors that detect the scalp and analyze the client’s hair type. Based on this analysis, the machine automatically selects a suitable shampoo and optimal washing method. Salon owners who are introducing this technology emphasize its efficiency and ability to adapt to individual needs. Customers can choose from several washing modes:
- Quick mode for clients in a hurry.
- Standard mode for regular washing.
- Longer mode for more thorough care.
In addition to washing itself, the devices also offer adjustable scalp massage intensity, a feature that elicits mixed reactions among customers.
Affordability and Growing Popularity
One of the main attractions of this service was initially its low price. When introduced, AI hair washing cost just 9.9 yuan (approximately 1.35 USD or about CZK 31). As the service became more popular, the price rose to approximately 19 yuan (about 2.60 USD or CZK 60), which is still significantly less than traditional washing performed by salon staff. Despite its growing popularity, not all reactions to this technological novelty have been positive. According to available sources, some customers complain of unpleasant or even painful sensations during the scalp massage provided by the AI machines. Another common criticism is inadequate washing of the back of the head, where the automated systems allegedly have difficulty cleaning thoroughly.
This development fits into the broader context of the rapid integration of artificial intelligence into everyday services in China. According to the Global Times, various AI applications are becoming a common part of life, from shopping and transportation to personal services such as hair care. Although the technology still faces certain challenges, its growing acceptance suggests that automated hair washing could represent a direction of development in the personal care industry. For salon owners, it offers a way to reduce labor costs and increase efficiency, while providing customers with a faster and more affordable alternative to traditional services. However, it remains to be seen whether this technology can cope with the challenges associated with the diversity of hair types and individual customer preferences, or whether it will remain merely a supplementary service alongside traditional manual washing performed by hairdressers.
The video from the salon is here.
