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STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

This booklet contains the information you will need to obtain your license. The law that governs your profession is found in the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, in Title 54.1, Chapter 7. That law permits the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation to issue regulations that tell you more about what is expected of you in your profession. This booklet contains a copy of the regulations that you will need to know and obey to get and keep your license.

BE SURE YOU READ AND UNDERSTAND THE STANDARDS OF PRACTICE AND CONDUCT. YOUR FAILUYOUR FAILURE TO OBEY THESE STANDARDS COULD RESULT IN A MONETARY PENALTY OR LOSS OF YOUR LICENSE.

It is the goal of the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation to provide you with the information you need to comply with the law and regulations. If you have a question and cannot find the answer to it in this booklet, please write to:

Board for Barbers and Cosmetology Perimeter Center, Suite 400
9960 Mayland Drive
Richmond, VA 23233

Or call the Agency at (804) 367-8509

Or e-mail at barbercosmo@dpor.virginia.gov

Information is also available on the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation website:
www.dpor.virginia.gov

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Regulations Part I – General

CHAPTER 70.
ESTHETICS REGULATIONS
PART I.

GENERAL.

18 VAC 41-70-10. Definitions.

The following words and terms when used in this chapter shall have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. All terms defined in Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia are incorporated in this chapter.

"Business entity" means a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, limited liability partnership, or any other form of organization permitted by law.

"Credit hour" means a combination of the number of hours in class each week and the number of hours per week in a laboratory by which a school may measure its course work. One unit of credit equals one hour of classroom study, two hours of laboratory experience or three hours of internship or practicum or a combination of the three times the number of weeks in the term. Emerging delivery methodologies may necessitate a unit of undergraduate credit to be measured in nontime base methods. These courses shall use the demonstration of competency, proficiency, or fulfillment of learning outcomes to ensure these courses are equivalent to traditionally delivered courses.

"Direct supervision" means that a Virginia licensed esthetician or master esthetician shall be present in the esthetics spa or esthetics school at all times when services are being performed by a temporary license holder or student.

"Endorsement" means a method of obtaining a license by a person who is currently licensed in another state or jurisdiction.

"Firm" means any business entity recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

"Licensee" means any sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, limited liability partnership, or any other form of organization permitted by law holding a license issued by the Board for Barbers and Cosmetology, as defined in § 54.1-700 of the Code of Virginia.

"Post-secondary educational level" means an accredited college or university that is approved or accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges or by an accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.

"Reinstatement" means having a license restored to effectiveness after the expiration date has passed.

"Renewal" means continuing the effectiveness of a license for another period of time.

"Responsible management" means the following individuals:

1. The sole proprietor of a sole proprietorship;

2. The partners of a general partnership;

3. The managing partners of a limited partnership;

4. The officers of a corporation;

5. The managers of a limited liability company;

6. The officers or directors of an association or both; and

7. Individuals in other business entities recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth as having a fiduciary responsibility to the firm.

"Sole proprietor" means any individual, not a corporation, who is trading under his own name or under an assumed or fictitious name pursuant to the provisions of §§ 59.1-69 through 59.1-76 of the Code of Virginia.

"Virginia state institution" for the purposes of this chapter means any institution approved by the Virginia Department of Education.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

PART II.
ENTRY.

18 VAC 41-70-20. General Requirements for an Esthetician or Master Esthetician License.

1. Any individual wishing to engage in esthetics or master esthetics shall obtain a license in compliance with § 54.1-703 of the Code of Virginia and meet the following qualifications:

1. The applicant shall be in good standing as a licensed esthetician in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed. The applicant shall disclose to the board at the time of application for licensure any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions in connection with the applicant's practice as an esthetician. This includes monetary penalties, fines, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license. The applicant shall disclose to the board at the time of application for licensure whether he has been previously licensed in Virginia as an esthetician or master esthetician.

   Upon review of an applicant's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant wherein it deems the applicant is unfit or unsuited to engage in esthetics or master esthetics. The board will decide each case by taking into account the totality of the circumstances. Any plea of nolo contendere or comparable plea shall be considered a disciplinary action for the purposes of this section. The applicant shall provide a certified copy of a final order, decree, or case decision by a court, regulatory agency, or board with the lawful authority to issue such order, decree, or case decision, and such copy shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such disciplinary action.

2. The applicant shall disclose his physical address. A post office box is not acceptable.

3. The applicant shall sign, as part of the application, a statement certifying that the applicant has read and understands the Virginia esthetics license laws and this chapter.

4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant shall disclose the following information regarding criminal convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions:

1. All misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude, sexual offense, drug distribution, or physical injury within two years of the date of the application; and

2. All felony convictions within 20 years of the date of application.

   Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for purposes of this subsection. The record of a conviction received from a court shall be accepted as prima facie evidence of a conviction or finding of guilt. The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.

5. The applicant shall provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has passed the board-approved examination requirement administered either by the board or by independent examiners.

2. Eligibility to sit for board-approved examination.

1. Training in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Any person completing an approved esthetics training program or a master esthetics training program in a Virginia licensed esthetics school shall be eligible for the applicable examination.

2. Training outside of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Any person completing esthetics training that is substantially equivalent to the Virginia program but is outside of the Commonwealth of Virginia must submit to the board documentation of the successful completion of training to be eligible for examination. If less than the required hours of esthetics training was completed, an applicant must submit a certificate, diploma, or other documentation acceptable to the board verifying the completion of a substantially equivalent esthetics course and documentation of six months of work experience as an esthetician in order to be eligible for the esthetician examination.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-30. License by Endorsement.

Upon proper application to the board, any person currently licensed to practice as an esthetician or master esthetician in any other state or jurisdiction of the United States and who has completed both a training program and a written examination and a practical examination that are substantially equivalent to those required by this chapter may be issued an esthetician or master esthetician license without an examination. The applicant must also meet the requirements set forth in 18 VAC 41-70-20 A.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-35. Apprenticeship Training.

1. Licensed estheticians and master estheticians who train apprentices shall comply with the standards for apprenticeship training established by the Division of Registered Apprenticeship of the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry and the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology. Owners of esthetics spas who train apprentices shall comply with the standards for apprenticeship training established by the Division of Registered Apprenticeship of the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry.

2. Any person completing the Virginia apprenticeship program in esthetics or master esthetics shall be eligible for examination.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 33, Issue 08, eff. February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-40. Examination Requirements and Fees.

1. Applicants for initial licensure shall pass both a written examination and a practical examination approved by the board. The examinations may be administered by the board or by a designated testing service.
2. Any applicant who passes one part of the examination shall not be required to take that part again provided both parts are passed within one year of the initial examination date.
3. Any candidate failing to appear as scheduled for examination shall forfeit the examination fee.
4. The fee for examination or reexamination is subject to contracted charges to the board by an outside vendor. These contracts are competitively negotiated and bargained for in compliance with the Virginia Public Procurement Act (§ 2.2-4300 et seq. of the Code of Virginia). Fees may be adjusted and charged to the candidate in accordance with these contracts. The fee shall not exceed $225 per candidate.
5. Any candidate failing to apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both a written examination and a practical examination shall be required to retake both portions. Records of examinations shall be maintained for a maximum of five years.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-50. Reexamination Requirements.

Any applicant who does not pass a reexamination within one year of the initial examination date shall be required to submit a new application and examination fee.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007.

18 VAC 41-70-60. Examination Administration.

1. The examination shall be administered by the board or the designated testing service. The practical examination shall be supervised by a chief examiner.

2. Every esthetics or master esthetics examiner shall hold a current Virginia license in his respective profession, have three or more years of active experience as a licensed professional, and be currently practicing in that profession. Examiners shall attend training workshops sponsored by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board.

3. No certified esthetics or master esthetics instructor who (i) is currently teaching, (ii) is a school owner, or (iii) is an apprentice sponsor shall be an examiner.

4. Each esthetics or master esthetics chief examiner shall (i) hold a current Virginia license in his respective profession, (ii) have five or more years of active experience in that profession, (iii) have three years of active experience as an examiner, and (iv) be currently practicing in his respective profession. Chief examiners shall attend training workshops sponsored by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board.

