What to consider when reopening clinics following the COVID-19 pandemic

Commonly touched areas of clinics should be cleaned daily, including door handles and hard surfaces using detergent such as sodium hypochlorite or 70% alcohol wipes

Many clinics have been temporarily closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown, with the aim of protecting patients, the public and staff (Lacobucci, 2020) from coronavirus. Now, with Government guidelines, industry guidance and the easing of lockdown restrictions, many clinics are reopening, or planning to reopen, imminently.

The regulatory bodies of the industry have published guidance entailing their opinion and recommendations regarding reopening following the pandemic. These include the British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM), the British Association of Cosmetic Nurses (BACN), the Joint Council of Cosmetic Practitioners (JCCP) and Save Face.

Throughout this article, I will review the current guidance (at the time of writing) from the aesthetics regulating bodies. My aim is to present a summary of key points and ensure that patient and staff safety is being achieved, while simultaneously providing patients with the excellent care they require. Box 1 also details a checklist for all practitioners to follow and ensure patient and staff safety.