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Staying informed about state regulations is crucial for beauty professionals, as it not only fulfills a legal obligation but also ensures the smooth operation of their businesses.
The laws and regulations in each state safeguard clients and professionals while upholding the industry’s integrity.
For example, California implemented significant changes to its cosmetology laws, impacting salon owners, cosmetologists, and beauty professionals.
This blog will dive into these laws, breaking down what they mean for your business and day-to-day operations.
California cosmetology laws passed with Senate Bill (SB) 803
California’s Senate Bill (SB) 803, signed into law in January 2022, marks a significant change in the state’s cosmetology regulations.
The bill aims to make it easier for individuals to enter the beauty industry while updating the requirements for current professionals. It addresses high training costs, outdated licensing standards, and cosmetology and barbering practices inefficiencies.
Some of the changes introduced by SB 803 are:
- Reducing the hours for the cosmetology and barbering programs to 1,000 from 1,600 and 1,500 respectively.
- Creating a 600-hour program for a new non-chemical hairstylist license.
- Expanding the esthetic scope of practice to include lash and brow tinting and perming.
- Eliminating the practical examination and pre-application process.
- Increasing the number of board members from 9 to 13 and requiring representation from each industry sector.
- Streamlining the endorsement process for out-of-state license holders.
- Requiring apprentices to receive training from the Board before licensure.
- Updating mobile unit requirements.
- Increasing the hours allowed in the extern program.
Changes to licensing and continuing education
SB 803 aims to minimize obstacles to entering the beauty industry while guaranteeing that professionals acquire the appropriate education to meet current beauty standards.
1. Reduced training hours
- Cosmetology: Previously, cosmetology students in California had to finish 1,600 hours of training. However, with the passing of SB 803, the requirement has been lowered to 1,000 hours, making the licensing process quicker and more affordable.
- Barbering: Similarly, the hours for barbering training are now 1,000, allowing for easier entry into the profession without sacrificing education quality.
Some people, however, oppose this bill, arguing that lowering the number of training hours could compromise the quality of education and training students receive.
They are concerned that graduates might not be fully prepared for the profession’s demands if they have fewer hours of hands-on experience and theoretical learning.
Additionally, there are worries that the decrease in training hours will only make the industry less safe and drive up the supply of workers.
2. Creating an entirely new 600-hour program for a non-chemical hairstylist license
In response to the demand for non-chemical hair care services, SB 803 has introduced a 600-hour program for a non-chemical hairstylist license. This program focuses on cutting, styling, and braiding, without requiring extensive training in chemical treatments, such as hair coloring, permanent hair straightening, and perming.
3. Removing the practical exam for students and eliminating the pre-application process, leaving only the written portion of the state board exam
One of the most notable changes is removing the practical exam from the licensing process. Now, aspiring cosmetologists and barbers only need to pass a written exam to get licensed.
While this simplifies and speeds up the process for students, it raises concerns about readiness. Without the practical exam and pre-application process, new licensees may lack hands-on experience, potentially affecting service quality.
4. Allowing for a more efficient transfer process for out-of-state licenses
For professionals moving to California from other states, SB 803 makes it easier to transfer existing licenses. The bill allows for a more efficient transfer process, reducing the time and paperwork previously required to start practicing in California.
Changes to the scope of practice
SB 803 expands the services that licensed professionals, like estheticians and cosmetologists, can offer. These updates allow them to provide more services without needing extra certification.
The revised esthetic program now officially includes lash and brow tinting, lash perming, and facial dermaplaning. These treatments, which were previously restricted or unclear under state law, are now part of the esthetician’s scope of practice, allowing licensed professionals to enhance their service offerings and better meet client needs.
Other changes
SB 803 also offers more flexibility for professionals regarding where and how they practice, in addition to addressing licensing and practice scope.
- Pre-apprentice training requirements
For individuals pursuing an apprenticeship, SB 803 requires them to complete pre-apprentice training from the California State Board before being eligible for licensure.
The program focuses on delivering essential knowledge and skills in sanitation, safety regulations, basic hair and skin care techniques, and customer service, ensuring future professionals have a solid foundation before starting hands-on training in salons.
- Mobile units for on-the-go services
With mobile beauty services on the rise, SB 803 updates the requirements for operating a mobile unit, making it easier for professionals to bring their services directly to clients.
Mobile salons must meet health and safety standards, including proper sanitation, secure tool storage, and waste disposal regulations. Like traditional salons, mobile units must be inspected and licensed by the California State Board.
- Increased hours for extern programs
SB 803 increases the hours allowed for extern programs, which give cosmetology and barbering students hands-on experience in licensed salons while still in school. By expanding these hours, students have more time to develop their skills before becoming fully licensed.
This change helps connect their theoretical education with practical experience, preparing them to be more confident and capable professionals when they enter the workforce.
Tips for staying updated with California cosmetology laws
To stay compliant with California cosmetology laws and take advantage of growth opportunities, salon owners, cosmetologists, barbers, and mobile service providers should regularly monitor law changes.
Here are some key tips:
Stay informed and adapt to licensing changes
Keep up with updates from the California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology, especially if you’re pursuing or renewing your cosmetology license. The board often changes requirements to reflect industry needs.
For example, if you’re studying cosmetology, note that the required training hours have decreased from 1,600 to 1,000. Align your education and career plans with these updates to advance more quickly in your profession.
Ensure compliance for mobile and apprenticeship programs
If you operate a mobile salon, make sure your vehicle meets health and sanitation standards, like having a sanitation area and proper waste disposal systems. Stay informed about any new guidelines from the California State Board and complete the necessary inspections to maintain your mobile salon license.
If you supervise apprentices, ensure they complete the required pre-apprenticeship training before starting work to uphold your reputation and service quality.
Expand services with additional training
Thanks to the expanded scope of practice from SB 803, licensed cosmetologists can now offer new services like lash and brow tinting, lash perming, and facial dermaplaning. If you aren’t trained in these areas, consider taking additional courses to gain these skills.
Offering these services can help you meet client demands and boost your income.
What do you need to be a cosmetologist in California?
Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking to advance your skills, here’s a breakdown of what you need to become a licensed cosmetologist in the state.
Education
You must complete a state-approved cosmetology program that teaches essential skills like hair cutting, styling, skincare, nail care, makeup application, and sanitation. The reduced training hours make it quicker and more affordable to finish your education.
Hands-on experience with clients under licensed instructors is crucial for developing practical skills. It’s best to choose a program accredited by the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology to ensure you meet all licensure requirements.
Licensing
After completing your education, you need to get your cosmetology license in California. This requires passing the state board exam, which now only has a written portion due to the removal of the practical exam under SB 803.
Once you pass the exam, you can apply for your license through the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology.
Are continuing education credits needed to maintain a license?
No, continuing education credits are not required to maintain a cosmetology license in California. The California Board of Barbering and Cosmetology currently does not mandate any ongoing education for license renewal.
Can I open a salon without a cosmetology license in California?
In California, you cannot open a salon without obtaining a cosmetology or barber license. State law mandates that anyone operating a beauty salon must be licensed. This requirement ensures that salon owners are business operators and licensed professionals who understand industry standards, safety regulations, and proper techniques.
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By understanding the educational and licensing requirements, such as those introduced by SB 803, you can ensure compliance while positioning yourself for success.
Tools like Pabau can further streamline your operations, enhance client communication, and maximize your revenue potential.
With features tailored to med spas and salon needs, Pabau allows you to manage appointments, track client history, and automate marketing efforts—all from a single platform.
And our blog section is always here to update you on all upcoming security and compliance issues.
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