8 HR. PROFESSIONAL COMPOSITION PROFESSIONAL IMAGE
You have probably heard the expression that Image is everything. It is this belief that has
traditionally driven the beauty and fashions industries, although this is not changing. Today, we
are beginning to view image as the combination of our external appearance on how we look to
the world with which we are deep inside or how we look to ourselves. Every one of us has an
image, but the problem is that our images are not necessarily the ones we hope to project. You
might wish to be thought of as glamorous and sophisticated, while others actually thing of you
as wholesome and rather innocent. Your personal image may not necessarily be the same as
your professional image. Your professional image is the impression you project as a person
engaged in the profession of cosmetology, and consist of your outward appearance and the
conduct you exhibit in the workplace. This image is extremely important. Your appearance
attitude, abilities and energy create a mental picture in the minds of your clients and associates.
You want that image to conjure up respect, trust and eagerness for your knowledge, creativity,
technical skills, and sense of style. Your professional image is also tied into your role as a
model for your clients. Do not forget that your work in the area of beauty not only helps your
clients to look their best but also touches on wellness as you advise clients how to care for their
hair, skin and nails and as you alert them to lifestyle decisions that can have an impact on their
beauty concerns. That means as a professional you will need to look your best and express
lifestyle choices that signify a real sense of responsibility for your own health. Deep in mind that
people are coming to you so that you can make them look good. If you do not look good, your
clients may assume that you cannot make them look good. Your professional image is not one
single thing; it emerges from the interaction between the external and the internal. As a
practitioner you should strive for a holistic image, one that reflects the whole person. Your
professional and personal lives need to not be entirely separate from each other. If you truly
know who you are and are comfortable with yourself, you will always present your authentic self
at both work and play. Most people start to develop an image by focusing on the surface. The
way you dress and groom yourself is very important; however your external appearance should
reflect your authentic self. If you are essentially an informal sort of person, it might take you a
while to feel comfortable in a situation that requires you to dress up and makeup all the time.
Your surface image also has to do with the graciousness of your speech, how pleasing your
voice is how you stand and
carry yourself and the facial expression you show to the world. Your surface is just a reflection
of what you carry inside of yourself. How you feel about people and the world is reflected on
your surface. When you feel whole in body, mind and spirit then you can present your best self
to the world.
With the growth of spa culture in our profession, you will be called on more than ever before to
integrate beauty and wellness. You will be providing services that make others look good and
feel good. Think of yourself as a professional "toucher" That means you should have a caring
and healing quality that you can transmit to others. As a cosmetologist and a beauty and
wellness consultant, you are also a caregiver. As such, your first concern is to take care of
yourself so that you can go on to take care of others. To do this, you must start by paying
attention to your health.
We are at our best when all the dimensions of our selves- body- mind and spirit come together
as a whole. When you are in good health, when body, mind and spirit are all working together
and cooperatively you will be able to enjoy the pleasures of life and work creatively and
productively. Optimal health will increase your feelings of self- worth and will add to your value
in the eyes of your clients, associates, employer and the beauty and wellness community in
general.
Balance
Real beauty begins with health and real beauty stays grounded in health. Good health greatly
impacts your energy level, your attitude and ultimately your appearance. One of the most
important factors in promoting and maintaining health is balance. Balance can be hard to
achieve in this day and age. For many of us, it can be a challenge to manage stress. But when
in balance, we are able to make the right choices for ourselves. If you consistently undermine
your well being with poor choices, you may be leading a highly unbalanced lifestyle and putting
yourself at risk for disease. Eating poorly, smoking, drinking excessively, taking drugs, skipping
exercise, holding on to toxic emotions and lacking a sense of purpose are just some of the ways
in which we create a disconnect between the mind and the body. Every thought you have sets
off an emotional change in your body. It is up to you to make those choices that is most life
affirming. Achieving balance in your life between what you want for yourself and what others
want for you, between work and play, between self-interest and sensitivity to others is the key to
leading a happy and productive life.
Always looking Professional
Personal hygiene is the daily maintenance of cleanliness and healthfulness through certain
sanitary practices. It is customary to learn many of these principles as a child. Today as an
adult, sticking to these principles will help you maintain and project your best image. The basics
of personal hygiene include; daily bathing or showering, shaving for men and freshening up
throughout the day as necessary, washing your hands throughout the day as required, such as
when beginning a service with a new client or after visiting the bathroom, using underarm
deodorant or antiperspirant and brushing and flossing your teeth as well as using a mouthwash
or breath mints throughout the day as needed. Remember that offensive odors can be quite a
turnoff for the clients, it can event keep them from returning. We all have different body
chemistries, one person may sweat profusely in stressful circumstances while another remains
as cool as a cucumber. Be mindful of your personal hygiene. This means doing self checks
periodically during the day to make sure that everything is as it should be. The skin is the body
largest organ and is responsible for eliminating toxins from the system through perspiration. In
order5 to perform it many jobs properly, the skin deserves special daily care to keep bacteria in
check. Cleanse moisturize, exfoliate and protect your bodily and facial skin with a regular skin
care regimen
Wearing clothing that express your personal style and is also appropriate for your surroundings I
key to looking your best. Your clothing is your packaging. Anybody who has ever tried to sell
something knows packaging counts for a lot.
Dress for Success
At the salon, strive to have your hair, makeup, and clothing style blend harmoniously with the
surroundings. Although your self-expression may be a big part of who you are, it is not always
wise to have your attire become the topic of conversation with your clients or your fellow beauty
professionals. If you want to go out on the weekend and wear something wild, outrageous,
and/or sexy, that is your choice. But while you are employed at a place of business, you will
want to consider whether your wardrobe selection expresses a professional image that is
consistent with the image of the salon.
A few ideas out of the many possibilities of classic wardrobe selections could include these. For
women, it might be an A-line skirt in simple muted colors with no patterns, coupled with a white
or black silk T-shirt. Men can adopt a comfortable, dignified, all-purpose look by wearing a shirt
and tie every day with clean, tailored kakis. These "uniforms" project the kind of professional
appearance and attitude that may allow you to charge more for your services. Extremely short
dresses or skirts, bare legs, exposed underarms, torn blue jeans, or faded T-shirts for men or
women may be acceptable in some types of salons, but are generally not considered proper
attire when you are trying to present a professional image.
To some degree, your clothing can reflect the fashions of the season with current colors,
textures, skirts lengths, and so forth. Depending on your place of work, it may be allowed or
even appropriate to wear "new-looking" blue jeans or T-shirts that are clean and simple. You
may find yourself in a salon that caters to the art world or to young professionals. Such an
environment projects a hip, modern energy, and so individualized and fashionable clothing may
be worn by each individual in the salon. Just remember to "tune in" to your salon's energy and
clientele so that you can make the most appropriate clothing selections.
You should always be guided by your salon's or spa's dress code with regard to these matters,
but the following guidelines are generally appropriate.
• Make sure your clothing is clean, fresh and in proportion to your height, weight, and body
shape.
• Choose clothing that is functional as well as aesthetically pleasing. It must be comfortable
enough to get you through a long day, and it should be able to move with the physical demands
of your job.
• Wear clean undergarments every day and keep them out of view. Underwear elastic peeking
out of your pants, exposed bra straps, or the glimpses of a slip are inconsistent with the
professional image you are doing your best to cultivate.
• Accessories are best kept simple and attractive, whether hair ornamentation, scarves, jewelry,
belts, or ties.
• Socks or hosiery need to be free of runs, and you will want them to harmonize with your attire.
• Keep shoes clean and comfortable, and with good support. Complicated, faddish shoes and
any with high heels may not be appropriate in a work setting where you may be required to
stand all day.
• Because feet perspire quite heavily over the course of a day, it is a good idea to use a natural
foot powder in your shoes and to alternate pairs of shoes from one day to the next, so that one
pair can air out in between.
Hair Care
Just as your clothing can reflect who you really are, so can your hair and makeup choices. As
with your clothing, one of your first considerations should be comfort and utility. You will want
your haircut to work with your own texture and wave pattern (natural or artificial), and be easy to
maintain.
With this in mind, trim your hair every six to eight weeks (as often as every four weeks for men),
so that the line and shape of the cut looks fresh and defined. Stay abreast of hairstyles that are
in fashion, both for yourself and your client. Use liquid styling tools to achieve the effect you are
looking for in textural definition, volume enhancement, or contoured closeness. Light hold gels
and foams will give the hair a polished and defined edge, while keeping the hair fluid and
touchable. Medium-to firmer-hold products will help you maintain your style throughout the day.
Of course, your product selection will depend in large part on your hair type and condition.
Hair color and texture services can be important part of your personal hairstyle statement and
image as well. Dimensional coloring, blonding, highlights, and gray hair coverage are
enhancements you might wish to consider. Using these services on yourself will also work as an
excellent advertisement to help sell these services to your clients.
A note on personal grooming for male cosmetologists: if you wear any form of facial hair, you
will want to keep you beard, goatee, and/or mustache regularly trimmed.
Looking Professional
Makeup is an exciting realm for beauty professionals. It helps you promote your professional
image and is an area where some of your most lucrative sales can be made. You will be
learning the basic of makeup application while in school, but the most important point to keep in
mind is that your makeup should accentuate your best features and mask your less flattering
ones.
A clean, natural approach in makeup is key or presenting yourself professionally. Unless you
are working in a rock and roll, punk, or Goth oriented salon, heavily blackened eyes, blue lips, or
green nail polish are generally best left to the nightlife scene. Let the salon's image guide you in
how you present yourself.
Healthy Mind and Body
Having focused on your external appearance, let us now look at the very important issues of
how to protect and sustain the inner person. The goal is to achieve and maintain optimal health
so that you can be the best you can be.
Reduce Stress
Stress is so present in our lives today that the World Health Organization (WHO) has classified
it as a worldwide epidemic. Stress is defined as the inability to cope with a threat, real or
imagined, to your well-being that results in a series of responses and adaptations by our minds
and bodies.
Stress can also be thought of as any situation that causes tension. Some experts believe that
up to 80 percent of visits to doctors are related to mind and /or body stress.
As you work in a salon environment (or even a spa environment whose very purpose is to
reduce stress), you may often feel that you have selected a particularly stressful arena in which
to work. In some ways it is true; you have. As a beauty professional, you have to deal with the
high expectations of your clientele and your employer. You have to handle a wide range of
personalities among clients and colleagues. You may be asked to work faster than you wish and
standing on your feet all day does not help matters either.
Some individuals actually thrive on this kind of pressure whereas others may suffer. It all
depends on your personality type, temperament, physical health, and on your coping skills.
For example, some of us may tend toward anxiety in a stressful situation, others may become
angry, and still others may become withdrawn. Think about your own coping style when you are
under pressure. Remember, in addition to the stress that comes with the workplace, there are
other stressful factors that may affect your personal life, including exposure to chronically
negative emotions, unhealthy relationships, and environment toxins.
The long-term effects of chronic stress can be very damaging to the body.
One way to alleviate stress is to carve out a small amount of time every day to go inward and
connect with your spiritual side. Meditation, prayer, yoga walks in nature, and positive
affirmations are methods by which you can quiet the mind. Deep breathing is another technique
that will help you calm down and reduce the flow of stress hormones that may be circulating
through your body.
Try to establish a daily routine. This helps promote balance and stability that can give great
comfort in stressful times. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day if possible.
Eat your meals at regular times. Try not to take on more than you can handle. Connect with
nature daily. Live a life of moderation, which means eating in moderation, working in
moderation, sleeping in moderation, playing in moderation, watching TV in moderation, and so
on. Such practices can bring balance and harmony into your life hat will be reflected in your
outer appearance.
Rest and Relaxation (R & R)
One critical way to manage stress and gain wellness is to get a nurturing amount of rest every
day and to build relaxation and leisure-time activities into your daily routine. Adequate sleep is
essential. Without it, you cannot expect to function efficiently. The body should be allowed to
recover from the fatigue of the day's activities and replenish with a good night's sleep. During
sleep, tissues and organs are rebuilt and renewed. The amount of sleep needed to feel
refreshed varies from person to person. However, medical professionals recommend at least
seven to eight hours of sleep every night. For those who are particularly stressed, going to bed
before 10 p.m will normalize levels of stress hormones.
In addition to sleep, renew yourself with relaxation. Relaxation represents a very important
change of pace from your day-to-day routine. Taking a movie, going to a museum, reading a
book, seeing friends and family, biking or walking, dancing, and even watching a bit of TV (not
too much though) are all ways for you to "get away from it all." When you return to work, you will
feel refreshed and eager to face the work at hand. Taking a few long weekends and yearly
vacations is essential as well. This is part of living a balanced, joyful life.
Nutrition
Like stress reduction, good nutrition is a vital factor in your overall health picture. Food serves
as fuel for our body by providing energy. It also provides the raw material that renews and
repairs our body's tissues and organs. The Surgeon General has said that 70 percent of all
disease is related to deficiencies in our diet, and the National Academy of Sciences tells us that
30 percent of all cancer is diet-related. Every day, researchers discover chemical constituents in
whole, nutritious foods that can help stave off a wide variety of illnesses.
There is a great truth in the old adage "We are what we eat." There are 40 specific nutrients in
our food that fall into the categories of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and
water. All of these are part of a healthy diet. People vary, however, in the way they use these
nutrients according to their height and weight, level of activity, and metabolism.
Some basic guidelines for good nutrition include:
• Eating a diet of nutrient-packed, whole (preferably organic) foods when ever possible. That
means plenty of fruits and vegetables, beans, and whole grains.
• Eating a wide variety of foods to optimize your nutritional intake. Broaden your food horizons.
Experiment. And, whatever you do, try not to make fast foods a habit. They tend to be packed
with salt, sugars, and fat. Use sugar, salt or sodium, and alcohol only in moderation.
• Maintaining a healthy weight. Eat sensible portions; take your meals in a calm environment if
possible, and chew each bite of food thoroughly do not eat when you are not hungry. Too many
of us try to relieve stress by turning to food. Excessive eating at such times and the guilt that
can result from such eating often aggravate our stress.
• Staying hydrated. This is very important. Drink plenty of water every day, eight 8-ounce
glasses at minimum. Take a large container of water with you to work if necessary. Our bodies
are made up of 60 to 70 percent water that is responsible for a wide variety of metabolic
functions. It also oxygenates your blood and gives you energy.
The Food Guide Pyramid, developed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is an
efficient guide to selecting nutritious foods. The pyramid is divided into tiers, or levels. The
bottom tier consists of bread, cereal, rice, and pasta (6 to 11 servings are recommended per
day). Tier two is fruits and vegetables (3 to 5 servings of vegetables and 2 to 4 servings of fruits
per day). Tier three includes meat, poultry, fish, dry beans, eggs, and nuts (2 to 3 servings per
day). As well as milk, yogurt, and cheese (2to 3 servings daily). The fats, oils, and sweets at the
top of the pyramid should make up only a small part of a healthy diet.
The best way to take charge of your diet and ensure proper nutrition is by preparing your own
meals. Including those you have during the workday. Try bringing healthful lunches and snacks
to work. You will save money and you will be getting wholesome and energizing food as well.
The following discussion of the various food groups will help us understand what our bodies
need.
• Fats. It is important to understand that there are good fats and bad fats. Saturated and
hydrogenated fats, found in junk foods as well as red meats, whole-milk dairy, butter, and
processed foods should be restricted in any diet. Fats from nuts, seeds, grains, fish, and liquid
oils (olive, canola, peanut, and other vegetable oils) are a healthy choice. A no-fat or extremely
low-fat diet can be detrimental to your health. Instead, try to make sure your fat calories come
from healthy sources and comprise no more than 30 percent of your diet.
• Carbohydrates. The USDA Food Pyramid advises 6 to 11 servings of grain based
carbohydrates a day. Whole-grain foods are considered more desirable in a healthy diet than
refined foods. Whole-grain foods are digested more slowly, promote long-term health, and may
provide some protection from diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, and gastrointestinal
problems. Excellent sources include brown rice, whole grain breads, oatmeal, kasha and
buckwheat, barley and more.
• Protein. Although the USDA Food Pyramid advocates a daily protein intake, some of the
recommended protein sources are now considered undesirable when consumed in large
quantities, specifically red meats .Healthy alternative protein sources include beans and nuts,
fish, poultry, and eggs.
• A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help lower blood pressure, decrease chances of having
heart disease or stroke, provide protection against certain types of cancer and gastrointestinal
problems, and reduce the severity of age-related problems such as cataracts.
Get Up and Go
While good nutrition is vital to our overall well-being, the importance of regular physical activity
cannot be overemphasized. If nothing else, the physical aspect of salon work can be intense,
and you will need to be in shape to meet these demands. Therefore, it is essential that you
begin a fitness program of some sort.
An adequate amount of physical activity ensures the proper functioning of organs such as the
heart and lungs, strengthens muscles and bones, enhances immune function, and improves
circulation. Improved cardiovascular and respiratory functioning will result in the enhanced
transport of oxygen and nutrients to every cell in the body and facilitates the movement of
carbon dioxide and waste products from body tissues into the bloodstream and on into the
excretory organs.
A sound Fitness Program
The optimal fitness program includes three main areas of activity.
1. Aerobic activity that includes brisk walking, jogging, swimming, biking, cross-country skiing,
and dancing. This activity pays off in cardiovascular health, increased immune system function,
greater endurance, stress reduction, and overall improved quality of life. Start your program with
a reduction, and overall improved quality of life. Start your program with a brisk 20-minute walk
before work or in the middle of the day and see the difference it makes in your energy level.
2. Stretching activities enhance flexibility. Stretching movements (no bouncing!) ease physical
tension, improve range of bodily motion and agility, and act as a warm-up or cool-down from
aerobic activity. Stretching activities may include yoga or tai chi, forms of movement that
connect the mind-body with its energy source. Try to build stretching movements into the
workday, even after every client. All it takes is a few movements into the workday, even after
every client. All it takes is a few stretches done in less than a minute, and the payoff can be
immense.
