Natasha Holgate, a Maidstone teacher, received an out-of-court settlement of about $66,000 after saying a 2022 salon bleaching appointment left her with severe scalp burns. She underwent emergency skin-graft surgery and multiple reconstructive procedures.
The appointment took place at Bow Hairdressing in Snodland on Jan. 17, 2022. Holgate told KentOnline foils were placed around her crown and a hair dryer was used to speed bleaching; she said burning began during the appointment. Stylist Clare Codling waived the fee but disputed Holgate’s account and declined to elaborate.
Two days later, as the pain continued, Holgate called NHS 111 and was advised to seek emergency care; she was referred to a specialist burns unit. She said surgery left a large bald patch on her crown and the experience affected her work, finances, mental health and relationships. Bow Hairdressing is no longer in business.
