In today’s dynamic and ever-evolving beauty industry, a captivating array of treatments entices clients with the promises of achieving radiant skin, impeccably manicured nails, and the coveted beach body. However, as a beautician, it is essential to acknowledge that not all treatments come without their risks, and certain types can lead to substantial compensation payouts for dissatisfied clients.
According to the expert insurance brokers Salon Gold, “all it takes is one mishap during a procedure for everything to go awry. What if you accidentally burn a client’s skin with an IPL or laser? How would you handle a client seeking compensation?” This makes insurance key, however, to avoid relying on it in the first place, it’s important that beauticians are aware of certain key treatments that require extra care.
By understanding the precautions required for these services, beauticians can enhance their expertise and prioritise the wellbeing and safety of their clients, preventing accidents from happening. Here are three of the more dangerous treatments to be aware of.
1.Manicures and pedicures
Nail salons are beloved for giving people fabulous-looking digits and a chance to unwind. However, without proper care, clients can end up with more than just great nails. Just do a quick search online for messed-up manicures, and you’ll unveil a host of horror stories that you wouldn’t want associated with your burgeoning business.
Close contact between customers and salon staff is common during treatments like manicures and pedicures, which naturally raises the risk of infections spreading. Furthermore, tools like nail files, clippers, and buffers can potentially harbour bacteria and viruses if not properly sanitised.
Even simple treatments pose risks if preventive measures are overlooked. For example, a small cut or abrasion on a customer’s skin, combined with unsanitary tools or inadequate disinfection, can lead to a nasty infection.
To prevent this, salons must maintain strict protocols for infection control. This includes regular hand hygiene for staff and encouraging customers to wash their hands before and after treatments. Proper disinfection of tools and equipment is essential too, ensuring thorough sanitisation between each use.
2.Keratin hair treatments
The Brazilian blowout was hailed as a promising solution for taming frizzy locks. By applying a keratin solution to the hair and sealing it with a hair straightener, even the most unruly strands can be transformed into a smooth, lustrous, and frizz-free mane that lasts for months. However, significant concerns have now been raised surrounding Brazilian Blowouts — also known as keratin treatments.
“Keratin treatments are often associated with formaldehyde,” experts from Philip Kingsley notes. “While they do not actually contain formaldehyde (because formaldehyde is a gas), many contain ingredients that release formaldehyde when they are heated or mixed with water.” These chemicals serve as potent sealers, effectively maintaining the smoothness of unruly hair.
Before offering keratin treatments, careful consideration is necessary. Formaldehyde is known to be an irritant and carcinogen, causing inflammation and potentially contributing to cancer development. If you choose to provide these treatments, ensure proper salon ventilation to reduce the possibility of inhaling these harmful chemicals. Additionally, stylists should prioritise wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and masks, when working with such products.
3.Eyebrow and eyelash enhancements
Eyebrow and eyelash treatments have become increasingly popular in recent years. However, due to the delicate nature and proximity to the eyes, beauticians must exercise extreme caution.One major concern with these treatments is the potential for reactions or complications. Working around the delicate eye area poses risks such as burns, irritation, and even severe bacterial infections, as reported by Cosmopolitan.
When offering any lash or brow treatments, it is essential to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of your clients. First and foremost, you should ensure that your clients are safe from any potential allergic reactions. To do this, your beauticians should always conduct a patch test. This helps to identify any allergies your clients may have to the adhesives used in lash extensions or other products ahead of time, before they commit to the full procedure.
Other strategies for ensuring client safety include maintaining a sterile environment, regularly disinfecting tools and workstations to minimise the risk of contamination and using disposable applicators and adhesive trays to add an extra layer of protection.