Editor's comment: what the inclusive beauty movement means for salons

From products created to meet the specific needs of older or less able consumers, to marketing campaigns that ditch the retouching and embrace all skin types and body shapes, there is a wealth of promising initiatives in the news this month. 

When it comes to making all clients feel equally welcome in salons and spas, however, we all know that actions speak louder than words. Our feature on adapting your spray tans to suit customers with different needs explores changes in the techniques, and sometimes the language you might use, when treating older, pregnant or disabled clients. Check it out in the May issue of Professional Beauty.

This month, we’re also championing inclusivity for those working within the industry. In his advice piece on the laws around age discrimination in salons, David Wright busts some myths about the limitations of older therapists and explains the legal implications of age discrimination.

Meanwhile, our lead news story in the May issue outlines changes afoot for therapists working in the field of aesthetics, from the approval of new National Occupational Standards for treatments such as microneedling and peels to fresh conversations that indicate Government support for vocational training routes that would enable therapists to reach Levels 6 and 7. Regardless of your thoughts on who should be allowed to perform which treatments, conversations like these are vital, to ensure beauty therapists maintain a voice in this ongoing debate.

The May issue is out now. A digital subscription can be bought for just £10 for 12 issues. The print edition is  £37 for an annual 12-issue subscription. Check out our NEW gold and silver memberships to see all the added benefits you can now receive with an annual subscription, including VIP Access to members lounges at the shows, and significant discounts on seminars and conferences.