posted on: April 11, 2024
ASCP submitted written commentary to the Utah legislature regarding Senate Bill 112, which would create a state license for an eyelash and eyebrow technician, instructor, and school. We support this legislation because of the health and safety benefits to the public, and the new services it would add to the scopes of practice for estheticians, cosmetologists/barbers, and master-level estheticians.
We invite you to read our comments below.
Associated Skin Care Professionals, Associated Hair Professionals, and Associated Nail Professionals (the Associations) provide professional liability insurance, business resources, professional publications, and legislative and regulatory advocacy for more than 47,000 members nationwide.
The Associations express support for Senate Bill 112 (SB 112), which would create a state license for an eyelash and eyebrow technician, an eyelash and eyebrow technician instructor, and an eyelash and eyebrow technology school in Utah.
SB 112 defines the practice of eyelash and eyebrow technology as arching eyebrows by tweezing, tinting eyelashes or eyebrows, perming eyelashes or eyebrows, or applying eyelash or eyebrow extensions.
An eyelash and eyebrow technician license will benefit the public. The Associations applaud the educational requirements set forth in SB 112 that would require a student to complete a 100-hour training course or a 125-hour apprenticeship to legally provide eyelash and eyebrow services. Specialized services like eyelash extensions and eyebrow lamination (or “eyebrow perm”) require specialized training. Eyelids and the browbone are delicate areas, and services performed to and around these areas require a trained, licensed professional equipped with proper education and in-depth knowledge of universal precautions and sanitation practices.
Eyelash extension education is necessary for public protection and to equip licensed professionals with a combination of classroom and hands-on instruction, with theory centered on public safety and proper application. Without education, untrained individuals could cause serious infection or swelling of the eyelid, cornea infection, temporary eyelash loss, or cross contamination of parasites to the lash line. Understanding necessary sanitation procedures is paramount when working so closely to the eye. Untrained individuals may cause eye irritation directly from contamination in the lash room.
Eyebrow lamination is a relatively new service, and it comes with inherent risks if the service is performed by an untrained individual. Eyebrow lamination is sought after by those who may be experiencing thinning or unruly brows. Skin irritation from the chemical solution used to lift and affix the brow hair in place can occur and cause bumps, peeling, swelling, redness, and itching. The irritation can spread beyond the browbone area into the eyelid area. In addition, an untrained individual may overtreat or overstretch the brow hairs, resulting in weakened or damaged hair follicles.
SB 112 broadens the scopes of practice for estheticians, cosmetologists/barbers, and master-level estheticians. The bill would allow estheticians, cosmetologists/barbers to practice eyelash and eyebrow technology, and allow master-level estheticians to perform dermaplaning and the practice of eyelash and eyebrow technology. This elevates the professions and aligns Utah cosmetology law with current cosmetology trends and services. For the consumer, this allows for a statewide standard of practice and enhanced public safety. For the professional, this allows for a potential increase in income with a diversified service menu. This may encourage economic growth in Utah.
SB 112 breaks down barriers to entry for those who wish to practice a niche, specialty service. Currently, an individual must attend school and receive a full cosmetology/barbering or esthetics license to practice some of the services that are in scope for the proposed eyelash and eyebrow technology license. If an individual wants to practice only eyelash extensions, the sole licensing path for them is to spend money on a lengthy cosmetology/barbering or esthetics course where they will receive training in subject areas they do not intend to use. Creating an eyelash and eyebrow technician license may, therefore, attract students who want to practice only niche services. This may generate revenue for schools that can offer 100-hour courses frequently throughout the year, which may, in turn, increase instructor job opportunities.
Lastly, the Associations appreciate the thoughtful addition of eyelash and eyebrow technician membership on the Cosmetology and Associated Professions Licensing Board (Board). This is a positive step toward inclusion and proper representation of the cosmetology industry. A successful board comprises individuals with varied experience who contribute to the development, progress, and growth of an industry. To better serve the professions that fall under the umbrella of “cosmetology,” it’s important that the Board has the perspectives of all licensed professionals.
Thank you for considering our opinions. We encourage you to vote yes on SB 112.
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