Beauty, nail and tanning salons reopen: Customers indulge in manicures and sunbeds as beauticians open their doors
BEAUTY salons across Britain opened their doors this morning in the latest phase of lockdown restrictions being lifted.
Nail bars, tattoo and massage studios, body and skin piercing services, physical therapy businesses and spas will all be able to welcome customers again - as long as meet the government's strict guidelines.
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All were among the many businesses that closed temporarily back in March, due to coronavirus restrictions.
And while hairdressers were able to reopen earlier this month, beauty salons have had to wait until today to do so, with unkempt customers chomping at the bit to be preened and pampered.
Ieassha Mcqueen, 18, wasted no time booking herself into Madame Tan in Chirton, North Shields where she had her fist sunbed session in three months.
Meanwhile in Oxton, Birkenhead Lynsey Scott treated herself to a baby pink manicure in the Beauty Rooms.
Of course things looked a little different when beauty salons reopened.
Skin-to-skin contact should also be avoided and premises should be thoroughly cleaned and disposable equipment used where possible, with increased hand washing facilities.
One customer claimed that the staff member doing her hair refused to wear one because "they're horrible and steam up".
And said that she had considered reporting the salon, but "it would appear the guidance is not backed up with legislation, so there isn't anyone to actually report her to".
While rules in Scotland and Wales are based in legislation, those in England are instead based on guidance which is not in itself legally enforceable.
Although Health and Safety Executive (HSE) does have powers to fine or even imprison business owners found not to comply with the rules, and for customers wanting to make a complaint can do so via HSE or their local council.
Another women, who owns a tattoo shop, was shocked to discover a near by hair salon had failed to ensure social distancing between customers or wear proper protective gear.
She said: "They had four people obviously not related sat together waiting on a couch, no social distancing.
"Then cutting hair, no gloves, visor or mask present on either the client or the barber."
After being contacted about the breaches, the NHBF said: "The National Hair & Beauty Federation strongly advises that hairdressers and barbers follow the guidance issued by the Government for England.
"The guidelines are based on the most up to date scientific evidence. Face visors must be worn by anyone carrying out hairdressing, barbering or beauty activities.
"The NHBF would welcome stricter enforcement because it's only fair that all businesses stick to the same rules, which also give greater protection to the public and to the people working in salons and barbershops."
We previously shared how , customers warned.
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Plus here are barbers and hairdressers opening rules, everything you need to know from blowdries to facemasks.
Or, if you fancy attempting to cut your own bangs - here are some tips on cutting your fringe at home.