Virginia Law

Chapter 70. Esthetics Regulations

Part I
General

18VAC41-70-10. Definitions.

A. The following words and terms when used in this chapter have the meanings ascribed to them in § 54.1-700 of the Code of Virginia:

"Board"

"Esthetician"

"Esthetics"

"Esthetics instructor"

"Esthetics spa"

"Master esthetician"

"School of esthetics"

B. The following words and terms when used in this chapter have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:

"Apprenticeship program" means an approved esthetics or master esthetics training program conducted by an approved registered apprenticeship sponsor.

"Business entity" means a sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, limited liability company, limited liability partnership, or any other form of organization permitted by law.

"Clock hour" means a minimum of 50 minutes of supervised or directed instruction and appropriate breaks.

"Credit hour" means a combination of the number of hours in class each week and the number of hours per week in a laboratory by which a school may measure course work. One unit of credit equals one hour of classroom or online study, two hours of laboratory experience, or three hours of internship or practicum or a combination of the three times the number of weeks in the term.

"Direct supervision" means that (i) a Virginia licensed esthetician or master esthetician is present in the esthetics spa or esthetics school at all times when services are being performed by a temporary license holder or registered apprentice or (ii) a Virginia licensed and certified esthetician or master esthetician instructor or a student instructor temporary license holder is present in the esthetics school at all times when services are being performed by a student, student instructor, or temporary license holder.

"Each and every location" means, for the purposes of schools with multiple suites or classrooms, a single location is one that is enclosed under one roof and where all classrooms and suites are within 500 feet of the main office.

"Firm" means any business entity recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

"Licensee" means any individual or firm holding a license issued by the board.

"Post-secondary educational level" means an accredited college or university that is approved or accredited by an accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.

"Reasonable hours" means the hours between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.; however, if the licensee is generally not substantially open to the public during the same hours, "reasonable hours" means the business hours when the licensee is open to the public.

"Reinstatement" means having a license restored to effectiveness after the expiration date has passed.

"Renewal" means continuing the effectiveness of a license or certificate for another period of time.

"Responsible management" means the following individuals:

1. The sole proprietor of a sole proprietorship;

2. The partners of a general partnership;

3. The managing partners of a limited partnership;

4. The officers of a corporation;

5. The managers of a limited liability company;

6. The officers or directors of an association; and

7. Individuals in other business entities recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth as having a fiduciary responsibility to the firm.

"Sole proprietor" means any individual, not a corporation, who is trading under that individual's own name or under an assumed or fictitious name pursuant to the provisions of §§ 59.1-69 through 59.1-76 of the Code of Virginia.

"Substantially equivalent exam" means an examination administered by the licensing entity that covers Virginia's scope of practice for that profession.

"Substantially equivalent training" means at least 80% of the hours required in Virginia and curriculum content covering Virginia's scope of practice for that profession.

"Virginia state institution" means any institution approved by the Virginia Department of Education.

"Wet disinfection unit" is a container large enough to hold an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered disinfectant that is a bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal solution in which the objects to be disinfected are completely immersed.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-15. Gratuitous services.

As provided in subdivision 5 of § 54.1-701 of the Code of Virginia, any individual who engages in esthetics or master esthetics without receiving compensation, reward, or obligation is considered to be performing gratuitous services and is exempt from the provisions of this chapter. Gratuitous services do not include services provided at no charge when goods are purchased.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

Part II
Entry

18VAC41-70-20. General requirements for an esthetician license or master esthetician license.

A. Any individual wishing to engage in esthetics or master esthetics must obtain a license in compliance with § 54.1-703 of the Code of Virginia and meet the following qualifications:

1. The applicant must be in good standing as a licensed esthetician or master esthetician in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed, certified, or registered. The applicant must provide a copy of any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions to the board at the time of application for licensure. This includes monetary penalties, fines, probation, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license.

Upon review of an applicant's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant who the board deems unfit or unsuited to engage in esthetics or master esthetics.

2. The applicant must disclose the applicant's physical address. A post office box may be provided as a secondary address.

3. The applicant must sign, as part of the application, a statement certifying that the applicant has read and understands the Virginia esthetics license laws and this chapter.

4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant must disclose all felony convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions within 10 years of the date of application.

The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.

5. The applicant must provide evidence satisfactory to the board that the applicant has passed the board-approved examination requirement administered either by the board or by independent examiners.

B. Eligibility to sit for board-approved examination.

1. Training in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Any person completing one of the following programs is eligible for examination:

a. An approved esthetics or master esthetics training program in a Virginia licensed esthetics or master esthetics school; or

b. A registered apprenticeship.

