Do you remember comedian Billy Crystal's imitation of actor Fernando Lamas on Saturday Night Live in the '80's? One of his big catch phrases was, "It's better to look good than to feel good." And that's what "The Lipstick Indicator" is all about. Guys, stay with us here - it does carry over to our gender.

What's The Lipstick Indicator? No, it doesn't have anything to do with pigs, pitbulls, or Palin. Believe it or not, it's a sign of economic distress, as devised by Leonard Lauder, chairman of the Estée Lauder cosmetics company shortly after the 9/11 attacks of 2001. Lauder noticed that lipstick sales spiked as the stock market dived downward in the days that followed. And he had the bright idea that when business goes bad, people start a stampede towards affordable luxuries - since buying big-ticket items is suddenly not an option.

Lauder's theory was validated by a little more research - turns out, during the Great Depression in the 1930's, the cosmetics industry actually boomed - with an annual increase of 25%. Not many other businesses could make that claim! With that track record in mind, Estée Lauder and other lipstick companies are suddenly releasing new shades and new lines for sale, to maximize their advantage in the wake of this year's "Wall Street Meltdown."

The New York Times did an entire article on the dynamic this past May - and quoted Dr. April Benson, a Manhattan psychologist, on why women lap up the lipstick when money's tight: "When women use lipstick in times of stress, they're doing it to put forward an image that they are more alive and vibrant, and not as down in the mouth." Yep. Better to look good than to feel good.

But what does that have to do with guys? Well, it turns out men aren't as different from woman as they might like to think. Maybe they can't afford that hot new sports car - or they have to pass on that boys-only Vegas weekend for now. But they too, look for affordable luxuries that can make them look good - it turns out, feel good as well.

That's why many men are suddenly flocking to new barbershop franchises that brings back the classic barbershop services and atmosphere - and adds a few modern twists that make for an awesome, self-indulgent, yet affordable experience. By featuring authentic straight-razor shaves administered by expert, licensed barbers, modern grooming products, and other extras, including complimentary beverage service (even Beer!), these clubs turn the traditional shave and a haircut into a luxurious but affordable "time-out" from the stresses of today's economic woes. That's why these franchises are being bought up quickly as smart investors realize The Lipstick Indicator Theory really points to one of those rare opportunities not to be passed up.

Contrary to Billy Crystal's catchphrase, you CAN look good and feel good - just ask any delighted Barber Club member. And don't be afraid to admire that member's outstanding new shave and haircut by using that other famous Billy Crystal catchphrase: "You look marvelous!"

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