Experts have noted signs that a recession is coming, whether it’s people spending less money at strip clubs or Americans falling behind on car payments at record rates.  

There are fashion and beauty signs that only Gen Z and millennial women have spotted indicating an upcoming economic downturn.  

Some women have noted that clothing seems to be cheaper and coal mining inspired, comparing it to what characters wore in District 12 in The Hunger Games, which was inspired by Appalachia. 

Others have noticed that more low-key hairstyles that don’t require expensive products and upkeep are on the rise, including natural, frizzy hair. 

Now, Megan Vasquez, a beauty influencer marketing expert at GRIN, has pointed out multiple indications that Gen Z and millennial women are preparing for an economic downtick. 

Megan, based in Los Angeles, has found that ‘people are stretching time between salon visits with lower maintenance options.’ 

‘When areas of life feel uncertain or restricted, beauty remains a form of control and comfort,’ Megan said.

Amid President Donald Trump‘s tariffs, these are the signs that women are looking to save money on pricey beauty treatments. 

There are signs that women are looking to save money on pricey beauty treatments to prepare for an economic downturn – like skipping hair appointments – to save money (stock photo) 

During any kind of economic downturn, more and more women begin purchasing lipstick in a bid to reward or treat themselves without breaking the bank (stock photo) 

‘As tariffs begin to impact beauty, prices will shift, but habits will shift as well,’ Megan warned. 

Recession brunette is one of the trends, along with balayage, which is soft, natural highlights, so it doesn’t necessitate constant hairstylist visits.  

Megan believes ‘we’ll definitely see the lipstick effect come into play,’ because ‘consumers still want to treat themselves.’ 

During any kind of economic downturn, more and more women begin purchasing lipstick in a bid to reward or treat themselves without breaking the bank. 

But young women aren’t just indulging by buying lipsticks.

Megan said they’re also purchasing minis and travel sizes of expensive items as well as ‘leading the DIY beauty movement.’

Young women are using hair glossing kits, press-on nails, lash extensions, self-tanning products, brow lamination kits, and at-home waxing products for salon results without the hefty price tag. 

Women have been flocking to social media to show off how they do their own lashes at home as they complain about ultra-high salon prices, where lash extensions can cost hundreds a month and thousands a year. 

People are going to try more cost-effective beauty techniques, including doing their own spray tans

Women have been flocking to social media to show off how they do their own lashes at home as they complain about ultra-high salon prices, where lash extensions can cost hundreds a month and thousands a year 

‘While the costs of goods are rising, consumers will reframe value and view the products they buy not just in terms of price, but in performance, purpose, and practicality,’ Megan warned.

Megan believes people are going to try more cost-effective beauty techniques, including doing their own hair extensions and spray tans. 

Young women are buying dupes, not just when it comes to high-end items like bags, but also to try more affordable makeup products. 

They’re flocking to TikTok Shop to buy these inexpensive options when they’re not opting for at-home spa days.