2020 has come to snatch our edges, but we won’t allow it! If you were forced to do your own hair at home in the last few months with whatever products you had under your bathroom sink, you’re not alone. We ALL did it. The question is, how did we do? Do you miss your hairstylist? I can guarantee they miss you too! If you, like many others, are afraid to get back into the salon, fear not! Despite popular opinion, a safe visit is very possible. Here’s what to look for to ensure safety and proper state safety protocol.
When booking an appointment with your stylist, first of all, do not feel bad for asking questions. Trust me; we understand your concerns. If your stylist is doing everything right, he/she will be happy to address your concerns. If we are all in compliance, we can bridge the gap together. One question you may want to ask is if they have received their Barbicide Certification. Barbicide is the official disinfectant used by cosmetologists and barbers to effectively disinfect all tools. The primary purpose of this is to prevent the spread of diseases and to kill harmful bacteria. The certification is available online free of charge at www.barbicide.com if your stylist has not completed it.
Upon booking your appointment within the “new normal,” it is common for you to expect some type of appointment confirmation providing new salon protocols. If your stylist is not providing these details, it is safe to assume that they simply do not exist. The absolute bare minimum of these protocols should be the wearing of a face mask. Your stylist should also be cleaning and disinfecting between clients. Again, if you don’t see any of this happening, it’s safe to assume that it’s just not. Although you may have never paid too much attention to these details, we are living in an age where these details matter more than ever.
As stylists, we have been through extensive education to receive professional licensing that places a direct responsibility on us to care for each person who sits in our chair individually. We are taught how to care for each client not only physically, but also in ways mentally and emotionally. Whatever it is that you need to talk about, your stylist is always there ready with an ear to listen – free of judgment. Unless that’s what they’re there for. If your stylist is the only one in your corner who tells it like it is – that’s someone you need to keep around. Being a great listener is one of the countless attributes that many stylists just have naturally.
Speaking from a hairstylist’s perspective, I can say that despite our unusual circumstances, we have to focus daily on the small positive aspects of each day. For instance, being home in quarantine meant finally having more than enough time to try a homemade deep condition treatment or a protective style. Many of us have been practicing different styles and perfecting our craft. Others have discovered new avenues and streams of income. By the way, if your stylist is also an author, or owns a clothing line, for instance, consider supporting them in other ways. Entrepreneurship in any capacity can be difficult, especially in this current economic climate. We are all just trying our best right now. As difficult as things may seem, we can all find the silver lining. If your hairstylist is someone who brightens up your day, reach out to them. Let them know that they are missed and book an appointment. Now that you know a little more about the new protocols, you can ensure a safe, pleasant visit. Just remember that as much as you may have missed your stylist, I promise she wants to hug you, but she can’t. Let her hug her fingers around those curls instead!
