A First Look at Maryland’s Proposed Rules

Maryland is taking a big step toward modernizing its beauty regulations. The Maryland Board of Cosmetologists (Board) proposed new rules that would expand the esthetician scope of practice, including the long-awaited addition of microneedling, and create a new limited eyelash technician license. 

These changes could open the door to new services, revenue opportunities, and career paths for beauty pros across the state. If you want to help shape the future of cosmetology in Maryland, submit comments by emailing nicole.fletcher@maryland.gov before January 26, 2026. Below is a clear breakdown of the proposed rules so you can stay informed and act if you choose.

Esthetician License Updates
The proposed rules would expand the esthetician scope by adding three key services:

1. Exfoliating: Estheticians would be permitted to remove dead skin cells, dirt, bacteria, and excess oil from the skin. 
    
2. Microneedling: Estheticians would be allowed to use cosmetic, nonmedical microneedling devices with needles no longer than 1 mm, used in a way that does not penetrate beyond the epidermis to improve skin texture, support collagen production, and enhance overall skin appearance.
    
3. Toning: Estheticians would be permitted to cleanse, manipulate, and stimulate the skin using facials, face masks, and wraps.

Exfoliating and toning may be common esthetics practices that you already perform, but formally adding them into scope helps clarify expectations and reduce ambiguity. However, allowing estheticians to perform cosmetic microneedling paves the way for professionals to offer a sought-after treatment, increase earning potential, and advertise a competitive service menu.

Eyelash Extension Technician License
Maryland is proposing a new eyelash extension technician license, which would authorize professionals to: 

• Apply individual or volume lash extensions
• Remove, clean, and maintain lash extensions
• Enhance natural lashes safely and professionally

The proposed eyelash technician license fee is $28.

Eyelash Technician Training Requirements
To qualify for licensure, the proposed rules outline a structured training pathway for future lash technicians. Apprentices must train for 3–7 months, complete at least 10 hours of training per week, and follow a Board-approved curriculum. 

Students enrolled in a lash course or apprenticeship could apply for a temporary one-year license, allowing them to practice under supervision while completing their training. Once their training period is complete, a student must pass the eyelash extension exam to become fully licensed.

Beginning January 1, 2027, apprentices may be trained not only by senior cosmetologists but also by licensed eyelash technicians with at least two years of experience, expanding the pool of qualified trainers.

What’s on the Eyelash Extension Exam?
The theory portion will cover the following:

• Sanitation and safety
• Lash extension types, adhesives, and tools
• Lash anatomy and growth cycle
• Contraindications and allergic reactions
• Maryland cosmetology laws and regulations

The practical portion will cover the following:

• Lash isolation
• Lash extension application
• Adhesive control
• Lash removal
• Client safety 
• Sanitation practices

Sanitation Requirements for Lash Technicians
To maintain high public safety standards, the proposed rules outline the following sanitation requirements for lash technicians:

• Use clean linens for each client
• Wash hands before and after each service
• Disinfect chairs, beds, and headrests after each service
• Select beds and chairs made of nonporous material that can be disinfected
• Dispose of adhesive palettes after each use
• Label adhesive containers with the opening date and discard containers after 30 days 
• Dispose of premade fans and single-use tools
• Dispose of gel pads and tape after each client
• Use medical-grade tape

Fines for Citations and Prohibited Services

• Improper lash procedures: $100
• Failure to label or discard adhesive properly: $100
• Any other sanitation violation: $50

The Board would add to the list of services that remain strictly off-limits to all licensed professionals:

• Chemical peels penetrating beyond the epidermis
• Microdermabrasion
• Electrotherapy
• Contouring or sculpting using cryotherapy, radio frequency, or liposuction
• Any procedure causing ablation of the dermis or hypodermis
• Any form of skin injections

Your voice matters. If these proposed changes could impact your practice or your business, submit comments by emailing nicole.fletcher@maryland.gov before January 26, 2026, and make sure your perspective is part of the conversation!