A method of distributing hair care or cosmetic products where a salon owner, stylist or booth renter can procure hair care or cosmetic products including hair dyes from a vending device located within the salon as needed at the point of use. The transaction data representing the product purchased, identification of the purchaser, location of the vending device and like is transmitted to a central computer over a communications network. The central computer updates inventory data of the vending device based on the transaction data and if necessary, schedules delivery to the vending device based on the updated inventory data. Additionally, apart from inventory control, the transaction data can be used to follow fashion trends in the hair care and cosmetics fields.