2. Training outside of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

a. Any person completing esthetics training or an apprenticeship program that is substantially equivalent to the Virginia program but is outside of the Commonwealth of Virginia must submit to the board documentation of the successful completion of training to be eligible for examination. Applicants who have earned a degree from an institution outside the United States must have the degree translated, authenticated, and evaluated by an education evaluation service if the applicant is seeking credit for the education. The board, in its discretion, may decline to accept any evaluation submitted by an applicant.

b. An applicant who has completed a training or apprenticeship program that is not substantially equivalent to Virginia's training must submit documentation acceptable to the board verifying three years of work experience. An applicant should provide a work history demonstrating three years of experience as a licensed esthetician or master esthetician in any other state or jurisdiction of the United States on a form provided by the board.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-30. License by endorsement.

A. Upon proper application to the board, any person currently licensed to practice as an esthetician or master esthetician or who is a licensed instructor in the respective profession in any other state or jurisdiction of the United States and who has completed a training or apprenticeship program and a written examination and a practical examination that are substantially equivalent to the training and examinations required by this chapter may be issued an esthetician or master esthetician license or the respective instructor certificate without an examination. The applicant must also meet the requirements set forth in 18VAC41-70-20 A.

B. Applicants for licensure by endorsement who have completed an equivalent training or apprenticeship program and whose state only utilizes one licensing examination (written or practical) that is substantially equivalent to that required by this chapter may take the other examination (written or practical) in Virginia to qualify for licensure.

C. Applicants for licensure by endorsement who have completed a training or apprenticeship program that is not substantially equivalent to Virginia's training but otherwise meet all the requirements listed in subsection A of this section may substitute three years of work experience for training. Applicants must provide a work history demonstrating three years of licensed experience in any other state or jurisdiction of the United States on a form provided by the board.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-35. Apprenticeship training.

A. Licensed estheticians and master estheticians who train apprentices must comply with the standards for apprenticeship training.

B. Licensed spas where apprentices train must comply with the standards for registered apprenticeship training.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, eff. February 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-40. Examination requirements and fees.

A. Applicants for initial licensure must pass a practical examination and a written examination approved by the board.

B. Any applicant who passes either the practical or written examination will not be required to take that examination again, provided both examinations are passed within one year of the initial examination date.

C. The fee for examination or reexamination is subject to contracted charges to the board by an outside vendor. These contracts are competitively negotiated and bargained for in compliance with the Virginia Public Procurement Act (§ 2.2-4300 et seq. of the Code of Virginia). Fees may be adjusted and charged to the candidate in accordance with these contracts. The fee will not exceed $225 per candidate.

D. Any candidate failing to apply for initial licensure within five years of passing both the practical and written examinations will be required to retake both examinations.

E. Any applicant who does not pass a reexamination within one year of the initial examination date will be required to submit a new application.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-50. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-60. Examination administration.

A. The examination must be administered by the board or the designated testing service. The practical examination must be supervised by a chief examiner.

B. Every esthetics or master esthetics examiner must hold a current Virginia license in the respective profession, have three or more years of active experience as a licensed professional, and be currently practicing in that profession.

C. No certified esthetics or master esthetics instructor who (i) is currently teaching, (ii) is a school owner, or (iii) is an apprentice sponsor may be an examiner.

D. Each esthetics or master esthetics chief examiner must (i) hold a current Virginia license in the respective profession, (ii) have three or more years of active experience in that profession, (iii) have one year of active experience as an examiner, and (iv) be currently practicing in the respective profession.

E. The applicant must follow all procedures established by the board with regard to conduct at an examination. Such procedures include written instructions communicated prior to the examination date and instructions communicated at the site on the date of the examination. Failure to comply with all procedures established by the board and the testing service with regard to conduct at the examination may be grounds for denial of application.

F. Examiners and chief examiners must attend training workshops sponsored by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-70. Esthetician and master esthetician temporary license.

A. A temporary license to work under the direct supervision of a currently licensed individual may be issued only to applicants for initial licensure who the board finds eligible for the applicable examination. There is no fee for a temporary license. Except as provided in this section, an applicant holding a temporary license must be supervised by an individual holding a license in the same scope of practice.

Licensed master estheticians may supervise estheticians and waxing temporary license holders. Licensed estheticians may supervise waxing temporary license holders.

B. The temporary license will remain in force for 90 days, and no subsequent temporary license shall be issued.

C. Any person continuing to practice esthetics services after a temporary license has expired may be prosecuted and fined by the Commonwealth under §§ 54.1-111 A 1 and 54.1-202 of the Code of Virginia.

D. Temporary licenses will not be issued where grounds may exist to deny a license pursuant to § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia or 18VAC41-70-20.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 40, Issue 23, eff. August 15, 2024.

18VAC41-70-80. General requirements for spa license.

A. Any firm wishing to operate an esthetics spa, including any mobile spa, must obtain a spa license in compliance with § 54.1-704.1 of the Code of Virginia, and must meet the following qualifications in order to receive a license:

1. The applicant and all members of the responsible management must be in good standing as a licensed spa in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed, certified, or registered. The applicant and all members of the responsible management must provide a copy of any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions to the board at the time of application for licensure. This includes monetary penalties, fines, probation, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, and voluntary termination of a license.

Upon review of the applicant's and all members of the responsible management's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant that the board deems unfit or unsuited to engage in the operation of an esthetics spa.

