I see it all the time. A smart, hardworking pro writes a long caption about a small price change and then braces for impact. Let’s unpack why this happens in the beauty industry, when it helps, when it hurts, and what to do instead.
Why Are Price Announcements So Common?
In the beauty industry, we know that the work is deeply personal. You see your clients often. You build trust and connection through deep conversations. Sometimes, it even feels like friendship. But here’s why it’s harder to make confident decisions:
Close Client Relationships:
We see clients often, we remember milestones, and the service feels deeply personal. That closeness can make business decisions feel emotional.
Industry Tradition:
Many of us learned from mentors who posted announcements because it felt polite and transparent. Habits stick.
Transparency Culture:
Beauty pros value honesty. Announcements feel like the respectful thing to do.
Fear of Backlash:
A few loud reactions online can shape our playbook, even if most clients are supportive.
The Pros and Cons of Announcing a Price Increase
Think about it. Major brands adjust their pricing all the time. They don’t post about it or ask for understanding. They simply do it. Still on the fence? Here’s a simple pro and con list:
Pros:
- Sets expectations so clients aren’t surprised at checkout.
- Clear, timely communication could build trust.
- Opportunity to reframe value by pairing the update with education about advanced training or an elevated experience.
- Use it as an opportunity to announce new services.
Cons:
- Public posts can open the door to opinions you don’t need to manage and invites debate.
- Creates a bigger moment than necessary, and could suggest a business crisis
- Over-explaining can read as uncertainty and can undermine authority
My Recommendation
Treat price updates as a normal part of running a business. Announce only when it serves clarity. If the change is significant or timing affects pre-booked clients, communicate directly and professionally. If it’s a small, routine adjustment, update your menu and move on.
Your Clients Don’t Need a Justification, They Need Consistency
Product prices rise. Rent changes. Education costs money. Life happens. You don’t need to write an emotional essay every time your menu updates.
The best thing you can do for your brand is normalize change. Update your prices. Communicate clearly if needed. Keep the focus on quality and consistency, not on defending your decisions.
Your clients value you for your expertise, your artistry, and your results. That’s what matters most.
How to Raise Prices Without an Apology Tour
Here’s how to move forward with confidence.
- Be direct: Update your price list wherever it lives.
- Be professional: If someone asks, respond with grace. For example:
“My pricing has been updated to reflect current costs and continued education.”
- Be consistent: Keep delivering the same great experience.
No long captions. No justifications. No guilt.
Time To Charge Your Worth
Running a business means constantly evolving. Growth isn’t something to apologize for; it’s something to celebrate. Every time you adjust your pricing, you’re investing in the experience you give them.
So, skip the apology post, update your prices, and keep building your empire.
Because you’re not just offering a service. You’re creating a brand that deserves respect—and that starts with how you respect yourself.