Are beauty professionals essential workers? Many people would now say ‘yes.’
The recent pandemic has taught us about a lot of things. One of the most valuable lessons occurred when our own freedom to get a professional haircut, a facial or have our own nails manicured was taken away by the threat of COVID-19. We were concerned for our safety, but when the guidelines were put into place and followed by professionals who were willing and determined to serve, some people leapt back into the salon. They knew they’d feel better emotionally, psychologically and physically when they had their haircut, their skin was cared for professionally and their nails, hands and feet were polished and pampered (even if no one else could see them). It is human to want to look good, and there is an inherent sense supported by lifelong conditioning, that makes us all recognize how important it is to take care of the body we have been given. With this need to take care of ourselves, there is also an inherent need to be touched by people who care about us.
Appearance and Aging
The need and desire to maintain our appearance never goes away. When it is disheveled, it is a sign that we are ill or not feeling up to par. Our life is out of balance, and we feel less than we like. Appearance represents so much more than just looking attractive. It connotes our capabilities and tells other people how we feel mentally and physically. This, in turn, influences how others respond to us. When we are struggling to stay kempt looking on our own and someone helps us, it causes a revival of the spirit. The sense that one has purpose and meaning is reborn and the individual
is strengthened.
Continue reading about beauty for aging skin in our Digital Magazine...
Alison O'Neil is a licensed cosmetologist and the founder of the Beauty Becomes You Foundation. She have over 30 years in the esthetic industry and is known for her work in medical esthetics and esthetic rehabilitation. She developed the first Dermatologic Rehabilitation Clinic in the country at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. For 11 years, she served on the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology as the esthetic member. Along with the Beauty Becomes You Foundation, O'Neil founded the specialty called Geriatric Aesthetics. She was selected by L’Oreal Paris as one of the top 10 Women of Worth in America out of over 6,300 other charity founders, and she is also the recipient of the Point of Light Honor from the President of the United States and the Quality of Life Award for her role as a founding committee member of the American Cancer Society’s, National Look Good... Feel Better Program. O’Neil will present "The Intention to Serve: The Most Valuable Beauty Secret Ever Divulged" to kickoff the Advance Education Conference at Face & Body Southeast on Oct. 12, 2016.
*Geriatric Esthetics is a copyrighted phase attributed to O'Neil.