2. The applicant must disclose the applicant's physical address. A post office box may be provided as a secondary address. Mobile spas must provide a physical address where the spa is permanently garaged.

3. The applicant must sign, as part of the application, a statement certifying that the applicant has read and understands the Virginia esthetics license laws and this chapter.

4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant must disclose all felony convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions for the firm and all members of the firm's responsible management within 10 years of the date of application.

The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.

5. The applicant must disclose the firm's responsible management.

B. Spa licenses are issued to firms and are not transferable. Any changes in the name or address of the spa must be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of such changes. The board will not be responsible for the licensee's failure to receive notices, communications, and correspondence caused by the licensee's failure to promptly notify the board in writing of any change of name or address or for any other reason beyond the control of the board.

C. Whenever the legal business entity holding the license is dissolved or altered to form a new business entity, the original license becomes void. The firm must notify the board, apply for a new license within 30 days of the change in the business entity, and destroy the license. Such changes include:

1. Death of a sole proprietor;

2. Death or withdrawal of a general partner in a general partnership or the managing partner in a limited partnership; and

3. Conversion, formation, or dissolution of a corporation, a limited liability company, association, or any other business entity recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

D. Any change in the officers of a corporation, managers of a limited liability company, or officers or directors of an association must be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of the change.

E. The board or any of its agents must be allowed to inspect during reasonable hours any licensed spa for compliance with provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 7, eff. January 1, 2019; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-90. General requirements for a school license.

A. Any firm wishing to operate an esthetics school must submit an application to the board at least 60 days prior to the date for which approval is sought, obtain a school license in compliance with § 54.1-704.2 of the Code of Virginia, and meet the following qualifications in order to receive a license:

1. The applicant and all members of the responsible management must be in good standing as a licensed esthetics school in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed, certified, or registered. The applicant and all members of the responsible management must provide a copy of any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions to the board at the time of application for licensure. This includes monetary penalties, fines, probation, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license in connection with a disciplinary action, and voluntary termination of a license.

Upon review of the applicant's and all members of the responsible management's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant that the board deems unfit or unsuited to engage in the operation of an esthetics school.

2. The applicant must disclose the applicant's physical address. A post office box may be provided as a secondary address.

3. The applicant must sign, as part of the application, a statement certifying that the applicant has read and understands the Virginia esthetics license laws and this chapter.

4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant must disclose all felony convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions for the firm and all members of the firm's responsible management within 10 years of the date of application.

The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.

5. The applicant must disclose the firm's responsible management.

B. Esthetics school licenses are issued to firms and are not transferable. Any changes in the name or the address of record or principal place of business of the school must be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of such change. The board will not be responsible for the licensee's failure to receive notices, communications, and correspondence caused by the licensee's failure to promptly notify the board in writing of any change of name or address or for any other reason beyond the control of the board. The name of the school must indicate that it is an educational institution. All signs or other advertisements must reflect the name as indicated on the license issued by the board and contain language indicating it is an educational institution.

C. Whenever the legal business entity holding the license is dissolved or altered to form a new business entity, the original license becomes void. The firm must notify the board, apply for a new license within 30 days of the change in business entity, and destroy the license. Such changes include:

1. Death of a sole proprietor;

2. Death or withdrawal of a general partner in a general partnership or the managing partner in a limited partnership; and

3. Conversion, formation, or dissolution of a corporation, a limited liability company, an association, or any other business entity recognized under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

D. Within 30 days of ceasing to operate, whether through dissolution or alteration of the business entity, the school must provide a written report to the board detailing the performances and hours of each student who has not completed the program.

E. Any change in the officers of a corporation, managers of a limited liability company, or officers or directors of an association must be reported to the board in writing within 30 days of the change.

F. Esthetics schools under the Virginia Department of Education are exempt from licensure requirements.

G. The board or any of its agents must be allowed to inspect during reasonable hours any licensed school for compliance with provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 7, eff. January 1, 2019; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-100. General requirements for an esthetics and master esthetics instructor certificate.

A. Any individual wishing to engage in esthetics or master esthetics instruction must meet the following qualifications:

1. The applicant must be in good standing as a licensed esthetician, master esthetician, or instructor, respectively, in Virginia and all other jurisdictions where licensed, certified, or registered. The applicant must provide a copy of any disciplinary action taken in Virginia and all other jurisdictions since being previously licensed as an esthetician or master esthetician to the board at the time of application for certification. This includes monetary penalties, fines, probation, suspensions, revocations, surrender of a license or certification in connection with a disciplinary action, or voluntary termination of a license or certification.

Upon review of the applicant's prior disciplinary action, the board, in its discretion, may deny certification to any applicant that the board deems unfit or unsuited to engage in the instruction of esthetics or master esthetics;

2. The applicant must hold and maintain a current Virginia esthetician or master esthetician license, respectively;

3. The applicant must complete one of the following qualifications:

a. Pass a course in teaching techniques at the post-secondary educational level; or

b. Pass an instructor examination administered by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board; and

4. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant must disclose all felony convictions in Virginia and all other jurisdictions since being previously licensed as an esthetician or master esthetician within 10 years of the date of application.

