Over the past few months, we’ve been forced to DIY everything from meals to workouts to nails due to the COVID-19 outbreak. While this has been a great lesson on self-sufficiency for most, some things are better left to professionals—like hair, for example. No one has eyes on the back of their head.
Most hair salons across the nation have been open for a while now, but it still may feel risky (and unnecessary) to get your hair done. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to maintain a social distance with your stylist, and until there are zero cases of coronavirus in your area, there will be a level of risk involved.
I flirted with the idea of getting a haircut for weeks before finally pulling the trigger and getting inches chopped off. The deciding factor? Heavy research into the precautions my hair salon is taking. I called and dug deeper into my salon’s updated protocols to make sure I felt safe and comfortable going. If you’re on the fence, I encourage you to do the same—check out your salon’s website, read recent reviews, and call to ask for more information. Here’s a checklist to help you make an informed decision.
Factors to consider before booking a hair salon appointment:
Updated Procedures
Does the salon require masks for both employees and customers? Are tools and spaces being sanitized more rigorously and frequently than before? Are they taking everyone’s temperature when they walk in? Is hand sanitizer readily available?
Person-to-Person Contact
Is the salon limiting contact and reducing time spent in the salon by forgoing the nice-to-haves like washing and blow drying or drinks and magazines? Is there a reduced maximum occupancy for the time being? Has the layout been updated to enforce a six-foot distance between chairs?
Timing
How flexible is scheduling? Are they staggering appointments? Are appointments available during off-times, like early mornings or late evenings, to limit exposure? Are clients waiting in their cars instead of in a communal waiting area?
Payment Options
Is there an option to pay digitally through a cash app or transfer? Can you tip through Venmo instead of cash?
Precautions to take before visiting a salon:
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Wear a mask
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Wash your hands
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Confirm that you don’t have any symptoms or haven’t been exposed
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Make sure everyone you live with is comfortable with your decision
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Cancel or reschedule your appointment if you feel sick
Remember, the situation with the pandemic is constantly changing and everyone’s personal situation and comfort level is unique. Trust your gut, and do what feels right for you.
