Irish hair and beauty salons see last-minute surge before lockdown

With Level 5 restrictions now in place in Ireland, Irish hair and beauty salons, and spas, had approximately 48 hours to maximise the time they had left before closing for six weeks.

The Irish Government announced that the whole country was moving to the highest level of Covid-19 restrictions on the evening of Monday, 19 October. The restrictions came into effect at midnight on Wednesday, 21 October.

Level 5 restrictions state that only essential retail and services will remain open, and this does not include the hair and beauty sector. These restrictions extend to weddings, with Government guidelines for weddings being updated to state that hair and make-up services are not permitted, in any setting.

After the Government announced the new restrictions, Habic outlined the ‘urgent items’ it recommended that members focus on. It suggested that all businesses fill their diaries, and if they had a team in place and the means to do so, to stay open until midnight on Wednesday.

Many salons extended their opening hours to cater for demand. According to reports, along with hair appointments, eyebrow tinting and shaping, manicures and spray tans were among the most popular treatments.

Businesses used social media to let clients know about available appointments, and how to proceed if their appointments were for the period during lockdown.

Habic reminded salons that while they cannot provide any services during the six-week lockdown, they can continue to sell products, gift sets and vouchers online. “Reach out to your clients and ensure they have the right products to manage their hair/skin care needs over the coming six weeks,” it said. “Stay in touch with your clients, most importantly your older clients. Be sure to let them know that they are not alone.”

Habic also urged businesses to contact their accountant, stressing that putting a plan in place for the next six weeks and beyond is essential.

“We have been down this road before,” it added. “This time we will be more prepared. We will walk together, every step. You are not alone.”

The IHF committee posted a message of support to members on its Facebook on Thursday morning, which was officially the first day of the new lockdown. “To all the businesses affected by the further restrictions introduced, and who will not be opening their doors this morning, we are offering you all our love and support for the tough weeks ahead until we can safely reopen our doors.”