The board, in its discretion, may deny certification to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.

B. Certified instructors may teach in any profession in which they hold the underlying license.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-105. Student instructor temporary license.

A. A licensed esthetician or master esthetician may be granted a 12-month student instructor temporary license to function under the direct supervision of a certified instructor in a licensed school. No subsequent student instructor temporary license will be issued. A student instructor must pass an instructor examination administered by the board or by a testing service acting on behalf of the board.

B. A student instructor may teach in any profession in which the student instructor holds the underlying license. Failure to maintain an esthetician or master esthetician license will disqualify an individual from holding a student instructor temporary license.

C. Licensed estheticians and master estheticians may also supervise waxing student instructor temporary license holders. Licensed master estheticians may also supervise esthetician student instructor temporary license holders.

D. The student instructor temporary license holder must be associated with both a school and a direct supervisor.

E. Temporary licenses may not be issued where grounds may exist to deny a license pursuant to § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia or 18VAC41-70-100.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-110. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

Part III
Fees

18VAC41-70-120. Fees.

The following fees apply. All fees are nonrefundable and will not be prorated.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Volume 27, Issue 23, eff. September 1, 2011; Volume 30, Issue 10, eff. March 1, 2014; Volume 32, Issue 24, eff. September 1, 2016; Volume 34, Issue 22, eff. August 1, 2018; Volume 36, Issue 21, eff. September 1, 2020; Volume 38, Issue 25, eff. September 1, 2022; Volume 41, Issue 22, eff. August 1, 2025; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-130. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

Part IV
Renewal/Reinstatement

18VAC41-70-140. License renewal required.

A license or certificate issued under this chapter will expire two years from the last day of the month in which it was issued.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-150. Notice of renewal.

The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation will send a renewal notice to the licensee or certificate holder outlining the procedures for renewal. Failure to receive this notice, however, does not relieve the licensee or certificate holder of the obligation to renew.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-160. Failure to renew.

A. When an individual or business entity fails to renew a license or certificate within 30 days following the expiration date, the licensee or certificate holder who intends to remain licensed or certified must pay the reinstatement fee.

B. When an individual or business entity fails to renew a license or certification within two years following the expiration date, reinstatement is no longer possible. To resume practice:

1. The former licensee or certificate holder must apply for licensure or certification as a new applicant and must meet all current entry requirements for each respective license or certificate.

2. An individual previously licensed in Virginia for a minimum of three years must submit a new application and pass the required examination.

C. If a licensed school fails to renew its license within 30 days following the expiration date, the licensee must pay the reinstatement fee.

1. After 180 days, the school must submit a reinstatement application and must provide (i) the reasons for failing to renew prior to the expiration date and (ii) a notarized statement that all students currently enrolled or seeking to enroll at the school have been notified in writing that the school's license has expired. All of these materials shall be called the application package. After 180 days, reinstatement will be considered by the board if the school consents to and satisfactorily passes an inspection of the school. Pursuant to 18VAC41-70-90, upon receipt of the reinstatement fee, application package, and inspection results, the board may reinstate the school's license or require requalification.

2. If the reinstatement application package and reinstatement fee are not received by the board within six months following the expiration date of the school's license, the board will notify the testing service that prospective graduates of the unlicensed school are not acceptable candidates for the examination. Such notification will be sent to the school and must be displayed in a conspicuous manner by the school in an area that is accessible to the public. No student will be disqualified from taking the examination because the school was not licensed for a portion of the time the student attended if the school license is reinstated by the board.

D. The date a renewal fee is received by the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation or its agent will be used to determine whether the requirement for reinstatement of a license is applicable and an additional fee is required.

E. When a license or certificate is reinstated, the licensee or certificate holder will be assigned an expiration date two years from the last day of the month of reinstatement.

F. A licensee or certificate holder that reinstates a license or certificate will be regarded as having been continuously licensed without interruption. Therefore, a licensee or certificate holder will be subject to the authority of the board for activities performed prior to reinstatement.

G. A licensee or certificate holder that fails to reinstate a license or certificate will be regarded as unlicensed or uncertified from the expiration date of the license or certificate forward. Nothing in this chapter divests the board of its authority to discipline a licensee or certificate holder for a violation of the law or regulations during the period of time for which the individual or business entity was licensed or certified.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 39, Issue 22, eff. October 1, 2023; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

Part V
Esthetics Schools

18VAC41-70-170. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017.

18VAC41-70-180. General requirements.

A. An esthetics school must:

1. Hold a school license for each and every location. Any suites or classrooms that are located in a different building or are further than 500 feet from the main office are considered a separate location and require the school hold an additional license.

