A new report has revealed the best countries for affordable beauty, with the UK in the top 10
A new global pricing study commissioned by retailer Currys has revealed how the cost of beauty treatments and skincare products compares across 29 countries, highlighting where clients can get the best value for their money.
How UK beauty treatment prices compare globally
The report ranked the UK 7th for value, with the country offering more affordable salon services than many major beauty markets, including the USA, Sweden, Germany and France.
The report, which analysed the average cost of a manicure, half-leg wax and women’s haircut, found that the total cost in the UK is £103.76.
While this places the UK in the mid-range globally, it highlights the country’s competitive pricing in a world where treatment costs vary widely.
Cheapest countries for beauty treatments in 2025
At the top of the affordability rankings sits India, where clients can enjoy all three treatments for just £17.02 – a remarkable 84% less than in the UK.
Similarly, the Philippines and Brazil follow closely behind, with totals of £17.51 and £19.02 respectively, representing over 80% savings compared to British prices.
These price differences reflect local economies and service structures, rather than quality, and serve as useful context for beauty professionals interested in global pricing trends or wellness tourism opportunities.
Most expensive countries for salon treatments revealed
At the other end of the scale, Switzerland is the most expensive country in the index, with a total treatment cost of £196.71, or 90% more than in the UK.
Denmark (£147.62) and Hong Kong (£117.92) also appear among the top three most expensive countries for routine beauty services.
Despite being a luxury destination, Switzerland’s high prices may be driven by living costs, premium service demand and brand positioning, offering useful insights for professionals working with luxury clientele or pricing high-end services.
Best countries to buy skincare and makeup for less
When it comes to skincare and cosmetic products, South Korea and Mexico top the affordability chart, with average prices 24% lower than in the UK.
Other notable destinations for lower-priced beauty products include:
- Canada: 15% less than UK
- USA: 14% less
- Germany, New Zealand, Romania: 9% less
In contrast, the most expensive countries for beauty products were:
- UAE: 25% more than UK
- Switzerland: 19% more
- Turkey: 16% more
The differences are attributed to import taxes, local manufacturing and consumer demand for premium brands.
Top beauty treatments searched around the world
The report also tracked global search interest in popular beauty services, offering insight into regional beauty priorities:
- USA: Highest searches for Botox, chemical peels, lip filler and spray tans
- Singapore: Tops searches for facials, massages, manicures and hair removal
- New Zealand: Leads in searches for eyelash extensions, eyebrow threading and nail salons
- UAE: Highest search volume for “beauty salon near me”
- Canada: Top searches for tanning salons
These insights reflect cultural preferences, aesthetic trends, and wellness habits that can help UK-based professionals tailor services for tourists or gain inspiration from other markets.
UK and global beauty pricing compared: where services offer best value
For beauty professionals in the UK, this report offers positive news: clients are getting strong value for money, and the country remains highly competitive in the global market.
Whether you're considering international expansion, benchmarking prices or exploring trends in wellness tourism, understanding global pricing can help shape smarter, client-focused strategies.
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