5. The applicant shall follow all procedures established by the board with regard to conduct at the examination. Such procedures shall include written instructions communicated prior to the examination date and instructions communicated at the site, either written or oral, on the date of the examination. Failure to comply with all procedures established by the board and the testing service with regard to conduct at the examination may be grounds for denial of application.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-70. Esthetician Temporary License.

1. A temporary license to work under the direct supervision of a currently licensed esthetician or master esthetician may be issued only to applicants for initial licensure that the board finds eligible for the applicable examination. There shall be no fee for a temporary license.

2. The temporary license shall remain in force for 45 days following the examination date. The examination date shall be the first test date after the applicant has successfully submitted an application to the board.

3. Any person continuing to practice esthetics services after a temporary license has expired may be prosecuted and fined by the Commonwealth under §§ 54.1-111 A 1 and 54.1-202 of the Code of Virginia.

4. No applicant for examination shall be issued more than one temporary license.

5. Temporary permits shall not be issued where grounds may exist to deny a license pursuant to § 54.1- 204 of the Code of Virginia or 18 VAC 41-70-20

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017

18 VAC 41-70-80. General Requirements for a Spa License.

1. Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

1. The applicant, and all members of the responsible management, shall be in good standing as a licensed spa in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed. The applicant and all members of the responsible management shall disclose to the board at the time of application for licensure, any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions in connection with the applicant's operation of any esthetics spa or practice of the profession. This includes monetary penalties, fines, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license. The applicant shall disclose to the board at the time of application for licensure if the applicant or any member of responsible management has been previously licensed in Virginia as an esthetics spa.

   Upon review of the applicant's and all members of the responsible management's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant wherein it deems the applicant is unfit or unsuited to engage in the operation of an esthetics spa. The board will decide each case by taking into account the totality of the circumstances. Any plea of nolo contendere or comparable plea shall be considered a disciplinary action for the purposes of this section. The applicant shall provide a certified copy of a final order, decree, or case decision by a court, regulatory agency, or board with the lawful authority to issue such order, decree, or case decision, and such copy shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such disciplinary action.

2. The applicant shall disclose his physical address. A post office box is not acceptable.

3. The applicant shall sign, as part of the application, a statement certifying that the applicant has read and understands the Virginia esthetics license laws and this chapter.

4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant shall disclose the following information about the firm and all members of the responsible management regarding criminal convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions:

1. All misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude, sexual offense, drug distribution, or physical injury within two years of the date of the application; and

2. All felony convictions within 20 years of the date of application.

   Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for purposes of this subsection. The record of a conviction received from a court shall be accepted as prima facie evidence of a conviction or finding of guilt. The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.

5. The applicant shall disclose the firm's responsible management.

2. Spa licenses are issued to firms as defined in this chapter and shall not be transferable and shall bear the same name and address of the business. Any changes in the name or address of the spa shall be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of such changes. The board shall not be responsible for the licensee's, certificate holder's, or permit holder's failure to receive notices, communications, and correspondence caused by the licensee's, certificate holder's, or permit holder's failure to promptly notify the board in writing of any change of name or address or for any other reason beyond the control of the board.

3. Whenever the legal business entity holding the license is dissolved or altered to form a new business entity, the original license becomes void and shall be returned to the board within 30 days of the change. Additionally, the firm shall apply for a new license, within 30 days of the change in the business entity. Such changes include:

1. Death of a sole proprietor;

2. Death or withdrawal of a general partner in a general partnership or the managing partner in a limited partnership; and

3. Conversion, formation, or dissolution of a corporation, a limited liability company, or association, or any other business entity recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

4. Any change in the officers of a corporation, managers of a limited liability company, or officers or directors of an association shall be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of the change.

5. The board or any of its agents shall be allowed to inspect during reasonable hours any licensed spa for compliance with provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or this chapter. For purposes of a board inspection, "reasonable hours" means the hours between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.; however, if the licensee generally is not open to the public substantially during the same hours, "reasonable hours" shall mean the business hours when the licensee is open to the public.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 07, eff. January 1, 2019.

18 VAC 41-70-90. General Requirements for a School License.

1. Any firm wishing to operate an esthetics school shall submit an application to the board at least 60 days prior to the date for which approval is sought, obtain a school license in compliance with § 54.1- 704.2 of the Code of Virginia, and meet the following qualifications in order to receive a license:

1. The applicant and all members of the responsible management shall be in good standing as a licensed school in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed. The applicant and all members of the responsible management shall disclose to the board at the time of application for licensure, any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions in connection with the applicant's operation of any esthetics school or practice of the profession. This includes monetary penalties, fines, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license. The applicant shall disclose to the board at the time of application for licensure if the applicant or any member of the responsible management has been previously licensed in Virginia as an esthetics school.

   Upon review of the applicant's and all members of the responsible management's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant wherein it deems the applicant is unfit or unsuited to engage in the operation of an esthetics school. The board will decide each case by taking into account the totality of the circumstances. Any plea of nolo contendere or comparable plea shall be considered a disciplinary action for the purposes of this section. The applicant shall provide a certified copy of a final order, decree, or case decision by a court, regulatory agency, or board with the lawful authority to issue such order, decree, or case decision, and such copy shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such disciplinary action.

2. The applicant shall disclose his physical address. A post office box is not acceptable.

3. The applicant shall sign, as part of the application, a statement certifying that the applicant has read and understands the Virginia esthetics license laws and this chapter.

4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant shall disclose the following information about the firm and all members of the responsible management regarding criminal convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions:

1. All misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude, sexual offense, drug distribution, or physical injury within two years of the date of the application; and

2. All felony convictions within 20 years of the date of application.

Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for purposes of this subsection. The record of a conviction received from a court shall be accepted as prima facie evidence of a conviction or finding of guilt. The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.

5. The applicant shall disclose the firm's responsible management.

2. Esthetics school licenses are issued to firms as defined in this chapter and shall not be transferable and shall bear the same name and address as the school. Any changes in the name or the address of record or principal place of business of the school shall be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of such change. The board shall not be responsible for the licensee's, certificate holder's, or permit holder's failure to receive notices, communications, and correspondence caused by the licensee's, certificate holder's, or permit holder's failure to promptly notify the board in writing of any change of name or address or for any other reason beyond the control of the board. The name of the school must indicate that it is an educational institution. All signs or other advertisements must reflect the name as indicated on the license issued by the board and contain language indicating it is an educational institution.

3. Whenever the legal business entity holding the license is dissolved or altered to form a new business entity, the original license becomes void and shall be returned to the board within 30 days of the change. Additionally, the firm shall apply for a new license within 30 days of the change in business entity. Such changes include:

1. Death of a sole proprietor;

2. Death or withdrawal of a general partner in a general partnership or the managing partner in a limited partnership; and
   

3. Conversion,formation, or dissolution of a corporation, a limited liability company, an association, or any other business entity recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

4. Any change in the officers of a corporation, managers of a limited liability company, or officers or directors of an association shall be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of the change.

5. Esthetics schools under the Virginia Department of Education shall be exempted from licensure requirements.

6. The board or any of its agents shall be allowed to inspect during reasonable hours any licensed school for compliance with provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or this chapter. For purposes of a board inspection, "reasonable hours" means the hours between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.; however, if the licensee generally is not open to the public substantially during the same hours, "reasonable hours" shall mean the business hours when the licensee is open to the public

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 07, eff. January 1, 2019.

18 VAC 41-70-100. General Requirements for an Esthetics Instructor Certificate.

1. Any individual wishing to engage in esthetics instruction shall meet the following qualifications:

1. The applicant shall be in good standing as a licensed esthetician in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed. The applicant shall disclose to the board at the time of application for licensure any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions in connection with the applicant's practice as an esthetician. This includes monetary penalties, fines, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license. The applicant shall disclose to the board at the time of application for licensure whether he has been previously licensed in Virginia as an esthetician or master esthetician.

