We’re counting down the days for our hair salons to open, but light gray wig before they do so, hairdresser June Forbes, gives advice on how proper preparation will help ensure that you and your stylist remain safe during your hair appointmentTo prepare for re-opening, many hairdressers will have had to make dramatic changes to their salons, involving some combination of removingworkstations, stocking up on PPE, extending business hours, and working shifts. These alterations should follow the proper social distancing guidelines set out by the Government and include limiting salon occupant capacity to a maximum of 50%, despite the immense impact on revenue.
Below, hairdresser June Forbes from Hair by June Forbes, explains the new post-lockdown guidelines for salon customers, so that when you do venture out to your hair appointment, you can do so with a sense of security and do your part to ensure your own and your stylist’s safety.
July 4th 2020 is the proposed date for the re-opening of hair salons, barbers and tattoo parlours. Many of us are jumping up and down in anticipation of the moment when we can ditch the Color Wow, shelve the detangling comb and close our eyes to relax under the feel of expert hands on our heads, after more than three months of DIY. This time your stylist won’t berate you for neglecting your ends or forgoing your trim. In fact, many salons already have waiting lists in place, with clients having pre-paid and pre-booked to be first in line as their doors open.
However, the look and feel of that treasured experience will be somewhat altered. There will be, in the face of COVID-19, changes in the buzzing, carefree community vibe that black salons are particularly known and loved for… But one thing lost (at least for now), is another thing gained. As a result of the social distancing measures that are required to help prevent the spread of the virus, appointments will no doubt be kept timely and many of you will now have your stylist’s undivided attention for the duration of your service.
WHAT TO EXPECT?So, what should you, the client, expect from your salon and stylist to ensure your comfort and safety when resuming this valuable act of self-care?
The National Hair and Beauty Federation have issued a series of guidelines which include, but are not limited to, the following. Familiarising yourself with them should help you to feel satisfied that you are in good hands and your health is not put at risk.
By appointment onlySelf screenLeave others at homeYou may be asked to arrive with pre-washed hairArrive on time – for your appointment, as it has been advised that clients should no longer be kept waiting in the reception area. If you are early, then it’s best to wait outside. You should wear a mask and be given an opportunity to wash your hands immediately upon arrival. You should be given clear instructions on how or where to safely store your personal belongings before being guided through the workspace.
WHILE YOU’RE AT THE SALON
No more magazines (or drinks)Sanitise and/or wash your hands Wear a mask or face coveringCover up– Give an accurate history of your home care Get off that phone!Where possible payment should be cashless. If you do bring cash, then you must try to hand over the exact amount to minimise the exchange.
WHAT YOUR STYLIST SHOULD BE DOING
your stylist should be wearing personal protective equipment (PPE)online certification in salon hygiene relating to COVID-19 before returning to work. If these certificates are not on display you can ask to see them (though at this stage it is not a compulsory requirement). Your stylist and any staff members directly involved in your service should not be dealing with any other clients throughout that time. If, for any reason they do come into contact with anyone else or have reason to leave the room, then they should change into a new set of PPE before returning to you. As you become familiar with the routine, subsequent visits will become easier, develop a more natural flow and once again become a pleasure to look forward to. We are all excited to welcome you again and will do our best to put you at ease and make your experience an enjoyable one.This all sounds a little daunting but remember that your stylist will have your best interests at heart and as always will want to deliver their services at the highest standard possible.
*Please note that at this time it is inadvisable for stylists to work in client’s homes because of the higher risks of transmission of the virus to both parties, as there is a lack of control of exposure. In this instance, salon insurances will not provide cover.
June Forbes is a freelance hairdresser, educator and industry consultant, with over three decades experience of working with an international clientele. Instagram | @jforbes_hair
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