We’ve all been hoping for some positive news this month, during lockdown, and the creation of a new Personal Care sector to represent the interests of the beauty, hair and spa industry in Government has certainly helped to lift spirits and has been met with excitement by an industry that felt misunderstood and overlooked for much of last year.

The heads of the associations that represent our sector, including the NHBF, British Beauty Council, UK Spa Association and Babtac, have become increasingly important figures over the past 12 months, pulling together to fight for change, and their progress in the development of this designated sector team has given us all hope for more respect and understanding when Government decisions are made. Read more about the impact on page 10.

But the fight’s far from over, and with almost a year of on-off restrictions taking their toll on beauty businesses, many groups are calling for urgent financial support for the sector as we prepare to reopen. Professional Beauty columnist Hellen Ward is part of a collective that is pushing for a reduction in the VAT rate for salons to 5%, in line with the VAT break given to hospitality. You can read more about why, and how to support her efforts, in her column on page 34.

This issue will also help you get ahead of the curve on the trends that consumers will be seeking out once they can get back to salons. From our tanning trends piece on page 48, to a deep dive into facial cupping treatments on page 54, we’re bringing you predictions and advice from some of the biggest names in beauty.

Editor