   Upon review of the applicant's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant wherein it deems the applicant is unfit or unsuited to engage in esthetics. The board will decide each case by taking into account the totality of the circumstances. Any plea of nolo contendere or comparable plea shall be considered a disciplinary action for the purposes of this section. The applicant shall provide a certified copy of a final order, decree, or case decision by a court, regulatory agency, or board with the lawful authority to issue such order, decree, or case decision, and such copy shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such disciplinary action;

2. The applicant shall hold a current Virginia esthetics license;

3. The applicant shall complete one of the following qualifications:

1. Pass a course in teaching techniques at the postsecondary educational level; or

2. Complete an instructor training course approved by the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology under the supervision of a certified esthetics instructor or master esthetics instructor in an esthetics school and pass an examination in esthetics instruction administered by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board; and

4. Complete an instructor training course approved by the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology under the supervision of a certified esthetics instructor or master esthetics instructor in an esthetics school and pass an examination in esthetics instruction administered by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board; and

1. All misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude, sexual offense, drug distribution, or physical injury within two years of the date of the application; and

2. All felony convictions within 20 years of the date of application.

   Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for purposes of this subsection. The record of a conviction received from a court shall be accepted as prima facie evidence of a conviction or finding of guilt. The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.

2. Instructors shall be required to maintain a Virginia esthetician license.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-110. General Requirements for a Master Esthetics Instructor Certificate.

1. Any individual wishing to engage in master esthetics instruction shall meet the following qualifications:

1. The applicant shall be in good standing as a licensed master esthetician in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed. The applicant shall disclose to the board at the time of application for licensure any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions in connection with the applicant's practice as a master esthetician. This includes monetary penalties, fines, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license. The applicant shall disclose to the board at the time of application for licensure if the applicant has been previously licensed in Virginia as an esthetician or master esthetician.

   Upon review of the applicant's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant wherein it deems the applicant is unfit or unsuited to engage in esthetics or master esthetics. The board will decide each case by taking into account the totality of the circumstances. Any plea of nolo contendere or comparable plea shall be considered a disciplinary action for the purposes of this section. The applicant shall provide a certified copy of a final order, decree, or case decision by a court, regulatory agency, or board with the lawful authority to issue such order, decree, or case decision, and such copy shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such disciplinary action;

2. The applicant shall hold a current Virginia master esthetician license;

3. The applicant shall complete one of the following qualifications:

1. Pass a course in teaching techniques at the postsecondary educational level; or

2. Complete an instructor training course approved by the Virginia Board for Barbers and Cosmetology under the supervision of a certified esthetics instructor or master esthetics instructor in an esthetics school and pass an examination in esthetics instruction administered by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board; and

4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant shall disclose the following information regarding criminal convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions:

1. All misdemeanor convictions involving moral turpitude, sexual offense, drug distribution, or physical injury within two years of the date of the application; and

2. All felony convictions within 20 years of the date of application.

Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for purposes of this subsection. The record of a conviction received from a court shall be accepted as prima facie evidence of a conviction or finding of guilt. The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.

2. Instructors shall be required to maintain a Virginia master esthetician license.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

PART III.
FEES.

18 VAC 41-70-120. Fees.

The following fees apply:

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. September 1, 2011; Volume 30, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2014; Volume 32, Issue 24, eff. September 1, 2016; Volume 34, Issue 22, eff. June 25, 2018; ; Volume 36, Issue 21, eff. September 1, 2020.

18 VAC 41-70-130. Refunds.

All fees are nonrefundable and shall not be prorated. Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007.

PART IV.
RENEWAL/REINSTATEMENT.

18 VAC 41-70-140. License renewal required.

A license or certificate issued under this chapter shall expire two years from the last day of the month in which it was issued.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007.

18 VAC 41-70-150. Notice of renewal.

The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation will mail a renewal notice to the licensee outlining the procedures for renewal. Failure to receive this notice, however, shall not relieve the licensee of the obligation to renew. If the licensee fails to receive the renewal notice, a copy of the old license may be submitted as evidence of intent to renew, along with the required fee.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007.

18 VAC 41-70-160. Failure to renew.

1. When a licensee fails to renew its license within 30 days following its expiration date, the licensee shall apply for reinstatement of the license by submitting to the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation a reinstatement application and renewal fee and reinstatement fee.

2. When a licensee fails to renew its license within two years following the expiration date, reinstatement is no longer possible. To resume practice, the former licensee shall apply for licensure as a new applicant and shall meet all current entry requirements for each respective license. Individuals applying for licensure under this section shall be eligible to apply for a temporary license from the board under 18 VAC 41-70-70.

3. The application for reinstatement for a school shall provide (i) the reasons for failing to renew prior to the expiration date and (ii) a notarized statement that all students currently enrolled or seeking to enroll at the school have been notified in writing that the school's license has expired. All of these materials shall be called the application package. Reinstatement will be considered by the board if the school consents to and satisfactorily passes an inspection of the school and if the school's records are maintained in accordance with 18 VAC 41-70-230 and 18 VAC 41-70-240. Upon receipt of the reinstatement fee, application package, and inspection results, the board may reinstate the school's license or require requalification or both. If the reinstatement application package and reinstatement fee are not received by the board within six months following the expiration date of the school's license, the board will notify the testing service that prospective graduates of the unlicensed school are not acceptable candidates for the examination. Such notification will be sent to the school and must be displayed in a conspicuous manner by the school in an area that is accessible to the public. No student shall be disqualified from taking the examination because the school was not licensed for a portion of the time the student attended if the school license is reinstated by the board.

4. The date a renewal fee is received by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation or its agent will be used to determine whether the requirement for reinstatement of a license is applicable and an additional fee is required.

5. When a license is reinstated, the licensee shall have the same license number and shall be assigned an expiration date two years from the previous expiration date of the license.

6. A licensee that reinstates its license shall be regarded as having been continuously licensed without interruption. Therefore, a licensee shall be subject to the authority of the board for activities performed prior to reinstatement.

7. A licensee that fails to reinstate its license shall be regarded as unlicensed from the expiration date of the license forward. Nothing in this chapter shall divest the board of its authority to discipline a licensee for a violation of the law or regulations during the period of time for which the individual or business entity was licensed.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

PART V.
ESTHETICS SCHOOLS.

18 VAC 41-70-170. Applicants for School License (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-180. General requirements.

An esthetics school shall:

1. Hold a school license for each and every location.
   

2. Hold a spa license if the school receives compensation for services provided in its clinic.
   

3. For esthetics courses, employ a staff of licensed and certified esthetics instructors or licensed and certified master esthetics instructors.
   

4. For master esthetics courses, employ a staff of licensed and certified master esthetics instructors.
   

5. Develop individuals for entry-level competency in esthetics.
   

6. Submit its curricula for board approval. Esthetician curricula shall be based on a minimum of 600 clock or equivalent credit hours and shall include performances in accordance with 18 VAC 41-70-190. Master esthetician curricula shall be based on a minimum of 600 clock or equivalent credit hours and shall include performances in accordance with 18 VAC 41-70-190 C. All changes to curricula must be resubmitted and approved by the board.

7. Inform the public that all services are performed by students if the school receives compensation for services provided in its clinic by posting a notice in the reception area of the spa in plain view of the public.

8. Conduct classroom instruction in an area separate from the clinic area where practical instruction is conducted and services are provided.

9. Complete practical instruction in the school's clinic area.

Historical Notes

DDerived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-190. Curriculum and Hours of Instruction Requirements.

1. Each esthetics school shall submit with its application a curriculum including, but not limited to, a course syllabus, a detailed course content outline, a sample of five lessons plans, a sample of evaluation methods to be used, and a breakdown of hours or credit hours and performances for all courses to be taught that will lead to licensure or certification. In addition, if a school awards credit in accordance with subsection D of this section, the school shall submit copies of the assessment policy, method of evaluation of transcripts and the examination to be used in making the assessment.

2. The esthetics curriculum and hours of instruction in this technology shall consist of 600 hours or equivalent credit hours and shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Orientation and business topics - minimum of 25 hours of instruction.

