When the COVID-19 crisis first struck in the spring, many state and local governments responded by shutting down potentially risk businesses, such as bars, restaurants, movie theaters, and hair salons.

Now, as many places are starting to reopen slowly and carefully, business owners and customers alike are learning how to return to normal in the age of coronavirus. The goal is to restore everyday normalcy while simultaneously limiting the spread of the virus and keeping as many people as healthy as possible.

In most hair salons, this means a few changes to the regular routine.

Hair Salon Safety

For one thing, you may have noticed that you now need an appointment to get your hair done in most salons. Walk-ins are discouraged because salons seek to limit the number of people sitting together in an enclosed space such as a waiting room or entry area.

Another difference is that many professional hairstylists are wearing personal protective equipment when working with clients. This can include things like masks, gloves, and even plastic face coverings and surgical gowns. The purpose is to protect both the stylist and the client from being exposed to the virus.

Wearing Masks

Speaking of masks, depending on where you live you may be required to wear one when going out in public, especially in face-to-face businesses like hair salons. Many scientists believe that the virus is spread through the microscopic droplets of water or vapor we emit when we cough, sneeze, or even breath. So wearing a mask helps maximize safety while minimizing dangers.

It’s also a good idea to wash your hands thoroughly or at least use hand sanitizer after visiting any business including hair salons. That’s because those same microscopic droplets can land on surfaces such as countertops, doorknobs, and armrests. So when you touch these surfaces then touch your face or hair, you could be putting yourself at risk even if you are wearing a mask.

Coronavirus safety is everybody’s business. But by following local safety protocols we can help keep all of us safe and healthy.