Stay Beautiful

The beauty industry has always been one of the most competitive commercial spaces, even before the challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic.

Many businesses have been forced to close their doors during the lockdown, which leaves store owners with no other choice but to try to move their business online.

Social media is reshaping this long-standing industry and beauty brands have found new and exciting ways to market their products. Christie van Zyl, a make-up artist at Graftobian Professional Makeup in Windhoek, says one of the most challenging aspects of her job is the fact that it requires physical contact, which is one of the ways the virus is spread.

“We thought it would be best to close for the period of the lockdown. We also had 100 percent cancellations and rescheduled weddings and other appointments. The lockdown has left our business and the whole beauty industry with no income.”

Van Zyl suggests that using preventative measures is the best way the industry will survive.

“We can still work from home. I always preach super sterile tools and products. I also suggest to all beauty institutions as well as home workstations to cleanse and sanitise between clients. Use gloves and masks and don’t work if you feel even a little ill,” she says.

She encourages people to do their best to maintain their beauty regimes, even despite the lockdown, as she believes looking and feeling good is vital in times of distress.

“It will put you in the right state of mind. I would get up, and get dressed with full make-up. By doing this it somehow gives us a feeling of being in control, which makes us more likely to survive.”

She also urges men to explore the industry. “Even though we are staying at home we need to still take care of ourselves. People must remember that skin and hair still grow and respond while under lockdown. While we have a little more time to ourselves we can make extra effort with moisture treatments.”

Arvashni Gorases, a part-time make-up artist and beauty therapist at Beauty By Arvashni, has also closed her business during the state-mandated lockdown.

She noticed that after the announcement of the lockdown many people made appointments and rushed to get their hair and nails done at the last minute.

For those who missed out on the opportunity, Gorases advises creating a home spa experience, using what they have around the house.

“Give yourself a nice foot soak and pedicure. Take these days to work on your skincare. Learn basic grooming and basic make-up applications. There are so many blogs and beauty channels online which you can learn from. Use this time to your advantage. Don’t forget to frequently wash and disinfect make-up brushes and sponges,” Gorases urges.

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