Legally speaking hairdressers provide a service and should exercise reasonable skill and care whilst doing so, as required by the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982. This is true especially when using chemicals and other hair products including colourants. Indeed an experienced stylist should always carry out a patch test first to check for any adverse reaction on each and every customer.

If the hairdresser fails to do this and you suffer an injury as a direct result then you will have a claim for compensation. In the first instance you should complain to the owner of the salon in writing. You should also visit your GP and get medical advice immediately.

Compensation Claims and the Hairdressers Council

In the absence of regulation within the hairdressing industry, redress can only be obtained through the courts. Where redress is being sought we strongly recommend that victims seek the services of specialist personal injury solicitors.

It is perfectly possible to mount a good case with the help of a solicitor, particularly where the consumer is able to provide evidence of professional incompetence or physical Harm caused to hair or scalp.

In claims against hairdressers evidence is very important such as photos, consulting your doctor or arranging for another local hairdresser to certify what has been done to your hair. If you know the name of the hairdresser in question - that is the individual stylist not salon - and they are registered with the Hairdressers Council, a copy of your letter of complaint would be forwarded to them inviting their comments. This would then be investigated by committee with one possible result that the hairdresser was removed from the register.

Scalp Injuries

Damage to Hair
Most usually occurs due to the consequences of defective perming, tinting or colouring. Hair can become brittle and in certain circumstances hair loss may occur both temporary and permanent. In more extreme cases the victim can suffer psychological disability as well.
Burning to scalp
Burning or irritation may occur to the scalp as a result of chemical usage or exposure to certain toxins. Damages will be awarded commensurate with the extent of any scarring and the associated hair loss and pain.
Laceration Injuries
Damages will be assessed depending on the nature and extent of the scarring that has been left as a result of the injury. If the scar is clearly visible within the hair or on the edge of the hairline then compensation awards will tend to be higher than if the scar is well covered.

Each individual victim will differ and as such it is important that a full diagnosis is made and that compensation is awarded that is commensurate with the injuries sustained.

If you or somebody you know has suffered an injury that was caused by a hairdresser then please complete the Claim Assessment Form. Our claims solicitors will then contact you in order to confirm whether or not you have grounds for making an accident compensation claim.

Please note that all of our claims solicitors act on a strictly no win no fee basis and that you or the victim will receive 100% of any damages that are awarded.

Please select from the drop-down list for a free assessment by
a specialist injury solicitor.