Due to the COVID-19, or novel coronavirus, pandemic, many businesses have had to adapt to a new normal and adjust to new social distancing restrictions as cities begin to reopen to restart the economy. Hair salons have been uniquely impacted by the public health crisis and have to create new procedures to work around social distancing. Abra McField is the owner of Abra Kadabra Hair & Healing based in Missouri and is one of many hair entrepreneurs becoming acquainted with the new normal.
McField says consumers can expect a lot of new changes implemented when they return to their favorite stylist during the public health crisis. “Waiting in their car until their stylist is ready for them could be one. Seeing as that it is highly recommended not to have over 10 people in one space, this can definitely be a policy they experience if their stylist is running behind,” she says in an email interview with BLACK ENTERPRISE.
“Guests may not be able to sit and wait for the customer while they are being serviced, also. Mandatory masks are another policy. Salons could require consumers not to eat in the salon because that would require them to take their mask off.”
“Temperature check is a big policy because the body could be fighting off an infection before the individuals feel or acquire any type of symptoms or pain. If it is over 99, the consumer cannot be seen. Washing hands prior to being seated is a policy most salons have. Things will definitely be quite different.”
McField explains how there are numerous things consumers can do on their end to protect themselves from contracting the virus during their salon appointment. “I would highly suggest consumers invest in an air purifier. It absorbs dust, bacteria, and all other things floating around in the air that are not good for the body,” she wrote. “There are some air purifier necklaces that are economical and convenient to carry around. Sanitizer and disinfectant wipes are must-haves. Masks are imperative as well.”