1. School policies;
2. Management;
3. Sales, inventory and retailing;
4. Taxes and payroll;
5. Insurance;
6. Client records and confidentiality; and
7. Professional ethics and practices.

2. Laws and regulations - minimum of 10 hours of instruction.

3. General sciences - minimum of 80 hours of instruction.

1. Bacteriology;
2. Microorganisms;
3. Infection control, disinfection, sterilization;
4. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements;
5. Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS);
6. General procedures and safety measures;
7. Cosmetic chemistry;
8. Products and ingredients; and
9. Nutrition.

4. Applied sciences - minimum of 95 hours of instruction.

1. Anatomy and physiology;
2. Skin structure and function;
3. Skin types;
4. Skin conditions; and
5. Diseases and disorders of the skin.

5. Skin care - minimum of 255 hours of instruction.

1. Health screening;
2. Skin analysis and consultation;
3. Effleurage and related movements and manipulations of the face and body;
4. Cleansings procedures;
5. Masks;
6. Extraction techniques;
7. Machines, equipment and electricity;
8. Manual facials and treatments;
9. Machine, electrical facials and treatments; and
10. General procedures and safety measures.

6. Makeup - minimum of 65 hours of instruction.

1. Setup, supplies and implements;
2. Color theory;
3. Consultation;
4. General and special occasion application;
5. Camouflage;
6. Application of false lashes and lash extensions;
7. Lash and tinting;
8. Lash perming;
9. Lightning of the hair on body except scalp; and
10. General procedures and safety measures.



7. Body and other treatments - minimum of 20 hours of instruction.

1. Body treatments;
2. Body wraps;
3. Body masks;
4. Body scrubs;
5. Aromatherapy; and
6. General procedures and safety measures.



8. Hair removal - minimum of 50 hours of instruction.

1. Types of hair removal;
2. Wax types;
3. Tweezing;
4. Chemical hair removal;
5. Mechanical hair removal; and
6. General procedures and safety measures.

3. The master esthetics curriculum and hours of instruction in this technology shall consist of 600 hours or equivalent credit hours and shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Orientation, advanced business subjects, and infection control - minimum of 45 hours of instruction.

1. School policies and procedures;
2. Professional ethics and practices;
3. Ethics and professional conduct;
4. Insurance and liability issues;
5. Confidentiality and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 Privacy Rule (HIPAA);
6. Client records and documentation;
7. Microbiology and bacteriology;
8. Infection control, disinfection, and sterilization;
9. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); and Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS); and
10. Personal protective equipment.

2. State laws, rules and regulations - minimum of 10 hours of instruction.

3. Advanced anatomy and physiology - minimum of 65 hours of instruction.

1. Advanced anatomy and physiology;
2. Advanced skin structure and functions;
3. Advanced skin typing, and conditions;
4. Advanced disease and disorders;
5. Advanced cosmetic ingredients;
6. Pharmacology; and
7. Advanced homecare.



4. Advanced skin care and advanced modalities - minimum of 90 hours of instruction.

1. Introduction to microdermabrasion and dermaplaning;
2. Indications and contraindications for crystal microdermabrasion;
3. General procedures and safety measures for crystal microdermabrasion;
4. Indications and contraindications for crystal-free microdermabrasion and dermaplaning;
5. General procedures and safety measures for crystal-free microdermabrasion and dermaplaning;
6. Equipment safety: crystal and crystal-free microdermabrasion and dermaplaning;
7. Waste disposal, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA);
8. Introduction to microdermabrasion techniques and proper protocols;
9. Machine parts, operation, protocols, care, waste disposal and safety;
10. Practical application and consultation for crystal microdermabrasion;
11. Practical application and consultation for crystal-free microdermabrasion and dermaplaning; and
12. Pretreatment and posttreatment for microdermabrasion.

5. Advanced procedures and chemical exfoliation - minimum of 270 hours of instruction.

1. Advanced skin analysis and consultation and health screening and documentation;
2. Advanced procedures, light treatments, light-emitting diode (LED), intense pulsed light device (IPL);
3. Advanced manual, machine, and electric treatments, microcurrent, and ultrasound;
4. Introduction to chemical exfoliation and peels of the epidermis;
5. Fundamentals of skin care associated with chemical exfoliation and peels and wound healing;
6. Pretreatment and posttreatment for chemical exfoliation and peels;
7. Assessing suitability and predicting chemical exfoliation efficacy;
8. General practical application and consultation protocols;
9. Practical application and consultation for enzymes, herbal exfoliations, and vitamin-based peels;
10. Indications and contraindications for enzymes, herbal exfoliations, and vitamin-based peels;
11. General procedures and safety measures for herbal exfoliations, and vitamin-based peels;
12. Pretreatments and posttreatments for herbal exfoliations, and vitamin-based peels;
13. Practical application and consultation for alpha hydroxy peels;
14. Indications and contraindications for alpha hydroxy peels;
15. General procedures and safety measures for alpha hydroxy peels;
16. Pretreatment and posttreatment for alpha hydroxy peels;
17. Practical application and consultation for beta hydroxy peels;
18. Indications and contraindications for beta hydroxy peels;
19. General procedures and safety measures for beta hydroxy peels;
20. Pretreatment and posttreatment for beta hydroxy peels;
21. Practical application and consultation for Jessner and Modified Jessner peels;
22. Indications and contraindications for Jessner and Modified Jessner peels;
23. General procedures and safety measures for Jessner and Modified Jessner peels;
24. Pretreatment and posttreatment for Jessner and Modified Jessner peels;
25. Practical application and consultation for trichloracetic acid peels;
26. Indications and contraindications for trichloracetic acid peels;
27. General procedures and safety measures for trichloracetic acid peels; and
54. Pretreatment and posttreatment for trichloracetic acid peels.

6. Lymphatic drainage - minimum of 120 hours of instruction.

1. Introduction to lymphatic drainage;
2. Tissues and organs of the lymphatic system;
3. Functions of the lymphatic system;
4. Immunity;
5. Etiology of edema;
6. Indications and contraindications for lymphatic drainage;
7. Lymphatic drainage manipulations and movements;
8. Face and neck treatment sequence;
9. Lymphatic drainage on the trunk and upper extremities;
10. Lymphatic drainage on the trunk and lower extremities;
11. Cellulite;
12. Using lymphatic drainage with other treatments; and
13. Machine-aided lymphatic drainage.

4. licensed esthetics school with an approved esthetics program may conduct an assessment of a student's competence in esthetics and, based on the assessment, give a maximum of 300 hours credit towards the requirements specified in subsection B of this section and 18 VAC 41-70-200 A. A licensed esthetics school with an approved master esthetics program may conduct an assessment of a student's competence in master esthetics and, based on the assessment, give a maximum of 300 hours credit towards the requirements specified in subsection C of this section and 18 VAC 41-70-200 B.

   The school shall make the assessment based on a review of the student's transcript and the successful completion of a board-approved competency examination administered by the school. The school may also request a copy of a catalog or bulletin giving the full course description when making the evaluation. The number of credit hours awarded shall not exceed the actual hours of instruction verified on the transcript or the number of hours specified in the board-approved curriculum for a specific topic.

5. The instructor curriculum and hours of instruction shall consist of 400 hours or equivalent credit hours and shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Orientation;
2. Curriculum;
3. Course outline and development;
4. Lesson planning;
5. Classroom management;
6. Teaching techniques;
7. Methods of instruction;
8. Learning styles;
9. Learning disabilities;
10. Teaching aids;
11. Developing, administering and grading examinations;
12. School administration;
13. Recordkeeping;
14. Laws and regulations;
15. Presentation of theoretical subjects;
16. Presentation of practical subjects;
17. Supervision of clinic floor; and
18. Practicum teaching.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007.

18 VAC 41-70-200. Practical Performance Requirements.

1. The curriculum for estheticians shall include the following minimum practical performances:

Consultations, cleansings and analysis of face and body	35
Manual facials and treatments	65
Machine or electrical facials and treatments	50
Body treatments and back treatments	20
Makeup	25
Hair Removal	25

---

TOTAL

220

2. The curriculum for master estheticians shall include the following minimum performances:

Advanced treatments	40
Microdermabrasion	50
Chemical exfoliation	75
Lymphatic drainage treatments	50

---

TOTAL

215

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007.