3. Weight-bearing activities to build strength and endurance. In building muscle, you develop a
leaner, fat burning body, and help to prevent osteoporosis. Consider a program that includes the
use of free weights or weight machines. Brisk walking and yoga can also provide weight-bearing
benefits.
A good, attainable goal is to have now fewer than three 30-minute sessions of aerobic activity a
week. Ideally, though, it is best to make exercise a part of your daily routine. Long walks,
stretching, and light weightlifting will do wonders. If you have been sedentary, consult your
doctor before beginning a regular physical activity program.
Your Physical Presentation
Another important aspect of professional image is what is called physical presentation. To a
large degree, your physical presentation is making up of your posture, walk, and movements.
Do you stand straight or do you slouch? Do you walk confidently with your head held high or do
you scuffle along, stooped over, dragging your feet? Your physical presentation enhances or
detracts from your attractiveness and is also an important part of your well being. Unhealthy or
defective body postures can cause a number of physical problems, particularly when these
postures become habit.
Posture
Good posture is a very important part of your physical presentation. It shows off your figure to its
best advantage and conveys an image of confidence. It can also prevent fatigue and many
other physical problems. When you work as a professional cosmetologist, you spend a large
amount of your time on your feet, and good posture will prove to be one of your best aids to get
you through the day.
Good posture should be developed as early in your lifetime as possible, and then reinforced
through self-awareness and regular physical activity. Yoga is particularly helpful in creating and
maintaining correct bodily alignment. Any type of accident, even a small one, should be
addressed with appropriate physical or movement therapies. If accidents and trauma are not
addressed, the resulting "incorrect" bodily adaptation can lead to chronic physical alignment
problems.
• Keeping your head up and chin level with the floor.
• Keeping the neck elongated and balanced directly above the shoulders.
• Lifting your upper body so that your chest is out and up (do not slouch).
• Holding your shoulders level and relaxed, not scrunched up.
• Standing with your spine straight, not curved laterally or swayed from front to back.
• Pulling your abdomen in so that it is flat.
• Keeping your hips level (horizontally), making sure they do not protrude forward or back.
• Flexing your knees slightly and positioning them over your feet.
Correct Sitting Posture
To sit down comfortable and attractively, use your thigh muscles and support from your hands
and arms to lower your body smoothly into a chair. Do not fall or flop into the chair. This can
worsen an already posture. When lowering your body, keep your back straight. Do not bend at
the waist or reach with the buttocks. When seated, slide to the back of the chair by placing both
hands on the front edge of the chair at the sides of your hips. Raise your body slightly and slide
back. Do not wiggle or inch back.
When giving a manicure or facial, sit with the lower back against the chair, leaning slightly
forward. If a stool is used, sit on the entire stool. Keep your chest up and rest your body weight
on the full length of your thighs.
Some tips for a proper sitting position include:
• Keeping your back straight.
• Keeping the soles of the feet entirely on the floor.
• Not crossing your legs or your feet at the ankles.
• Not bending forward from the waist or stooping forward from the shoulder. Bend from the hips,
or sit on a chair or wedge-shaped cushion that tilts forward.
Care of the Feet
On average, your feet will carry you more than 115,000 miles in your lifetime. Such faithful
servants deserve to be treated with care and attention. But the fact is that most people do not
spend a lot of time thinking about their feet until they begin to hurt. The human foot is a complex
creation. It contains 26 bones, 20 muscles, and 114 ligaments. Therein lies the potential for
many foot problems.
As a cosmetologist, you will no doubt be spending a great deal of time on your feet. Proper foot
care will help you maintain good posture and a cheerful attitude. Sore feet and/or ill-fitting shoes
can cause great discomfort that will, in turn, affect your posture and well-being.
Shoes
Foot and leg problems generally stem from wearing improper shoes and standing for long
periods, particularly on hard floors. High heels are particularly bad for you, whether they are
chunky or narrow. Scientists have found that both types of heels apply pressure to the knees.
High heels throw off your center of gravity, creating or aggravating a variety of musculoskeletal
problems, including back and knee pain and arthritis.
For your work, wear low-heeled, wider shoes that spread shock absorption on the foot and give
the toes more room. These shoes will give you the support and balance that will help maintain
good posture and offset fatigue. Carpeted or cushioned mats made specifically for the purpose
of reducing fatigue are available for use in salons.
Daily Foot Care
Exercise, massage, and comfortable, well-fitting shoes encourage healthy blood circulation to
the feet. Give your feet some tender loving care by massaging them for a few minutes with oil or
lotion before showering. Afterwards, thoroughly dry the feet, especially between the toes, and
apply an antiseptic foot lotion or a natural foot powder. Try massaging your feet with a
moisturizing lotion or oil before going to bed at night. Slip on cotton socks to preserve the
moisturizing effect.
Regular pedicures are well worth the investment. A pedicure that includes cleansing, removal of
callused skin, massage, and toenail trims will keep your feet at their best. Also, make an effort
to put your feet up at intervals throughout the day. This will give the vascular system in the legs
a much-needed rest, however brief, and may help prevent varicose veins.
Ergonomics
Each year, hundreds of workers, including cosmetologists, report musculoskeletal disorders
(MSDs) including carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis and back injuries. Beauty professionals
expose their bodies to potential injury on a daily basis. They have to stand all day and hold their
bodies in unnatural positions for long periods of time. They are particularly susceptible to
problems of the hands, wrists, shoulders, neck, back (the entire spinal column), feet and legs. If
not attended to, these problems may become serious, sometimes so much so that a person can
no longer work.
Prevention is the key to alleviating these problems. It is very important that you fit your work to
your body and not your body to your work. An awareness of your body posture and movements,
coupled with better work habits and proper tools and equipment, will enhance your health and
comfort. An understanding of ergonomics is useful as well. Ergonomics is the study of human
characteristics for the specific work environment. It attempts to "fit the job to the person". The
principles of ergonomics are being applied in more and more workplaces.
Monitor yourself as you work to see if you are:
• Gripping or squeezing implements too tightly.
• Bending the wrist up or down constantly when cutting the hair, using a blow-dryer, or using a
round brush.
• Holding your arms away from your body as you work, or holding your elbows above a 60degree angle outward from your body for extended periods of time.
• Bending forward and/or twisting your body to get closer to your client or to reach for
something, a position that results in neck or back strain.
• Standing for long periods of time in ill-fitting shoes that can lead to leg and back fatigue.
Try these measures to avoid some of the problems discussed above.
• Adjust the height of the client's chair so that the client's head is at a comfortable working level.
Swivel the chair as often as necessary to maintain a comfortable arm and back position.
• Gently tilt the client's head as necessary during any hair services.
• During haircutting and other hair services, keep your wrists in a straight or neutral position as
much as possible.
• Keep your shears sharpened and lubricated.
• Try holding the blow-dryer sideways to avoid raising your arms above shoulder level.
• Use your fingers rather than your wrist when handling the round brush. Use curling irons with a
revolving base.
• Keep your back straight. Bend at the hips or knees, especially when picking up an object.
Bending over at the waist leads to back strain and possible back injury.
• Try placing one foot on a small stool if you must stand for long periods of time. Alternate feet
as necessary. Standing on a cushioned mat also helps prevent muscle fatigue.
• If possible, use a cutting stool and adjust as needed.
• Wear comfortable, well-fitting, low-heeled shoes with good arch supports. If you have flat feet
or overly high arches, try wearing orthopedic inserts (available at most drugstores).
• When giving a manicure, avoid reaching across the manicure table and gripping the client's
hand. Instead, have the client extend his or her hand across the table to you.
• When giving a pedicure, keep your back straight, whether you are sitting on a low stool or
kneeling on the floor. Keep your wrists in a neutral position as much as possible.
Your work environment would likely benefit from an ergonomic assessment. Evaluate your
workstation according to these criteria.
• Workstations should have adequate space between them so that you and your coworkers do
not have to worry about bumping into each other.
• Cabinets should be easy to reach. A "rollabout" is a good place to keep implements close at
hand.
• There are cutting shears and other implements available that make it easier to maintain a
relatively neutral hand and wrist position for a variety of cutting elevations.
• Free-standing shampoo bowls are an excellent investment for a salon or spa. The shampoo is
done from behind the client instead of from he side, which is a safer position and which can help
stylists avoid back problems.
• Hydraulic chairs that can be raised or lowered at least five inches are highly recommended.
• Manicure tables with armrests for the wrists allow you to keep your knuckles below your wrists
as you work.
• Facial chairs should be adjustable for height.
If you work in an environment that has any physical discomfort built into it, as most of us do, try
to counter the problem by including regular stretching intervals in your schedule to break up the
receptiveness of the motions you use.
BUSINESS AND MARKETING
Too many small-business owners think marketing is like a trip to the doctor- something you just
got to do. But when marketing is continuous and targeted rather than occasional and shotgun,
business gets easier. If prospective customers have a positive view of you and your reputation
before they come to your business, you're that much closer to nailing a sale.
The next news flash is that ongoing marketing isn't tied to a price tag. It's defined only by putting
the right message in front of the right person at the right time.
Here are 10 ideas for doing that - on the cheap.
1. Take steps to make customers feel special. Customers respond to being recognized,
especially in these rush-rush, get-the-lowest-price times. Send a handwritten thank-you note.
2. Create business cards that prospects keep. Most business cards are tossed within hours of a
meeting. Instead of having your card tossed, create one that recipients actually will use - say, a
good-looking calendar with your contact info and discount coupons or monthly special on each
page. "The calendar is referred to almost daily, kept for a year and carries a high remembrance
factor.
3. Stop servicing break-even customers. If this idea makes you gasp, think harder. You're falling
for the notion of increasing sales instead of boosting profits. If you stop marketing to unprofitable
customers, you have more time and resources for customers who actually grow your business.
"More than likely, 20% of your customer base is contributing 150% to 200% of total annualized
profit (TAP); 70% is breaking even; and 10% is costing you 50% to 100% of TAP." Take a
detailed look at your customer profitability data and then direct premium services and marketing
to customers who count.
4. Develop an electronic mailing list and send old-fashioned letters. Most businesses have
harnessed the power of e-newsletters - and you definitely should be sending out one, too. It's
very cost-effective because e-mail marketing is now nearly ubiquitous, you can quickly stand out
by occasionally sending personal, surface mail letters to customers and prospects. Just make
sure the letter delivers something customers want to read, whether an analysis of recent events
in your field, premium offers or a sweetener personalized for the recipient (a discount on their
next visit to your establishment). This mailing has to have value to those that read it, so it
reflects the value of what you offer. Remember, the best way to sell is to tell. The process is
simplified by creating a letter template and envelope, which you can print out.
5. Boost your profile at trade shows and conferences. You can quickly create signage, glossy
postcards with your contact information and the services you specialize in.
6. Combine business with pleasure - and charity. Spearhead an event, party or conference for a
cause you care about. That puts you in the position of getting to know lots of people. It lets me
reconnect with current clients and impress potential clients.
7. Create a destination. Bookstore chain Barnes & Noble has its coffee bars. Furnishings giant
Ikea offers child-care centers and cafeterias. Why? So customers gravitate to the stores to
enjoy an experience, to hang out for a while. Sunday morning at Barnes & Noble becomes a
pleasant weekend routine, rather than a shopping errand. Steal this idea. This tip isn't limited to
offline destinations. Traditionally in the marketing world, it takes weeks or even months to
generate acceptable awareness and traffic. Be patient and don't quit
8. Become an online expert. This is the "free sample" approach to bringing in business.
Research active e-mail discussion lists and online bulletin boards that is relevant to your
business and audience. Join several and start posting expert advice to solve problems or
answer questions. You may need to keep this up for a bit. But the rewards come back in paying
clients and referrals.
9. Court local media. Editorial features convey more credibility with prospective clients than paid
advertising does. To get coverage from the local media, whether from the town newspaper, from
TV or radio stations, or from trade journals, you need a fresh, timely story. It's usually worthwhile
to hire an experienced publicist to position the stories, target appropriate media representative
and write and send press releases. Usually, you can work on a short-term or contingency basis.
10. Finally, don't let customers simply slip away. Make an effort to reel them back in. It costs a
lot less to retain a disgruntled or inactive customer than to acquire a new one. If you haven't
heard from a customer in awhile, send a personalized e-mail (you can automate this process),
inquiring whether all is well. For a customer who suffered a bad experience, pick up the phone,
acknowledging. The wheels of business revolve with such spin and speed these days that we
roll right over the courtesies. Who has time for quaint customs? More to the point, who can
afford to let competitors rush onto the new and the next while we slow down for pleasantries?
You're in for a surprise. The advice that follows, rest assured, is not some lecture about
society's loss of grace. This is about leveraging an underutilized edge in the marketplace.
Today, extending old-time courtesies helps you stand out. Yes, boys and girls, saying "thank
you" has become a competitive advantage. So few people express appreciation. Five out of
every 10 people don't always say thanks - that remembering to do so is a sales point of
difference. It also goes a long way toward relationships that can turn into opportunities.
Here are fast and affordable ways to show business gratitude, as well as tips about timing and
tactics.
Your takeaway: Don't underestimate the power of saying thanks.
1. Throw a bash that boosts their business.
In New York, TelX, an interconnection facility, invites all its vendors to an annual party to say
thanks. The event, called the "Customer Business Exchange," is held in a large hall with tables
where participants can set up demos or materials. TelX arranges for snacks and an open bar.
The party attracts about 400 telecom customers who get the opportunity to network in a
comfortable way. You can do the same like an appreciation party. Invite everyone in the
neighborhood and showcase your talent.
2. Be warm and personal.
When was the last time you wrote or received a handwritten note of thanks or even a thank-you
e-mail? Strictly in gratitude, mind you, not as prelude to asking for something else. Customers
and suppliers notice such gestures. Depending on your business, the note can vary from nofrills to fancy.
Joseph Dingle runs a boutique in New York that specializes in fashion and luxury goods. He
says thank-you notes in his industry are key to maintaining the personal relationships that
support business. But the look of the note must advance a company's professional image.
Recently, Dingle ordered custom-designed notepaper on heavy stock with a personal
monogram.
The envelopes are expensively hand-lined to color-coordinate with his business cards. "People
in the fashion and lifestyle industry apply the same standards to stationery they would to
flowers. Hand-written is imperative," he says.
3. But know that timing counts.
On the other hand, for most businesses, effective appreciation is less about cost or creativity
and more about courtesy. Getting a note or an e-mail out right away - within 48 hours of
whatever you're thanking for - is more important than drop-dead stationery.
4. Pass along compliments.
When you want to express gratitude for something that's had successful ripple effects, get the
third party to send thanks. It creates a strong incentive for your recipient to stay connected. In
Orlando, Fla., a nonprofit group called A Gift for Teaching provides free school supplies to
central Florida teachers. Over the past five years, it has given $9 million worth of supplies to 278
schools. "The only thing the organization asks of teachers is to write, or have their students
write, thank-you notes. This idea isn't limited to nonprofits. Think about testimonials that could
go out to customers from employees, vendors and more. Remember the bulk of your business
is from word of mouth.
5. Send value-added appreciation.
Whenever you come across an article or information that you think a customer or supplier might
find enlightening, clip it and send it along at the right moment. Of course, make sure these are
timely. But even if the client's already seen it, he or she will appreciate that you're supporting his
or her interests.
6. Appreciate employees.
Saying thanks to employees has several benefits. You build staff loyalty (and we all know how
much turnover can cost in time, money and stress). And you increase productivity, which leads
to customer greater satisfaction. Yet few managers or business owners bother. 10% of
employees report they have supervisors who say a daily "thank you" for a job well done. More
than half of employees (55%) said they were thanked never, seldom or only occasionally.
7. Thank your complaining customers.
Research indicates that the majority of dissatisfied customers don't bother to complain. They
simply vote with their wallets and go elsewhere. That means complaints are a valuable gift in
providing a heads-up about where to focus. "A customer who complains still wants to do
business with you, if you can make things right. So thank him or her for giving you that chance
and assure him that you want to do everything you can to make him happy again."
8. Don't go over the top.
If someone refers significant business to you or is responsible for a healthy percentage of your
revenues, it's certainly appropriate to offer thanks by way of a free service occasionally or
maybe a gift card to a nice restaurant.
9. Feel the power.
Simple or complex, e-mailed or mailed on expensive materials, saying "thank you" always
works. The only time its effectiveness fizzles is when you pretend gratitude that you don't feel.
BUY OR RENT SPACE
Sooner or later, every business has to consider whether it is better off owning or leasing office
space. From law firms to retailers to beauty salons, the decision varies. But here are some
elements that most small businesses take into account.
The cash outlay factor:
Generally, you don't need to put out as much money upfront when you lease as you do when
you buy. A quick example: A real-estate agent is looking to sell a $500,000 commercial
property. Someone leasing the space might pay around $4,000 monthly in rent. Someone
looking to buy the building would have to put about $150,000 down, and also would have had to
pay for an appraisal, building inspections, loan fees and other costs.
The fixed/variable cost factor: Buy a building and you have a good idea of what your costs are
going to be year after year, especially if you get a fixed-rate loan on the property. Lease and
you're subject to the vagaries of the market when your lease term expires. Many leases also
have a clause allowing for an annual cost increase tied to changes in the Consumer Price Index
or some other measure.
The growth factor: Buying a building that's just the right size for you now can look attractive. But
what will you do if your business and your space requirement grow over the next few years?
Outgrowing a space doesn't have to be a financial crisis. Still, growing out of a place you own
can involve more upheaval than growing out of a leased space. Sometimes a growing business
can avoid the cost and hassle of moving by simply leasing more space in the building it
occupies. That's not an option when you own a building unless you're only occupying part of it
and can terminate the lease of another tenant.
The appreciation factor: Buying a building puts you in a second business: real estate investing.
If you're in an area of appreciating land values, eventually you could sell it at a profit. But if you
own a building with more space than your business needs, you'll probably end up renting to
others, thus becoming a landlord. It can all be profitable (or a financial drain in a down market),
but what it is sure to be either way is more work than simply leasing space.
