BEAUTY salons in Yate and Chipping Sodbury re-opened on Monday, July 13 as lockdown restrictions continue to ease.

However, the government’s decision to allow some treatments, such as manicures and pedicures, but ban others, such as eyebrow shaping, have proved controversial.

The new measures say that ‘close contact services in the highest risk zone - directly in front of the face - are not allowed to resume. This means treatments such as facial waxing, treatments to eyebrows or eyelashes or make-up application are not permitted.

However, barbers are allowed to trim men’s beards, leading some beauticians to call the rules unfair

Gemma Blake re-opened Vintage Beauty in Yate on Monday.

She said: “I am so excited to start getting back to doing what I love, but the frustrations around not being able to do any facial treatments are high.

“Lashes and brows are by far my busiest and most requested appointments, so to not be able to book people in who are wanting these treatments is definitely a hard pill to swallow.

“I’m so happy that I can start earning again after not qualifying for the furlough scheme, due to being a new business.

“I wouldn’t use the word sexist for the government decisions, but it does certainly feel some decisions that have been made do not make a huge amount of sense.

“Hairdressers can cut fringes but I am still unable to do a set of lash extensions or brows?

“However, I am pleased I can do other treatments, and look forward to seeing existing and new clients soon.”

To book a treatment at Vintage Beauty call 07497 352127