Should You Sue A Hairdresser?

If you believe that you have suffered from bad practices in a hair salon, you may find yourself in the unfortunate position where you have to sue a hairdresser for compensation. And rightly, so.

We all know someone who has suffered under the hands of an inexperienced or careless hairdresser, whether it be over-exposure to chemical processing, discolouration through dyeing or hair loss from bleaching.

There are many horror stories where people have endured serve pain, swelling of the face and head, alopecia and in some cases permanent damage.

In order to claim compensation the hairdresser must be proved to have been negligent. It is down to you, as the injured party, to prove your case.

This means proving that a wrong has been committed or that an injury has arisen from a breach of duty and care.

This can relate to the hair salon, the stylist – and in some cases, the manufacturer of the product that was used.

Compensation

The are two broad categories under which the law provides compensation. The first is general damages, which includes pain and suffering and loss of amenity.

The second category is special damages which include all incidental expenses up to and including the trial.

In order to prove general damages, a medical report is required, and by law, this must be served on the wrong-doer. Medical reports are usually provided by an expert trichologist, who examines both the hair and the product. The quicker this is undertaken, the better.

It is also essential to get photographs of the damage as evidence, and to contact any witnesses at the earliest opportunity.

If you have lots earnings as a result of the injury, the level of compensation could increase considerably, especially if a medical report confirms this.

Taking Precautions

Always check that a hair salon has liability insurance.

Check that the hair stylist is employed by the salon, as many salons rent out seats to non-employees.

If something goes wrong it will be more difficult to prove who has responsibility – the salon or the hairdresser as an individual.

Ask for any barrier creams to prevent burning.

Enquire about the age of the product being used to ensure that it is at the correct acidity.

Ensure that the stylist tests the chemicals on a small patch of hair prior to application. This is particularly important if you suffer with any skin allergies.