Is the recent consumer press about possible dangers at nail salons good or bad for the industry?

Answer

I believe the press is really good for the salons that are following the state board’s rules and regulations for sanitation and disinfection. I believe your salon will benefit only if you, the tech, make this happen by being vigilant. I believe if you post your procedures and let a client hear and see you following these procedures, you and the salon will benefit in the long run, in more ways then one. Word of mouth is a powerful thing.

ANN-MARIE REAVES - SCISSOR ACTION SALON - PEPPERELL, MASS.

I think it’s a double-edged sword. It’s important that consumers are educated about safety and sanitation requirements. On the other hand, many articles and newscasts treat the issue in a sensational format by intimidating consumers with scare tactics. Most of this press seems to fall in the latter category and can only be countered by trusting and honest relationships between nail technicians and clients.

SARAH HALLFORD - KISS MY TOES - CITRUS HEIGHTS, CALIF.

Personally, I think it’s all good and here’s why. People are curious, so whether it’s good or bad news, people tend to come in just to see for themselves and/or gather more information. This is where your education falls into place. And, if it’s your salon they’re talking about, that’s a good thing because your name is getting to the public. And that’s called publicity!

PATTY LOPEZ - STUDIO 24, PARRAL - CHIHUAHUA, MEXICO

Because the press shows only the negative side of the field, we’re having to work twice as hard to undo the shame that’s been placed on us by salons that don’t take the same pride in their work. I think that if the press is going to do a report on salons they should go a little deeper and show all sides, like the salons that are giving back to their community and are updating their salons to meet any new laws, even if the cost puts them in the red. Let’s see more of the good things.

SYDNE MCFARLANE - CREATIVE TOUCH OF MAHOGANY - NORFOLK, VA.

I get so frustrated when I see reports of “bad things” happening at nail salons. I think the issue needs to be addressed, but in such a way that consumers are being educated as well. I always educate my clients on what to look for and what should be done after each pedicure, after each client, etc. It’s up to the salon owner to set a standard that can’t be wavered from and demand that from all of the service providers. Education is key — for employees and for clients — so they know what to watch for!

JYNELLE WAYMIRE – JYNELLE’S SALON RETREAT - LAKELAND, FLA.

It depends on how the person feels about the media exposure regarding salon dangers. My sister-in-law is a registered nurse, and she continues to frequent the discount salons for her pedicures. As a nail tech it’s always in my mind that the consumer is aware but doesn’t care and won’t, until something bad happens to them. I booth rent and, when asked, I explain to my client how and when I sanitize and disinfect. I do my cleaning of implements in front of them so they’re aware I am doing my part regarding their safety.

TAME ZOLLER - UNTAMED EXPECTATIONS - SAMUEL’S DESIGN TEAM, MONROE, MICH.