Haircut and Beauty Discounts for Over-60s

Last checked November 2026. Offers and rules change: confirm with the provider before you rely on them.

Many independent hairdressers and barbers offer a cheaper rate for over-60s, usually on quieter weekdays, and college training salons offer supervised cuts and treatments for a fraction of normal prices. There is no national scheme, so finding a saving is a matter of asking locally.

Hairdressers and barbers

The "pensioners' day"

The traditional over-60s discount is alive and well in local salons and barbers' shops. Typically it is a set lower price for a cut, or a shampoo and set, on one or two quieter days early in the week. Some salons use 60 as the qualifying age, others 65 or State Pension age.

These offers are rarely online. Look for a price list in the window, phone and ask, or ask friends and neighbours where they go. When you ring, ask:

which days and times the discount applies;
whether it covers colouring, perms and blow-dries, or only a basic cut;
whether it is with any stylist or only certain members of staff.

Chain salons

We could not confirm a standing over-60s discount at any national salon chain on its own website, so we have not named one. Individual branches are often franchises that set their own offers, so it is still worth asking at yours. Most chains also run loyalty cards and introductory offers for new customers.

Training salons at colleges

Further education colleges that teach hairdressing, barbering and beauty therapy run salons where students practise on paying customers under the supervision of qualified tutors. Prices are typically well below those of a commercial salon.

What to expect:

appointments take longer, because the tutor checks each stage;
salons are open in term time only, usually on set days;
the choice of treatments depends on what the students are learning that term;
you will normally need a skin test a day or two before any colouring.

Search for your nearest college's website and look for "salon" or "services to the public", or phone the college reception.

Tip: commercial salons also need "models" for trainee stylists and for staff training evenings. Cuts and colours are offered free or for a small charge. Ask your local salon whether it has a model list.

Mobile hairdressers and help at home

If getting to a salon is difficult, a mobile hairdresser will come to you. Prices are often lower than a salon's because there are no premises to pay for, though some add a call-out charge. Check that the person is qualified and insured, and agree the price before they start.

Day centres, sheltered housing schemes and care homes frequently have a visiting hairdresser at modest prices; ask the manager. If washing your own hair has become a struggle, simple equipment can help. See bath lifts and shower seats, and ask your GP surgery or council about an occupational therapy assessment if daily tasks are getting harder.

Beauty treatments, nails and chiropody

Beauty and nails

The same rules apply as for hairdressing: independents may have an over-60s rate on quiet days, and college training salons offer manicures, pedicures, facials and massage at reduced prices.

Footcare

Cutting toenails and looking after feet becomes harder for many people in later life. Options include:

NHS podiatry. Available where there is a medical need, for example for people with diabetes or circulation problems. Ask your GP surgery how referral works in your area. This is general information, not medical advice.
Low-cost toenail-cutting services. Many local Age UK branches and other charities run these for a modest fee. Contact your local Age UK.
Private podiatrists and chiropodists. Check the practitioner is registered with the Health and Care Professions Council.

Comfortable, well-fitting footwear matters too: see slippers and footwear.

Toiletries and cosmetics

Loyalty schemes. Boots runs an Over 60s Rewards scheme through its free Advantage Card. See high-street discounts for what we could confirm.
Own brands. Supermarket and chemist own-brand shampoos, moisturisers and razors are often very close to the big names at a much lower price. Compare the price per 100ml on the shelf label.
Discount stores and markets. Good for branded toiletries; check the seal is intact.
Refills and larger sizes. Cheaper per use if you will get through them.

Watch out: be careful with "free trial" offers for skin creams and supplements advertised online or on social media. Many sign you up to expensive monthly payments that are hard to stop. Read spotting scams before entering card details.

How to claim and what ID to take

Ask when you book, not when you pay. Salons often need to put you in a particular slot for the discount to apply.
Take proof of age the first time: a bus pass, driving licence or Senior Railcard. Once they know you, most salons will not ask again.
Confirm the price before the work starts, including any extras such as conditioning treatments or blow-drying.
Mention health matters such as a sensitive scalp, allergies or blood-thinning medicines before a treatment.

Common questions

Do all hairdressers give a discount to over-60s?

No. It is most common in independent salons and barbers on quieter weekdays. Always ask.

Is a college training salon safe?

Students work under qualified tutors who check their work. Allow extra time, and tell the tutor at the start exactly what you want.

Can I get my hair done at home?

Yes, through a mobile hairdresser. Ask for recommendations locally and agree the price in advance.

Can I get free chiropody on the NHS because of my age?

Age alone does not normally qualify; it depends on medical need and local arrangements. Ask your GP surgery.

Where are the other discounts?

See gym and swimming discounts and the main over-60s discounts guide.