Editor's letter

The March/April issue of Professional Beauty and Hairdressers Journal Ireland coincides with the arrival of spring, which is the season of new beginnings. While the recent Government announcement that the Level 5 lockdown is to continue until April was disappointing for the hair and beauty industry, there’s lots of hope on the horizon with the vaccine rollout.

The HSE has confirmed that one million people a month will receive at least one of their Covid-19 vaccines from 1 April. As the inoculation programme is ramped up, plans are in place to have 80% of the population protected from coronavirus by the end of June. There’s every reason to believe that the exit from this lockdown will be the last one.

When restrictions begin to ease, hair, beauty and spa businesses will be among the first sectors to reopen, so now it to time to start preparing your business for regrowth. Our features in this issue include a look at what nail shades clients will be opting for when they get back to the salon; how a hair extension service can boost your business; considerations to make when investing in an IPL or laser device; and a round-up of the latest innovation in hair colour.

Liz McKeon has some advice on dealing with staff departures, while The HR Company explains some of the recent changes in employment law, so you are compliant when you resume business. As always, we bring you the latest news and industry updates, including the Government support available while salons remain closed.

Entries are open for our inaugural Professional Beauty and Hairdressers Journal Ireland Awards, which are taking place on 7 November in Citywest Dublin. Now is also the perfect time to put your entry together and tell us what makes you stand out from your competitors. After the challenges of the last 12 months, it’s your opportunity to highlight your talents and success.

Wishing everyone a safe start to spring, and we can’t wait to celebrate the better days ahead with you all!

Karina Corbett Editor