The tax factor: As usual, there are tax issues to consider. Businesses routinely can deduct the
full amount they pay in rent. Owners of rental property can write off repairs immediately, but
improvements to commercial real estate have to be deducted over 39 years. Depreciation on
commercial buildings also is taken over 39 years. That means that if you buy a commercial
property for $250,000 and the land is valued at $60,000, you can write off only slightly less than
$5,000 of the purchase price annually, regardless of the size of your down payment. You also
can deduct interest on the purchase loan, property taxes and other qualifying expenses.
Attorneys may recommend placing a commercial property inside an entity such as a limited
liability company (LLC), with the LLC then leasing space to other businesses including your
own. The reasons for, and logistics of, doing this are too complex to explore fully in this column.
The best advice is to consult with your attorney and tax professional about the legal and
financial considerations of owning investment property.
Getting more help
In general, leasing tends to appeal to business people who don't want to make the kind of large
upfront investment required with a purchase, who aren't really sure how much space they'll
ultimately need and who simply don't want to have to deal with the responsibilities of owning a
piece of commercial property. Buying is going to make more sense for businesspeople who are
more established, who want to be in one location for several years and who have the financial
resources to take on a significant real estate investment.
Some of the basics of comparing leasing to buying (trying to predict future price appreciation,
considering cash-flow issues and factoring in the cost of a down payment on something you
own versus rental payments that don't build any equity, for example) are similar to issues
involved in deciding whether to lease or buy a house
If you build it, stay with it. Put another way: If you've put in the work and created a business
budget, follow it! If you don't, you'll lose the benefits that you planned for when you built the little
monster. Get started by reminding yourself that your business budget is not a monster. It's
nothing more than a set of guidelines for your spending and saving habits. Below is a list of
some common problems that pop up with many established budgets, along with some solutions
that can help you stay within budgetary guidelines.
1. Accept the learning curve. Living with a budget is an education. Trimming your expenses,
knowing how long a paycheck is going to last or how much of a cash reserve to keep around . . .
working these skillfully will take some time. But you can learn to adjust a budget as you go, and
what was once a shot in the dark gradually will become a more predictable and useful practice.
2. Be prepared to miss your budget estimates and act accordingly. This was rule No. 1 in setting
up a budget: knowing that your budget projections are a best guess and nothing more. You're
going to miss your estimates. That doesn't make you unintelligent or a bad businessperson.
Instead, try to miss them intelligently and in ways you can correct. "For example, if you
budgeted $200 a month for long-distance phone service and your bill consistently top $250, say,
for at least three months running adjust your phone allocation up $50. By the same token if the
bill is only running an average of $150, you can trim your phone share. To keep things in line as
much as possible, try to reallocate some other area of your overall budget to account for the
adjustment.
3. Work flexibly. As with setting up a small-business budget, sticking by one often boils down to
a willingness to be flexible. For instance, if your revenue doesn't match what you expected and
there's a good chance that might be the case trim back your expenses to compensate. By the
same token, if you're taking in more than you anticipated, it might be time to invest in better
equipment.
4. Watch your cash flow. If you want to stick to a budget, make sure that your inflow more than
compensates for your outflow. Monitor your income closely to make certain that you'll have
adequate funds to pay your bills, particularly if your business is prone to long lapses between
paychecks. Even if it's just from the left pocket to the right pocket, cash-flow problems are what
kill most small businesses. Keep checking to make certain that your revenues match your
expenses."
5. Err on the side of conservative. When setting up your budget, it's a good idea to overstate
your expenses and lowball your expected revenue. That approach is also a solid strategy when
making sure your cash flow is going to hold up. Look into budget savers such as telephone
calling plans, less expensive office furniture and other ways to lessen the burden on your
income. People always feel they have to have the best computer, but money you don't spend is
money you don't have to earn."
6. Nurture a cash cushion. The uncertainty of budgeting both in terms of income as well as
expenses stands as one of the biggest threats to the survival and success of any small
business. While trimming expenses to the absolute bone is always a good idea, it's also prudent
to set aside income whenever possible. If you can afford it, earmark a portion of every paycheck
you get and sock those funds away in a money market account. Not only can that money come
in handy for predictable expenses such as year-end taxes, it also can prove an absolute
lifesaver should an unexpectedly high bill suddenly crop up. By contrast, if you're thinking about
starting a business sometime in the future, start saving - the money you set aside now ultimately
may bail you out in ways you can hardly imagine.
7. Check your budget every month. This is a point that can't stress enough. Go over your
budget every month and examine your cash flow to make certain your available funds are
sufficient to meet your liabilities. If you're following point No. 2, above, and adjusting your
budget as you go, you'll have some sort of emergency fund to take care of monthly overruns.
Use it when things cost more than you thought and put money into the contingency fund if you
come in under your expected numbers.
8. Use your budget as a form of restraint, not constraint! Setting up and sticking to a solid
budget is the most effective teacher of fiscal discipline there is. But don't be shy about busting
your budget on occasion should something truly warrant it. It's often impossible to budget for a
valuable last-minute seminar or a trip to a trade show to make valuable contacts. If you are too
rigid with your budget, you'll refuse to spend when you really should. Don't be afraid to go
beyond your budget to spend money that's a valuable investment in your business. A good
budget is great, but don't let it dictate your business.
WAYS TO IMPROVE CASH FLOW
One of the challenges of running a small business is dealing with the feast-or-famine nature.
Not just about the flow of business, but also the flow of cash into and out of the business. Here
are seven ideas for improving your small business's cash flow:
1. Bill promptly. Ever find yourself so busy building your business and making deadlines that
you don't get around to billing on a regular basis? If you don't already have a system in place,
start (or assign an employee to start) billing for projects on a regular basis. When taking on
longer-term projects or clients, negotiate in advance for regular payments instead of allowing
the amount due to build up until completion of a contract. Especially for the beauty industry, it is
best to ask for payment once service is rendered.
2. Avoid slow pay/no pay customers from the start. The best way to avoid cash-flow problems
because of customers or businesses not paying you is to weed out the no pays before they
become clients. Let it be known upfront how much a service cost. This is to make the customer
aware of the cost so that the two of you are on the same page.
3. Trim your inventory. Purchase your products whenever it's on sale and try to purchase your
products in large bulks. Whenever a new sales rep. comes into the business, be proceed with
caution. Ask for samples of the product that is being sold. Make sure this is something you
absolutely needs before spending large sums of money on a product you are not familiar with.
4. Consider consolidating your loans. I know it's often tough for small businesses to borrow
money. But I'm surprised at the number of ways entrepreneurs do manage to borrow. If you also
have several loans related to your business, review the rates and terms on each one. You may
be able to consolidate two or more loans into a lower-interest account and improve your cash
flow. If you're thinking of talking to a lender about consolidating existing loans into a new loan,
you might look at taking on a longer-term loan in exchange for lower monthly payments.
UPGRADE ON THE CHEAP
Many business people shudder when their information officer, technology consultant or office
manager suggests they need to "upgrade" their software, hardware, working space or even just
the furniture. But upgrades or improvements are a necessary element to ensure the growth and
profitability of any business. Yes, some upgrades are expensive (not to mention timeconsuming). That can be a hassle in any economy, but it's particularly difficult in dicey economic
conditions where any money spent carries a higher risk factor.
But there are strategies to upgrade your business without spending a fortune. Here are six ways
to upgrade on the cheap
1. Don't buy new. There are scads of car shoppers who happily forgo that new-car smell to save
thousands of dollars on a year-old model. Consider the same tack with your business. If you
need items such as furniture or computer systems, look into used or refurbished models. The
actual amount of "upgrade" may be indistinguishable from new and at a fraction of the cost.
2. Compensatory upgrades. When it's upgrade time, start looking for ways to trim other costs.
For instance, Keishas' firm recently introduced new telemarketing technology to further the
speed and efficiency of marks marketing efforts. Pricey unto itself, but the company trimmed
their telemarketing staff considerably. Not only were the employees unnecessary due to the new
technology, but salary reductions added up to more than the cost of the new system.
3. Upgrade by the percentages. A critical strategy to upgrading your operation with an eye to the
bottom line is to break your needs down as much as possible. Never assume that upgrading
requires a massive commitment of cash to equipment that you may not fully utilize. Instead,
determine precisely what you need to upgrade and identify ways to fill that need.
4. Upgrade your people. Not every form of upgrade takes the form of slick new workstations or
wholesale software changes. Another form of cost-effective improvement lies with your
employees specifically, the skills they bring to their varied responsibilities. Create a professional
dress code or color etc. Have meetings on customer service, how to approach the customers
and how to be friendlier.
5. Hit 'em while you're hot. Another salient strategy to upgrading on the cheap is using your
relationships and connections. Make your ongoing commitment to client satisfaction pay off
when it comes time to improve your business.
6. Cut a big check. This last bit of advice may seem to be at complete odds with the notion of
cost-conscious upgrades, but sometimes spending more means spending less in the long run.
Here, detailed long-term planning is essential to ensure that the funds you earmark now will
carry their weight down the line. For instance, computer upgrades that run 50% more than other
options may seem expensive, but the sting of that cost cools if the upgrade keeps you current
longer. When hiring, the most cost-effective upgrade might actually be the most expensive
solution. Instead of looking at the salary of a person, look at their contribution. Look at specific
examples of how a prospective employee can add to the bottom line by bringing in revenue and
cutting or saving costs. Don't just look at the compensation on the front end look at the backend contributions."
Here's something to look for the next time you visit one of your local merchants such as a
clothing store or sporting goods retailer: Check out the cash register. It may not be the old
stereotypical, paper-based cash register we see in the movies. It may instead be a personal
computer with special software known as "point-of-sale" technology. More and more retailers
are switching from electronic cash registers or outmoded paper-based systems to PC-based
solutions. Why? Because it gives them the ability to generate better revenues, increase
productivity and, in the end, have more time in their personal lives for something besides work.
'More efficient, less sweaty'
"Technology can empower small retailers, freeing them up from mundane chores such as
managing inventory and accounting systems manually. It can enable them to be a little more
creative, a lot more efficient and a lot less sweaty. In any retailing format imaginable, you have
competition coming at you - from Wal-Mart, Costco, Hair Cutterys etc. So get a handle on what
your business can do, from an efficiency and customer management standpoint. Technology
can help . . . even if you are the smallest of the small, and you do volume ordering, why not
automate it?"
Keeping Good Records
You can avoid headaches at tax time by keeping track of your receipts and other records
throughout the year. Good recordkeeping will help you remember the various transactions you
made during the year, which in turn may make filing your return a less taxing experience.
Records help you document the deductions you've claimed on your return. You'll need this
documentation should the IRS select your return for examination. Normally, tax records should
be kept for three years, but some documents such as records relating to a home purchase or
sale, stock transactions, IRA and business or rental property should be kept longer.
In most cases, the IRS does not require you to keep records in any special manner. Generally
speaking, however, you should keep any and all documents that may have an impact on your
federal tax return:
• Bills
• Credit card and other receipts
• Invoices
• Mileage logs
• Canceled, imaged or substitute checks or any other proof of payment
• Any other records to support deductions or credits you claim on your return.
Good recordkeeping throughout the year saves you time and effort at tax time when organizing
and completing your return. If you hire a paid professional to complete your return, the records
you have kept will assist the preparer in quickly and accurately completing your return.
Business recordkeeping isn't an art form. There are certain records you should keep and certain
records you should toss.
Everyone knows that recordkeeping is just part of doing business. But which records should you
keep and which ones should you toss? Throw away too much and you'll find yourself in hot
water with your accountant. On the other hand, if you keep everything you'll bury yourself
beneath a paper avalanche.
There's got to be a happy balance between the two, right?
Fortunately there is a happy balance, and knowing where that balance lies is critically important
to your company's success. Although there is no legal mandate to maintain a particular
recordkeeping system, an efficient and organized system is necessary for a variety of reasons,
not the least of which is to provide supporting documentation for income, expenses, and other
items your business is required to report to the I.R.S.
Gross Receipts
Gross receipts represent the income you bring in through your business. Records of gross
receipts are used to determine your gross income not only for tax purposes, but for your
company's financial statements as well. Records related to receipts should include information
detailing the sale amount, sale date, and buyer.
Purchases
Unless you are in an exclusively-service related industry, you'll need to keep track of the
amount you spend on items for resale including raw materials, parts, and finished products. The
amount of these purchases is deductible from your gross income, but only to the extent you are
able to prove who you bought the products from and the amount you paid.
Expenses
In most cases, expenses represent the biggest category of receipts in a small business.
Records detailing expenses dates, amounts, and payees need to be maintained for everything
from utilities to travel-related expenses.
Other
Depending on the nature of your business, there may be other areas in which you need to retain
supporting documentation. For most businesses, two big ones stand out: Employee records and
asset documentation (for calculating depreciation).
The kinds of documents you should retain vary, but typically include:
• Cash register tapes
• Deposit slips
• Invoices
• Receipt books
• Credit card charge slips
• Account statements
• Cancelled checks
• Checkbook registers
If you have any doubts about the adequacy of your company's recordkeeping system, schedule
an appointment with your tax preparer before you discard anything. Your tax preparer should be
able to tell you what you need to keep and how long you need to keep it. He also might be
willing to help you develop a coherent system so that the records can be easily accessed at tax
time.
Every year, the cosmetology industry serves hundreds of thousands of clients. That means
billions and billions of germs, viruses, and bacteria are coming along for the ride. To combat this
army of invaders, regulatory agencies and governmental departments of health require that any
business that serves the public, such as a salon, must follow certain prescribed sanitary
precautions. As a practitioner, it is your duty to ensure that your clients receive their service in
the safest possible environments. This chapter will help you understand the need for preventing
infection and will introduce you to practices that will allow to perform your work in a safe manner
that protects individual and public health.
In this chapter, we will learn the nature of various organisms, how they relate to disease, and
how their spread can be prevented in the salon and at school. Let us begin with bacteria.
Bacteria
Bacteria are one-celled microorganisms with both plant and animal characteristics. Also known
as germs or microbes, bacteria can exist almost anywhere; on the skin, in water, air, decayed
matter, secretions of body openings, on clothing, and beneath the nails.
Bacteria can only be seen with the aid of a microscope. Fifteen hundred rod-shaped bacteria
will fit comfortably on the head of a pin.
Types of Bacteria
There are hundreds of different kinds of bacteria. However, bacteria are classified into two main
types, depending on whether they are beneficial or harmful.
 Most bacteria are nonpathogenic organisms (helpful or harmless; not disease-
producing), which perform many useful functions, such as decomposing garbage and
improving soil fertility. In the human body, nonpathogenic bacteria help metabolize
food, protect against infectious microorganisms, and stimulate immune response.
Some bacteria cultures are used to produce penicillin, acidophilus yogurt, and a special
type of mile used for gastrointestinal disorders. Saprophytes, a type of nonpathogenic
bacteria, lives on dead matter.
 Pathogenic bacteria (microbes or germs) are harmful and, although in the minority,
cause disease when they invade plant or animal tissue. To this group belong the
parasites, which require living matter for their growth. It is because of pathogenic
bacteria that salons and cosmetology schools must maintain certain sanitary
standards.
Classifications of Pathogenic Bacteria
Bacteria have distinct shapes that help to identify them. Pathogenic bacteria are classified as
follows:
 Cocci are round-shaped bacteria that appear singly (alone) or in the following groups.
o Staphylococci- Pus-forming bacteria that grow in clusters like a bunch of grapes.
They cause abscesses, pustules, and boils.
o Streptococci- Pus-forming bacteria arranged in curved lines resembling a string
of beads. They cause infections such as strep throat and blood poisoning.
o Diplococcic- Spherical bacteria that grow in pairs and cause disease such as
pneumonia
 Bacilli are short, rod-shaped bacteria. They are the most common bacteria and produce
diseases such as tetanus (lockjaw), typhoid fever, tuberculosis, and diphtheria.
 Spirilla are spiral or corkscrew-shaped bacteria. They are subdivided into subgroups,
such as Treponema pallida, which causes syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease
(STD) or Borrelia burgdorferi, which causes Lyme disease.
Movement of Bacteria
Different bacteria move in different ways. Cocci rarely show active motility (self-movement).
They are transmitted in the air, in dust, or within the substance in which they settle. Bacilli and
Spirilla are both motile and use slender, hair like extensions, known as flagella or cilia, for
locomotion (moving about). A whip like motion of these hairs moves the bacteria in liquid.
Bacterial Growth and Reproduction
Bacteria generally consist of an outer cell wall and internal protoplasm. They manufacture their
own food from the surrounding environment, give off waste products, and grow and reproduce.
The life cycle of bacteria is made up of two distinct phases: the active or vegetative stage, and
the inactive or spore-forming stage.
Active or Vegetative Stage
During the active stage, bacteria grow and reproduce. These microorganisms multiply best in
warm, dark, damp, or dirty places where sufficient food is available.
When conditions are favorable, bacteria grow and reproduce. When they reach their largest
size, they divide into two new cells. This division is called mitosis. The cells that are formed are
called daughter cells. When conditions are unfavorable, bacteria die or become inactive.
Inactive or Spore-Forming Stage
Certain bacteria, such as the anthrax and tetanus bacilli, form spherical spores with tough outer
coverings during their inactive stage. The purpose is to be able to withstand periods or famine,
dryness, and unsuitable temperatures. In this stage, spores can be blown about and are not
harmed by disinfectants, heat or cold.
When favorable conditions are restored, the spores change into the active or vegetative form,
then grow and reproduce.
Bacterial Infections
An infection occurs when body tissue are invaded by disease-causing or pathogenic bacteria.
There can be no bacterial infection without the presence of pathogenic bacteria. The presence
of pus is a sign of infection. Pus is a fluid product of inflammation and contains white blood cells
and the debris of dead cells, tissue elements, and bacteria.