18 VAC 41-70-210. School Equipment.

1. For an esthetics course, an esthetics school must have at least one treatment table, one magnifier lamp, one steamer, one adjustable stool, and one table for instruments and products for each two students enrolled in the class.

2. For each procedure taught in the esthetics curriculum, the esthetics school must have at least one set of the applicable equipment for each three students enrolled in the class.

3. For a master esthetics course, an esthetics school must have at least one treatment table, one woods lamp, one adjustable stool, and one table for instruments and products for each two students enrolled in the class.

4. For each procedure taught in the master esthetics curriculum, the esthetics school must have at least one set of the applicable equipment for each six students enrolled in the class.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007.

18 VAC 41-70-220. School Identification (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-230. Records.

1. Schools shall maintain on the premises of each school and available for inspection by the board or any of its agents the following records for the period of a student's enrollment through five years after the student's completion of the curriculum, termination, or withdrawal:

1. Enrollment application containing the student's signature and a two-inch by two-inch color head and shoulders photograph of the student,

2. Daily record of attendance containing the student's signature,

3. Student clock hours containing the student's signature and method of calculation,

4. Practical performance completion sheets containing the student's signature,

5. Final transcript,

6. Competency examinations used to award credit,

7. Course descriptions, and

8. All other relevant documents that account for a student's accrued clock hours and practical applications.

2. Schools shall produce to the board or any of its agents, within 10 days of the request, any document, book, or record concerning any student, or for which the licensee is required to maintain records, for inspection and copying by the board or its agents. The board may extend such timeframe upon a showing of extenuating circumstances prohibiting delivery within such 10-day period.

3. Schools shall, within 21 days upon receipt of a written request from a student, provide documentation of hours and performances completed by the student as required to be maintained by subsection A of this section.

4. Prior to a school changing ownership or a school closing, the school is required to provide to current students documentation of hours and performances completed.

5. For a period of one year after a school changes ownership, the school shall provide, within 21 days upon receipt of a written request from a student, documentation of hours and performances completed by a current student.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-240. Reporting.

1. Schools shall provide, in a manner, format, and frequency prescribed by the board, a roster of all current students and a roster of students who attended in the preceding six months prior to the reporting deadline.

2. Within 30 days of ceasing to operate, whether through dissolution or alteration of the business entity, the school shall provide a written report to the board on performances and hours of each of its students who has not completed the program.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

PART VI.
STANDARDS OF PRACTICE.

18 VAC 41-70-250. Scope of Practice.

Each licensed spa or school shall ensure that no licensee or student performs any service beyond the scope of practice for the esthetician or master esthetician license.

1. For chemical exfoliation of the epidermis by a licensed master esthetician, the standards for use of an exfoliator or concentration of acids shall be:

1. Jessner and Modified Jessner solution;

2. 18 VAC 41-2. Trichloracetic acid less than 20%;

3. Nonprescriptive alpha hydroxyl acids;

4. Nonprescriptive beta hydroxyl acids;

5. Nonprescriptive, commercially available products used in accordance with manufacturer's written instructions;

6. Vitamin-based acids;

7. Enzymes; or

8. Herbal exfoliators.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007.

18 VAC 41-70-260. Display of License.

1. Each licensed spa or school shall ensure that all current licenses and temporary licenses issued by the board shall be displayed in plain view of the public either in the reception area or at individual work stations of the spa or school. Duplicate licenses or temporary licenses shall be posted in a like manner in every spa or school location where the licensee or temporary license holder provides services.

2. All licensees and temporary license holders shall operate under the name in which the license or temporary license is issued.

3. Proof of apprenticeship registration issued by the Department of Labor and Industry shall be displayed in plain view of the public either in the reception area or at individual work stations of the spa.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

18 VAC 41-70-270. Sanitation and Safety Standards for Spas and Schools.

1. Sanitation and safety standards.

1. Any spa or school where esthetics services are delivered to the public must be clean and sanitary at all times.

2. Compliance with these rules does not confer compliance with other requirements set forth by federal, state, and local laws, codes, ordinances, and regulations as they apply to business operation, physical construction and maintenance, safety, and public health.

3. Licensees shall take sufficient measures to prevent the transmission of communicable and infectious diseases and comply with the sanitation standards identified in this section and shall ensure that all employees likewise comply.

2. Disinfection and storage of implements.

1. A wet disinfection unit is a container large enough to hold a disinfectant solution in which the objects to be disinfected are completely immersed. A wet disinfection unit must have a cover to prevent contamination of the solution. The solution must be a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal. Disinfectant solutions shall be used according to manufacturer's directions.

2. Disinfection of multiuse items constructed of hard, nonporous materials such as metal, glass, or plastic, which the manufacturer designed for use on more than one client, is to be carried out in the following manner prior to servicing a client:

1. Remove all foreign matter from the object, utilizing a brush if needed. Drill bits are to be soaked in acetone and scrubbed with a wire brush to remove all foreign matter;

2. Wash thoroughly with hot water and soap;

3. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry thoroughly with a clean paper towel;

4. Fully immerse implements into solution for a minimum of 10 minutes; and

5. After immersion, rinse articles, dry thoroughly with a clean paper towel, and store in a clean, predisinfected, and dry cabinet, drawer, or nonairtight covered container, or leave instruments in an EPAregistered disinfection storage solution used according to manufacturer's directions.

3. Single-use items designed by the manufacturer for use on no more than one client should be discarded immediately after use on each individual client, including powder puffs, lip color, cheek color, sponges, styptic pencils, or nail care implements. The disinfection and reuse of these items is not permitted and the use of single-use items on more than one client is prohibited.

4. For the purpose of recharging, rechargeable tools or implements may be stored in an area other than in a closed cabinet or container. This area shall be clean.

5. All materials including cosmetic and nail brushes, sponges, chamois, spatulas, and galvanic electrodes must be cleaned with warm water and soap or detergent to remove all foreign matter. Implements should then be rinsed, thoroughly dried with a clean paper towel, and completely immersed in an EPA-registered disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal. Such implements shall be soaked for 10 minutes or more, removed, rinsed, dried thoroughly, and stored in a predisinfected and dry drawer, cabinet, or nonairtight covered container, or left in an EPA-registered disinfection storage solution used according to manufacturer's directions.

6. All wax pots shall be cleaned and disinfected with an EPA-registered disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal with no sticks left standing in the wax at any time. The area immediately surrounding the wax pot shall be clean and free of clutter, waste materials, spills, and any other items that may pose a hazard.

7. Each esthetician must have a wet disinfection unit at his station.

8. Nail brushes; nippers; finger bowls; disinfectable or washable buffers; disinfectable or washable files, which must also be scrubbed with a brush to remove all foreign matter; and other instruments must be washed in soap and water, rinsed, dried thoroughly with a clean paper towel, and then completely immersed in an EPA-registered disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal for 10 minutes after each use. After disinfection they must be rinsed, dried thoroughly with a clean paper towel, and placed in a dry, predisinfected, nonairtight covered receptacle, cabinet, or drawer, or left in an EPA-registered disinfectant storage system used according to manufacturer's directions.

9. Sinks, bowls, tubs, whirlpool units, air-jetted basins, pipe-less units, and non-whirlpool basins used in the performance of nail care shall be maintained in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations. They shall be cleaned and disinfected immediately after each client in the following manner:

1. Drain all water and remove all debris;
2. Clean the surfaces and walls with soap or detergent to remove all visible debris, oils, and product residues and then rinse with water;
3. Disinfect by spraying or wiping the surface with an EPA-registered disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal; and
4. Wipe dry with a clean towel.

