Should hairdressers wear masks?

Should salons still enforce masks for staff and clients? Two experts weigh in.

Yes

As we look forward to more normality resuming, it’s very important to remember that covid-19 has not disappeared and it is very unlikely to do so anytime soon. Having endured the closure of our salons for most of 2020, it just goes to show how serious and how contagious this virus is – so many people have tested positive and many are still experiencing long lasting symptoms having had this over the past 12-18 months. With this in mind, myself and my team within Paul Watts Hairdressing will continue to wear our masks and PPE equipment for the foreseeable future. Although we are very aware that the restrictions are now easing and that the rate of infection is dropping, the health and wellbeing of our team and our clients is absolutely vital, and we will continue to protect every individual who visits us in the salon.

“Covid-19 has not disappeared”

We are being extra cautious, because we want our clients to feel safe, relaxed and at ease when they visit us. Our salon has been and still remains a covid-free zone and this is something we hope to continue as we progress throughout 2021. We are very aware of the recent developments and restrictions, ensuring we are up-to-date on the latest protocols and information released by the UK government and health officials. Until we feel ready to do so, we will continue to protect our team and those around us by wearing masks and PPE in the salon.

PAUL WATTS, PAUL WATTS HAIRDRESSING & JOICO EUROPEAN DESIGN TEAM MEMBER

No

It’s refreshing to hear that our normal way of life is slowly returning. However, it is sometimes difficult to make the right decisions for all our clients and staff, therefore we have decided that, as per government guidance, the decision should now be left with the individual. We will be practicing the ‘mirroring’ approach – so if the client chooses to wear a mask, a stylist will also wear one too. Likewise, if the stylist opts to wear a mask, we politely ask the client to wear one too.

We have continually communicated our salon processes, keeping the space clean and covid-free at all times. This communication has heightened our clients’ feelings towards the salon and when they visit, as they are fully aware that we are going out of our way to keep them protected at all times. All clients are contacted 48 hours pre-visit to confirm they have no symptoms, that they have not been in contact with anyone who is experiencing symptoms and that they are well. Clients can also contact us anytime pre-appointment to change their slot if they do come into contact or experience any of the above.

“The decision should be left with the individual”

Each individual has their own personal view on covid-19 and the mask situation, therefore we allow them to take the lead on the appointment. We do not want anyone to feel uncomfortable and we feel it is important to give everyone the choice without prejudice.

Safy Burton, Safy B Salon