Something as common as a haircut shouldn't be an overwhelming sensory experience — but for people with autism or ADHD, the feeling of hands running through hair, clippers buzzing, and music blaring is sometimes too much.
Sensory overload can cause the brain to 'fight, flight, or freeze'There are calls for better recognition and disability access in hair salons
Sensory processing difficulties can affect up to 96 per cent of people with autism, according to Autism Spectrum Australia. "In my experience, mostly it's been a terrible time. I love the end product, but I really struggle with the experience."It's something hairstylist and salon owner Stevie Vincent has been trying to address."If someone's not used to making little accommodations, they might feel like it's a lot of work to do," she said.
Australian Hairdressing Council chief executive Sandy Chong CEO said there was no formal training available for hairdressers on dealing with clients who have a disability.She said she had been trying to source funding to educate staff on employing people with disabilities, and would like to see salons planning for clients with disabilities.