Can you deduct hairdressing costs?

A visit to the hairdresser is usually not tax-deductible

While it’s important to look your best as a self-employed professional, a trip to the hairdresser or barber is generally not tax-deductible. 💇

This is because, in most cases, there’s no direct link to your professional activity. Hairdressing costs are typically considered personal expenses, just like other personal care costs such as clothing or cosmetics.

Unfortunately, looking good for your clients isn’t a valid reason to claim these costs… 😉

When are hairdressing costs tax-deductible?

Generally, we wouldn’t recommend claiming hairdressing costs as a business expense. However, as always, there are exceptions.

In very specific situations, hairdressing costs may be partially deductible. For example, if you’re a model or work in the entertainment industry, you could justify a trip to the hairdresser, as your appearance and hairstyle could be considered part of your profession.

Or, if you’re a hairdresser yourself, you can claim costs related to testing new products or techniques as business expenses. ✨

Still unsure?

Conclusion: your monthly trip to the hairdresser probably won’t be accepted as a business expense by the tax authorities, as it’s considered a personal cost.

In some exceptional cases, you might try to claim hairdressing costs if there’s a specific link to your professional activity.

Since it’s very rare for hairdressing costs to be approved as business expenses, we recommend consulting your accountant if you’re unsure.