Shampooers

Today, shampooers already use digital tools for some work. For example, salon software handles bookings and client records easily ^[1], so keeping treatment notes is mostly done by computer instead of by hand. By contrast, the core task of massaging and shampooing hair is still mostly human.

Some high-tech robots can wash and massage hair – for instance, a Chinese salon machine uses jets to “wash hair from all directions” ^[2], and Panasonic showed a model with 16 “finger-like” wipers to scrub the scalp ^[3]. These machines work, but they still need staff to start them, dry hair, or adjust settings. Similarly, tools that treat hair loss or scalp conditions exist (like infrared or laser devices), but they are usually operated by people.

New AI apps can even analyze scalp health from photos ^[4], hinting that tech can help diagnose issues. However, when it comes to deciding a real medical concern, customers still rely on a trained person’s judgment. In short, routine admin tasks are largely computerized, and smart gadgets are emerging for washing or checking hair, but shampooers’ hands-on care remains essential.

Whether salons quickly start using more AI will depend on several factors. In fast-aging countries like Japan or China, robots can address worker shortages ^[3] – one news story even notes a salon in Hong Kong using six AI washers after interest from mainland China. Cost matters too: these machines can wash hair very cheaply (one automated wash costs only about $2.70 for 16 minutes ^[2]), which might save money over time.

However, many salons still hire people because skilled shampooers add a personal touch. People often prefer a friendly stylist to wash their hair, and hiring a robot involves high upfront cost and maintenance. Also, average pay for shampooers is modest and projected to grow (about 5–6% over 2024-2034) ^[1], so labor isn’t extremely expensive.

In short, while AI tools (like chatbots for booking) are already used, full automation of shampooing moves slowly: salons value human care and only use robots or AI for extra efficiency or safety. Overall, busy salon work is still mainly human-driven, though smart machines and apps are gradually helping out.