Covid-19 has created an overwhelming impact on the aesthetic industry.  On the 11^th of March 2020 COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic. This saw the world go into complete lockdown with state mandated business closures. These closures and lockdown rules have significantly impacted on all aspects of the aesthetic industry. It not only affected job security but also changed the way we interacted with our team and patients. However while social distancing efforts remained in place, many businesses have largely turned to virtual methods of communication, including LIVE Webinars, social media Live coverage and virtual consultations.

While the full effects are not yet understood, Covid-19 has created a new “normal”. Although it will take some time to adjust to this new normal, we can now begin to move forward.

Returning to the New Norm

As of June 1^st, NSW and VIC have eased restrictions to allow beauty salons to re-open for services under strict COVID-safe guidelines. One of the major challenges that remains present by COVID-19 is maintaining safety and protection for all within the community. Prior to the mandated shutdowns, many practices took extra precautions and safety measures to protect their staff and patients. Moving forward these precautions will need to continue in practice.

To cope with the new way of doing business, the NSW Department of Health have put together a checklist for the Industry as followed:

• One person per 4 square meters including both staff and clients, up to a maximum of 10 clients at any one time.
• Exclusion of staff and clients who are unwell, even if they only have mild symptoms
• Records of attendance to the business premises for all staff, clients and contractors
• Cleaning requirements
• Removal of books, magazines and Ipads from waiting areas to reduce the potential for infection of clients
• Seating in waiting areas that complies with physical distancing
• Ensure good hand hygiene facilities are available, including at venue entry and exit and promote excellent hand hygiene by staff
• Clearly displayed conditions of entry on their entrance, website and social media platforms
• Designating a staff member whose responsibilities include ensuring staff and clients have appropriate physical distancing and that the venue does not exceed the maximum capacity limit
• Measures to maximise distancing between staff where safe and practical, including assigning staff to specific work stations that are at least 1.5 meters apart minimizing any interaction between these stations
• Encourage download of the COVID -safe app

Victoria 

In Victoria, beauty therapy, tanning, waxing, nail salons, spas, tattoo parlours, massage parlours have been allowed to open with up to 20 patrons. The four square meter rule still applies with a 1.5 m distance maintained between customers.

We are pleased to hear that with full schedules on the horizon our clients are optimistic about their future. So whilst we can now move forward and reopen, it is still more then ever important to maintain COVID-safe guidelines.

Stay safe and we hope to see you all again soon!