REVEALED: Leitrim is the 5th Most Pampered County in Ireland

Recent data collected by Irish-owned cosmetics brand AYU found that Leitrim is the 5tth most pampered area in Ireland as it has the highest amount of hair and beauty salons per capita.

Suzie O’Neill, renowned makeup artist and owner of AYU, says that hair salons are the most popular type of shop in Ireland, with over 10,000 businesses operating in the country, and beauty salons are the second, with over 5,000. 

“We Irish people like to stay well-maintained and look good because it makes us feel good about ourselves. When we look good, we feel confident, happy, and healthy. And when we feel good about ourselves, we are more likely to be positive and outgoing. Therefore, it’s no surprise that there are so many hair and beauty salons around Ireland”, she said. 

According to the Irish Point of Single Contact for the Services Directive, there are over 15,000 hair and beauty salons in Ireland. This number includes both independent salons and chains. 

The beauty and hair industry is thriving in Ireland, with the sector generating over €1 billion in revenue each year.

“The hair and beauty industry in Ireland is worth an estimated €2.79 billion. This is equivalent to 2.1% of total employment in the economy at the end of 2019. The industry supports 30,800 jobs directly and 18,480 jobs indirectly in the economy. 

Despite recent challenges, Ireland's hair and beauty industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. The industry is expected to be worth €3.1 billion by 2025.