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... Read moreRunning a South Asian-owned lash salon has been a journey of both business challenges and cultural awakening. Many of us grow up internalizing certain stereotypes and norms around work and wages, especially within our communities. For example, the impulse to undercharge for services because of a misplaced sense of humility or perceived obligation to the community is incredibly common, but it ultimately harms both the workers and the business. In my salon, I realized it was necessary to unlearn these ideas—what I call decolonizing my mindset. This meant recognizing that the lash and brow industry is a thriving billion-dollar business where fair compensation is essential. Too often, immigrant workers—lovingly referred to as "aunties" within our circles—are exploited with long hours from 10 am to 8 pm for wages as low as $8 an hour plus tips. This is neither fair nor sustainable. Charging what salon owners of other backgrounds charge for similar quality services is not about greed but about fairness and respect for labor. It's about offering a living wage that acknowledges skill, dedication, and the value these workers bring. By setting appropriate price points, salons can provide better working conditions, reduce exploitation, and build a healthier business model. If you’re a fellow South Asian entrepreneur or client, supporting this movement means acknowledging the importance of fair wages and ethical business practices. It also means helping to dismantle internal community pressures that contribute to self-exploitation. When salons thrive ethically, everyone benefits—from the owners to the workers to the clients who receive top-notch service. Ultimately, this shift towards fair treatment and pricing is not just a business strategy; it’s a step toward greater dignity and respect for our hardworking immigrants contributing so much to our communities and economies.