The goodness of rains

Join Kanishka Ramchandani as she explores how salons can adapt their service menus to address the unique skincare challenges posed by the monsoon season.

Monsoon is a magical time as Mother Earth pulls over a green veil, the air is infused with freshness and nature is at its picturesque best. But the rise in humidity and constant exposure to water can give rise to skin issues such as acne, fungal infections and dullness. As experts in personal grooming, salons need to adapt to the changing needs of their clientele and create services that are customised for the changing season. By incorporating specialised treatments like deep cleansing facials and hydrating but non-greasy facials, salons can provide targeted solutions that cater to the season’s demands. Updating the service menu not only ensures optimal skincare results for clients but also positions the salon as a responsive and knowledgeable service provider, fostering client loyalty and satisfaction.

We asked our experts to guide us on what salons can do to improve their services during monsoon and enhance their customer experience.

What changes do you recommend in a salon’s menu during monsoon?

A good monsoon skincare menu should include deep cleansing facials to unclog pores, exfoliation treatments to remove dead skin cells, and oil-control masks. Incorporating products with ingredients like tea tree oil, salicylic acid and clay can help manage acne and excess oil.

Acne and oil control: Include treatments that use ingredients like salicylic acid, tea tree oil, and clay masks. These help in reducing acne and controlling oil production. Also, hydrating but nongreasy moisturisers can help balance the skin’s moisture levels. Even though the skin can get oily, it still needs hydration. Use lightweight, waterbased products that hydrate without clogging pores.

Deep cleansing: Ensure that facials and treatments start with a thorough cleansing routine to remove dirt, oil, and impurities.

Exfoliation: Regular exfoliation helps in removing dead skin cells that can clog pores and lead to acne. Use gentle exfoliants to avoid irritation.

Oil-control masks: Incorporate masks that absorb excess oil, such as clay or charcoal masks. These help in keeping the skin matte and reduce the chances of acne.

Non-comedogenic products: Use products that are non-comedogenic, meaning they do not clog pores. This helps in preventing acne.

Hydration: Even oily skin needs hydration. Use lightweight, gel-based moisturisers that hydrate without making the skin greasy.

Do you recommend a change in protocol for facials during monsoon?

Yes, it is a good idea to tweak facial protocols during monsoon. The increased humidity can lead to more oil production and clogged pores. Opt for non-comedogenic products that won’t clog pores and are suitable for oily and acne-prone skin. Incorporate hydrating serums and masks that provide moisture without being too heavy.

Cleansing: Start with a double cleanse to ensure all impurities and excess oil are removed.

Exfoliation: Incorporate gentle exfoliation to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.

Toning: Use alcohol-free toners that help in tightening pores and controlling oil.

Masks: Use masks that target specific concerns, like clay masks for oil control and hydrating masks for moisture. Serums and moisturisers: Opt for lightweight, non-comedogenic serums and moisturisers that hydrate the skin without making it oily.

“Consider bundling treatments like hair and skin care packages or of fering discounts on popular monsoon-specific services to encourage more visits.”

How important is to have extensive options in pedicure during the monsoon season?

Extremely important! Monsoon can make feet more prone to infections due to constant moisture. Offering pedicures that include anti-fungal treatments, thorough cleaning, and moisturising can help keep feet healthy and smooth. Ensure sterilisation of all implements and pedicure tubs.

Anti-fungal treatments: Offer pedicures that include anti-fungal treatments to prevent infections.

Thorough cleaning: Ensure that pedicures involve thorough cleaning and scrubbing to remove dirt and dead skin.

Foot scrubs: Use clay-based foot scrubs to remove dead skin and keep feet smooth and healthy.

Moisturising: Ensure the pedicure includes a good moisturising routine to combat dryness and cracking. Use moisturising foot creams that keep the feet hydrated but not greasy.

Do you recommend salons to have special discounts or offers during monsoon?

Absolutely! Special discounts or offers can attract more customers during the monsoon season. Consider bundling treatments like hair and skin care packages or offering discounts on popular monsoon-specific services to encourage more visits.

Bundled services: Create packages that combine popular treatments, like a hair spa, hydrating facial and a pedicure at a discounted rate.

Seasonal offers: Offer discounts on monsoon-specific treatments to attract more clients.

Loyalty programmes: Introduce extra perks on monsoon specific services where customers can earn additional points or discounts on their next visit.

Referral discounts: Encourage existing customers to refer friends and family by offering discounts or free service on their next visit.

What changes do you recommend in a salon’s menu during monsoon?

During the monsoon season, we adjust our salon menu to cater to the specific needs that arise due to the increased humidity and fluctuating weather conditions. For hair treatments, we introduce anti-frizz treatments, deep conditioning masks and scalp treatments to combat humidity-induced frizz and promote overall hair health. For skin treatments, we focus on deep cleansing facials, hydrating masks, and treatments that address excess oil and acne, which are common during the rainy season. These adjustments ensure that our clients’ hair and skin remain healthy and vibrant despite the challenging weather.

How important is it to have extensive options in pedicure during the monsoon season?

Extensive pedicure options are essential during the monsoon season due to the increased exposure to wet and muddy conditions, which can lead to foot discomfort. Offering a variety of pedicures, including intense moisturising options, exfoliating foot scrubs, and relaxing massages, helps in maintaining foot hygiene and health. Additionally, incorporating aromatherapy and soothing treatments can alleviate stress and provide a comforting experience to clients who might be dealing with the discomforts of the rainy season.

Do you recommend salons to have special discounts or offers during monsoon?

To attract and retain clients during the monsoon, we often introduce special discounts and offers. These may include discounted rates on specific hair and skin treatments, combo packages that combine multiple services at a reduced price, and loyalty programmes that reward frequent visits. For example, we might offer a ‘Monsoon Glow’ package that includes a hydrating facial and a deep conditioning hair treatment at a special price. These promotions not only encourage clients to take care of their beauty needs during the monsoon but also help in maintaining a steady flow of business during this season.