THE countdown to enter The Herald Look Awards 2017 is on, with judges set to honour Scotland’s best cosmetic dentists, beauty and hair salons.

There are just three days remaining before the window for entries closes and firms are urged to secure their free bid for the 21 categories before the deadline.

The awards will take place on Sunday, May 14, in association with High Definition, and aim to celebrate the best of the industry.

Anna Pickford, head of marketing for High Definition, which is sponsoring the Outstanding Contribution Award, said: “I would urge all of our HD Brows Stylists and Salons to put themselves forward to be recognised by these prestigious industry awards.”

Elspeth McCallum, industry academy curriculum head for City of Glasgow College, who sponsor the Best Start Up Award, added: “City of Glasgow College would encourage all hair and beauty businesses to enter The Look Awards this year.”

Good Salon Guide is supporting a new category for 2017, the Colour Expert Recognition Award.

Managing director Gareth Penn said: “Entering award competitions is very important in our industry, as it allows the general public to see your creativity and is a great advertisement for your salon.”

Becky Woodhouse, CEO of Pure Spa, which is supporting the Training Institution of the Year category, added: “Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate your business and its success.”

Skinade is supporting the Cosmetic Clinic of the Year category. Head of marketing, Louise Marchesin, said: “This is an incredible opportunity for any brand, clinic or beauty expert to gain exposure.”

The Best Use of Social Media category is sponsored for a second year by Fake Bake. Global beauty consultant Sandra Vaughan said “Set yourself apart from your competitors and give your business and your staff the recognition they deserve.”

OSMO is supporting the Best Barber category. Brand manager Sinead McLaughlin said: “With no better platform to showcase your honed skills and artistry and boost your business profile amongst some of the industry’s finest, you’d be crazy to miss out”.