Scottish Government To Finally Lift Mask Wearing Restrictions In Beauty Salons

Leading organisations in the personal care sector have received confirmation today from Kate Forbes MSP, the Cabinet Secretary Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Economy, that face covering restrictions will be lifted in Scotland, allowing the hair and beauty industry to be back to work and fully operational.

From Monday (31 May), therapists will be permitted to offer clients treatments to the face as long as the practitioner is wearing a Type IIR face mask and a face visor or goggles.

BABTAC, the British Beauty Council, NHBF and UK Spa Association have been lobbying the Scottish Government to change its current legislation, working tirelessly to push for a review of the rules around face coverings. This was because Scottish therapists were restricted in the treatments they could offer, which was not in line with the rest of the UK. The restrictions regarding mask wearing during treatments had a significant impact on revenue, as therapists were not able to offer a full range of services and as a result 10% of Scottish businesses in our industry had closed for good by December 2020.

Lesley Blair, CEO and 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.  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.”

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.