2. Hold a spa license if the school receives compensation for services provided in its clinic.

3. Employ and ensure all training is conducted under the direct supervision of licensed and certified esthetics instructors or master esthetics instructors, respectively. A list of all certified instructors must be provided with the application for licensure.

a. Licensed and certified esthetics instructors and master esthetics instructors may also instruct a waxing program.

b. Licensed and certified master esthetics instructors may also instruct an esthetics program.

c. Any change in instructors must be reported to the board within 30 days of the change.

4. Develop individuals for entry-level competency in esthetics and master esthetics.

5. Submit curricula for board approval. All changes to curricula must be resubmitted and approved by the board.

a. Esthetician curricula must be based on a minimum of 600 clock or equivalent credit hours and must include performances in accordance with 18VAC41-70-200 A.

b. Master esthetician curricula must be based on a minimum of 600 clock or equivalent credit hours and must include performances in accordance with 18VAC41-70-200 B.

6. Inform the public that all services are performed by students if the school receives compensation for services provided in its clinic by posting a notice in the reception area of the spa in plain view of the public.

7. Conduct classroom instruction in an area separate from the clinic area where practical instruction is conducted and services are provided. A sketch of the school floor plan must be included in the application for licensure.

B. The theory portions of the curriculum may be offered online. Practical instruction must be obtained in a traditional brick-and-mortar classroom setting. Theory and practical training must be conducted in the same building, unless the school has board approval to offer the theory training online. Schools must utilize technologies and practices that are effective in verifying the identity of distance-learning students who participate in class or coursework (e.g., a secure login and passcode) while protecting student privacy. Educational technologies must be capable of monitoring a student's time and activities. The school must utilize a measure of competency (e.g., an examination) of the information the student is taught online, which must be completed in a traditional brick-and-mortar classroom.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-190. Curriculum and hours of instruction requirements.

A. Each esthetics school must submit with its application a curriculum, including a course syllabus, a detailed course content outline, a copy of any course text, a sample of five lesson plans, a sample of evaluation methods to be used, days and hours of instruction, program length, a sample of a final transcript, a breakdown of hours and performances for all courses to be taught that will lead to licensure, and a sample test of at least 25 questions that will be administered to students, including answer key.

B. The outline for esthetics must include the following:

1. Orientation and business topics - minimum of 25 hours of instruction.

a. School policies;

b. Management;

c. Sales, inventory, and retailing;

d. Taxes and payroll;

e. Insurance;

f. Client records and confidentiality; and

g. Professional ethics and practices.

2. Laws and regulations - minimum of 10 hours of instruction.

3. General sciences - minimum of 80 hours of instruction.

a. Bacteriology;

b. Microorganisms;

c. Infection control, disinfection, and sterilization;

d. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements;

e. Safety Data Sheet (SDS);

f. General procedures and safety measures;

g. Cosmetic chemistry;

h. Products and ingredients; and

i. Nutrition.

4. Applied sciences - minimum of 95 hours of instruction.

a. Anatomy and physiology;

b. Skin structure and function;

c. Skin types;

d. Skin conditions; and

e. Diseases and disorders of the skin.

5. Skin care - minimum of 255 hours of instruction.

a. Health screening;

b. Skin analysis and consultation;

c. Effleurage and related movements and manipulations of the face and body;

d. Cleansing procedures;

e. Masks;

f. Extraction techniques;

g. Machines, equipment, and electricity;

h. Manual facials and treatments;

i. Machine, electrical facials, and treatments; and

j. General procedures and safety measures.

6. Makeup - minimum of 65 hours of instruction.

a. Setup, supplies, and implements;

b. Color theory;

c. Consultation;

d. General and special occasion application;

e. Camouflage;

f. Application of false lashes and lash extensions;

g. Lash and tinting;

h. Lash perming;

i. Lightening of the hair on body, except scalp; and

j. General procedures and safety measures.

7. Body and other treatments - minimum of 20 hours of instruction.

a. Body treatments;

b. Body wraps;

c. Body masks;

d. Body scrubs;

e. Aromatherapy; and

f. General procedures and safety measures.

8. Hair removal - minimum of 50 hours of instruction.

a. Types of hair removal;

b. Wax types;

c. Tweezing;

d. Chemical hair removal;

e. Mechanical hair removal; and

f. General procedures and safety measures.

C. The outline for master esthetics must include the following:

1. Orientation, advanced business subjects, and infection control - minimum of 45 hours of instruction.

a. School policies and procedures;

b. Professional ethics and practices;

c. Ethics and professional conduct;

d. Insurance and liability issues;

e. Confidentiality and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 Privacy Rule (HIPAA);

f. Client records and documentation;

g. Microbiology and bacteriology;

h. Infection control, disinfection, and sterilization;

i. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA);

j. Safety Data Sheet (SDS); and

k. Personal protective equipment.

2. State laws, rules, and regulations - minimum of 10 hours of instruction.

3. Advanced anatomy and physiology - minimum of 65 hours of instruction.

a. Advanced anatomy and physiology;

b. Advanced skin structure and functions;

c. Advanced skin typing and conditions;

d. Advanced disease and disorders;

e. Advanced cosmetic ingredients;

f. Pharmacology; and

g. Advanced homecare.

