Amid dwindling demand and safety concerns, many hair salons shutting down

Freedom Beauty Salon is one of several to close during the COVID-19 outbreak. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - While the coronavirus has caused the banning of bars and restaurants from onsite dining, venues like hair salons and barbershops who aren't prohibited are struggling to decide whether to close as a precaution and take a financial hit.

Business has definitely slowed, Raspberries Salon and Day Spa owner Kelly Dillion said on Saturday, adding that effective immediately they would not be taking any walk-in customers, only those with appointments.

Dillion said customers are welcome to wear face masks during their appointment if they wish. She said the salon's hairstylists would be happy to wear masks, but they haven't been able to find any.

Dillion also advised seniors that this might be a time to reschedule their appointments.

"I would encourage against seniors coming in," she said.

Studio Clips of Rochester is also still open, but on their Facebook page urges anyone who feels unwell or has traveled in the past month to please consider not coming in during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Meanwhile, several city hair salons like Freedom Beauty Salon and Tresses are closed, Freedom till at least March 27 and Tresses until April 7.

Cabana Hair Salon and Tanning also announced on Saturday it was closing indefinitely. A late night post on their Facebook page says they will remain closed "until we can hug and shake hands again. Social distancing is a must during this uncertain time. Stay safe."

Some salons like Tresses are offering special deals to try to keep some cash flowing. They're offering $20 worth of Paul Mitchell products for free - including free delivery - with the purchase of a $100 gift certificate.

All the barbershops we reached out to continue to serve customers, although East Side Barber Shop is asking folks to call or text the number on their Facebook Page before coming in.