SARATOGA SPRINGS — As the community faces the first phase of the regional re-opening, Cheveux Design Hair Salon in Saratoga is hoping to open within the next three weeks.
Hair stylists and barbershops in New York will be allowed to re-open during phase two of regional reopenings as announced by Governor Andrew Cuomo this past week. Although specific guidelines were not shared in regards to re-opening, Cheveux Design Hair Salon owner Kelly Slywka already implemented safety precautions and practices.
“The salon had already implemented what other salons are doing now. I told the staff to use minimal products so they could pick them up and clean off after every visit. We also no longer offer magazines, coffee or water,” Slywka said. “We already restricted access to the building before we closed down. You get a text to enter, or waved in if you’re older and your phone doesn’t do texts.”
Slywka continued to say she plans to open the exact same way she closed, with minimal contact and safety precautions in place. She has installed plexiglass walls between each station.
The salon has been closed since late-March and Slywka has 95 appointments already lined up due to the closure. To help save time with appointments, Slywka has cut down on some of the salon’s services.
“It’s going to be about getting your cut and getting your color. It’s just about getting everyone in and getting everyone back on their book safely,” Slywka said. “My staff will only see one customer and clients cut down at least 30 minutes of an appointment if they don’t get a blow dry. Now they wont be in the salon for a longer period. Let’s just get everyone on the book and everyone caught up to where they need to be.”
Despite feeling ready to open, Slywka said hairdressers are feeling frustrated. Hair salons are mandated by the state and undergo a yearly test to ensure everything is in proper shape.
“It’s a surprise visit that can possibly have hefty fines. Salons have already done cleaning and safety practices… these are all things that have always been this way,” Slywka said.
Despite the frustration, Slywka said clients shouldn’t be afraid when they venture back out into the community. She said those with underlying conditions or autoimmune should stay safe for a while longer, but urges others to get back out in the community.
“If you are a healthy person you have got to get out there. We are avoiding the inevitable, you can’t beat nature,” Slywka said. “The only person who can advocate for you is you.”
Saratoga Springs started phase one reopening this week, joining other regions as they reopen. Regions are expected to pause for two weeks before moving on to phase two reopening. Slywka said, “I’m excited and ready to go.”
