Post COVID-19 Lockdown, Experts Weigh In On What You Can Expect At Beauty Salons

The Coronavirus pandemic has changed life as we knew it; from newspapers being read on screens to groceries being delivered at the door. But that was only the beginning. With the lockdown being eased in certain states and a new sense of normal finding its way to fit in, each industry is starting from scratch to make their space hygienic and practices safer. Salons, barbershops and parlours are a few of them. As their primary business involves being in close quarters with customers for haircuts, waxing sessions and pedicures, the way they function will have to change drastically to suit this new way of life. We spoke to the experts who are transforming their beauty brands in the wake of the new normal in times of COVID-19.

Rochelle Chhabra, the Professional Division Head of Hygiene Research Institute (Streax Professional) says to Swirlster, "The lockdown has left the salon industry severely affected, and it will take months for professionals, as well as customers, to get back to their usual salon routine. Social distancing, temperature checking, frequent sanitization, wearing masks and service on an appointment basis only are going to be standard functioning for salons, and the professionals and customers must adhere to it for everyone's safety."

(Also Read: 7 Trendy Haircut And Colour Ideas For When You Can Go To The Salon Again)

Salons are getting a safety face lift

At Streax, over 30,000 salon partners and professionals have been trained via webinars on the standard operating procedures to efficiently manage post-lockdown operations and include new products in their safety kit.

Dr. Simal Soin, Founder of AAYNA Clinic said, " Through the lockdown we trained our staff online on using their equipment, masks, gloves, disposals, and how social distancing is to be followed strictly. We have ensured that our staff cover their faces and do not talk to the client while doing any procedure." Besides personal hygiene, overall safety and cleanliness too is being strictly maintained. "There will be only one exit and entrance and the customers will be directly escorted to their allotted rooms where they will change their clothes to disposable gowns. Personal belongings like mobile phones and handbags will be kept in a separate cupboard. They will not meet any other client. Before entering the clinic, each customer's body temperature will be checked. Shoe covers, masks and hand sanitizing will be mandatory for everyone," confirms Dr. Soin.

Sanitisation is key at this point of time

For added precaution, the clinic is offering only online pre-procedure consultations with an expert and no walk-ins are allowed. All customers will have to provide their medical and travel history and share the AarogyaSetu app screenshot with the clinic therapist.

It isn't only salon personnel who need to maintain safety practices; it's also customers who have to follow what is being enforced by salons. Rochelle signs off saying, "These are unprecedented times for salons. We need collaborative efforts from everyone in the industry to help our patrons bounce back to normalcy. Stay positive, motivated, and well-versed with the changing circumstances of the COVID-19- affected world."

(Also Read: 6 Beauty Treatments That You Don't Need To Wait For A Salon To Do At Home)