3. General sanitation and safety requirements.

1. Service chairs, workstations and workstands, and back bars shall be clean;

2. The floor surface in all work areas must be of a washable surface other than carpet. The floor must be kept clean and free of debris, nail clippings, dropped articles, spills, clutter, trash, electrical cords, other waste materials, and other items that may pose a hazard;

3. All furniture, fixtures, walls, floors, windows, and ceilings shall be in good repair and free of water seepage and dirt. All mats shall be secured or shall lie flat;

A fully functional bathroom with a working toilet and sink must be available for clients. There must be hot and cold running water. Fixtures must be in good condition. The bathroom must be lighted and sufficiently ventilated. There must be antibacterial soap and clean single-use towels or hand air-drying device for the client's use. For facilities newly occupied after January 1, 2017, the bathroom shall be maintained exclusively for client use;

4. General areas for client use must be neat and clean with a waste receptacle for common trash;

5. Electrical cords shall be placed to prevent entanglement by the client or licensee and electrical outlets shall be covered by plates;

6. All sharp tools, implements, and heat-producing appliances shall be in safe working order at all times, safely stored, and placed so as to prevent any accidental injury to the client or licensee;

7. The spa area shall be sufficiently ventilated to exhaust hazardous or objectionable airborne chemicals and to allow the free flow of air; and

8. Adequate lighting shall be provided.

4. Articles, tools, and products.

1. Any multiuse article, tool, or product that cannot be cleansed or disinfected is prohibited from use;

2. Soiled implements must be removed from the tops of work stations immediately after use;

3. Clean spatulas, other clean tools, or clean disposable gloves shall be used to remove bulk substances from containers;

4. Lotions, ointments, creams, and powders shall be labeled and kept in closed containers. A clean spatula shall be used to remove creams or other products from jars. Sterile cotton or sponges shall be used to apply creams, lotions, and powders. Cosmetic containers shall be covered after each use;

5. All appliances shall be safely stored;

6. Presanitized tools and implements, linens, and equipment shall be stored for use in a sanitary enclosed cabinet or covered receptacle;

7. Clean towels, robes, or other linens shall be used for each patron. Clean towels, robes, or other linens shall be stored in a clean predisinfected and dry cabinet, drawer, or nonairtight covered container. Soiled towels, robes, or other linens shall be stored in a container enclosed on all sides including the top, except if stored in a separate laundry room;

8. No substance other than a sterile styptic powder or sterile liquid astringent approved for homeostasis and applied with a sterile single-use applicator shall be used to check bleeding; and

9. Any disposable material making contact with blood or other body fluid shall be disposed of in a sealed plastic bag and removed from the spa or school in accordance with the guidelines of the Virginia Department of Health and OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration).

5. Chemical storage and emergency information.

1. Spas and schools shall have in the immediate working area a binder with all Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provided by manufacturers for any chemical products used;

2. Spas and schools shall have a blood spill clean-up kit in the work area that contains at a minimum latex gloves, two 12-inch by 12-inch towels, one disposable trash bag, bleach, one empty spray bottle, and one mask with face shield or any OSHA-approved blood spill clean-up kit;

3. Flammable chemicals shall be labeled and stored in a nonflammable storage cabinet or a properly ventilated room; and

4. Chemicals that could interact in a hazardous manner (e.g., oxidizers, catalysts, and solvents) shall be labeled and separated in storage.

6. Client health guidelines.

1. All employees providing client services shall cleanse their hands with an antibacterial product prior to providing services to each client;

2. All employees providing client services shall wear gloves while providing services when exposure to bloodborne pathogens is possible;

3. No spa or school providing esthetics services shall have on the premises esthetics products containing hazardous substances that have been banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in esthetics products;

4. No product shall be used in a manner that is disapproved by the FDA; and

5. EEsthetics spas must be in compliance with current building and zoning codes.

7. In addition to the requirements set forth in this section, all licensees and temporary license holders shall adhere to regulations and guidelines established by the Virginia Department of Health and the Occupational and Safety Division of the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry.

8. All spas and schools shall immediately report the results of any inspection of the spa or school by the Virginia Department of Health as required by § 54.1-705 of the Code of Virginia.

9. All spas and schools shall conduct a self-inspection on an annual basis and maintain a self-inspection form on file for five years so that it may be requested and reviewed by the board at its discretion.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, February 1, 2017.

Grounds for License Revocation, Probation, or Suspension; Denial of Application, Renewal or Reinstatement; or Imposition of a Monetary Penalty.

The board may, in considering the totality of the circumstances, fine any licensee, certificate holder, or temporary license holder; suspend, place on probation, revoke, or refuse to renew or reinstate any license, certificate, or temporary license; or deny any application issued under the provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter if the board finds that the licensee, certificate holder, permit holder, or applicant:

1. Is incompetent, negligent, or incapable mentally or physically, as those terms are generally understood in the profession, to practice as an esthetician;

2. Is convicted of fraud or deceit in the practice or teaching of esthetics, fails to teach in accordance with the board-approved curriculum, or fails to comply with 18VAC41-70-190 D when making an assessment of credit hours awarded;

3. Attempts to obtain, obtained, renewed, or reinstated a license, certificate, or temporary license by false or fraudulent representation;

4. Violates, induces others to violate, or cooperates with others in violating any of the provisions of this chapter or Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or any local ordinance or regulation governing standards of health and sanitation of the establishment in which any esthetician may practice or offer to practice;

5. Offers, gives, or promises anything of value or benefit to any federal, state, or local employee for the purpose of influencing that employee to circumvent, in the performance of his duties, any federal, state, or local law, regulation, or ordinance governing esthetics or master esthetics;

6. Fails to respond to the board or any of its agents or provides false, misleading, or incomplete information to an inquiry by the board or any of its agents;

7. Fails or refuses to allow the board or any of its agents to inspect during reasonable hours any licensed spa or school for compliance with provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or this chapter;

8. Fails to produce, upon request or demand of the board or any of its agents, any document, book, record, or copy thereof in a licensee's, certificate holder's, temporary license holder's, applicant's, or owner's possession or maintained in accordance with this chapter;

9. Fails to notify the board of a change of name or address in writing within 30 days of the change for each and every license, certificate, or temporary license;

10. Makes any misrepresentation or publishes or causes to be published any advertisement that is false, deceptive, or misleading;

11. Fails to notify the board in writing within 30 days of the suspension, revocation, or surrender of a license or temporary license in connection with a disciplinary action in any jurisdiction or of any license or temporary license that has been the subject of disciplinary action in any jurisdiction;

12. Has been convicted or found guilty, regardless of the manner of adjudication, in Virginia or any other jurisdiction of the United States of a misdemeanor involving moral turpitude, sexual offense, drug distribution, or physical injury or any felony, there being no appeal pending therefrom or the time for appeal having elapsed. Review of convictions shall be subject to the requirements of § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia. Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for purposes of this subdivision. The record of a conviction certified or authenticated in such form as to be admissible in evidence under the laws of the jurisdiction where convicted shall be admissible as prima facie evidence of such conviction or guilt;

13. Fails to inform the board in writing within 30 days of pleading guilty or nolo contendere or being convicted or found guilty regardless of adjudication of convictions as stated in subdivision 12 of this section;

14. Allows, as responsible management of a spa or school, a person who has not obtained a license or a temporary permit to practice unless the person is duly enrolled as a registered apprentice;

15. Allows, as responsible management of a school, a person who has not obtained an instructor certificate to practice as an esthetics or a master esthetics instructor;

16. Fails to take sufficient measures to prevent transmission of communicable or infectious diseases or fails to comply with sanitary requirements provided for in this chapter or any local, state, or federal law or regulation governing the standards of health and sanitation for the practices of esthetics or master esthetics or the operation of esthetics spas; or

17. Fails to comply with all procedures established by the board and the testing service with regard to conduct at any board examination.

Historical Notes

Derived from Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 08, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 07, eff. January 1, 2019.

Included in this booklet for your convenience are relevant excerpts from the Code of Virginia. Please note that the Virginia General Assembly, not the Board for Barbers and Cosmetology, is responsible for creating and amending the statutes contained in the Code of Virginia. It is your responsibility to stay informed of revisions to the regulations and the statutes governing your profession or occupation. Please consult the General Assembly or your local library for annual changes.

Code of Virginia
Title 54.1 - PROFESSIONS AND OCCUPATIONS.
Chapter 7 - Barbers and Cosmetologists

§ 54.1-700. Definitions.