4. Advanced skin care and advanced modalities - minimum of 90 hours of instruction.

a. Introduction to microdermabrasion and dermaplaning;

b. Indications and contraindications for crystal microdermabrasion;

c. General procedures and safety measures for crystal microdermabrasion;

d. Indications and contraindications for crystal-free microdermabrasion and dermaplaning;

e. General procedures and safety measures for crystal-free microdermabrasion and dermaplaning;

f. Equipment safety: crystal and crystal-free microdermabrasion and dermaplaning;

g. Waste disposal, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA);

h. Introduction to microdermabrasion techniques and proper protocols;

i. Machine parts, operation, protocols, care, waste disposal, and safety;

j. Practical application and consultation for crystal microdermabrasion;

k. Practical application and consultation for crystal-free microdermabrasion and dermaplaning; and

l. Pretreatment and posttreatment for microdermabrasion.

5. Advanced procedures and chemical exfoliation - minimum of 270 hours of instruction.

a. Advanced skin analysis and consultation and health screening and documentation;

b. Advanced procedures, light treatments, light-emitting diode (LED), intense pulsed light (IPL) device;

c. Advanced manual, machine, and electric treatments, microcurrent, and ultrasound;

d. Introduction to chemical exfoliation and peels of the epidermis;

e. Fundamentals of skin care associated with chemical exfoliation and peels and wound healing;

f. Pretreatment and posttreatment for chemical exfoliation and peels;

g. Assessing suitability and predicting chemical exfoliation efficacy;

h. General practical application and consultation protocols;

i. Practical application and consultation for enzymes, herbal exfoliations, and vitamin-based peels;

j. Indications and contraindications for enzymes, herbal exfoliations, and vitamin-based peels;

k. General procedures and safety measures for enzymes, herbal exfoliations, and vitamin-based peels;

l. Pretreatments and posttreatments for enzymes, herbal exfoliations, and vitamin-based peels;

m. Practical application and consultation for alpha hydroxy peels;

n. Indications and contraindications for alpha hydroxy peels;

o. General procedures and safety measures for alpha hydroxy peels;

p. Pretreatment and posttreatment for alpha hydroxy peels;

q. Practical application and consultation for beta hydroxy peels;

r. Indications and contraindications for beta hydroxy peels;

s. General procedures and safety measures for beta hydroxy peels;

t. Pretreatment and posttreatment for beta hydroxy peels;

u. Practical application and consultation for Jessner and Modified Jessner peels;

v. Indications and contraindications for Jessner and Modified Jessner peels;

w. General procedures and safety measures for Jessner and Modified Jessner peels;

x. Pretreatment and posttreatment for Jessner and Modified Jessner peels;

y. Practical application and consultation for trichloracetic acid peels;

z. Indications and contraindications for trichloracetic acid peels;

aa. General procedures and safety measures for trichloracetic acid peels; and

bb. Pretreatment and posttreatment for trichloracetic acid peels.

6. Lymphatic drainage - minimum of 120 hours of instruction.

a. Introduction to lymphatic drainage;

b. Tissues and organs of the lymphatic system;

c. Functions of the lymphatic system;

d. Immunity;

e. Etiology of edema;

f. Indications and contraindications for lymphatic drainage;

g. Lymphatic drainage manipulations and movements;

h. Face and neck treatment sequence;

i. Lymphatic drainage on the trunk and upper extremities;

j. Lymphatic drainage on the trunk and lower extremities;

k. Cellulite;

l. Using lymphatic drainage with other treatments; and

m. Machine-aided lymphatic drainage.

D. A licensed esthetics school with an approved esthetics program may conduct an assessment of a transfer student's competence in esthetics and, based on the assessment, give credit toward the requirements specified in subsection B of this section and 18VAC41-70-200 A. A licensed esthetics school with an approved master esthetics program may conduct an assessment of a transfer student's competence in master esthetics and, based on the assessment, give credit toward the requirements specified in subsection C of this section and 18VAC41-70-200 B.

The school must make the assessment based on a review of the student's transcript, documentation of hours and performances provided to the student by the school from where the student is transferring, and the successful completion of a competency examination administered by the school. The school may also request a copy of a catalog or bulletin giving the full course description when making the evaluation. The number of credit hours awarded must not exceed the actual hours of instruction verified on the transcript or the number of hours specified in the board-approved curriculum for a specific topic.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 38, Issue 11, eff. March 7, 2022; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-200. Practical performance requirements.

A. The curriculum for estheticians must include the following minimum practical performances:

B. The curriculum for master estheticians must include the following minimum performances:

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-210. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-220. (Repealed.)

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; repealed, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017.

18VAC41-70-230. Records.

