When will hairdressers reopen after lockdown?

Hair salons have re-opened in Germany, and customers and hairdressers wear protective masks (Picture: AFP via Getty Images)

Ever since lockdown began on 23 March, hair salons have been closed and people have been forced to come up with alternative methods to keep their hair in check.

While some have resorted to cutting, dying and shaving their own hair, hairdressers around the country have been flooded with calls from people asking for home visits – which led the National Hairdressers’ Federation of Britain (NHBF) to issue a stern warning to salons that this is illegal.

However, Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed today that hairdressing salons will be allowed to reopen from July 4.

Here's what we know so far regarding when hairdressers will reopen, in line with Boris Johnson's "careful steps" to ease lockdown restrictions.

A hair salon reopens in Europe after the coronavirus lockdown (AFP via Getty Images)

When will hairdressers reopen?

The beauty and hairdressing industry employs over 600,000 people in over 50,000 businesses across the UK - and they'll be back at work in less than two weeks.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson confirmed that, along with pubs, bars and restaurants, hairdressers will be allowed to reopen on July 4.

"Almost as eagerly awaited as a pint will be a hair cut, not least by myself," quipped the Prime Minister.

However, there will be some changes - staff and customers will need to wear PPE.

What changes will be brought in to ensure staff and customer safety?

Mr Johnson also confirmed in his speech that staff in hairdressers will need to wear protective visors.

It's likely that most salons will also erect Perspex screens at washing basins, will have reduced capacities, longer opening hours and only take card payments.

Hair salons in Germany have re-opened, but there are no longer waiting areas, dry cuts, or magazines, as these could all aid transmission of the virus.

Both customers and hairdressers wear face masks to prevent Covid-19 infection, and customers wear disposable cloaks and wash their hands before entering the salon.

There had been reports that conversations between hairdressers and customers while hair is being cut may be forbidden to keep people safe, however the Prime Minister did not address this.