By: Lucy Reed

Most nail and hair salons have reopened, albeit with heightened safety awareness. However, you might still be wondering if it’s safe to even return to the salon. Below, Head2Toe Magazine & Ent. answers your questions about visiting the salon during the pandemic. 

Q1: Is it safe to go to the salon for a haircut or beauty treatment right now? 

A1: As long as you follow the safety precautions, you can safely go to the salon to get back into your usual routines. Here are a few things to keep in mind. ● It’s usually a good idea to schedule a salon appointment rather than expecting walk-in service. ● If you are at a higher risk for developing a serious infection from COVID-19, try to make your appointment during a less busy time to avoid unnecessary contact with others. ● If you have any symptoms of COVID-19, stay home and reschedule your appointment for a later date once you are symptom free or test negative for the virus. 

Q2: What precautions should I follow to keep myself and the beautician safe?

A2: There are a number of things you can do to reduce the chance of transmitting the virus during your visit. Here are a few steps to take. ● It’s courteous (and sometimes required!) to wear a face mask during your visit. You may need to adjust your mask if you’re getting a short haircut. ● If you’re worried about your mask getting in the way during your appointment, try making this unique strap-free mask design instead. But keep one with loops in case your stylist balks at the strap-free version.● You can’t maintain six feet of distance while getting your haircut because the hairdresser needs to stand right next to you. However, you can practice social distancing in the waiting room or reception area.  ● Make sure to wash your hands before and after your appointment. If you like, you can also change your clothes when you get home. 

Q3: How can I maintain my beauty routine between visits to the salon?

A3: Finding ways to extend the time between your visits to the nail or hair salon can minimize your exposure to others during the pandemic. Here’s how to stretch the time between your visits without sacrificing the health of your hair. ● At-home nail maintenance in-between appointments includes trimming (which promotes growth), keeping your hands moisturized and clean, and using a top coat of polish to prevent cracking or chipping. ● Avoid overwashing your hair with shampoo, which can dry out your locks and make your color treatments fade more quickly. ● If you use heat styling tools every day, use a heat protectantto prevent damage. ● Nourish your scalp with a hair mask. There are tons of DIY hair masks you can make at home with simple ingredients. ● In addition to nail and hair care, don’t let your regular beauty routine or what you wear take a backseat. Especially if you’re taking Zoom calls. When you keep a professional look and are put together, it sends a message.

Going to the salon right now is safe as long as you follow the current guidelines. While you can extend the length of time between your appointments, it’s a good idea to return to the salon for professional styling and beauty treatments as soon as you feel comfortable doing so. A salon visit can be a great part of your self-care routine, which is more important than ever during these stressful times.