As used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:

"Barber" means any person who shaves, shapes or trims the beard; cuts, singes, or dyes the hair or applies lotions thereto; applies, treats or massages the face, neck or scalp with oils, creams, lotions, cosmetics, antiseptics, powders, clays or other preparations in connection with shaving, cutting or trimming the hair or beard, and practices barbering for compensation and when such services are not performed for the treatment of disease.

"Barbering" means any one or any combination of the following acts, when done on the human body for compensation and not for the treatment of disease, shaving, shaping and trimming the beard; cutting, singeing, or dyeing the hair or applying lotions thereto; applications, treatment or massages of the face, neck or scalp with oils, creams, lotions, cosmetics, antiseptics, powders, clays, or other preparations in connection with shaving, cutting or trimming the hair or a beard. The term "barbering" shall not apply to the acts described hereinabove when performed by any person in his home if such service is not offered to the public.

"Barber instructor" means any person who has been certified by the Board as having completed an approved curriculum and who meets the competency standards of the Board as an instructor of barbering.

"Barbershop" means any establishment or place of business within which the practice of barbering is engaged in or carried on by one or more barbers.

"Board" means the Board for Barbers and Cosmetology.

"Body-piercer" means any person who for remuneration penetrates the skin of a person to make a hole, mark, or scar, generally permanent in nature.

"Body-piercing" means the act of penetrating the skin of a person to make a hole, mark, or scar, generally permanent in nature.

"Body-piercing salon" means any place in which a fee is charged for the act of penetrating the skin of a person to make a hole, mark, or scar, generally permanent in nature.

"Body-piercing school" means a place or establishment licensed by the Board to accept and train students in body-piercing.

"Cosmetologist" means any person who administers cosmetic treatments; manicures or pedicures the nails of any person; arranges, dresses, curls, waves, cuts, shapes, singes, waxes, tweezes, shaves, bleaches, colors, relaxes, straightens, or performs similar work, upon human hair, or a wig or hairpiece, by any means, including hands or mechanical or electrical apparatus or appliances unless such acts as adjusting, combing, or brushing prestyled wigs or hairpieces do not alter the prestyled nature of the wig or hairpiece, and practices cosmetology for compensation. The term "cosmetologist" shall not include hair braiding upon human hair, or a wig or hairpiece.

"Cosmetology" includes, but is not limited to, the following practices: administering cosmetic treatments; manicuring or pedicuring the nails of any person; arranging, dressing, curling, waving, cutting, shaping, singeing, waxing, tweezing, shaving, bleaching, coloring, relaxing, straightening, or similar work, upon human hair, or a wig or hairpiece, by any means, including hands or mechanical or electrical apparatus or appliances, but shall not include hair braiding upon human hair, or a wig or hairpiece, or such acts as adjusting, combing, or brushing prestyled wigs or hairpieces when such acts do not alter the prestyled nature of the wig or hairpiece.

"Cosmetology instructor" means a person who has been certified by the Board as having completed an approved curriculum and who meets the competency standards of the Board as an instructor of cosmetology.

"Cosmetology salon" means any commercial establishment, residence, vehicle or other establishment, place or event wherein cosmetology is offered or practiced on a regular basis for compensation and may include the training of apprentices under regulations of the Board.

"Esthetician" means a person who engages in the practice of esthetics for compensation.

"Esthetics" includes, but is not limited to, the following practices of administering cosmetic treatments to enhance or improve the appearance of the skin: cleansing, toning, performing effleurage or other related movements, stimulating, exfoliating, or performing any other similar procedure on the skin of the human body or scalp by means of cosmetic preparations, treatments, or any nonlaser device, whether by electrical, mechanical, or manual means, for care of the skin; applying make-up or eyelashes to any person, tinting or perming eyelashes and eyebrows, and lightening hair on the body except the scalp; and removing unwanted hair from the body of any person by the use of any nonlaser device, by tweezing, or by use of chemical or mechanical means. However, "esthetics" is not a healing art and shall not include any practice, activity, or treatment that constitutes the practice of medicine, osteopathic medicine, or chiropractic. The terms "healing arts," "practice of medicine," "practice of osteopathic medicine," and "practice of chiropractic" shall mean the same as those terms are defined in § 54.1-2900.

"Esthetics instructor" means a licensed esthetician who has been certified by the Board as having completed an approved curriculum and who meets the competency standards of the Board as an instructor of esthetics.

"Esthetics spa" means any commercial establishment, residence, vehicle, or other establishment, place, or event wherein esthetics is offered or practiced on a regular basis for compensation under regulations of the Board.

"Master barber" means a licensed barber who, in addition to the practice of barbering, performs waving, shaping, bleaching, relaxing, or straightening upon human hair; performs similar work on a wig or hairpiece; or performs waxing limited to the scalp.

"Master esthetician" means a licensed esthetician who, in addition to the practice of esthetics, offers to the public for compensation, without the use of laser technology, lymphatic drainage, chemical exfoliation, or microdermabrasion, and who has met such additional requirements as determined by the Board to practice lymphatic drainage, chemical exfoliation with products other than Schedules II through VI controlled substances as defined in the Drug Control Act (§ 54.1-3400 et seq.), and microdermabrasion of the epidermis.

"Nail care" means manicuring or pedicuring natural nails or performing artificial nail services.

"Nail salon" means any commercial establishment, residence, vehicle or other establishment, place or event wherein nail care is offered or practiced on a regular basis for compensation and may include the training of apprentices under regulations of the Board.

"Nail school" means a place or establishment licensed by the board to accept and train students in nail care.

"Nail technician" means any person who for compensation manicures or pedicures natural nails, or who performs artificial nail services for compensation, or any combination thereof.

"Nail technician instructor" means a licensed nail technician who has been certified by the Board as having completed an approved curriculum and who meets the competency standards of the Board as an instructor of nail care.

"Physical (wax) depilatory" means the wax depilatory product or substance used to remove superfluous hair.

"School of cosmetology" means a place or establishment licensed by the Board to accept and train students and which offers a cosmetology curriculum approved by the Board.

"School of esthetics" means a place or establishment licensed by the Board to accept and train students and which offers an esthetics curriculum approved by the Board.

"Tattoo parlor" means any place in which tattooing is offered or practiced.

"Tattoo school" means a place or establishment licensed by the Board to accept and train students in tattooing.

"Tattooer" means any person who for remuneration practices tattooing.

"Tattooing" means the placing of designs, letters, scrolls, figures, symbols or any other marks upon or under the skin of any person with ink or any other substance, resulting in the permanent coloration of the skin, including permanent make-up or permanent jewelry, by the aid of needles or any other instrument designed to touch or puncture the skin.

"Wax technician" means any person licensed by the Board who removes hair from the hair follicle using a physical (wax) depilatory or by tweezing.

"Wax technician instructor" means a licensed wax technician who has been certified by the Board as having completed an approved curriculum and who meets the competency standards of the Board as an instructor of waxing.

"Waxing" means the temporary removal of superfluous hair from the hair follicle on any area of the human body through the use of a physical (wax) depilatory or by tweezing.

"Waxing salon" means any commercial establishment, residence, vehicle or other establishment, place or event wherein waxing is offered or practiced on a regular basis for compensation and may include the training of apprentices under regulations of the Board.

"Waxing school" means a place or establishment licensed by the Board to accept and train students in waxing.

1962, c. 639, § 1, § 54-83.2; 1966, c. 610; 1973, c. 86; 1974, c. 534; 1988, c. 765; 2000, c. 726; 2002, cc. 797, 869; 2003, c. 600; 2005, c. 829; 2012, cc. 803, 835; 2017, c. 390; 2018, cc. 219, 231, 237, 404.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

§ 54.1-701. Exemptions.