A. Schools must maintain on the premises of each school and available for inspection by the board or any of its agents the following records for the period of a student's enrollment through five years after the student's completion of the curriculum, termination, or withdrawal:

1. Enrollment application containing the student's signature and a two-inch by two-inch color head and shoulders photograph of the student;

2. Daily record of attendance containing the student's signature;

3. Student clock hours containing the student's signature and method of calculation;

4. Practical performance completion sheets containing the student's signature;

5. Final transcript;

6. Course descriptions; and

7. All other relevant documents that account for a student's accrued clock hours and practical applications.

B. Schools must produce to the board or any of its agents, within 10 days of the request, any document, book, or record concerning any student, or for which the licensee is required to maintain records, for inspection and copying by the board or its agents. The board may extend such timeframe upon a showing of extenuating circumstances prohibiting delivery within such 10-day period.

C. Schools must, within 21 days upon receipt of a written request from a student, provide documentation of hours and performances completed by the student as required to be maintained by subsection A of this section.

D. Prior to a school changing ownership or a school closing, the school is required to provide to current students documentation of hours and performances completed.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-240. Reporting.

A. Each school must provide student rosters to the board quarterly, no later than January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15 of every year.

1. Each school must provide a roster of all enrolled students and a roster of students who attended in the preceding six months prior to the reporting deadline.

2. Students who are enrolled but have not begun classes must be included in the report.

B. Rosters must be submitted via a secure link provided by the board on the board-supplied document, which will include the student's full name, date of birth, program type, date enrolled, the total number of hours to date, and the date completed, terminated, or withdrawn.

C. Schools with no students enrolled, but with the intention of operating, must submit a report to that effect.

D. Schools with no students enrolled that no longer wish to operate should terminate the license in accordance with this chapter.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

Part VI
Standards of Practice

18VAC41-70-250. Scope of practice.

A. Each licensed spa or school must ensure that no licensee or student performs any service beyond the scope of practice for the esthetician or master esthetician license.

B. For chemical exfoliation of the epidermis by a licensed master esthetician, the standards for use of an exfoliator or concentration of acids will be:

1. Jessner and Modified Jessner solution;

2. Trichloracetic acid less than 20%;

3. Nonprescriptive alpha hydroxyl acids;

4. Nonprescriptive beta hydroxyl acids;

5. Nonprescriptive, commercially available products used in accordance with manufacturer's written instructions;

6. Vitamin-based acids;

7. Enzymes; or

8. Herbal exfoliators.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-260. Display of license.

A. The responsible management for each licensed spa or school must ensure that all current licenses and certificates issued by the board are displayed in plain view of the public either in the reception area or at individual work stations of the spa or school. Duplicate licenses and certificates must be posted in a similar manner in every spa or school location where the regulant provides services.

B. The responsible management for each spa or school must ensure that no employee, licensee, student, or apprentice performs any service beyond the scope of practice for the applicable license.

C. All licensees and certificate holders must operate under the name in which the license or temporary license is issued.

D. Proof of apprenticeship registration issued by the applicable agency of the Virginia Department of Workforce Development Advancement (VDWDA) must be displayed in plain view of the public either in the reception area or at individual work stations of the spa. The apprentice sponsor must require each apprentice to wear a badge clearly indicating status as a VDWDA registered apprentice.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-270. Sanitation and safety standards for spas and schools.

A. Sanitation and safety standards.

1. Any spa or school where esthetics services are delivered to the public must be clean and sanitary at all times.

2. Mobile spas must be stationary while providing services and may not operate where prohibited by local ordinance.

3. Compliance with these rules does not confer compliance with other requirements set forth by federal, state, and local laws, codes, ordinances, and regulations as they apply to business operation, physical construction and maintenance, safety, and public health.

4. Licensees must take sufficient measures to prevent the transmission of communicable and infectious diseases and comply with the sanitation standards identified in this section and must ensure that all employees likewise comply.

B. Disinfection and storage of implements.

1. Each esthetician and master esthetician must have a wet disinfection unit available for use and must meet the standards in the definition of wet disinfection requirements. A wet disinfection unit must have a cover to prevent contamination and any disinfection solutions must be used according to manufacturer instructions.

2. Disinfection of multiuse implements constructed of hard, nonporous materials such as metal, glass, or plastic that the manufacturer designed for use on more than one client is to be carried out in the following manner prior to servicing a client:

a. Remove all foreign matter from the object, utilizing a brush if needed;

b. Wash thoroughly with hot water and soap;

c. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry thoroughly with a clean paper towel;

d. Fully immerse implements into wet disinfectant solution for a minimum of 10 minutes; and

e. After immersion, rinse articles, dry thoroughly with a clean paper towel, and store in a clean, predisinfected, and dry cabinet, drawer, or sealed covered container, or leave instruments in a wet disinfection unit used according to manufacturer's directions.

3. Single-use items designed by the manufacturer for use on no more than one client should be discarded immediately after use on each individual client, including powder puffs, lip color, cheek color, sponges, styptic pencils, wood implements, chamois, skin care implements, or disposable razors. The disinfection and reuse of these items is not permitted and the use of single-use items on more than one client is prohibited.