Staphylococci are among the most common human bacteria and are carried by about a
third of the population. Staph can be picked up on doorknobs, countertops, and other surfaces,
but is more frequently transferred through skin to skin contact, such as shaking hands or using
unclean implements. Antibiotics once controlled these bacteria, but certain strains of staph are
now resistant to the drugs. There is now a greater need than ever for proper use of infection
control measures in the cosmetology industry because of these resistance bacteria.
A local infection, such as a pimple or abscess, is one that is confined to a particular part of
the body and in indicated by a lesion containing pus. A general infection results when the
bloodstream carries the bacteria or virus and their toxins (poisons) to all parts of the body.
Syphilis is an example.
When a disease spreads from one person to another by contact, it is said to be
contagious or communicable. Some of the more common contagious diseases that will prevent
a cosmetologist from servicing a client are tuberculosis, common cold, ringworm, scabies, and
viral infections. The chief sources of contagion are unclean hands and implements, open sores,
pus, mouth and nose discharge, and shared drinking cups and towels. Uncovered coughing or
sneezing and spitting in public also spread germs.
Viruses
A virus is a submicroscopic structure capable of infesting almost all plants and animals,
including bacteria. They are so small that they can even pass through the pores of a porcelain
filter. They are common colds, and other respiratory and gastrointestinal (digestive tract)
infections. Other viruses that plague humans are:
One difference between viruses and bacteria is that a virus lives only by penetrating cells and
becoming part of them, while bacteria are organisms that can live on their own. It is for this
reason that bacterial infections can usually be treated with specific antibiotics while viruses are
hard to kill without harming the body in the process. Generally, viruses are resistant to
antibiotics. Vaccination prevents viruses from penetrating cells, by vaccinations are not
available for all viruses.
Hepatitis
Hepatitis, a disease marked by inflammation of the liver, is caused by a bloodborne virus similar
to HIV in transmission. It is more easily contracted than HIV, however, as it is present in all body
fluids. Three types of hepatitis are of concern to a cosmetologist.
1. Hepatitis A. The illness usually lasts about three weeks. Symptoms are similar to those
of the flu. Adults often have yellowing of the skin or the eyes. The disease is spread
through close household contact, such as common bathroom use; poor sanitation; poor
personal hygiene, contaminated food, milk, water, and shellfish; infected food handlers;
and sexual contact. A vaccine is available.
2. Hepatitis B Standard. This illness can cause long-term hepatitis, cirrhosis, and or liver
cancer. About half the people with the disease do not have symptoms, although the
disease can mirror the flu. The disease is primarily transferred through sexual contact
or parenteral exposure (piercing mucous membranes or skin barrier) to blood or blood
products. A vaccine is available.
3. Hepatitis C. The illness can progress slowly, and about one-third of those with the illness
do not have symptoms, though symptoms can include fatigue and stomach pain. The
disease is transferred through parenteral contact and sexual activity with infected
partners. No vaccine is available.
HIV AIDS
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired Immune
Deficiency Syndrome). AIDS, the disease, breaks down the body’s immune system. HIV is
passed from person to person through blood and other body fluids, such as semen and vaginal
secretions. A person can be infected with HIV for up to 11 years without having symptoms.
Sometimes, people who are HIV-positive have never been tested and do not know they are
infecting other people.
The HIV virus is transmitted through unprotected sexual contact, the sharing of needles by
intravenous (IV) drug users, and accidents with needles in health-care settings. It can enter the
bloodstream through cuts and sores and can be transmitted in the salon by a sharp implement.
It is not transmitted by holding hands, hugging, kissing, sharing food or household items like the
telephone, or even toilet seats. There are not documented cases of the virus being transmitted
by food handlers, insects, or casual contact.
How Pathogens enter the Body
Pathogenic bacteria or viruses can enter the body through:
 A break in the skin, such as a cut, pimple, or scratch
 The mouth (contaminated water or food)
 The nose (air)
 The eyes or ears
 Unprotected sex
The body fights infection by mean of:
 Unbroken skin, which is the body’s first line of defense
 Body secretions, such as perspiration and digestive juices
 White cells within the blood that destroy bacteria
 Antitoxins that counteract the toxins produced by bacteria and viruses
Bloodborne Pathogens
Disease-causing bacteria or viruses that are carried through body in the blood or body fluids,
such as hepatitis and HIV, are called bloodborne pathogens. If you accidentally cut a client who
is HIV-positive or is infected with hepatitis and you continue to use the implement without
cleaning and disinfecting it, you risk puncturing your skin or cutting another client with a
contaminated tool. Similarly, if you are shaving a client’s face or neck with a razor or clipper
blades and pick up body fluid from a blemish or open sore, transmission is possible. Risks are
also present when waxing and tweezing.
Parasites
Parasites are vegetable or animal organisms that live in or on another living organism and
draw their nourishment from that organism (referred to as a host). They are not capable of
sustaining their own life without a host.
Vegetable parasites or fungi, which include molds, mildews, and yeasts, can produce
contagious diseases, such as ringworm and favus, both skin diseases. Nail fungus can be
contracted through implements that have not been disinfected properly or by moisture trapped
under nail enhancements. Nail fungus is chronic and usually localized but can spread to other
nails and from client to client if implements are not disinfected before and after each client.
Treatment is generally applied directly to the affected area. In serious cases, however, a
physician’s care is required.
Animal parasites, such as head lice, are responsible for contagious diseases and conditions.
A skin disease caused by an infestation of head lice is called pediculosis capitis. Scabies is
another contagious skin disease and is caused by the itch mite, which burrows under the skin.
Contagious diseases and conditions caused by parasites should never be treated in a
cosmetology school or salon. Clients should be referred to a physician. Contaminated
countertops should be cleaned with a pesticide or insecticide according to manufacturer’s
directions.
Immunity
Immunity is the ability of the body to destroy any bacteria that have gained entrance and to
resist infection in general. Immunity against disease can be natural or acquired and is a sign of
good health. Natural immunity is party inherited and partly developed through hygienic living.
Acquired immunity is immunity that the body develops after it overcomes a disease, or through
inoculation (such as vaccination).
Principles of Prevention
There is no better way for a salon to make a good first impression than to maintain the highest
lever of cleanliness. This makes a positive statement that fills clients with confidence.
There is more to a clean salon, however, than a well-swept floor or vacuumed rugs. Proper care
must be taken to meet rigorous health standards. Otherwise, the salon could be contributing to
the spread of disease.
Controlling infection and disease is a vitally important aspect of the salon industry. Clients
depend on your to ensure their safety. One careless action could cause injury or serious illness.
Being a salon professional can be fun and rewarding, but it is also a great responsibility.
Fortunately, preventing the spread of dangerous diseases is not hard to do if you know how to
do it and, more important yet, if you practice what you know.
Decontamination
Take a look around you. What do you see? No doubt, wherever you are, you are looking at
some sort of surface. It could be a table, the wall, the floor, the doorknob, or your hand. Almost
everything presents a surface of some kind. There surfaces may seem clean to you, even
sparkling, but no matter how clean they appear to the naked eye, chances are they are
contaminated. Surfaces of tools or other objects that are not free from dirt, oils, and microbes
are covered with contaminants, which are any substances that can cause contamination. Many
things can be contaminants, such as hair left in a comb, makeup on a towel or brush, or nail
dust on a file.
Tools and other surfaces in the salon can also be contaminated with bacteria, viruses, and
fungi. Even tools that appear to be clean are usually covered with these microorganisms.
Of course, a salon can never be completely free from all contamination, and it would not make
sense to attempt such a goal. However, it is your responsibility as a salon professional to be on
constant alert for disease-causing contaminants.
The removal of pathogens and other substances from tools and surfaces is called
decontamination. Decontamination involves the use of physical or chemical means to remove,
inactivate, or destroy pathogens so that the object of decontamination: sterilization, disinfection,
and sanitation. Only disinfection and sanitation are required in the salon.
Sterilization
Sterilization is the highest level of decontamination. It completely destroys every organism on a
surface, whether beneficial or harmful. Sterilization even kills bacterial spores, the most
resistant form of life on Earth. Methods of sterilization include the steam autoclave and dry heat
(a form of extreme heat).
Sterilization is a process used by dentists and surgeons, whose tools are designed to break and
penetrate the skin barrier. Estheticians also use needles and probes that lance the skin, so they
must follow the same sterilization procedures. Presterilized disposable lancets or needles are a
simpler solution to the issue of sterilization.
The word “sterilize” is often used incorrectly. For example, some practitioners tell clients that
they are “sterilizing the nail plate or skin.” This is impossible. Sterilizing the skin would quickly
kill it and would destroy the nail plate as well. We can only sterilize surfaces that are not porous
(having pores or openings that permit liquids or gases to pass through). Metal implements are
nonporous and can be sterilized, but wood surfaces, which are porous, cannot. It short,
sterilization is impractical and unnecessary in salons.
Disinfection
Disinfection is a higher level of decontamination than sanitation. It is second only to sterilization.
Disinfection controls microorganisms on hard, nonporous surfaces such as cuticle nippers and
other salon implements.
Disinfectant provides the level of protection required by the salon to kill most organisms, with
one exception. Disinfection does not kill bacterial spores, but this is not necessary in the salon
environment. It is important only in hospitals and other health-care facilities where instruments
are used to penetrate or cut the skin. Lancets and other metal implements used in advanced
facial treatments should be sterilized, or disposable implements should be used.
Disinfectants are chemical agents used to destroy most bacteria and some viruses and to
disinfect implements and surfaces. Disinfectants are not for use on human skin, hair, or nails.
Never use disinfectants as hand cleaners. Any substance powerful enough to quickly and
efficiently destroy pathogens can also damage skin.
Read Carefully Before Using
Manufacturers take great care to develop safe and highly effective systems. However, just
because something is safe does not mean that is cannot be dangerous if used improperly. Any
professional salon product can be dangerous if used improperly. Like all tools, disinfectants
must always be used in strict accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
All disinfectants must be approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and each
individual state. The disinfectant’s label must also have an EPA registration number. Look for
this number when choosing a disinfectant. It is the only way to ensure that the EPA has the
necessary test data on file and that the product has been proven effective against certain
organisms. The product label will also tell you exactly which organisms the disinfectant has
been tested for, such as HIV-1 or the Hepatitis B virus. The law requires testing for specific
organisms, or it should not appear on the label.
Besides the EPA registration number, federal law requires manufacturers to provide you with
important information in the form of a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), along with other
important information, such as directions for proper use, safety precautions, and a list of active
ingredients. The MSDS provides all pertinent information on products, ranging from content and
associated hazards to combustion levels and storage requirements. These sheets should be
available for every product used in the cosmetology school or salon, and may be obtained from
the product’s distributor and/or manufacturer. Operating without an MSDS poses a health risk to
anyone in a salon who comes into contact with hazardous materials.
Take the time to read all of this vital information. Only then will you be certain that you are
protecting yourself and your clients to the best of your ability.
OSHA
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) was created as part of the U.S.
Department of Labor to regulate and enforce safety and health standards in the workplace.
Regulating employee exposure to toxic substances and informing employees about the dangers
of materials used in the workplace are key points of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of
1970. This act established the Hazard Communication Rule, which requires that chemical
manufacturers and importers assess the hazards associated with their products. Material Safety
Data Sheets and product labeling are two important results of this law.
The standards set by OSHA are particularly relevant to the cosmetology industry because of the
nature of the chemicals used. Issues having to do with the mixing, storing, and disposal of
chemicals; the general safety of the workplace; and, most important, the right of the
cosmetologist to know what is contained in the products she uses all are regulated by OSHA
standards.
Choosing a Disinfectant
Disinfectants are chemicals. To use a disinfectant properly, you must read and follow the
manufacturer’s instructions. Such variables as mixing precautions and exposure times demand
particular attention. The product label will explain what the disinfectant has been tested for. To
meet salon requirements, a disinfectant must have the correct efficacy (effectiveness) to be
used against bacteria, fungi, and viruses. A disinfectant that is “Formulated for Hospitals and
Health Care Facilities,” or a “Hospital Disinfectant,” must be pseudomonacidal, in addition to
being bactericidal, fungicidal, and virucidal. If a disinfectant has been tested for additional
organisms such as HIV-1, it will be stated on the label. Check for the label number and efficacy
standard on the label.
For bloodborne pathogens, OSHA issued a policy in 1997 stating that, in order to comply with
OSHA’s Bloodborne Pathogens Standard, the use of an EPS-registered tuberculocidal
disinfectant or an EPA-registered disinfectant labeled effective against HIV and HBV is required.
For this reason, when salon implements accidentally come into contact with blood or body
fluids, they should be cleaned and completely immersed in an EPA-registered disinfectant that
kills HIV-1 and Hepatitis B virus, or in a tuberculocidal disinfectant. The National Interstate
Council of State Cosmetology Boards (NICS) follows this standard for examinations as well.
Proper Use of Disinfectants
Any item that is used on a client must be disinfected or discarded after each use. Items that do
not have the capacity to be disinfected, such as orange-wood sticks, must be discarded.
Combs, brushes, scissors, razors, clipper blades, nippers, electrodes, and other commonly
used, nonporous tools must be disinfected.
Ever the best disinfectants will not work well if mixed or used incorrectly. All implements should
be thoroughly cleaned before soaking to avoid contaminating the disinfecting solution. Besides,
a dirty jar of disinfectant would not fill your clients with confidence. Implements must be
completely submerged for proper disinfection.
Ultrasonic cleaners use high-frequency sound waves to create powerful, cleansing bubbles in
the liquid. The cleansing action is an effective way to clean tiny crevices that are impossible to
reach with a brush. Without an effective disinfectant solution, however, these devices only
sanitize implements.
Ultrasonic cleaners are a useful addition to your disinfection process, but are not required. Many
systems disinfect with great effectiveness without relying on such devices. However, some
salons feel that this added cleansing benefit is well worth the extra expense. It also saves time
by eliminating cleaning by hand.
Types of Disinfectants
There are a variety of disinfectants that the salon can choose from.
Quats
Quaternary ammonium compounds, commonly called quats, are a type of disinfectant
considered non-toxic, odorless, and fast-acting. Older formulas were not very effective but the
newer products, called dual quat formulas, and are dramatically more effective.
Most quat solutions disinfect implements in 10 to 15 minutes. Leaving some tools in the solution
for too long may damage them. Keep in mind that long-term exposure to any water solution or
disinfectant may damage fine steel. With today’s modern formulas, however, corrosion of metal
surfaces can be easily avoided, especially if you keep implements separated while disinfecting.
Metal implements such as scissors and nail clippers should be oiled regularly to keep them in
perfect working order.
Quats are also very effective for cleaning tables and countertops.
Phenols
Like quats, phenolic disinfectants, or phenols, have been used reliably over the years to
disinfect implements. Phenol is a caustic poison, but it can be safe and extremely effective if
used according to instructions. One disadvantage is that most rubber and plastic materials may
be softened or discolored by phenols. Phenols in 5 percent solution are used mostly for metal
implements.
Extra care should be taken to avoid skin contact with phenols. Phenolic disinfectants can cause
skin irritation, and concentrated phenols can seriously burn the skin and eyes. Some are
poisonous if accidentally ingested.
Alcohol and Bleach
The word alcohol is often misunderstood. There are many chemical compounds that may be
classified as alcohol. The three most widely used are methyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, and
isopropyl alcohol.
In the salon, ethyl and isopropyl alcohol are sometimes used to disinfect implements. To be
effective, the strength of ethyl alcohol must be no less than 70 percent, and the strength of
isopropyl alcohol must be 99 percent. Since alcohol is not an EPA-registered disinfectant, it is
not permitted for use with implements in states requiring hospital disinfection. This means it is
not legal to use alcohol as a disinfectant in most states.
There are many disadvantages to using alcohols. They are extremely flammable, evaporate
quickly, and are slow-acting and less effective when compared to other recommended
disinfectants. Alcohols corrode tools and cause sharp edges to become dull. They also discolor
and damage the surface of floors and countertops. The vapors formed on evaporation can
cause headaches and nausea when inhaled in high concentrations or after prolonged exposure.
Household bleach is an effective disinfectant, but shares some of the same drawbacks as
alcohols. Neither bleach nor alcohols are professionally designed and tested for disinfection of
salon implements. Bleach and alcohol may have been used extensively in the past, but have
since been replaced by more advanced and effective technologies. Bleach is, however, a very
effective laundering additive.
Although quats are perfectly suitable for cleaning any surface (unless otherwise specified in the
manufacturer’s directions), you may wish to clean floors, bathrooms, sinks, and waste
receptacles with a commercial cleaner such as Lysol or Pine-Sol. Both are very effective
disinfectants, but should not be used on salon implements. They are general “household level”
disinfectants and are not designed for professional tools.
Disinfectant Safety
Disinfectants are powerful, professional-strength tools that can be hazardous if used incorrectly.
Disinfectants can be poisonous if ingested and can cause serious skin and eye damage,
especially in a concentrated form. A good rule to remember is use caution! In addition, you
should:
 Always wear gloves and safety glasses when mixing chemicals with water
 Always add disinfectants away from children
 Never pour quats, phenols, formalin, alcohol, or any other disinfectants over your hands.
This hazardous practice can cause skin irritation and increase the chance of infection.
Wash your hands with soap and warm water and dry them thoroughly.
 Carefully weigh and measure all products to ensure that they perform at their peak
efficiency.
 Never place any disinfectant or other product in an unmarked container. Disinfectants
come in different forms such as ready-to-use sprays (for surface cleaning), liquid
concentrate, and powders. Some disinfectants appear clear while others are a little
cloudy.
 Always follow manufacturer's recommendations for mixing and using, and check the
efficacy to make sure you are using the right disinfectant
 Avoid overexposure. Disinfectants are chemicals, and overuse is detrimental to the
environment.
Jars and containers used to disinfect implements are often incorrectly called wet sanitizers. Of
course, the purpose of these containers is not to sanitize but to disinfect. The disinfecting soak
solution must be changed daily and kept free from debris unless otherwise directed by the
manufacturer’s instructions. Strict adherence to the principals of good hygiene and disinfection
must be maintained.