The provisions of this chapter shall not apply to:

1. Persons authorized by the laws of the Commonwealth to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathy or chiropractic;

2. Registered nurses licensed to practice in the Commonwealth;

3. Persons employed in state or local penal or correctional institutions, rehabilitation centers, sanatoria, or institutions for care and treatment of individuals with mental illness or intellectual disability, or for care and treatment of geriatric patients, as barbers, cosmetologists, wax technicians, nail technicians, estheticians, barber instructors, cosmetology instructors, wax technician instructors, nail technician instructors, or esthetics instructors who practice only on inmates of or patients in such sanatoria or institutions;

4. Persons licensed as funeral directors or embalmers in the Commonwealth;

5. Gratuitous services as a barber, nail technician, cosmetologist, wax technician, tattooer, body-piercer, or esthetician;

6. Students enrolled in an approved school taking a course in barbering, nail care, cosmetology, waxing, tattooing, body-piercing, or esthetics;

7. Persons working in a cosmetology salon whose duties are expressly confined to the blow drying, arranging, dressing, curling, or cleansing of human hair;

8. Apprentices serving in a barbershop, nail salon, waxing salon, cosmetology salon, or esthetics spa licensed by the Board in accordance with the Board's regulations;

9. Schools of barbering, nail care, waxing, or cosmetology in public schools; and

10. Persons whose activities are confined solely to applying make-up, including such activities that are ancillary to applying make-up.

1962, c. 639, § 4, § 54-83.5; 1968, c. 622; 1988, c. 765; 2000, c. 726; 2002, cc. 797, 869; 2003, c. 600; 2005, c. 829; 2012, cc. 476, 507, 803, 835; 2018, c. 404.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

§ 54.1-702. Board for Barbers and Cosmetology; membership; officers; quorum.

The Board for Barbers and Cosmetology shall be composed of 10 members as follows: two members shall be licensed barbers, one of whom may be an owner or operator of a barber school; two members shall be licensed cosmetologists, at least one of whom shall be a salon owner and one of whom may be an owner or operator of a cosmetology school; one member shall be a licensed nail technician or a licensed cosmetologist engaged primarily in the practice of nail care, each of whom shall have been licensed in their respective professions for at least three years immediately prior to appointment; one member shall be either a licensed tattooer or a licensed body-piercer; two members shall be licensed estheticians, at least one of whom shall be an esthetics salon owner and one of whom may be an owner, operator, or designated representative of a licensed esthetics school; and two citizen members. The terms of Board members shall be four years. No member shall serve for more than two full successive terms. The Board shall elect a chairman and a vice-chairman. A majority of the Board shall constitute a quorum.

1962, c. 639, § 21, § 54-83.22; 1974, c. 534; 1979, c. 327; 1981, c. 447; 1988, cc. 42, 765; 2000, c. 726; 2002, c. 869; 2004, c. 945; 2005, c. 829; 2010, c. 91.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

54.1-703. License required.

No person shall offer to engage in or engage in barbering, cosmetology, nail care, waxing, tattooing, body-piercing, or esthetics without a valid license issued by the Board, except as provided in § 54.1-701.

1979, c. 408, § 54-83.22:1; 1988, c. 765; 2000, c. 726; 2002, cc. 797, 869; 2003, c. 600; 2005, c. 829; 2012, cc. 803, 835.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

§ 54.1-703.1. Waiver of examination; wax technicians.

The Board shall waive the examination requirements for licensure as a wax technician for any individual who (i) makes application for licensure between July 1, 2002, and July 1, 2003; (ii) otherwise complies with Board regulations relating to moral turpitude; and (iii) meets any of the following conditions:

1. Has at least three years of documented work experience as a wax technician that is deemed satisfactory by the Board;

3. Holds an unexpired certificate of registration, certification, or license as a wax technician issued to him on the basis of comparable requirements by a proper authority of a state, territory, or possession of the United States or the District of Columbia.

2002, c. 797.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

§ 54.1-703.2. Repealed.

Repealed by Acts 2012, cc. 803 and 835, cl. 54.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

§ 54.1-703.3. Waiver of examination; estheticians.

The Board shall waive the examination requirements for licensure as an esthetician or master esthetician for any individual who (i) makes application for licensure by July 31, 2009; (ii) otherwise complies with Board regulations relating to moral turpitude; and (iii) meets any of the following conditions:

1. Has at least three years of documented work experience as an esthetician or a master esthetician completed prior to July 1, 2008, that is deemed satisfactory by the Board;

2. Has completed a training program prior to July 1, 2008, that is deemed satisfactory by the Board; or

3. Holds an unexpired certificate of registration, certification, or license as an esthetician or a master esthetician issued to him prior to July 1, 2008, on the basis of comparable requirements by a proper authority of a state, territory, or possession of the United States, or the District of Columbia.

2005, c. 829; 2009, cc. 166, 328.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

§ 54.1-704. Temporary licenses.

The Board may issue a temporary license to any person who is eligible for examination. Persons issued a temporary license shall be subject to the regulations of the Board.

The Board shall promulgate regulations consistent with this section to permit individuals to be granted temporary licenses for a specified period of time.

1984, c. 220, § 54-83.22:2; 1988, c. 765; 2000, c. 726.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

§ 54.1-704.1. License required for barbershop, cosmetology salon, nail care salon, waxing salon, tattoo parlor, body-piercing salon, and esthetics spa.

No individual or entity shall operate a barbershop, cosmetology salon, nail care salon, waxing salon, tattoo parlor, body-piercing salon, or esthetics spa without a valid license issued by the Board.

The provisions of this section shall not apply to a licensed barber, cosmetologist, nail technician, waxing technician, tattooer, body-piercer, or esthetician who does not have an ownership interest in a licensed barbershop, cosmetology salon, nail care salon, waxing salon, tattoo parlor, body-piercing salon, or esthetics spa in which he is employed.

2000, c. 726; 2002, cc. 797, 869; 2003, c. 600; 2005, c. 829; 2012, cc. 803, 835.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

§ 54.1-704.2. License required for schools of barbering, cosmetology, nail care, waxing, tattooing, body-piercing, or esthetics.

Except as provided in § 54.1-701, no person, firm or corporation shall operate or attempt to operate a school of barbering, cosmetology, nail care, waxing, tattooing, body-piercing, or esthetics unless licensed by the Board pursuant to its regulations.

2000, c. 726; 2002, cc. 797, 869; 2003, c. 600; 2005, c. 829; 2012, cc. 803, 835.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

§ 54.1-705. Inspections.

A. Inspectors and sanitarians of the State Department of Health, or an affiliated local health department, may inspect each barbershop, cosmetology salon, waxing salon, nail care salon, tattoo parlor, bodypiercing salon, and esthetics spa in the Commonwealth regularly. Any infractions shall be immediately reported to the Health Department and the Director of the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation for disciplinary action.

B. The Board may inspect barbershops, barber schools, cosmetology salons and schools, waxing salons and schools, nail care salons and schools, tattoo parlors and schools, body-piercing salons and schools, and esthetics spas and schools for compliance with regulations promulgated by the Board.

C. The Board shall specify procedures for enforcement of compliance with the disease control and disclosure requirements of § 18.2-371.3, including unannounced inspections by appropriate personnel.

D. The Board or the Virginia Department of Health, or an affiliated local health department, may regulate the sanitary condition of the personnel, equipment and premises of tattoo parlors and body-piercing salons.

1962, c. 639, § 26, § 54-83.27; 1974, c. 534; 1988, c. 765; 1993, c. 499; 2000, c. 726; 2002, cc. 797, 869; 2003, c. 600; 2005, c. 829; 2012, cc. 803, 835.

The chapters of the acts of assembly referenced in the historical citation at the end of this section may not constitute a comprehensive list of such chapters and may exclude chapters whose provisions have expired.

§ 54.1-706. Different requirements for licensure.

A. The Board shall have the discretion to impose different requirements for licensure for the practice of barbering, cosmetology, nail care, waxing, tattooing, body-piercing, and esthetics.

B. The Board shall issue a license to practice as a master barber in the Commonwealth to:

1. An individual who holds a valid, unexpired license as a barber issued by the Board prior to December 8, 2017; or

2. An applicant who has successfully (i) completed the educational requirements as required by the Board, (ii) completed the experience requirements as required by the Board, and (iii) passed the examination approved by the Board.

2000, c. 726; 2002, cc. 797, 869; 2003, c. 600; 2005, c. 829; 2012, cc. 803, 835; 2018, cc. 231, 237.

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