Scottish govt to lift mask wearing restrictions in beauty salons on 31 May
By Helena Biggs | 25 May 2021 | Movers & Shakers, News
From Monday 31 May, therapists in Scotland will be permitted to offer face treatments to clients as long as the practitioner is wearing a Type IIR face mask and a face visor or goggles.
Kate Forbes MSP, the Cabinet Secretary for Finance & Economy, confirmed the news today (25 May) that face covering restrictions will be lifted in Scotland, allowing the hair and beauty industry to be back to work and fully operational.
The move comes after continued lobbying from BABTAC, the British Beauty Council, NHBF and UK Spa Association which has urged the Scottish government to change its current legislation and review of the rules around face coverings.
The rules meant that Scottish therapists were restricted in the treatments they could offer, which was not in line with the rest of the UK.
Lesley Blair, CEO & chair of BABTAC comments: “We are absolutely delighted to have been instrumental in bringing about the lifting of this restriction in Scotland and grateful to the Scottish government and deputy clinical director for giving us the opportunity to evidence why it was so important.
Lesley Blair
“The Scottish hair, beauty and holistic services industry has been hit hard by the pandemic. According to the latest research, 70% of businesses said they could not be sure their business would survive until the end of the financial year so being able to offer a full range of services is imperative for many businesses’ survival.
“Professionals working in this industry have always followed strict health and safety guidelines and have continued to ensure a safe environment during the pandemic with the use of extensive PPE. We are therefore grateful that finally the beauty industry can all properly get back to work. It is equally important that consumers support the industry and feel safe getting back into the salons to have their favourite treatments done.”
According to NHBF Industry Statistics, the hair, beauty and holistic service industry generated more than £880 million annually to the Scottish economy pre-Covid, with over 3,800 businesses operating in Scotland on local high streets.
Richard Lambert, chief executive of the NHBF, adds: “I’m delighted that salons in Scotland will finally be on a level playing field with the rest of the UK and that we succeeded in making the case that this is a safe and responsible sector. It proves that building relationships with government is every bit as important as campaigning hard. Good luck to all those now able to offer their full list of treatments and services and I hope business booms.”
Richard Lambert
An update to the current guidance for close contact services is due to be published shortly. The Cabinet Secretary has confirmed that a Type IIR mask and a face visor or goggles will be required for practitioners carrying out treatments to the face.