Changing The Face Of Hair And Beauty
Beauty has remained an enduring subject of artists the world over. Hegel believed that art and culture were inextricably linked, that artists are products of their times, and their creations are inevitably imbued with hints of their culture. With the world emerging from a global lockdown, I was curious if the virus has changed our culture and affected the pursuit and creation of beauty.
I spoke to Simon Barr and Claudia Romeo from Mien Salon Spa in Clifton Hill, about their thoughts on how COVID19 has affected the hair, beauty and wellness industries. When I first met Si, some 20 years ago, he impressed me with his sense of style and the artistry he brought to his cutting skills. He approached my hair, with a sculptor's attitude to clay and an artist's eye to bring out my individuality. The hair has long gone but the friendship remains.
I've known both of you for many years and always considered you artists in the way you view the world and how you seek to beautify people and your surroundings. I've noticed some new changes in the salon. How did COVID-19 affect you and your business?
Simon: "2020 was such an odd and frankly scary time. Like many others, we thought how were small businesses in the hair and beauty space going to survive? How would mandatory social distancing affect the community's beloved hairdressers and beauty therapists?"
"The only positive aspect of the COVID lockdowns was it allowed us to reflect and take stock of our lives. In 21 years of operation, Mien has never closed for longer than 3 consecutive days!"
Claudia: "Rather than worry about things (beyond) our control, we chose to use this time to begin renovating our salon and improve our customer service standards."
Simon: "We increased our floor space for better social distancing and to create a more modern, greener and spacious environment. I think that after the lockdowns people have gained a greater appreciation for space."
"We've often discussed how people often misunderstand the utility and power of beauty in our society, conflating its pursuit with narcissism and selfies."
Simon: "Beauty has a transformative power to make us feel better about ourselves. When you feel better, you're happier. The happier you are, the less stressed and more pleasant you are to be around. We're really in the business of making people feel good. Even if it's just for a few hours."
Claudia: "I hope what we do make people happier for a bit longer than that!" (laughter)
Simon: “We encourage our team to celebrate beauty in all its diversity.”
You can't compare a diamond to a pearl. Each is beautiful in its own right.
Simon: "Exactly. I feel our role is to bring out people's unique beauty whether it's through a haircut that suits their face or personality or simply by providing a place to relax and pamper themselves."
"People think our salon is just about cutting hair and beauty treatments. What we actually do at Mien is provide an inspirational space where people can interact with others and make themselves feel more beautiful."
Claudia: "People also like to know what's happening in hair fashion. It's a great place to meet friends and get out of the house for a treat.
It’s also becoming a favourite haunt for those who now work from home”
What changes have you seen in your industry post-covid?
Simon: "We thought that maybe home hairdressing would continue it’s popularity post-Covid.
Claudia: "We definitely didn't see any drop in client numbers. Everyone has been super loyal and supportive to the salon during the lockdowns."
Simon: "In fact, we picked up a lot of new business from the closure of city salons. I felt for smaller salons where their ability to social distance was affected by their lack of real estate. It will be interesting to see how this 'working from home' paradigm shift will affect the industry in years to come".
"The pandemic has made more people aware of hygiene standards, space and safety protocols, which can only happen with a team of dedicated professionals".
Claudia: "We're busy because we've got fabulous stylists on the floor who help people to look and feel amazing".
Claudia, you're in charge of Mien's spa. What beauty trends have you seen and what are some areas of growth?
"Traditionally, beauty spas were all about feeling good, and we worked hard to build our reputation for offering luxurious facials, spa baths and massages. These treats have become essential visits to many of our regular guests.”
“One trend I've noticed with recent spa clients is a growing interest in anti-ageing treatments involving skincare solutions and age management.”
"Fortunately, we offer a wide range of both active and luxury products to cater for both types of client needs, and with a dedicated team who can help with the inner health.
As a client once said to me when I was feeling a little defeated by all the closures; “for this area don’t forget Mien Salon Spa makes a fabulous offering." - I loved that…