Covid-19 update: face treatments in England postponed until August 15

Update: The Government has confirmed that face treatments will be allowed in England from Saturday, August 15. Read the full story.

Story posted July 31:

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that face treatments in beauty salons, spas and mobile/home-based beauty businesses in England will not resume tomorrow (August 1) as previously suggested, due to rising coronavirus R rate.

In a press conference delivered today (July 31), the PM said the Government has decided to put the brakes on the proposed easing of restrictions, which were due to take place tomorrow, with all additional close-contact beauty treatments postponed until at least Saturday, August 15. 

“You’ll remember, that at every point, I have said that our plan to reopen for society and the economy is conditional, and that it relies on continued progress against the virus, and that we would not hesitate to put the brakes on if required,” said Johnson. 

“With those numbers creeping up, our assessment is that we should squeeze the breaks on that brake pedal in order to keep the virus under control. On Saturday, August 1, you’ll remember, we had hoped to reopen in England a number of the higher-risk settings that had remained closed. 

“And today, I’m afraid, we’re postponing those changes for at least a fortnight. That means, until August 15 at the earliest, casinos, bowling alleys and the remaining close-contact services must remain closed.”

Saunas and steam rooms in spas were also due to reopen tomorrow (August 1) but have also veen told that they cannot open yet. 

Industry reactions

The National Hair & Beauty Federation said: "We are extremely disappointed that this last-minute decision has been made. It will impact beauty businesses and professionals in England who were due to resume treatments to the face from tomorrow (August 1)... We will continue to push for financial support following this further setback."

Babtac commented on its Instagram page: "We are absolutely devastated for our members and all other beauty businesses in England that this news impacts and [we] will continue to push for further financial assistance from the Government."

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