A Brief History
Much of the country rejoiced on July 4th when Hairdressers and Barbers were given the go ahead to open doors following the long lockdown which started in March. Much to the dismay of Makeup Artists and Beauty Therapists strict rules were still applicable to any close contact treatments to the face such as applying makeup, facials, threading, waxing etc. Whilst this came as a huge blow, many waited patiently for the next PM briefing with the hope that things would change! Finally an announcement was made and Boris Johnson gave the green light for close contact treatments to resume from the 1st August. But with just one day to go the Government announced a huge U-turn and put restrictions in place for a further 2 weeks because of the rise in Covid -19 cases.
This is a Farce!
Once again not only did this come as an unwelcome blow to the industry but the blatant disregard to the effort that many Makeup Artists and Beauty therapists put into ensuring that their working environments were clinically safe for their employees and customers was completely ignored. Many businesses had invested heavily into sourcing PPE and the excitement for returning to work came to a crashing halt.
The farcical attitude comes into play as numerous photographs are in circulation on social media platforms which clearly show Barbers carrying out close contact treatments to the face such as waxing and threading for male clients. Some Barbers are not even wearing masks which has left many furious as they have gone over and beyond to provide services in a safe and hygienic manor!
Pubs and Bars Remain Open!
Furthermore, the fact that Bar’s and Pubs are still open where social distancing is virtually non existent are allowed to remain open. The contradictory attitude towards this is infuriating to say the least! The recent rise in Covid-19 cases couldn’t have been contributed by Beauty services to the face as this has not even been given the opportunity to reopen. This would indicate that social distancing in Bars and Pubs definitely needs to be evaluated again.
Caroline Hiron Vents her Anger!
Makeup and Beauty services to the face have now been restricted since March 2020. For many artists this is a huge blow to their earnings and many have struggled to make ends meet during this pandemic. Beauty Blogger Caroline Hiron is known for her no nonsense approach and speaks truthfully about new product launches which has helped her gain huge popularity over the years. She has has spoken openly about the lack of support provided by the Government for those in the Makeup and Beauty sector and has on her website stated….
‘The continued restrictions impacting those who carry out treatments show that the government does not comprehend or appreciate the value of the beauty industry. Outside of medical environments, if any community can maintain the level of standards required for safety during the Covid-19 crisis, it is Beauty. The Health and Safety of clients and makeup artists is and always has been taken very seriously. Now it’s time our industry is’.
Making a Stand
In support of the Beauty Industry Caroline Hiron and several other leading figures in the Beauty Industry have set up a Go Fund Me page to help support those in desperate need of funds to keep them and their businesses afloat. Since its launch the Beauty Backed campaign has managed to raise almost £324,000 and this figure continues to rise steadily. There is also a petition set up that is aiming to voice the subject of allowing clinics to reopen safely. No doubt that this would also include face treatments such as applying makeup. Sticking together and supporting the beauty industry is extremely fundamental right now so any support would be happily received. We just hope that Boris Johnson opens his eyes to how much money the beauty industry generates for the economy and allows for face treatments to reopen.
Here at Glamdeva we support the Beauty Backed campaign and wait patiently for the green light to be given in order to commence services. If you are a makeup artist and would like to join our team please visit www.glamdeva.com/pro to sign up.