By Chantelle LaPrairie
Now that hair salons have started to open up there are some rules of etiquette to observe. Things have definitely changed and some things have stayed the same but need to be underlined for the sake of increased safety.
Booking an Appointment
Don’t be surprised if your appointment is days or weeks away. These are unusual times and each hairstylist has a long list of clientele. Imagine that every one of those clients are trying to connect with their stylist at one time, both on social media and by calling the salon. It is extremely overwhelming to the stylist and/or salon owner. BE KIND AND GRATEFUL. Some clients won’t be able to afford an appointment due to their financial circumstances.
Upon Arrival
Show up on time. This is always in effect of course. However now it means that you are not early and you are not late. You are on time. The reason for this is because we need to keep each client safe. The client before you will exit the salon and we need to prepare the space for you. This requires extensive cleaning and, in some cases, sanitizing. Please respect that time is critical for your safety and all the clients coming through the salon. Your stylist is also wearing a mask all day. She may need a breather in between. If you show up early you are denying your stylist the time she needs.
Rules and Regulations – Most salons have posted rules on the door before you enter. Take heed and read!
So now, the moment has arrived and you are so excited to see your stylist…but wait! You mustn’t run up to hug and kiss her. Stylists are under very strict guidelines from their health unit to distance and stay safe. You may tell her how you’ve missed her and promise to give her extra hugs when the coast is clear again. Trust me. We get it!
To Mask or Not to Mask – Err on the side of caution when wearing a mask…in other words, wear it into the salon unless you are told otherwise. If the salon requires you to wear their masks…do it. That is their preference and they are being extra cautious. Masks are mandatory for both stylist and client. Each salon will be different on how they handle that.
If, during your service, the mask needs to be moved away from your ears, do so by holding on to it so as not to expose your mouth or nose. DO NOT take your mask off during your service…this is a no-no.
While we are on the topic of masks, understand they make it difficult to project your voice. This gets tiring for a stylist to talk all day long. If your stylist is not as chatty as she usually is, she is most likely saving her energy!
Gratitude and Tips
Your stylist often does double-duty of therapist or friend. She appreciates you bringing a coffee, a small gift or sometimes baked goods or plants. During COVID times this is not standard practice. Outside drinks or gifts of any kind are not allowed. If you would like to show your appreciation and can afford to do so, a tip is always appreciated.
Welcome back and hopefully these suggestions will make your next haircare experience more pleasant, and safe for you as well as for your stylist!
Chantelle LaPrairie is a stylist, educator and hair color marketer with over 30 years of industry experience. Currently working at Obsessions Hair Salon in Brantford, Ontario Chantelle’s specialty is colouring and colour correction. The photos that accompany this article illustrate Chantelle’s work.
Look for Obsessions on Instagram and Facebook. You can follow Chantelle on Instagram, and contact her by email at: obsessionshairsalon@gmail.com and by phone at: 519-751-3634.
Read Chantelle’s previous article: Loving your hair in dangerous times: Hair care during a pandemic.
