People have been celebrating the reopening of salons and barbershops after being closed during the COVID-19 lockdown but for Black people, their return wi about more than just getting a haircut.

Yes, Black women rejoiced as their kinks and coils finally got some much-needed TLC, yes people could stop pining for a press and curl and yes Black men rushed to link up with their barber for a shape up.

But Black barbershops and salons have also long been revered as safe spaces for people to convene and really be seen in more ways than one.

Its deeply transactional. So, typically, you have your locks seen to by a professional and get given carte blanche to express your innermost thoughts about the topic of the day without fear or favor.

These are spaces where Black people who are far too often ostracized can either laugh or cry, or both, and their lived experiences resonate with those around them in a way that isnt often guaranteed across wider society.

Marlene Abuah, owner of Natural Gloe hair salon in west London, says she has been inundated with gifts since reopening by clients who missed popping in for their regular appointments.

Everyone has come with a gift for me and some for my kids, even! Its so nice. Obviously we know that were appreciated as stylists but the love has been wonderful, she told HuffPost UK.