Non-essential services like spas and salons have taken a hard hit across the globe during the COVID-19 crisis, although there are signs that the beauty industry is particularly resilient. McKinsey research indicates that in China, for instance, beauty sales dropped by 80% compared to 2019. However, by March, the year-on decline was only 20%, which is indicative of the industry's fast rebound rate. If you are a spa lover and concerned about health and safety, take note of how many top spas across the world are making the experience as safe as it is pleasurable.
From Home To Spa
Thailand's famous Chiva-Som spa is offering a germ-free experience to its sophisticated clientele, and the magic actually starts as soon as they land on Thai soil. Guests are whisked through a VIP customs and immigration section at the airport, placed in disinfected luxury vehicles with glass separators, and taken to the spa. This incentive sees the spa going beyond keeping its own premises sanitized. By ensuring guests do not pick up viruses in public spaces, they are also protecting staff - and, once again, other clients. Chiva-Som is also honing in on immunity in everything from the food offered to treatments and social media content.
Protecting Staff
Staff and client safety is an interrelated concept, which is why many beauty centers are being savvy when it comes to protecting employees with workers' compensation insurance. Right now, there is a worldwide debate in the legal sector as to whether or not employers can be sued if employees contract COVID-19 in the workplace. Nail salon insurance, hair salon coverage, and spa insurance are means to ensure workers' health needs are met in the rare event that works injuries and/or illness occurs.
Increased Safety Protocols
The Farm at San Benito regularly tops prestigious lists of the World's top spas, and they are taking COVID-19 very seriously, while still remaining open. Staff are implementing strict safety and sanitation protocols - including frequent cleaning with methods that eradicate almost 100% of bacteria and viruses. Sanitation at five-star spas extends beyond traditional cleaning methods, and includes ozone spraying of public and private rooms, and the use of UV light and special anti-viral surfaces in vans transporting goods and products. Social distancing is also being encouraged through strategic placement of tables, and through a responsible booking system that ensures that guests arrive at the spa according to a predetermined timetable.
Testing Prior To Arrival
SHA Spa in Alicante, Spain is taking measures to their highest level, asking all guests to undergo a PCR prior to their arrival. When guests arrive, they are also given a medical check-up, which includes an antibody test. The spa has also been fitted with thermal cameras, and all staff use face masks and gloves. Finally, guests are given health kits, which include masks, disinfectant gels and gloves.
The beauty industry, like many others, is slowly bouncing back from the effects of COVID-19. However, this is still the era of 'new normality', and that means that sanitation measures have been stepped up. So, too, have decisions such as taking out more comprehensive coverage to ensure that staff, clients and beauty businesses are protected.