Disinfection Procedures
Always disinfect your tools or other implements according to the guidelines listed for EPA wet
disinfectants. This means complete immersion for the required amount of time. The following
are guidelines for specific salon materials.
Disinfecting Implements
Most tools and implements can be disinfected. These include combs, brushes, rollers, picks,
styling tools, scissors, tweezers, nail clippers, and some nail files.
1. Pre-clean to remove hair, filings, and other such loose matter by scrubbing with soap
and water
2. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean towel
3. Put on gloves, goggles, or safety glasses
4. Mix disinfectant according to manufacturer's directions, always adding disinfectant to the
water
5. Using gloves or tongs completely immerse implements or tools and leave for the
required amount of time, as per manufacturer's instructions.
6. Remove implements with tongs, basket, or gloves so as not to contaminate the
disinfectant
7. Rinse thoroughly and dry
8. Place disinfected implements in a clean, closed, dry, disinfected container
Disinfecting Linens and Capes
All linens should be used once and then laundered with bleach according to label directions.
Capes or drapes that come into contact with a client’s skin should be laundered in the same
matter.
Disinfecting Electrical Equipment
The contact points of equipment that cannot be immersed in liquid, such as hair clippers,
electrotherapy tools, and nail drills, should be wiped or sprayed with an EPA-registered,
hospital-grade disinfectant created especially for electrical equipment. Electrical equipment
must be kept in good repair.
Disinfecting Work Surfaces
Before and after each client, an EPA-registered, hospital-grade disinfectant should be used on
the work surface (manicure table, workstation, esthetic bed, and the like). The disinfectant
should be left on the surface the full amount of time prescribed by the manufacturer’s directions.
Remember to disinfect all surfaces. This includes doorknobs, handles, and so on.
The shampoo bowl should be cleaned and the drain cleared of all hair after each client. The
neck of the bowl should be disinfected the same as other work surfaces.
Disinfecting Whirlpool Pedicure Foot Spas
When using whirlpool pedicure foot spas, you must follow proper disinfection procedures to
ensure proper maintenance of the equipment and to prevent the spread of bacterial or parasitic
disease. Take time to carefully read the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions and ask your
manufacturer and /or distributor for a demonstration as well. Improperly disinfected equipment
can harbor bacteria that may spread disease or infection to clients, cosmetologists, or nail
technicians who come into contact with it.
Blood Spill Disinfection
Blood spills occur when you or a client are accidentally cut with a sharp instrument. If a blood
spill should occur during a procedure, proper steps must be taken for the safety of both people.
1. If a cut is sustained, stop the service and clean the injured area
2. Use a finger guard or gloves as appropriate
3. Apply antiseptic and/or liquid or spray styptic without contaminating the container
4. Apply antiseptic and/or liquid or spray styptic without contaminating the container
5. Cover the injury with a Band-aid or other appropriate dressing
6. Clean client and workstation as necessary
7. Discard all disposable contaminated objects such as wipes or cotton balls by doublebagging (place the waste in a plastic bag and then in a trash bag). Use a biohazard
sticker (red or orange) or a container for contaminated waste. Deposit sharp
disposables in a sharps box.
8. Remove your gloves. Wash your hands with soap and warm water before returning to
service.
9. All tools and implements that have come into contact with blood or body fluids must be
disinfected by complete immersion in a EPA-registered, hospital-grade disinfectant that
kills HIV-1 and Hepatitis B Virus or in a tuberculocidal disinfectant. Be sure to mix and
use the disinfectant according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Because blood can carry many pathogens, you should never touch a client’s open sore or
wound.
OHIO LAWS AND RULES
Chapter 4713-1 Administration
4713-1-01 Definition of board of cosmetology.
(A) "The board of cosmetology," hereinafter referred to as the "Board" means those members
appointed by the governor of the state in accordance with Chapter 4713. of the Revised Code
who are vested with both statutory and discretionary authority.
(B) "One year," for purposes of computing work experience is equal to two-thousand hours of
employment.
(C) "Inspector" means all authorized agents of the "Board" who have the authority to enter and
make reasonable inspections of any facility during their regular hours of business for the
purpose of determining compliance with the "Board's" rules governing the facility. The inspector
shall prepare a written report of the inspection on forms provided by the "Board". The report
shall be signed by the inspector and by the facility owner or their designated representative. A
copy of the inspection report shall be left with the owner or manager.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(19)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.01
Prior Effective Dates: 9/5/77, 12/17/89, 1/26/97
4713-1-02 Appointing authority.
The administrative agency concerned with the practice of cosmetology shall be headed by the
executive director of the "Board". The executive director shall operate as the chief administrator
of the "Board's" daily transactions of an administrative nature in accordance with all rules
established by the "Board" for the governing of the "Board" and the implementation or
enforcement of rules and orders of the "Board".
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(19)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.06
Prior Effective Dates: 1/18/85, 12/17/89, 2/24/91, 1/26/97
4713-1-03 Application of rules.
All rules promulgated under agency level 4713 of the Administrative Code shall apply to all
types of licensed cosmetology facilities and licensees unless otherwise specified. Out-of-state
licenses are not valid in this state.
All cosmetologists must be licensed by the state of Ohio.
(A) All cosmetologists licensed in the state of Ohio must inform the board of cosmetology of any
change in personal or professional status that would affect their ability to receive official
correspondence related to their license.
(1) Notice of a change in status would include marriage, divorce, or official change in name
which would affect their license.
(2) Students in a licensed school of cosmetology who incur a name change during the period of
training need not provide such notice until at the time of application for the state exam and/or
license. Official documentation of the type of change and effective date of the change must be
provided with the exam or license application.
(B) Notice of a change in status of legal business ownership (formation or dissolution of
partnership, incorporation of business, or name change of business) should be made to the
board as soon as possible.
(C) Notice of a change in personal or business address must be provided to the board within
thirty days of the actual address change. Advanced notice of address change is encouraged.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(1)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.20, 4713.28, 4713.30, 4713.31, 4713.39, 4713.44, 4713.48, 4713.58
Prior Effective Dates: 1/26/97, 8/1/99
4713-1-04 Public hearings.
(A) The procedure of the "Board" for giving public notice for the adoption, amendment, or
rescission of its rules shall be pursuant to section 119.03 of the Revised Code. The "Board"
shall provide a copy of a notice to any person who requests a copy in writing and who pays a
reasonable fee, not to exceed the cost of copying and mailing.
(B) The "Board" shall give public notice at least thirty days prior to the date set for the public
hearing by publication in the register of Ohio Such notice shall include:
(1) A statement of the "Board's" intention to consider the adoption, amendment, or rescission of
a rule;
(2) A synopsis of the proposed rule, amendment, or rule to be rescinded or a general statement
of the subject matter to which the proposed rule, amendment, or rescission relates;
(3) A statement of the reason or purpose for adopting, amending, or rescinding the rule;
(4) The date, time and place of the hearing on the proposed action.
(C) The "Board" shall furnish the public notice required under section 119.03 of the Revised
Code and as described in paragraph (A) of this rule to any person who requests a copy of such
notice in writing and who pays a reasonable fee, not to exceed the cost of copying and mailing.
(D) Prior to the effective date of the rule, amendment, or rescission, the "Board" shall make a
reasonable effort to inform those affected by the rule, amendment, or rescission and to have
available for distribution to those requesting it the full text of the rule as adopted, amended, or
rescinded.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)((19)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.08
Prior Effective Dates: 1/18/85, 12/17/89, 8/1/99, 1/17/02
4713-1-05 Sunshine rule.
(A) A notice of each regular or special meeting of the "Board" shall be filed forthwith by the
chairman of the "Board" with the executive director to the "Board", stating the time, place, and
purpose of each regular or special meeting of the "Board". Any person may determine or obtain
such information at the "Ohio State Board of Cosmetology, 1929 Gateway Circle, Grove City,
Ohio 43123," as provided in paragraph (B) of this rule or by telephoning (614) 466-3834.
(B) Any person may obtain a reasonable advance written notification of all meetings of the
"Board" at which any specific type of public business is to be discussed, or may request
notification by annually providing the executive director with self-addressed stamped envelopes
suitable for this purpose.
Effective: 08/11/2008
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/20/2008 and 08/11/2013
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(19)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.03
Prior Effective Dates: 1/18/85, 12/17/98, 2/24/91, 1/26/97
4713-1-06 Sale or transfer of license.
Any sale or any other type of transfer of any salon or school license is subject to the prior
approval of the "Board". The "Board" may deny any such sale or transfer if the "Board" finds that
any outstanding alleged violation exists, any fine if unpaid, or suspension time has not been
served.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(1), 4713.08(A)(19)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.41, 4713.44, 4713.64
Prior Effective Dates: 9/5/77, 12/17/89, 2/24/91, 1/26/97
4713-1-07 Prohibited acts.
(A) The "Board" may refuse to issue or refuse to renew, or may fine, suspend and/or revoke any
license for any one or more of the following causes:
(1) Violation of any of the requirements for application of a license;
(2) Conviction of a felony or misdemeanor which was performed in the licensed facility, or was
otherwise related to their license;
(3) Immoral or unprofessional conduct;
(4) Gross incompetence;
(5) Advertising by means of false or deceptive statements;
(6) Obtaining a license or aiding or abetting one who is seeking a license through fraud or
deception;
(7) Obtaining money, or anything of value, by fraudulent misrepresentation in the course of
practice;
(8) Violation of any rule of the "Board";
(9) Failure to meet the industry's minimum standards of care;
(10) Failure to meet any of the requirements of licensure.
(11) Failure of a person to assist a "Board" inspector or interfere with a "Board" inspector in
identification of any individual believed by the inspector to be working in a salon.
(B) A license shall not be issued to a salon or school which is attempting to sell, transfer, or
otherwise change ownership, if such is being attempted in order to circumvent compliance with
these rules or to avoid any penalty imposed by the "Board".
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(1)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.14, 4713.41, 4713.44
Prior Effective Dates: 12/17/89, 1/26/97, 1/17/02
4713-1-08 Chemicals, equipment and service approval.
All chemicals, and any equipment used in providing any cosmetology service, used in any type
of licensed salon or school, are subject to the approval of the "Board" to ensure the health and
safety of licensees and patrons.
Effective: 09/28/2008
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 07/14/2008 and 09/28/2013
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(1)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.35, 4713.41
Prior Effective Dates: 1/26/97
4713-1-10 Public forum.
The "Board" will regularly communicate to the licensees and public that all monthly "Board"
meetings are public meetings and they may request the opportunity to speak on any issue of
concern to them. The "Board" will communicate this information primarily through the "Board"
web page and the monthly Ohio Stylist and Salon Publication.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(19)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.03
Prior Effective Dates: 4/1/01, 1/10/04
Chapter 4713-3 Schools
4713-3-01 Opening school package.
An opening school package shall be submitted at least forty five days prior to the opening of the
school. The applicant must complete the application package on forms provided by the "Board"
and include the following.
(A) Names and addresses of all owners, shareholders, partners, limited liability companies
(LLC) and/or directors with a five percent share or larger of the business. If any of the owners,
shareholders, partners, limited liability companies and/or directors is corporately owned the
names and addresses must include the real peoples' names through each layer of ownership.
No owner or shareholder shall have a felony conviction.
(B) A floor plan that meets the requirements of rule 4713-3-02 of the Administrative Code.
(C) A proposed school calendar with schedule of classes both clinic and non-clinic for the first
year.
(D) A list of all equipment.
(E) A list of reference materials available to the students.
(F) A copy of the school's course outline, syllabus and a sample of lesson plans for each
program or branch of cosmetology to be taught at the school. A complete copy of all lessons
plans shall be available at the school at all times.
(G) Each school shall submit to the "Board" and maintain on file a copy of a "Board" provided
form for each instructor and administrator. Opening schools shall provide this information within
fourteen days of projected opening date and at least seven days prior to meeting with the
"Board" as required by rule 4713-3-07 of the Administrative Code. Schools shall employ
sufficient instructors to cover all programs scheduled or being taught.
(H) A copy of all types of proposed advertisements for "Board" approval prior to the release of
the advertisements. All advertising for schools offering only single subject programs identified in
rule 4713-3-05 of the Administrative Code shall identify scope of the program in all printed
material including signage, catalogs, newspaper ads, radio & television ads, and all other forms
of public and private advertising. The "Board" will only review for proper identification of services
being provided by students and that it is a school of cosmetology.
(I) Copies of the school's contracts, catalogue, policies of the school, refund policies,
assessments used for transfer of students, rules for governing students, monthly reports, and
time sheets for students' daily records in accordance with division (E) of section 4713.44 of the
Revised Code.
(J) A statement of financial responsibility demonstrating a financial worth sufficient to establish a
school and ensure the proper teaching of at least twenty five students. This financial statement
shall be prepared and reviewed by a certified public accountant. This shall be filed with a
financial operating plan for the first fiscal year's operation. This financial responsibility statement
is not required of a vocational program conducted by a city, exempt village, local or joint
vocational school district.
(1) The new school can demonstrate a financial worth sufficient in one of the following three
ways. Provide to the "Board" a bond for $35,000, a letter of credit for $35,000 or a "letter of
representation" from a certified public accountant that the new school has assets above
liabilities of at least $35,000.
(2) The new school can provide documents above for a lesser amount if their financial plan for
the school shows the school will require less funding during the first year including at a minimum
rent, salaries, etc.
(3) The financial requirements of this rule are required for the first two years of the school's
existence. If the school is in good standing with the "Board" after two years the requirement is
ended.
(K) A letter from a bonding company certifying that the statutory bonding requirements of
division (H) of section 4713.44 of the Revised Code shall be met upon approval and licensure of
the school by the "Board". Provide the actual bond at final inspection or prior. If a bond is
obtained to meet the requirements of paragraph (J)(1) of this rule that bond shall meet this
requirement as well.
(L) A certification from the state department of industrial relations or local building inspection
authority approving the plumbing and a copy of the final occupancy permit for the building (may
be provided at final inspection).
(M) A final inspection report from the "Board" verifying the statements made by the applicants in
their opening school package and ensuring compliance with all applicable statutes and rules.
(N) Compliance with this rule is a continuing requirement of the school and upon request by the
"Board" a school shall provide satisfactory proof of continuous compliance with this rule.
(O) Certification that no non-cosmetology services or business activity shall be conducted in the
school facility.
(P) All schools shall maintain the information required in the opening school package current
and available on site for review by inspectors at all time, except the financial information, which
shall be made available to "Board" staff upon request of the executive director during the first
two years of operation. The school can meet this requirement by having the information readily
available to the public on its web site and referenced in its publications provided to students.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
4713-3-02 Floor plan requirements for schools.
(A) The applicant, for an opening school shall file with the "Board" a floor plan. All submitted
floor plans must meet with the approval of the "Board" based upon factors such as: health,
safety, sanitation, and sufficiency of equipment. A submission for a newly licensed building for a
school of cosmetology must include a drawing by an architect to include their seal on the
drawing or blueprint.
(B) An existing school desiring to alter their floor plan may amend a copy of the plan on file with
the "Board", so it would be reasonably to scale, unless building regulation require a new plan, in
which case they shall file a drawing by an architect to include their seal on the drawing or
blueprint.
(C) On an existing building previously licensed as a school of cosmetology but not currently
active an "existing conditions" drawing must be submitted with an architects seal imprinted on
the drawing.
(D) On a change of ownership where no significant structural or plumbing changes and the
existing floor plan in the school's file is accurate no additional floor plan is required.
(E) Minimum square footage for cosmetology schools are defined by type of school.
(1) Every full cosmetology school shall have at least three thousand square feet of contiguous
floor space. Such minimum floor space shall be comprised of the school's office, student locker
area, bathrooms, reception room, classrooms, facial room, practice/demonstration room, clinic
and dispensary.
(2) Every esthetic only school shall have at least two thousand five hundred square feet of
contiguous floor space. Such minimum floor space shall be comprised of the school's office,
student locker area, bathrooms, reception room, classrooms, practice/ demonstration room,
clinic with appropriate facial rooms and dispensary.
(3) Every manicuring only school shall have at least two thousand square feet of contiguous
floor space. Such minimum floor space shall be comprised of the school's office, student locker
area, bathrooms, reception room, classrooms, practice/ demonstration room, clinic and
dispensary.
(4) Every hair design only school shall have at least two thousand five hundred square feet of
contiguous floor space. Such minimum floor space shall be comprised of the school's office,
student locker area, bathrooms, reception room, classrooms, practice/ demonstration room,
clinic and dispensary.
(5) Every natural hair styling only school shall have at least two thousand square feet of
contiguous floor space. Such minimum floor space shall be comprised of the school's office,
student locker area, bathrooms, reception room, classrooms, practice/ demonstration room,
clinic and dispensary.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
4713-3-03 School layout.
(A) Every school shall be well lighted, well ventilated, able to maintain suitable room
temperature, and kept in an orderly and sanitary condition. The HVAC system shall be certified
to meet state building code for the use of the space as a school under rule 4101:2-39-03 of the
Administrative Code (table 403.3).
(B) Every school shall maintain a practice/demonstration room, as well as a clinic except in
public schools in which there is a separation of freshman, sophomore, junior and senior
students, as defined by the school system, the clinic and the practice room need not be
maintained as separate rooms.
(C) The following clinic requirements shall be met:
(1) The clinic shall contain stations for instruction of students and shall for school's offering
cosmetology, hair design or natural hair styling programs be equipped with two shampoo bowls
per fifteen students in attendance at each session.
(2) The clinic rooms shall not be partitioned into booths; however, the clinic shall be separated
from the practice/demonstration room by at least eight foot high partitions
(3) Every school offering cosmetology, hair design or natural hair styling programs shall have
one clinic station for every two students in attendance at each clinic session. Such clinic stations
shall be equipped with mirrors, adjustable height chairs, and accommodations for student's
equipment and supplies for clinic practice.
