No touch and virtual treatments

Things have changed. Maybe permanently. It might be me but it felt unexpected. It's scary. I don't like it.   We touch people all day.  Like it's part of our job.  This stark new reality we have is not inside our wheelhouse at all.  I can tell you I've spoke to some very scared and upset therapists this month.  Those that struggle with closing or remaining open.  That my friends is a personal choice only you can make.  I've thought and considered all the options.  I've come up with these ideas.  Feel free to copy them or build upon them in any way you would like.  

1.  Virtual treatments.  This sounds like a star trek episode to me but I'm embracing it.  I am offering two options.  Option 1: Clients schedule a virtual treatment that includes products they have at home.  That's right, I'm diving into the unknown bathroom drawer.  Sure there could be products like who knows what in there.  It's a little terrifying.  I'm sure it will be difficult.  If it keeps my business afloat, I'm in.  I am offering to do a consultation and walk them through a virtual treatment on messenger or FaceTime. (mainly because that's the technology I know, you can use anything).  I am sure at some point I will ask someone to pull out the baking soda or some other household item but I'm confident in my knowledge base and I'm sure I can provide a valuable service.    Option 2:  clients register, complete a questionnaire and consent.  I choose product samples for them.  Write up a step by step labeled protocol and put them in a bag for pick up outside.  That's right nobody has to come in.  This works for my location and I'm sure somehow could be worked in for most of us.  I set up the video chat and walk them through it. 

I'm estimating it will take me about 20 minutes for the actual call.  I am sure the product cost is probably less than $3.  I keep small sample containers (single use) to send home with people after peels and other services to further manage them for a day or so.  These will come in handy for this as well.  I am charging $20 to $25 for these.  You can charge whatever you feel your client base would pay.  

2.  No touch treatments.  I own 2 Celluma Pro panels.  My other esthetician has chosen to stay at home.  I have a room and equipment sitting open.  I decided to offer a no touch LED.  Clients complete all paperwork, payment and consultation on line.  They come in to a sanitized room (see my safety statement) and apply a serum to clean face, turn on the unit, put on eye protection and place the device over their face.  The unit automatically shuts off in 30 minutes.  They remove the unit, return the googles and apply SPF.  They leave everything and there is no need to check out.  This is something that can be done with any stand alone LED panel with modifications.  I am encouraging people to do a series of treatments so I priced them: 1 for $50, 3 for $105, 6 for $150.  This gives me an option for people who want to distance but still come in.  

Lastly let me say that many clients still want to come in.  I want to accommodate them.  I did let folks know if they didn't want to come in that any appointment cancellation fees would not apply.  I've given people an option to delay packages or any other prepaid appointment as well without penalty.  

I put out a safety statement early and I keep to the promises I made there.  All appointments have a 30 minute buffer.  EVERYTHING is wiped.  Handles, railings, surfaces, chairs, the works.  Every single time.  No exceptions.  

I hope these things help you as you navigate these difficult times in your businesses.  This is not easy and nobody has enough experience to know what is best to do.  Be true to you, be good to people, do good.  We will all be ok.  If I can help you please don't hesitate to call me.