Esthetics

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BEAUTY IS ABOUT BEING COMFORTABLE IN YOUR OWN SKIN

Esthetics is the practice of giving facials, applying makeup, applying eyelashes, removing hair (by waxing or tweezing), and providing skin care, which includes microdermabrasion services. It includes beautifying the face, neck, arms, or upper body (from the shoulders up) by the use of cosmetic preparations, antiseptics, tonics, lotions, or creams.

Estheticians are licensed and regulated in California by the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology. The Board works to ensure that estheticians follow State law and infection control standards.

In the State of California an esthetician cannot:

  • Tint or dye eyelashes or eyebrows
  • Shave a client’s face
  • Use medium-grade or medical-grade skin exfoliates
  • Use any type of laser regardless of its known health effects
  • Remove superfluous hair by the use of light waves, known as rays
  • Remove skin tags or moles

In California, esthetic services may be legally performed only by State-licensed estheticians in State-licensed salons and barbershops.

Makeup/skin care demonstrators who do not receive compensation from a client for the application of the product do NOT need to be licensed with the State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.

Mission of the BBC

Ensuring the health and safety of California consumers by promoting ethical standards and by enforcing the laws of the beauty and barbering industry.

For questions, comments or complaints, contact the Board.

BOARD OF BARBERING AND COSMETOLOGY
2420 DEL PASO ROAD, SUITE 100
SACRAMENTO, CA 95834
www.barbercosmo.ca.gov
800-952-5210