(4) Esthetic and manicuring schools shall have at least one clinic station for each two students
equipped with appropriate tables, chairs and accommodations for student's supplies and
equipment.
(D) The practice room shall contain practice stations and for school's offering cosmetology, hair
design or natural hair styling programs equipped with at least one shampoo bowl per fifteen
students. Esthetic and nail only school shall have at least one sink in the practice room.
(E) The school has the option of meeting the shampoo bowl requirements of this rule by
establishing a shampoo area separate from both clinic and practice rooms. The shampoo area
shall meet the number of shampoo bowls per student ratios and shall be accessible from both
the clinic and practice room without going through the other room.
(F) Facial rooms have the following requirements:
(1) Every school offering cosmetology or esthetics shall have a separate facial room, which is
properly equipped to provide a complete facial service including a sink with hot and cold water.
(2) The facial room shall be separated from other rooms by partitions sufficient to provide client
privacy.
(3) Esthetic schools shall have at least one facial, waxing or make-up room or station similarly
equipped for each three students assigned to the practice room and/or clinic.
(4) Additional facial rooms in full cosmetology course schools may have a sink with hot and cold
running water in the room or a sink outside the room shall be within forty feet. Cosmetology
schools or esthetic only schools may divide the clinic into facial rooms that meet the privacy
concerns of their service clients. These divisions may be partitions that are ceiling mounted
movable curtains similar to hospital curtains or other flexible dividers. Each such facial room
shall be within forty feet of a sink with hot and cold running water.
(G) Every school shall have a dispensary convenient to the other school rooms, which shall be
used for the storing and dispensing of supplies and the sanitizing of instruments. The
dispensary area shall be a minimum of twenty-four square feet and equipped with a sink with
hot and cold running water, wet sanitizers, and waste containers. Every school shall have
closed cabinets for clean towels and containers for used towels. Every school shall maintain
sufficient supplies for teaching purposes. In addition to the designated dispensary area a school
may have an additional area, authorized for the primary purpose of sanitizing instruments.
(H) Every school shall maintain separate and clean toilet facilities for both men and women,
equipped with a water closet and hand washing facilities, including hot and cold running water.
The facilities shall be kept clean, sanitary and functional.
(I) Every school shall provide locker facilities or other secured enclosures for temporary storage
of personal effects for every student attending the school for the safekeeping of their personal
belongings. A minimum of one locker or other secured enclosure for every two students shall be
provided.
(J) Every school shall have an office, which shall contain at least one metal filing cabinet for the
safekeeping of its students' daily attendance records, permanent training records, and state
"Board" forms. Every school must keep, and make available for inspection its time sheets,
school monthly records, and state "Board" forms. Each school shall keep records of its students
for a period of five years from the date of enrollment, except those students who have
completed their appropriate hours of training and have forwarded their applications for licensure
to the "Board".
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
4713-3-04 Additional campus facilities.
(A) An additional campus facility is a supplemental training space located within two miles of the
original facility of the licensed school. Its purpose is to allow the licensed school to provide
adequate space to train students. A school is responsible and accountable to the "Board" for its
additional campus facilities. If the ownership or address of the original school changes,
licensure does not automatically continue for the additional facility. An additional campus facility
must bear the same name as the original licensed school and its advertising sign must indicate
its status as an additional location of the school. These facilities shall only be approved for
theory and/or practice rooms and must meet school layout rule 4713-3-03 of the Administrative
Code. No clinic services shall be provided in additional facilities.
(B) Approval procedure: A school seeking to have an additional facility approved as part of the
main school must formally notify the "Board" in writing of such a request thirty days prior to the
start of classes in the facility. The notice must include a statement of the distance between the
main campus facility and the new additional facility along with an AAA map, Internet mapping or
other verification of same.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
4713-3-05 Signs and advertisements.
(A) The following sign requirements shall be met:
(1) The entrances to rooms shall be suitably marked with a sign reading "Practice room" and
"Clinic" or words to that effect.
(2) Every school shall maintain a sign using at least three inch tall letters, at the entrance to the
school, which reads "School of Cosmetology" or words to that effect. If a school offers only a
limited branch(es) of cosmetology the sign shall include, in the same size letters, the words
"Nails Only", "Esthetics only", "Hair Design only" or "Natural Hair Styling only" or the appropriate
words to that effect
(3) Every school shall have a sign clearly visible in the clinic and at the main entrance, which
reads "All Services Performed By Students" or words to that effect.
(4) Every school shall prominently display a sign in the room used for instructional purposes,
which reads "Student Work Only" or words to that effect.
(5) The "Board's" sanitary rules shall be posted in all clinics and classrooms.
(B) The following advertising requirements shall be met:
(1) School advertisements shall not contain statements calculated to represent the services
performed in the school clinic as comparable, in quality, to professional services available in
licensed beauty salons.
(2) New schools shall not advertise in the media until preliminary approval of their application is
complete including all items of the opening school package except names of instructors and
final building occupancy. Preliminary approval will not be granted more than sixty days prior to
expected construction completion date assuming Board staff is convinced that that date is
realistic. "Opening soon" signs and all advertisements prior to issuance of a license shall include
the statement: "No students shall enroll or sign a contract until the school's license has been
approved."
(3) Clinic service advertisements must clearly reflect that "all services are performed by
students" or words to that effect.
(4) Upon the request of the "Board", a school must promptly furnish the "Board" with a copy of
any advertisement or solicitation.
(5) No cosmetology program shall be established, offered, or given for a charge, fee, or other
contribution; no certificate, diploma, degree, or other written evidence of proficiency or
achievement shall be offered whether in a specified place, by correspondence, or any other
means of communication, or awarded; and no student enrollment solicited in any cosmetology
program through advertising, agents, mail circulars, or other means, until the person planning to
offer or offering such programs has obtained a school license per section 4713.44 of the
Revised Code.
(6) Any advertisement or piece of promotional literature written or used by a school holding a
license with the board must carry the name and address as listed on its license.
(7) No school or its agents shall advertise or imply that the school is "recommended" or
"endorsed" by the board. If reference is made to the license issued by the board, this official
reference shall only read, " Licensed by the Ohio State Board of Cosmetology." All schools
advertising that they are accredited or offer grants from the United States department of
education (USDOE) shall follow the accrediting agency and/or USDOE laws and rules as to
advertisements.
(8) Any advertisement or piece of promotional literature written or used by a private school
including photographs, cuts, engravings, or illustrations in bulletins, sales literature, or otherwise
must be completely truthful and must be prepared and presented in such a manner as to avoid
leaving any false or misleading impressions with respect to the school, its personnel, its courses
and services, or the occupational opportunities for its graduates.
(9) Career technical schools may advertise to the students of its school or its feeder schools per
Ohio department of education rules and regulations.
(10) A guarantee of graduation for students or of placement for graduates shall not be promised
or implied by any school, agent, or representative thereof. No school in its advertising or through
its representatives or agents shall guarantee or imply the guarantee of employment before
enrollment, during the pursuance of the course, or after the course is completed. No school
shall guarantee any certain wage, or imply earnings greater than can be documented.
(11) No owner, partner, officer, employee, agent, or other person acting on behalf of any school
shall make any fraudulent statement, misrepresentation, or misleading statement of fact.
(12) Private schools using classified columns of newspapers or other publications to procure
students must use only such as are headed by "education," "schools," "instruction." "Help
wanted," "employment," or "business opportunities," classifications may be used only to procure
employees or agents for the school.
(13) All schools that advertise that they are endorsed by any business establishment,
manufacturer, organization or individual engaged in the cosmetology field shall maintain written
evidence of that fact on site at the school dated prior to any advertisements.
(14) Schools shall not solicit any student who is currently enrolled in another Ohio licensed
cosmetology school.
HISTORY: Eff 5-1-03; 8-1-04
Rule promulgated under: RC 119.03
Rule authorized by: RC 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule amplifies: RC 4713.44, 4713.45
Replaces: 4713-3-08
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
4713-3-06 Training records and student review.
A complete training record for each student, or as a minimum, a withdrawal or transfer form,
which shows the number of hours or credits completed and passed in each major subject area
shall be kept by the school for a minimum of five years from the date of enrollment or until such
records are transferred to the "Board", whichever occurs first, Schools may keep these records
at offices located outside the school's training facilities if transmission of the records, by
computer terminal or fax machine to the training facility is possible. Such records shall be
available upon request by the "Board" or its authorized agent. All records relating to a student's
contractual agreements, attendance and progress shall be made available to the student within
ten days after receipt of a written request for review of the records. If a copy of the students
record is requested a nominal charge per page may be charged. The review by any student to
whom the specific records relate shall occur during regular school office hours. A school official
may be present during any records reviews in order to ensure the integrity of the record.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
4713-3-07 Applicant's presence required.
(A) If requested by the "Board", the applicants or persons responsible for the operation of
proposed school shall be present for "Board" questioning on the date scheduled for "Board"
action upon their application. The "Board" shall notify the applicant by registered mail, return
receipt requested, in sufficient time prior to the "Board" meeting.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
4713-3-08 Final licensure.
(A) No license shall be issued unless the "Board" finds that the applicant possesses the
financial responsibility and experience necessary to operate a school. Any false or misleading
statements or any misrepresentations shall justify denial of license. Applicants shall not
advertise or open for instruction of students nor enroll students until the "Board" has granted
licensure. No approval shall be granted unless the "Board" finds that all rules have been
complied with by all parties to the application.
HISTORY: Eff. 5-1-03; 8-1-04
Rule promulgated under: RC 119.03
Rule authorized by: RC 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule amplifies: RC 4713.44, 4713.45
Replaces: 4713-3-10
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
4713-3-09 School transfers, change of ownership or discontinuance of operation.
Every license issued to a school is valid only for the location named on the license and is not
transferable. School owners shall notify the "Board" in writing of the sale, transfer, or change of
ownership within thirty days prior to a transfer, or change of ownership.
Any intention of a school to discontinue its operation must be made to the "Board" at least sixty
days prior to the final date of operation. Any school, which closes for business, shall forward to
the "Board" a complete, notarized training record for each student within fourteen days of the
completion of any training hours by any student.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
4713-3-10 Licenses shall be conspicuously displayed.
A current school license and each instructor's license and the appropriate regular or managing
license for each appropriate apprentice instructor shall be conspicuously displayed for public
view in the school.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
4713-3-11 Cancellation, settlement and refund.
The institution shall state its policy and schedule of refund in clear language that can be easily
understood. The policy shall apply to all terminations for any reason, by either party including
student decision, course cancellation and school closure. Accredited schools shall adhere to the
refund policy of their accrediting institution. All other schools shall adhere to the following refund
requirements.
(A) The intent of the "Board" refund policy is to see that each applicant/student is assured
minimum conditions of refund. When calculating refunds, the school shall use the policy
mandated by this rule unless a federal or accrediting agency policy applies. No institution is
restricted to the minimum specific conditions stated here; only that its policy is at least as liberal
to the student as this one
(1) An applicant or student (or the parent/guardian if the applicant or student is a minor) may
cancel enrollment at anytime by informing the school in writing.
(2) The ending date for refund computation purposes is the last date of physical attendance by
the student.
(3) Enrollment time means the total scheduled days for credit or clock hours that have elapsed
between the first day of class and the ending date.
(4) Total tuition is the amount stated on the contract or enrollment attributed to the program or
course in which the student is enrolled.
(5) Program or course length is a period in clock hours for a clock hour program or calendar
time for a credit hour program as specified in the contract or enrollment agreement.
(6) All refunds due shall be issued within thirty days of either cancellation by the student or
termination by the school.
(a) In addition to other charges and fees, the student may be charged a withdrawal fee of no
more than one hundred and fifty dollars.
(b) The percentage of clock hours that have elapsed is calculated by dividing the enrollment
time by the course or program length, then by multiplying the result by one hundred. The
percentage of credit hours that have elapsed is calculated by dividing the scheduled days
attended by the total scheduled days in the quarter or semester, then multiplying by one
hundred.
(c) If the percentage of clock hours or credit hours that have elapsed is less than five per cent,
the tuition due is calculated by multiplying the total tuition due by twenty per cent.
(d) If the percentage of clock hours or credit hours that have elapsed is at least five per cent, but
less than ten per cent, the tuition due is calculated by multiplying the total tuition by thirty per
cent.
(e) If the percentage of clock hours or credit hours that have elapsed is at least ten per cent, but
less than fifteen per cent, the tuition due is calculated by multiplying the total tuition by forty per
cent.
(f) If the percentage of clock hours or credit hours that have elapsed is at least fifteen per cent,
but less than twenty five per cent, the tuition due is calculated by multiplying the total tuition by
forty five per cent.
(g) If the percentage of clock hours or credit hours that have elapsed is at least twenty five per
cent but less than fifty per cent the tuition due is calculated by multiplying the total tuition due by
seventy per cent.
(h) If the percentage of clock hours or credit hours that have elapsed is fifty per cent or greater,
the total tuition is due in full.
(7) The cancellation date shall be the postmarked date if mailed, or the delivery date, if
delivered in person. The termination date shall be the date of formal termination by the school,
the thirtieth day of consecutive unexcused absence, or the scheduled return date for a student
who does not return from an official leave of absence.
(8) If the school ceases to offer instruction after the student begins training, the student shall be
entitled to a pro-rata refund of tuition based upon enrollment time. If the course is canceled
before beginning training, the student shall be entitled, at the option of the school, to either a full
refund of all money paid to the school, or completion of the course at another location.
(9) All extra costs, such as books, equipment, graduation fees, etc., which are not included in
the tuition price, shall be stated in the catalog and contract and any non-refundable items will be
identified.
(10) An institution may charge a non-refundable application fee. This charge shall be clearly
stated in both the school's catalog and contract.
(11) Any termination/withdrawal fee shall be identified in the catalog and on the contract and
may not exceed one hundred and fifty dollars.
(B) The enrollment agreement shall clearly outline the obligations of both the institution and the
student, and provide details of the cancellation and settlement policy of the institution. A copy of
the enrollment agreement and other data covering student costs shall be furnished to the
applicant before any payment is made. No enrollment agreement is binding until it has been
accepted in writing by an appropriate official at the institution. The institution's cancellation and
settlement policy shall also be printed in the school catalog see rule 4713-3-12 of the
Administrative Code
(C) The collection procedures shall reflect good taste and sound, ethical business practices.
The name of the "Board" shall not be used in the institution's refund policy nor in any of its
collection efforts.
(D) If a school closes permanently and ceases to offer instruction after students have enrolled,
or if a course is canceled after students have enrolled and instruction has begun, the school
shall make arrangements for students or implement any applicable teach-out agreement in
compliance with the following requirements.
(1) The arrangements or agreement shall offer the student a reasonable opportunity to promptly
resume and complete the canceled course(s) of study or a substantially similar course of study
at an institution (or institutions) which offer similar educational programs.
(2) The arrangements or teach-out agreement should be performed by an institution in the same
geographic area as the closing school.
(3) The original school shall notify affected students individually of the availability and total cost
of the arrangement or teach-out agreement, and diligently advertise such availability. The
agreements among institutions may provide that these notices may be sent by the school(s) that
are accepting students from the original school.
(4) The school that is closing or has closed shall submit to the "Board" a list of all students who
were enrolled at the time of closure, and indicate on it the arrangements made for each student
to complete his or her education.
(5) Students shall receive a pro-rata refund of tuition.
(6) The original school shall dispose of school records per rule 4713-3-09 of the Administrative
Code.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
4713-3-12 School catalogue requirements.
The catalogue shall include the following information:
(A) Name and address of the institution for each location.
(B) Date of publication.
(C) The admission requirements (criteria) used by the institution for each course. The
institution's admission policy must comply with the "Board's" laws and rules.
(D) The name of each course and the name, nature and level of occupations for which training
is provided must be identified.
(E) Length of course: Number of clock hours, credit hours, or competencies in each course
offered by the institution in sufficient detail to show the scope and sequence of units included.
(Clearly identify the coverage of each course).
(F) Description of the institution's general facilities and equipment.
(G) The grading system used by the institution. Identify the full range of grades that students
may earn. (Must be consistent with the institution's satisfactory progress policy).
(H) Graduation requirements for each course. List any special conditions or requirements.
(I) Type of document (certificate, diploma, etc.) awarded upon graduation from each course.
(J) Refund policy: Refund policy must comply with rule 4713-3-11 of the Administrative Code or
its accrediting agency, if any.
(K) Employment assistance: A clear statement that the institution does not guarantee
employment. Extent and nature of employment assistance.
(L) A school calendar of beginning dates of classes for each course. Indicate holidays and
school closures.
(M) Statement that the institution does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, age, color,
ethnic origin, or religion.
(N) Name of the legal entity that owns the school.
(O) The institution's policy guaranteeing the right of students to gain access to their files.
(P) The institution's policy for releasing information about an individual student.
(Q) Scholarship and fee waiver policies (if applicable).
(R) Specifics describing the extent of other available services, such as housing (if applicable),
career counseling, etc.
(S) The address, and telephone number of the Ohio state board of cosmetology, as well as the
name, address and telephone number of the agency which accredits the institution, if
applicable.
(T) Policies related to tardiness, excused and unexcused absences, make-up work, conduct,
termination and other rules and regulations of the institution.
(U) Names of administrative staff and faculty.
(V) Costs for each course:
(1) Tuition - total tuition for each course.
(2) Books and supplies - must be actual cost to the student.
(3) Application or enrollment fee for each course (must be separately identified).
(4) Other costs.
(5) Payment - methods and terms of payment of monies owed to the institution must be
identified
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
4713-3-13 School contract requirements.
Prior to the first day of class, the institution, shall obtain a fully-executed written contract, or
enrollment agreement for each prospective student, which at a minimum contains:
(A) Legal name of the school.
(B) Obligations of the school and student.
(C) Program length, name and starting date.
(D) Full cost of the course.
(E) Payment terms.
