We all deserve a little pampering from time to time. Whether it’s indulging in some retail therapy or treating ourselves to a relaxing massage or a beautiful manicure, self-care is essential. Unfortunately, not every trip to the nail salon is a happy one. We’ve heard horror stories about rude staff or painful experiences caused by negligence or allergic reactions.
One woman in California, Jennifer Dreyer Brown, recently had a heartbreaking experience at a nail salon that left her in tears and feeling ashamed. Jennifer suffers from discoid lupus, an autoimmune disease that causes severe rashes and skin inflammation, particularly when exposed to sunlight.
On one of the hottest days of the year, Jennifer decided to visit Happy Nails in Laguna Niguel. Wearing a sundress to stay cool, she walked into the salon excited for a manicure and pedicure. Little did she know that she was being observed and talked about by the staff.
During her pedicure, Jennifer realized that the workers were gossiping about her. But it wasn’t until she was ready for her manicure that she was informed that the staff only had time for a quick polish. Shocked and confused, Jennifer was told that her skin condition was the problem. Even after explaining that she didn’t have any visible scars, she was denied the service.
Feeling distressed and embarrassed, Jennifer took to Facebook to share a video of the incident, hoping to warn others about the unfair treatment she experienced. In her emotional video, she reminds people to be kind because you never know what someone may be going through, both inside and outside.
The salon’s attorney defended the staff by stating that they were following the California Board of Cosmetology’s code, which prohibits servicing inflamed or infected skin. According to the attorney, there was no intention to discriminate against Jennifer.
While the salon may argue that they were within compliance, Jennifer’s experience highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of diseases like lupus. Lupus is not contagious, and those who suffer from it should not be treated unfairly or made to feel ashamed.
Jennifer has made it clear that she will never return to the salon, despite having been a regular customer in the past. She hopes that sharing her story will help raise awareness about lupus and prevent any further discrimination in the future.
Let’s remember Jennifer’s words: “You don’t know what’s going on with someone on the inside or outside for that matter.” So, let’s always be kind and compassionate towards others, regardless of their appearance or condition.
