another hair story

The most basic principle of microeconomics is supply and demand.  When demand remains unchanged and supply increases, prices fall.

Take TV’s for example.  In December 2003, I paid $1,650 for a state-of-the art 34 inch, Sony TV.  I couldn’t afford a flat panel, but this was the next best thing. 

Four years later I sold my TV for $250 on Craig’s List, and upgraded to a 40 inch, flat panel Sony.  I paid $300 less than I had paid in 2003, for a bigger, better TV.  A comparable Sony today sells for under $400.

Surprisingly, the same happens to be true for hair straightening. 

In 2007, I had my hair straightened for the first time using keratin.  It cost $350, and took about four hours. Still, it was worth every penny to have no-frizz, shiny hair that even I could blow-out.   Today I  get the same process done with a safer formula for $107, and it only takes an hour.

I love when economics works in my favor.

I go to see Julie at Sergio Limpopo, a little salon in an office building on Madison Avenue.  I found Julie last year through a Groupon. Julie did a great job then, and she does a great job today. 

BEFORE

AFTER

I don't dare show myself from the front, as I look quite horrid in stick-straight hair.  In three days I'll wash it and it will be great.  Until then, I'll be in quarantine.