(F) Refund policy.
(G) The school's cancellation and settlement policy including notification that the enrollment
agreement may be canceled by submitting written notice within three business days pursuant to
rule 4713-3-11 of the Administrative Code.
(H) Number of clock or credit hours in the program including the number of weeks or months
necessary to complete the program.
(I) Signature of applicant and date signed.
(J) Notice to student concerning their ability to file a complaint with the state "Board" of
cosmetology including "Board's" address and telephone number.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 5/1/03
Chapter 4713-5 School Administration
4713-5-01 Definitions.
(A) "Certified" means a student has successfully completed and passed the theory and a
practical test for a specific service and is authorized to perform that service on patrons.
(B) "Quarter" means a period of no less than ten weeks.
(C) "Semester" means a period of no less than fifteen weeks.
(D) "Course" means a separate component of study contained within the program for which a
student earns credits or hours.
(E) "Program" means the aggregate of individual courses or hours that qualify a person to take
a licensing examination.
(F) "State credentialed teacher" means a person recognized by the Ohio department of
education as a certified/licensed teacher or a recognized member of the faculty of a college or
university or an individual holding at least a bachelors degree in the subject to be taught.
(G) "Withdrawn student" means any student who ceases instruction in a school prior to
graduation.
(H) "ODE" means the Ohio department of education.
(I) "IEP" means an individual education plan.
(J) "Course outline" means an outline of the program offering that summarizes each of the
subjects included in the program with hours devoted to theory and clinic within each subject.
(K) "Clock hour" means a period scheduled for a theory lecture of at least fifty minutes or
scheduled clinic time in actual sixty minute segments including any break time allowed in the
school's student policies.
(L) "Last fifty hours" means the last fifty hours of a cosmetology, esthetics, or hair design course
required to complete the program in which the student is enrolled.
(M) "Transcript" means a form or letter signed by a school official certifying final grades for all
courses applicable to a program of study.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 8/5/01, 5/1/03
4713-5-02 Program requirements.
Proprietary schools have sole discretion as to offering clock or credit hour programs. Career
technical schools shall comply with ODE/"Board" cosmetology program course outlines.
(A) Prior to implementation all schools shall submit course outlines for any and all courses
taught within a program for "Board" approval.
(B) Upon enrolling in a school of cosmetology, a cosmetology student shall be assigned to study
theory and perform nonclinic practice. A student shall not perform any service on a patron until
they are certified to do so.
(C) All schools shall ensure each program offered is comprised of at least twenty-five per cent
theory and nonclinic practice.
(D) All schools shall ensure each program offered is comprised of at least fifty per cent clinic
work performed on patrons, other students or mannequins. For clock hour schools at any time
patrons are not available the student shall receive credit for clinic work so long as the student is
actively engaged in training within the clinic related to the course of study.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 1/26/97, 8/1/99, 8/5/01, 5/1/03
4713-5-03 Required course outlines.
The "Board" approved course outlines for each program shall be provided to a school upon its
request. Changes to the "Board" approved program course outlines shall be provided to each
school. Each school shall use the "Board" approved program course outlines or submit their
school's proposed course outlines for "Board" approval. Career technical schools shall also
receive ODE approval for any program course outline changes or program additions.
(A) All career technical schools shall use course outlines specified by ODE and approved by the
"Board". All career technical schools shall schedule an equivalent number of program course
hours as the clock hour requirements for the course outlines to ensure the opportunity for
students to complete and pass the program. This requirement shall be effective for the
2003/2004 school year and optional for the 2002/2003 school year. Career technical schools
shall meet the program requirements below:
(1) The total time scheduled for the cosmetology program shall be at least fifteen hundred hours
and sufficient to complete and pass the approved course outlines. Cosmetology students shall
successfully complete and pass the cosmetology program course outlines and a maximum of
four academic courses that meet state curriculum minimum graduation requirements and are
taken during the time the student is enrolled in the cosmetology program. The academic
courses to be taken during the time the student is enrolled in the cosmetology program can
include any of the courses in paragraph (A)(3) of this rule, or if student is on an IEP, as required
by the IEP. For example, a school with only a two and a half hour cosmetology laboratory has
nine hundred hours scheduled plus four academic courses of four hundred and eighty hours
and with one hundred twenty hours of internship or other cosmetology related time equals
fifteen hundred hours (a school that struggles to meet the fifteen hundred hour requirement
should consider offering the hair design program instead); a school with a two and a half hour
lab and a forty minute related class scheduled has eleven hundred forty hours in cosmetology
course plus two academic classes for two hundred forty hours and one hundred twenty hours of
internship or other cosmetology related time to equals fifteen hundred hours. A school could
have three hour labs and one hour related for fourteen hundred forty hours plus sixty hours of
internship or other cosmetology related time and no academics to equal fifteen hundred hours.
Each school shall file their schedule to meet the fifteen hundred hour program requirement with
the "Board".
(2) The total time scheduled for the hair design program shall be at least twelve hundred hours
and sufficient to complete and pass the approved course outline. Hair design program students
shall complete and pass hair design oourse outlines and a maximum of four academic courses
that meet state curriculum minimum requirements and are taken during the time the student is
enrolled in the hair design program. The academic courses to be taken during the time the
student is enrolled in the hair design program can include any of the courses in paragraph (A)(3)
of this rule, or if student is on an IEP, as required by the IEP.
(3) The four academic courses from the following list shall be the only courses counted in
paragraph (A)(1) or (A)(2) of this rule. Algebra I, algebra II, geometry, pre-calculus, calculus,
biology, advanced biology, anatomy & physiology, physical science, chemistry, physics, other
math or science courses accepted as meeting graduation requirements of twenty-one carnegie
units, english 11, english 12, other english courses and/or business technology, or as required
by the IEP.
(B) All private schools offering credit hour courses shall meet the requirements for each
program to be offered as listed below. Each quarter or semester shall have a specified
beginning and ending date. In exceptional cases a private school may assign a student a grade
of incomplete and assign a specified period of time to complete and pass the course per school
policy.
(1) Cosmetology program credit hour students shall complete and pass seventy-five quarter or
fifty semester credit hours to meet the requirements of division (F) of section 4713.28 of the
Revised Code. Combined cosmetology and manager program credit hour students shall
complete and pass ninety quarter or sixty semester credit hours to meet the requirements of
division (F) of section 4713.28 and division (E) of section 4713.30 of the Revised Code.
(2) Hair design program credit hour students shall complete and pass sixty quarter or forty
semester credit hours to meet the requirements of division (H) of section 4713.28 of the Revised
Code. Combined hair design and manager program credit hour students shall complete and
pass seventy-two quarter or forty-eight semester credit hours to meet the requirements of
division (H) of section 4713.28 and division (G) of section 4713.30 of the Revised Code.
(3) Esthetician program credit hour students shall complete and pass thirty quarter or twenty
semester credit hours to meet the requirements of division (G) of section 4713.28 of the
Revised Code. Combined esthetician and manager program credit hour students shall complete
and pass thirty-seven and one half quarter or twenty semester credit hours to meet the
requirements of division (G) of section 4713.28 and division (F) of section 4713.30 of the
Revised Code.
(4) Natural hair stylist program credit hour students shall complete and pass twenty-two and a
half quarter or fifteen semester credit hours to meet the requirements of division (J) of section
4713.28 of the Revised Code. Combined hair design and manager program credit hour students
shall complete and pass thirty quarter or twenty semester credit hours to meet the requirements
of division (J) of section 4713.28 of the Revised Code and division (I) of section 4713.30 of the
Revised Code.
(5) Manicurist program credit hour students shall complete and pass ten quarter or seven
semester credit hours to meet the requirements of division (I) of section 4713.28 of the Revised
Code. Combined manicurist and manager program credit hour students shall complete and
pass fifteen quarter or ten semester credit hours to meet the requirements of division (I) of
section 4713.28 and division (H) of section 4713.30 of the Revised Code.
(C) All private schools offering clock hour courses shall meet the requirements for each program
to be offered as required by sections 4713.28 and 4713.30 of the Revised Code Clock hour
schools may authorize excused absences during the last ten per cent of a program for students
up to a maximum of fifty hours of cosmetology, hair design or esthetics and a maximum twentyfive hours of natural hair design or manicuring in order to allow a student to make a prescheduled graduation date if they have passed and completed the whole program of study.
(D) Career technical schools may contract with proprietary schools for students to complete and
pass portions of the course outline units in order to complete and pass course work and obtain
full credit for the cosmetology course for the year. Career technical schools are responsible for
student outcomes unless the contract states otherwise.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 1/26/97, 8/5/01, 5/1/03
4713-5-04 Operational rules.
Every school shall post or disseminate a daily schedule of classes showing the subjects for that
day. These daily schedules shall be retained for no less than the previous six-month period. The
"Board" may require, upon written notification to a school, that the daily schedules be retained
for a period exceeding the previous six-month period. A proprietary school may conduct day and
night courses. Career technical schools may only offer adult education with ODE approval. The
"Board" shall be notified of which nights per week classes will be conducted. Clock hour
students shall be scheduled to be in attendance a minimum of three hours in any one day.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 1/26/97, 8/5/01
4713-5-05 Charges for services.
The licensee of an operating school may charge for cosmetological services rendered to the
public in the school clinic.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 9/5/77, 12/17/89, 1/26/97
4713-5-06 Restriction of activities.
Schools shall restrict the activities performed to the teaching of the practice of cosmetology as
defined in division (A) of section 4713.01 of the Revised Code and related practices and
services.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 9/5/77, 12/17/89, 1/26/97
4713-5-07 Postgraduate classes.
Postgraduate classes are those classes, which are taught to any licensee that do not lead to a
cosmetology license. Postgraduate classes may be provided by school's licensed under this
chapter or by any other person or entity. Postgraduate classes conducted in licensed schools
shall maintain the required student teacher ratio as established in rule 4713-5-17 of the
Administrative Code. Postgraduate classes may qualify as continuing education provided that
the offered class satisfies the requirements of Chapter 4713-21 of the Administrative Code.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 1/26/97, 5/1/03
4713-5-08 School rules.
Any rules originally filed with the "Board" governing student procedures which are subsequently
changed must be filed with the "Board". Changes to school rules must comply with all the
requirements of Chapter 4713. of the Revised Code and the Administrative Code promulgated
thereunder. Schools may meet this requirement by providing the "Board" with their web site
where the rules are available on the Internet. These documents shall be readily available and
referenced in applicable student literature.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 05/07/2004 and 05/01/2009
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(13)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.44, 4713.45
Prior Effective Dates: 9-5-77, 12-17-89, 1-26-97, 5-1-03
4713-8-07 Standards relating to competent practice as a manicurist.
(A) A manicurist shall provide cosmetology services within the scope of practice of manicuring
for a manicurist as set forth in section 4731.01 of the Revised Code and the rules of the
"Board".
(B) A manicurist shall maintain knowledge of the duties, responsibilities, and accountabilities of
practice and shall practice in accordance with the following:
(1) The laws regulating the practice of manicuring;
(2) The rules of the "Board";
(3) Any other applicable federal and state laws and rules; and
(4) Position statements, standards for practice, or guidelines for practice from nationally
recognized professional cosmetology or manicuring entities; provided these statements,
standards, or guidelines are consistent with existing laws or rules.
(C) A manicurist shall demonstrate competence and accountability in all areas of practice in
which the manicurist is engaged, which includes, but is not limited to, the following:
(1) Consistent performance of all aspects of manicuring services according to acceptable and
prevailing standards; and
(2) Appropriate recognition, referral or consultation, and intervention, when a complication
arises during or after the performance of a specific service or procedure.
(D) A manicurist may provide advanced manicuring services provided:
(1) The manicurist obtains appropriate education, which emanates from a recognized body of
knowledge relative to the cosmetology service to be provided;
(2) The manicurist demonstrates appropriate knowledge, skills, and abilities to provide the
cosmetology service;
(3) The manicurist maintains documentation satisfactory to the "Board" of meeting the
requirements set forth in Paragraphs (D)(1) and (D)(2) of this rule;
(4) The manicurist service does not involve a function or procedure, which is prohibited by any
other law or rule and does not exceed the definition of the practice of manicuring in section
4713.01 of Revised Code.
(E) Manicurists shall not provide any service that claims to have a medical or healing benefit.
The scope of practice is limited to beautification and relaxation services only. The scope of
practice is limited to non-invasive services only. Services offered using the term therapy shall be
within the meaning defined in rule 4713-8-01(C)(6) of the Administrative Code.
(F) Manicurists may perform services that are unregulated by the state in salons upon
completing postgraduate training for those services as established by policy of the "Board" and
required by rule 4713-13-12 of the Administrative Code. These services include but are not
limited to body wraps, ear piercing, hypnosis for relaxation, etc.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 08/29/2005 and 03/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08(A)(1)
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.01, 4713.15
Prior Effective Dates: 1/10/04
4713-8-08 Services rendered in an unlicensed facility; Temporary special event permits.
(A) No person shall offer or render any of the services encompassed within the definition and
rules of the Board of Cosmetology in a place which is not licensed as a salon or school except
that a practicing licensee may render the services for which he or she is licensed to offer on a
limited and temporary basis if the licensee applies for and receives a temporary special event
permit.
(B) Temporary special event permits shall be approved by the Executive Director, or his or her
designee. Temporary special event permits are only valid for one event lasting no more than
forty-eight (48) hours. Multiple events require the licensee to apply for and receive a separate
temporary special event permit for each event.
(C) The types of special events contemplated by this rule include, but are not limited to: charity
events, on-location bridal parties, bridal shows and on-location spa parties. Requests that vary
from these listed examples must be approved by the Board by a majority vote of a quorum of
the board members. Individual licensees and salon licensees are permitted to request special
event permits.
(D) At a minimum, in the application for a temporary special event permit, the licensee must
provide the type of event, date of event, time of event, location of event, and the names and
license numbers of the licensees performing the services during the event.
(E) Licensees shall be responsible for ensuring that they are fully supplied and equipped when
they perform services outside a licensed facility, in addition to ensuring compliance with the
safety and sanitation laws and rules of the Board.
(F) The Board expressly reserves the right to inspect special events at random and without
notice.
Effective: 09/28/2008
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 09/28/2013
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4713.08(A)(1)
Rule Amplifies: 4713.35
Chapter 4713-11 Salons
4713-11-01 APPLICATION FOR OPERATION OF BEAUTY SALON.
All applicants for a license for the operation of a salon under provisions of Chapter 4713. of the
Revised Code, shall apply on forms supplied by the "Board" for the operation of a salon and for
the procedures to follow in making application for licensure. No salon shall begin operating or
providing services to the public until the proper license is obtained and displayed. Applications
for licensure of a salon are valid for ninety days after approval by the Board, failure to obtain an
approved inspection or temporary certificate for operation within the ninety days shall invalidate
the application and require new application and fee.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 08/29/2005 and 03/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08(A)(1)
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.41
Prior Effective Dates: 9/5/77, 12/17/89, 2/24/91, 1/26/97, 4/1/00, 1/10/04
4713-11-02 Floor plan and zoning approval.
Applicants for the first five types of beauty salons designated in OAC 4713-11-01 must meet the
following requirements:
(a) The floor plan shall be drawn to scale, showing in detail the size of the premises, and each
room contained therein, and describe any areas accessible to the salon through doors or any
other openings, all equipment, and all plumbing fixtures. This floor plan shall be legible and
clearly labeled.
(b) Whenever a licensed salon desires to alter the original floor plan filed with the "Board", or
desires to add other services, an approval of the proposed revised floor plan shall be obtained
from the "Board" prior to commencing any such construction or the offering of other services.
(c) All salons attached to a residence shall additionally indicate in their floor plan the exact
location of salon and living quarters and obtain proper approval from the local zoning "Board"
indicating that cosmetology may be practiced in that location.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 08/29/2005 and 03/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.02
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.13
Prior Effective Dates: 9/5/77, 12/17/89, 2/24/91, 1/26/97, 4/1/00
4713-11-03 Water supply; waste disposal.
Every salon facility shall be equipped with an adequate supply of hot and cold running water
and proper plumbing. Every salon facility shall adhere to the following standards promulgated by
the Ohio department of health:
(A) Safe water supply shall be provided;
(B) Sewage and other liquid wastes shall be disposed of in a sanitary manner;
(C) The storage and collection of solid waste shall be conducted so as to avoid creation of
health hazards, rodent harborages, insect breeding areas and accidents;
(D) Solid waste shall be stored in waste containers;
(E) Solid wastes shall be collected at least once each week.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 08/29/2005 and 03/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.02
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.14
Prior Effective Dates: 9/5/77, 12/17/89, 2/24/91, 1/26/97, 4/1/00
4713-11-04 Permits.
All salon facilities shall comply with all requirements and/or permits required by state,local and
federal regulations if applicable.
Replaces: 4713-11-04
Effective: 10/31/2006
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 03/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.14
Prior Effective Dates: 9/5/77, 12/17/89, 2/24/91, 1/26/97, 4/1/00
4713-11-05 Restrooms.
All salon facilities shall be equipped with at least one restroom , including a toilet and handwashing sink with hot and cold running water. The restroom shall be kept clean, sanitary and
functional at all times. The restrooms shall have a pump soap container, covered waste
containers with solid sides or liner, and paper towel dispenser or equipment for hand-drying.
Salons located in a mall, office building or nursing home with available public restrooms do not
need a separate restroom internal to the salon.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 08/29/2005 and 03/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.02
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.13
Prior Effective Dates: 9/5/77, 12/17/89, 2/24/91, 1/26/97, 4/1/00
4713-19-09 Records keeping.
