New York Facial Studios Are Campaigning to Open Back Up—Here’s Why It’s Important
For one, according to the New York State Association of Salon and Spa Professionals, estheticians spend 600 hours in training with 60-75% of that time specifically focused on sanitization. Additionally, stringent sanitation procedures, such as the use of masks, gloves, and frequent cleaning, have always been protocol. "Dermatologists and dentists are using the same standards, but can open as they are regarded as medical, while on the other hand, we are still shuttered because we are cosmetic," says facialist Georgia Louise, who closed her New York and Los Angeles treatment locations back in March. "It seems crazy and completely beyond the bounds of common sense that high touch point gyms are now open at a reduced occupancy, and yet a one-on-one treatment room is not allowed to open and serve customers while wearing PPE." Moreover, facial studios are ready to reopen with a host of additional new safety and health procedures—including PPE, hospital grade sanitation, increased use of single-use items, plexiglass guards, and staggered appointments—which were designed according to the recommendations of the CDC and New York State, as well as esthetic associations and facial studios in Europe and Asia.