NORTHVILLE, Mich. (WXYZ) — The wait is almost over for people to finally get the hair cuts and colors they have been waiting nearly three months for. Salons will be allowed to open on Monday, June 15.
“As soon as the governor announced we could open, it was just a flood of texts and phone calls and people trying to get in,” said owner of Opal Salon, Kristen Wilkison.
During the lockdown, Wilkison bought a new space located on Main Street just north of 7 Mile Road.
The new salon will have some changes in place, including a face mask requirement for clients. If you cannot wear a mask during a certain service, like a lip wax or facial, you won't be required too. However, it is recommended the person providing the service wear a face shield or goggles along with a face mask.
Temperature checks will likely take place at most salons before service is provided. People will likely be asked to wait in their cars and not inside a waiting room.
“I have a number on the door, I have a sign made up that just lets them know like please wait in your car, text me when you get here and then I will let you know when it is safe to come in,” said Wilkison.
WE’RE OPEN: Salons will be allowed to reopen 3 days from now! I spoke with the Owner of Opal Salon, Kristen Wilkison, to find out what people can expect to see. One thing to keep in mind, be patient. So many stylist will be working overtime to get everyone in! @wxyzdetroit pic.twitter.com/D4xQyKpZRe
— Ali Hoxie (@ali_hoxie) June 12, 2020
Of course, extra cleaning will be taking place.
“Cosmetologists, estheticians have been using hospital grade disinfectants long before COVID, so sanitizing isn’t something that is necessarily new to us. We are just going to be doing more thorough in spaces that you normally wouldn’t, multiple times a day like door handles, the chairs the stations,” said Wilkison.
Wilkison is planning on working overtime to get as many people into the salon as possible.
“We want to take care of our guests and make them happy and that is the best part about the job is making people feel good about themselves,” said Wilkison.
A lot of stylists would normally double book people, that way while someone is processing a color they can get ahead. With new safety protocols in place that likely won't be an option anymore for most stylists. Another reason to be patient while stepping back into the salon.