What Beauty Services Look Like During COVID

We have been cooped inside the house for months. Four to be exact. Four months without professional hair and nail services. I am the kind of woman who uses her beauty services as self-care. I crave that time alone among women to feed me creatively. To gossip about celebrities and fashion. To talk about our relationships. To just be away from my house full of male energy.

We are in the phase now where many cities are allowing beauty services to resume. I have gotten my hair braided in New York City and my nails done in Pennsylvania. I wanted to share a bit of both experiences for those who are still wary about having services done during this time.

For my hair appointment, I went to a stylist I already had a relationship with. This is my number one tip. I know her space and her sanitary practices, and I was comfortable knowing that she would be careful when dealing with clients. Upon arrival, wash your hands thoroughly. I took the train for the first time in months to this appointment, and I was amazed at how clean even the trains are. (It only took a pandemic, but I digress.)

Masks are required to be worn for the duration of the appointment as well. My stylist wore a full-on face shield. There are no other guests allowed in the studio, and it is strictly by appointment only. Outside food and beverages are also not allowed into the beauty space. Have you been to a hair salon recently, what new measures have they taken to ensure everyone’s safety? I’ve seen some stylists using disposable capes for clients. Since I was getting braids, a cape wasn’t used during my service. If you are someone who attends a salon frequently, maybe purchase a cape that you will take to all of your appointments moving forward.

I have been on the hunt for a black-owned nail salon for a few weeks now. Luckily, my sister was referred to someone locally in Pennsylvania. If you’re new here, check out this post to catch up. After scoping her page, I went ahead and booked an appointment. Her rules were very similar to that of my hairstylist. Strictly appointment only, and I had to text when I was outside before she let me in.

I know that we are not going anywhere at the moment, but I just needed my nails and especially my toes done to feel better about myself LOL! I noticed that her pedicure station was a bowl as opposed to the jet tubs I am used to seeing at other salons. These tend to be more sanitary than the jets, as the jets can circulate dirt and bacteria. She lined the bowl with a plastic liner and used all disposable tools. For the tools that weren’t disposable, she immediately soaked in the Barbicide solution.

My mask was on the entire time for my nail appointment as well, and no other guests or visitors were in the space. She is the only stylist in the suite, and payment for both my services was contactless. There is no exchange of money between hands, even for tipping. The last service I need at this point is eyebrow threading. I am not sure when I will be able to get to my threading salon, as now it is also appointment only. I dare not try a new person for this, as eyebrows can make a difference on your face.

As always, if you have any tips to offer or would like to share your expertise or experience, please chime in below. Continue to stay safe out there, and thank you all so much for reading. I’ve linked my outfit above and here are the shoes I’m wearing.