Listen up, PMU artists! You are all aware of the current situation with the Coronavirus, just like your clients are. The important thing is to accept the seriousness of the current situation and do everything in your power to protect the health and safety of your clients, your staff, yourself, and your household.
We give you detailed instruction on how to achieve this.
Hygiene is key
We’re sure you keep your workspace clean and safe at all times, but it’s time to kick it up a notch nevertheless.
Since the virus is spread via droplets, either directly, by inhaling them, or indirectly from a contaminated surface, it is essential you wipe all surfaces in your workplace with disinfectant as thoroughly and as often as possible. Ideally, after each appointment. Some of the surfaces you might not have though of are doorknobs.
Next, make sure that space stays safe by installing disinfectant dispensers and refilling them regularly. Don’t be reluctant to ask anyone who enters your salon to wash their hands and disinfect them. If they refuse, ask them to leave politely. Do the same if you notice any symptoms.
No handshakes and no hugs! This isn’t the time to fret over brand image.
Masks and gloves
The final step is to physically protect yourself.
You will do this by wearing protective surgical masks and gloves at all times. We know, you already wear those when you’re performing the treatment, but when we say at all times, we mean even when you’re just talking to clients and employees. If you have sufficient masks, maybe give one to the client, too. Pay special attention to how you dispose of the gloves.
Always be mindful of the fact that you’re not supposed to touch your face, especially eyes and mouth.
Urge social distancing
The prescribed distance you should maintain from any other person in order to stay safe is 6 feet. Obviously, you have to come in close proximity of your client in order to do your job, but try to organize your salon so that you come in contact with as few people as possible and that they don’t come in contact with each other.
If you allow walk-ins, abolish them for a while (don’t even give information face to face) and only do pre-booked appointments. If you have some sort of waiting room, ask people not to come early for their appointment and insist they come alone, no escorts! You should make your clients aware of these changes via social media.
It’s also a good idea to work in shifts, so that there’s only one artist in the salon at any given time.
Business trips
Cancel them. If you have trainings you’re supposed to hold, reorient to online courses. If that’s not possible, postpone them. Obviously, give refunds to anyone who already paid.
Working from home
If you don’t work at a salon, but from home, it’s best to take a break, since by inviting a client into your home, you’re not only putting yourself at risk, but your entire household. The same goes for making house calls.
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay
Stay informed and follow public health advice
We’re all getting a bit sick and tired of hearing about the Coronavirus, but it’s crucial to stay informed, as the situation is changing and becoming more serious as you’re reading this. So turn on the news! You should be aware of the number of infected people in your area, and if the number is too high, maybe consider closing your salon for a week or two.
You should also note and follow each and every new instruction health experts and institutions issues, especially those concerning business conduct.
For a more detailed account of safety measures, read WHO’s guide.
How to handle cancellations?
Depending on where you live and work, you might be facing some cancellations as a result of the pandemic, and you are probably frustrated and worried about the future of your business. Some of might have closed your salons altogether.
Try not to dwell on it and torture yourself with negative thoughts. The state of emergency can’t last forever, and once it passes, you should expect a surge of clients.
The most important thing right now is to stay healthy and in good physical condition, which overwhelming stress can affect. So find a way to relax, maybe try meditation or yoga (from your living room!), and stay safe!
Cover image source: Freepik
