A Leading Personal Injury Lawyer has called for hairdressers across the Country to be brought under Government control in a bid to control the increasing number of injuries caused by unqualified stylists.
Liam Moloney, Personal Injury Solicitor of Naas, Co. Kildare says anyone can pick up a scissors and call themselves a hairdresser. There is no legal requirement for hairdressers to be properly trained or even to prove they are competent.
“It is unacceptable that someone who has little or no experience can use potentially harmful chemicals on someone’s hair” says Mr. Moloney. “Most women do not realise that the industry is unregulated and many never think to ask about their stylist’s qualifications or experience.
Our firm has handled many cases where women have suffered serious injuries at the hands of unqualified staff. Burns, permanent hair loss, scarring and disfigurement can be extremely painful and can cause huge psychological effects.
A compulsory register of stylists is the best way to offer consumers protection. This will encourage people to use only properly qualified stylists.”
Many salons also appear not to take skin testing for allergies seriously. There is absolutely no way of knowing how someone will react to chemicals such as those present in hair dye without a skin test being done.
Consumers should insist on a skin test if they are not offered one by the salon. Hair dye manufacturers advise for a small amount of dye to be applied to the skin 48 hours before a client has their hair dyed in order to test for a reaction.
Mr. Moloney added “people shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions. Any hairdresser who has qualifications and experience should be more than happy to tell you so and answer any questions you have.”