(A) The operator of a tanning facility shall maintain a record for each individual patron which
includes dates exposed, length of exposure, and other required data. This record shall be
completed and initialed by the patron prior to each tanning session, and must be kept on file for
one year from the date of the patron's last exposure. The record shall include the following:
(1) Date of most recent exposure to UVA/UVB;
(2) Acknowledgment that the patron has reviewed the photosensitive drug list;
(3) Acknowledgment of receipt of protective eyewear;
(4) Acknowledgment that the patron has been advised of maximum exposure time for the
session in the unit to which the patron has been assigned;
(5) This record shall also include the following warning: "some harmful changes which may be
caused by repeated overexposure to UVA/UVB radiation include cataracts, skin cancer,
premature aging and possible photosensitive reactions when using perfumes, cosmetics and
certain drugs, including some antibiotics and birth control pills."
(6) All customers shall have their skin type computed and annotated on their customer card
prior to their first tanning session.
(B) If the patron is under eighteen years of age, the operator shall obtain the written consent
from the parent or legal guardian of the patron prior to any tanning session. This written consent
shall be signed at the licensed location, and shall specify the number of sessions consented to,
and shall become part of the record of the patron. The minor patron may then alone sign the
patron card for the remainder of the consented sessions.
(C) Tanning facilities which maintain records on computer or data processing equipment may
use a single data sheet for all patrons tanning in a single day provided that the data is then
transferred daily to each individual's permanent file.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08(A)(16)
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.48
Prior Effective Dates: 1/8/85, 3/16/90, 2/24/91, 1/26/97, 1/17/02, 1/10/04
4713-19-10 Floor plans.
(A) All tanning facility applications shall indicate in a drawing submitted to the "Board" the
following:
(1) The exact location of the tanning facility in relation to any living quarters;
(2) The location of rooms/booths with tanning equipment;
(3) The location of entrance, all doors, and windows;
(4) Walls and partitions shall be non-transparent and of sufficient height and rigidity as to
provide proper privacy;
(5) Location of the tanning facility rest room(s).
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.48
Prior Effective Dates: 1/26/97, 4/1/01
4713-19-11 Policy on prohibiting animals.
Dogs (except dogs providing assistance to individuals with physical handicaps) cats, birds, or
other animals shall not be permitted in a tanning facility. This definition does not include fish, in
an aquarium, provided they are maintained in a sanitary condition.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.48
Prior Effective Dates: 1/26/97
4713-19-12 Change of ownership.
Tanning facility licenses are not transferable from one address to another or from one owner to
another. A new tanning license application shall be filed within thirty days of any change of
ownership. Tanning facilities are permitted to open or offer services while the application is
processed and are subject to the "Board's" approval per rule 4713-1-06 of the Administrative
Code. Any tanning facility with an administrative action pending cannot transfer a license until
the administrative action is resolved.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.48
Prior Effective Dates: 4/1/01
4713-19-13 Tanning beds in salons.
Salons that have tanning facilities that are subsequently closed shall remove tanning beds from
the view and access of the public.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.48
Prior Effective Dates: 4/1/01
4713-19-14 Training of operators and employees.
(A) Each tanning facility shall have an operator on duty at all times that possesses a valid and
current certificate of formal training, as defined in rule 4713-19-02 of the Administrative Code.
Formal training courses for operators must meet the requirements of paragraph 4713-19-02(G)
of the Administrative Code. Proof of training must be maintained within the facility and be
available for inspection.
(B) In addition to the requirements of paragraph 4713-19-02(G) of the Administrative Code,
each formal training course shall meet the following requirements:
(1) Each course shall be at least four hours in length. This four hours shall not include items
such as registration, lunch, marketing, profit-making strategies, advertising and accounting,
taking a test, or similar functions:
(2) Each course shall include written material which covers the required subjects, such as core
training manual; audio-visual presentations which cover the required subjects, such as slides or
videos; copies of the "Board" rules and copies of Title 21, Code of Federal Regulations, Part
1040, Section 1040.20; and a question and answer period for trainees;
(3) Courses may be offered via web based or correspondence course. However, the person
taking the course shall take a monitored written examination in order to receive their certificate
of completion. The monitoring process for the examination shall be approved by the "Board" as
part of the education course approval;
(4) Each course will be processed through the "Board's" continuing education (CE) process.
Individual licensees of the "Board" shall receive CE credit whether or not they pass the test per
rule 4713-21-09 of the Administrative Code, however, if they fail the test, they shall not be
granted a certified operator certificate.
(C) Each employee who assists customers or operates tanning devices shall be trained on
proper operation and maintenance of tanning devices. The operator of the tanning facility is
responsible for training those employees or ensuring that those employees take an approved
training course. When the operator provides employee training, that training shall include:
(1) Review of the requirements of Chapter 4713-19 of the Administrative Code;
(2) Procedures for correct cleaning, sanitizing and operation of the device;
(3) Recognition of overexposure or similar injury;
(4) Review of manufacturer's procedures for operation and maintenance of tanning devices;
(5) Medical aspects of ultraviolet radiation, maximum allowable time of exposure, and
determination of human skin types as it relates to compliance use of the FDA exposure
schedule; and
(6) Emergency procedures in case of overexposure or injury.
(D) Operators and other facility personnel who must comply with the training requirements of
this chapter, must complete the required training according to the following:
(1) Operators hired on or after the effective date of this chapter must complete the required
training prior to taking charge of a facility;
(2) All Operators hired before the effective date of this chapter shall have a period of one
hundred eighty days after the effective date of this chapter to successfully complete the required
formal training.
(E) Any individual or organization requesting the "Board" to review their training courses for
compliance with the requirements of this rule shall submit copies of their training materials to the
"Board" prior to providing that training in Ohio. The materials submitted shall include credentials
of trainers and persons compiling the training materials, a copy of the classroom or
correspondence course curriculum, copies of written materials to be received by trainees, and a
statement indicating the length of time a classroom/Internet/correspondence course will be
conducted. The "Board" shall review the materials and inform the applicant of its findings within
thirty days from receipt of all training materials. When changes are made to a training course
that has been reviewed and accepted by the "Board", those changes should also be submitted
to the "Board" for review.
(F) Inspectors shall have a preset list of questions, which they shall use to ask
operators/employees at tanning facilities basic questions covered in the course above.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.48
Prior Effective Dates: 1/17/02
Chapter 4713-21 Continuing Education
4713-21-01 Purposes.
The purpose of Chapter 4713-21 of the Administrative Code is to establish:
(A) Standards for a continuing education program designed to further professionally educate
"Board" licensees as it relates to the consumers of Ohio and the services being provided to
them by the licensees;
(B) License renewal procedures applicable to providing proof of completion of any continuing
education requirements;
(C) Procedure for granting a waiver and extension period for completing any continuing
education requirements;
(D) Procedure for placing a license in escrow and later restored;
(E) A continuing education requirement notification process;
(F) Application criteria and procedures for eligible offering entities desiring to offer continuing
education courses;
(G) Criteria for continuing education courses, course instructor(s), and eligible offering entities to
be approved, denied approval, and have approval withdrawn, suspended or revoked.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08, 4713.09
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713
Prior Effective Dates: 6/15/95, 1/26/97
4713-21-02 Definitions.
As used in Chapter 4713.21 of the Administrative Code:
(A) "Biennial licensing period" means the two-year period beginning on the thirty-first day of
January of an odd-numbered year and ending on the thirtieth day of January of the next oddnumbered year;
(B) "Eligible offering entity" means a nonprofit professional association, college or university,
vocational school, postsecondary proprietary school of cosmetology licensed by the "Board",
manufacturer of supplies or equipment used in the practice of cosmetology, the state "Board" or
an agent of the "Board" any individual or entity which owns and operates five or more licensed
salons, or that employs at least fifty licensees. Any individual or entity not meeting this definition
may petition the "Board" for review and approval from the "Board" in order to be considered an
"Eligible Offering Entity."
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08, 4713.09
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713
Prior Effective Dates: 6/15/95, 1/26/97
4713-21-03 Continuing education requirements.
(A) Licensees shall be exempt from all continuing education requirements until the biennial
licensing period commencing after their initial licensure.
(B) The continuing education requirement for all licensees is eight hours per biennium. No
licensee shall receive credit for identical course instruction completed during the biennial
licensing period. Licensees holding both a manager and instructor license shall need eight
hours for each license beginning with the renewals after January 2005. Instructor hours shall be
from an approved instructor CE list promulgated by the Board.
(C) Courses completed prior to an individual being licensed by the "Board" do not qualify for
continuing education credit. A licensee shall not receive continuing education credit for any
course given in the state of Ohio that does not have the prior approval of the "Board".
(D) Any licensee holding multiple branch of cosmetology licenses must complete the continuing
education requirements for each branch license.
(E) The "Board" shall encourage all continuing education eligible offering entities to offer the
courses in as many different locations as possible. All continuing education eligible offering
entities shall allow any and all official representatives and employees of the "Board" entrance
into any "Board" approved continuing education requirement course at no cost to the "Board".
(F) The "Board" shall keep a current roster of approved continuing education courses, which
shall include an explanation of any and all course prerequisites required for admission into the
course offering. Copies of the roster shall be available to licensees and the public at the
"Board".
(G) Current licensees shall be able to receive continuing education credit for classes completed
in a school of cosmetology.
(H) Licensees age sixty-five or older prior to the beginning of a renewal period are exempt from
the requirement to obtain continuing education requirements for renewal of their active license.
(I) Out-of-state continuing education hours shall be submitted for approval to the "Board" within
thirty days of completing the course in order to be acceptable in meeting biennial requirements.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08, 4713.09
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713
Prior Effective Dates: 6/15/95, 1/26/97, 4/1/01, 1/10/04, 5/1/04
4713-21-04 Licensure renewal procedures.
(A) After the completion of the continuing education requirements for any biennial licensing
period, the licensee shall complete a continuing education approval form to be furnished by the
"Board" and forward it to the "Board" with the licensee's license renewal application and include
the renewal fee established under section 4713.10 of the Revised Code.
(B) The licensee must provide satisfactory proof of completion of any applicable continuing
education requirement or prove that a waiver or extension was received pursuant to divisions
(b) and (c) of section 4713.11 of the Revised Code prior to the "Board's" renewal of the license.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08, 4713.09
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.60
Prior Effective Dates: 6/15/95, 1/26/97
4713-21-05 Continuing education extension program.
The licensee, upon receiving an extension, shall complete and satisfactorily prove completion of
any required continuing education requirements by submitting such proof of completion to the
"Board" by a date specified by the "Board".
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08, 4713.09
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.60
Prior Effective Dates: 6/15/95, 1/26/97
4713-21-06 Licensure escrow or inactive procedure.
(A) A licensee may apply to the "Board" to have their license placed in escrow. The licensee
shall be required to pay the renewal fee to obtain an escrowed license.
(B) Licensees with escrowed licenses must pay a thirty dollar licensing fee per divisions (D) and
(H) of section 4713.10 of the Revised Code to remove their license from escrow and provide
proof of the appropriate continuing education hours.
(C) All licensees not currently engaged in the practice of cosmetology and who do not hold an
escrowed license, shall pay all lapsed renewal fees and submit proof satisfactory to the "Board"
of the completion of eight hours of continuing education prior to having their license restored to
active status.
(D) Any licensee who has held an inactive license for more than two years and holds an
escrowed license may have their license restored without passing an examination and by
paying any applicable fees and providing proof of satisfactory completion of sixteen hours of
continuing education.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08, 4713.09
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713
Prior Effective Dates: 6/15/95, 1/26/97, 4/1/01
4713-21-07 Continuing education requirement notification procedures.
The "Board" shall inform each affected licensee of the continuing education requirement that
applies to the next biennial licensing period by including a notification in the issuance of each
renewed license.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08, 4713.09
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.59
Prior Effective Dates: 6/15/95, 1/26/97
4713-21-08 Application criteria and procedures for continuing education course approval.
(A) All continuing education courses and instruction shall be designed to further professionally
educate "Board" licensees as it relates to the consumers of Ohio and the services being
provided to them by the licensees.
(B) Application for course approval shall be completed on forms provided by the "Board" and
demonstrate that the applicant is:
(1) An eligible offering entity as defined pursuant to paragraph (C) of rule 4713-21-02 of the
Administrative Code;
(2) Submitting a forty dollar per course non-refundable processing fee;
(3) Submitting the form to the "Board's" office at least thirty days prior to the proposed initial
date of the course offering;
(4) Proposing a course offering which is in compliance with the requirements of division (B) of
section 4713.62 of the Revised Code.
(C) The following offerings shall not be approved by the "Board" for continuing education credit:
(1) That portion of any offering devoted to any breaks including: breakfast, lunch, and dinner or
other refreshments;
(2) Any application, which fails to meet the standards of this rule.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08, 4713.09
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.62
Prior Effective Dates: 6/15/95, 1/26/97, 4/1/01, 1/10/04
4713-21-09 Criteria for continuing education: courses, course instructors and eligible offering
entities to be: approved, denied approval, have approval, withdrawn, revoked or suspended.
(A) Programs shall not be approved by the "Board" in segments of less than one hour.
(B) No approved eligible offering entity shall certify to attendance of a person who was not
physically present during at least ninety per cent of the offering time. All offerings must be
successfully completed.
(C) An eligible offering entity shall maintain for four years a record of attendance of each person
attending an offering including the following information:
(1) "Board" approved certificate number;
(2) Name and "Board" identification number of attendee;
(3) Offering, title and description;
(4) Hours of attendance;
(5) Date of offering;
(6) Name, address, and signature of verifier in employ of eligible offering entity;
(7) The eligible offering entity shall certify the items enumerated above and furnish a copy to the
attendee within thirty days after completion of the offering.
(D) Course offerings by individuals or entities whose principal residence or place of business is
not located in the state of Ohio or course offerings by foreign corporations as defined by section
1703.01 of the Revised Code shall be approved if they comply with the requirements contained
herein.
(E) Each continuing education course shall be open to all "Board" licensees on an equal basis.
Course attendance may be restricted to licensees due to valid course prerequisites for
admission or by the maximum number of participants allowable as determined by the eligible
offering entity and fully disclosed during the application criteria and procedures for continuing
education course approval.
(F) Passage of an examination by a licensee shall not be a requirement for successful
completion of a continuing education course attended in person. Correspondence and Internet
continuing education courses shall have an examination or methodology built in to the course to
verify the course material has been completed.
(G) Each eligible offering entity shall notify the "Board", at least one day in advance, of the
addition of an offering date for an approved course. The eligible offering entity shall also notify
the "Board", at least one day in advance, of all course changes including locations, times,
changes in course content or changes of course instructors.
(H) Each eligible offering entity shall submit to the "Board", within fifteen days after completion
of each course offering, a list of licensees who successfully completed the course. Once the
"Board" has established electronic files, this data must be submitted in electronic form via email,
diskette, CDROM or other readable computer form in a text file with data separated by commas.
The list shall include for each licensee:
(1) Course title;
(2) Date conducted;
(3) Address location where the course was conducted;
(4) Licensee name;
(5) Licensee "Board" identification number;
(6) Course certification number;
(7) CE hours earned.
(I) The "Board" may suspend, revoke, or deny the approval of an instructor or eligible offering
entity, which fails to comply with any provisions of these rules. Written notice of the suspension,
denial, or revocation shall be given, stating the reason therefor.
(J) Any aggrieved eligible offering entity, instructor, or licensee may request a hearing pursuant
to Chapter 119. of the Revised Code. Until the "Board" has issued its final order as a result of
any denial of approval no course, in question, shall be purported, to licensees, that it has been
approved for continuing education credit.
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 12/23/2005 and 01/31/2010
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: RC 4713.08, 4713.09
Rule Amplifies: RC 4713.62
Prior Effective Dates: 6/15/95, 1/26/97, 4/1/01, 1/10/04
TEST QUESTIONS FOR
8 HR. PROFESSIONAL COMPOSITION
1. One way to show customer appreciation is by sending out thank you cards.
TRUE
FALSE
2. While being in business, it is smart to set aside a cash cushion for unexpected expenses.
TRUE
FALSE
3. It is better to use your budget as a restraint instead of a constraint.
TRUE
FALSE
4. A way to improve cash flow is to receive payment when services are rendered.
TRUE
FALSE
5. Purchasing your products whenever it’s on sale can help improve your inventory.
TRUE
FALSE
6. Keeping good records can help remember various transactions you’ve made during the year.
TRUE
FALSE
7. You are at your best when all the dimensions of your self, body-mind and spirit comes together as a
whole.
TRUE
FALSE
8. Personal hygiene is the daily maintenance of cleanliness through certain sanitary practices.
TRUE
FALSE
9. You should make sure your clothes are clean, fresh and in proportion to your height, weight and body
shape.
TRUE
FALSE
10. Your clothes and hair can have a refection on who you really are.
TRUE
FALSE
11. Stress can be thought of as any situation that causes stress.
TRUE
FALSE
12. The long-term effects of chronic stress can be very damaging to the body.
TRUE
FALSE
13. One way to manage stress is to get s nurturing amount of rest every day so that you can be prepared
for your daily routine.
TRUE
FALSE
14. Nutrition is a vital factor in your overall health.
TRUE
FALSE
15. Beauty salon does not include a barber shop license.
TRUE
FALSE
16. Braiding means intertwining the hair in a systematic motion.
TRUE
FALSE
17. Cosmetology Instructor means a person authorize to teach theory and practice of all branches of
cosmetology at a school of cosmetology.
TRUE
FALSE
18. Hair designer means a person who engages in the practice of hair design but no other branch of
cosmetology.
TRUE
FALSE
19. The State Board of cosmetology members is appointed by the governor.
TRUE
FALSE
20. All members of the state board shall be at least twenty-five years of age.
TRUE
FALSE
21. The state board of cosmetology shall annually appoint an executive director.
TRUE
FALSE
22. No person shall use fraud or deceit in making application for a license or permit.
TRUE
FALSE
23. No person shall manage a salon without a current valid license.
TRUE
FALSE
24. A person who appeared for a previously scheduled examination but failed to pass it must reapply
for the examination.
TRUE
FALSE
25. The state board of cosmetology shall issue a license to engage in the practice of a branch of
cosmetology as an independent contractor to an applicant who pays the applicable fee.
TRUE
FALSE