Is It Safe To Go To The Hair Salon
With the pandemic still raging across the United States, many people are understandably hesitant to venture out into public spaces. One such place is the hair salon. While getting a haircut or color may seem like a small thing, it's still a potential risk for exposure to COVID-19. So, is it safe to go to the hair salon? Let's take a closer look.
Precautions Taken By Hair Salons
Hair salons across the country have implemented various safety measures to protect both their clients and their employees. These measures may include:
- Mandating the use of masks for all employees and clients
- Limiting the number of people in the salon at any given time
- Providing hand sanitizer for both clients and employees
- Cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces and tools between each client
- Encouraging clients to wait outside or in their cars until their appointment time
- Switching to cashless payment options to minimize contact
By implementing these precautions, hair salons are doing everything in their power to reduce the risk of transmission. However, it's important to remember that these measures are only effective if everyone follows them.
Personal Precautions You Can Take
While hair salons are doing their part to keep clients safe, there are also personal precautions you can take to further reduce your risk of exposure:
- Wear a mask at all times, even when getting your hair washed or styled
- Wash your hands thoroughly before and after your appointment
- Avoid touching your face while in the salon
- Bring your own reading material or electronic device to avoid touching shared items
- Avoid bringing food or drinks into the salon
- Consider scheduling your appointment during off-peak hours to minimize contact with others
By taking these personal precautions, you can help protect yourself and others while still enjoying a much-needed haircut or color.
What Experts Say
So, what do the experts say about going to the hair salon during COVID-19? The overall consensus is that while there is still a risk of exposure, it can be minimized by following the above precautions. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the risk of transmission in a hair salon can be reduced by wearing masks, maintaining social distancing, and practicing good hand hygiene.
Dr. Aaron Glatt, spokesman for the Infectious Diseases Society of America, agrees, stating that "if the salon is following all the guidelines and protocols that are in place...you absolutely can go safely."
Conclusion
In conclusion, while there is still a risk of exposure when going to the hair salon during COVID-19, it can be minimized by following the precautions implemented by the salon and taking personal precautions. By doing so, you can safely get the haircut or color you've been waiting for while still protecting yourself and others.