338 Instagram Marketing for Salons: What’s Changed in 2026 with Hayley Mears

Instagram marketing for salons is constantly evolving, and if you're relying on strategies from even a year ago, there are changes you need to know about. In this episode, I’m joined once again by Instagram specialist Hayley Mears to unpack what’s working on Instagram right now and what salon owners need to be doing differently in 2026.

We dive into the simple three-step structure that every successful Instagram carousel needs, why hooks are more important than ever, and how to create content that people actually save and share. Because, as you’ll hear, the algorithm has shifted and likes are no longer the metric that matters the most.

We also talk about AI, why hashtags are becoming increasingly irrelevant, and how salon owners can use Instagram to amplify the one thing technology can’t replace, the human experience. This episode is packed with practical ideas you can start using straight away.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

✅ The 3-step structure every successful Instagram carousel needs

✅ Why hooks are critical to getting people to swipe

✅ Why the algorithm now values saves and shares over likes

✅ Whether hashtags are becoming irrelevant

✅ How to use AI without losing your authentic voice

✅ Three practical Instagram strategies for salon owners in 2026

EPISODE TIMESTAMPS:

[00:05] Introduction to the episode and what listeners can expect

[00:47] Introducing Instagram specialist Hayley Mears

[02:00] The 3-step structure every successful Instagram carousel needs

[04:49] Why writing a strong hook is the hardest part of a carousel

[07:46] Calls to action that actually work on Instagram

[11:33] Using AI for captions without losing your authentic voice

[14:47] Why Instagram now rewards saves and shares over likes

[21:42] Why Instagram is showing more content to non-followers

[23:07] Are hashtags becoming irrelevant?

[27:00] Three actionable Instagram strategies for salon owners in 2026

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Join us on our upcoming free Salon Marketing Masterclass on 16th & 17th March. 

From Random Tactics to Fully Booked: How to Create a Salon Marketing System That Gets Clients In and Keeps Them Coming Back.
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Until next time!
Antony