4. For the purpose of recharging, rechargeable tools or implements may be stored in an area other than in a closed cabinet or container. This area must be clean.

5. All wax pots must be cleaned and disinfected with an EPA-registered disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal with no sticks left standing in the wax at any time. The area immediately surrounding the wax pot must be clean and free of clutter, waste materials, spills, and any other items that may pose a hazard.

6. Sinks, bowls, tubs, whirlpool units, air-jetted basins, pipe-less units, and non-whirlpool basins necessitated by the performance of skin care services must be maintained in accordance with manufacturer's recommendations. They must be cleaned and disinfected immediately after each client in the following manner:

a. Drain all water and remove all debris;

b. Clean the surfaces and walls with soap or detergent to remove all visible debris, oils, and product residues and then rinse with water;

c. Disinfect by spraying or wiping the surface with an EPA-registered disinfectant that is bactericidal, virucidal, and fungicidal in accordance with manufacturer directions; and

d. Wipe dry with a clean towel.

C. General sanitation and safety requirements.

1. Service chairs, workstations and workstands, and back bars must be clean;

2. The floor surface in all work areas must be of a washable surface other than carpet;

3. All furniture, fixtures, walls, floors, windows, and ceilings must be in good repair and free of water seepage and dirt. All mats must be secured or lie flat;

4. A fully functional bathroom with a working toilet and sink must be available for clients. There must be hot and cold running water. Fixtures must be in good condition. The bathroom must be lighted and sufficiently ventilated. There must be soap and clean single-use towels or a hand air-drying device for the client's use. For facilities newly occupied after January 1, 2017, the bathroom must be available for client use and must adhere to all sanitation requirements of this chapter;

5. Electrical cords must be placed to prevent entanglement by the client or licensee and electrical outlets must be covered by plates;

6. All sharp tools, implements, and heat-producing appliances must be in safe working order at all times, safely stored, and placed so as to prevent any accidental injury to the client or licensee;

7. The spa area must be sufficiently ventilated to exhaust hazardous or objectionable airborne chemicals and to allow the free flow of air; and

8. Adequate lighting must be provided.

D. Articles, tools, and products.

1. Any multiuse article, tool, or product that cannot be cleansed or disinfected is prohibited from use;

2. Soiled implements must be removed from the tops of work stations immediately after use;

3. Clean spatulas, other clean tools, or clean disposable gloves must be used to remove bulk substances from containers;

4. Any multiuse article, tool, or product that cannot be disinfected by full immersion as specified in 18VAC41-70-270 B 2 or cleaned according to manufacturer's recommendation, including natural hairbrushes or neck dusters, is prohibited from use;

5. Lotions, ointments, creams, and powders must be accurately labeled and kept in closed containers. A clean spatula must be used to remove creams or other products from jars. Sterile cotton or sponges must be used to apply creams, lotions, and powders. Cosmetic containers must be covered after each use;

6. All appliances must be safely stored;

7. Presanitized tools and implements, linens, and equipment must be stored for use in a sanitary enclosed cabinet or covered receptacle;

8. Clean towels, robes, or other linens must be used for each patron. Clean towels, robes, or other linens must be stored in a clean predisinfected and dry cabinet, drawer, or nonairtight covered container. Soiled towels, robes, or other linens must be stored in a container enclosed on all sides, including the top, except if stored in a separate laundry room;

9. No substance other than a sterile styptic powder or sterile liquid astringent approved for homeostasis and applied with a sterile single-use applicator may be used to check bleeding; and

10. Any disposable material making contact with blood or other body fluid must be double-bagged, labeled as a biohazard, and disposed of in a closed receptacle.

E. Chemical storage and emergency information.

1. Spas and schools must have in the immediate working area a binder with all Safety Data Sheets (SDS) provided by manufacturers for any chemical products used;

2. Spas and schools must have a blood spill clean-up kit in the work area that contains, at a minimum, latex gloves, two 12-inch by 12-inch towels, one disposable trash bag, bleach, one empty spray bottle, and one mask with face shield or any Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) approved blood spill clean-up kit;

3. Flammable chemicals must be labeled and stored in a nonflammable storage cabinet or a properly ventilated room; and

4. Chemicals that could interact in a hazardous manner (e.g., oxidizers, catalysts, and solvents) must be labeled and separated in storage.

F. Client health guidelines.

1. All employees providing client services must cleanse their hands with a soap product prior to providing services to each client;

2. All employees providing client services must wear gloves while providing services when exposure to bloodborne pathogens is possible;

3. No spa or school providing esthetics services will have on the premises esthetics products containing hazardous substances that have been banned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in esthetics products;

4. No product will be used in a manner that is disapproved by the FDA; and

5. Esthetics spas must be in compliance with current building and zoning codes.

G. In addition to the requirements set forth in this section, all licensees and temporary license holders must adhere to regulations and guidelines established by the Virginia Department of Health and the Occupational and Safety Division of the Virginia Department of Labor and Industry.

H. All spas and schools must immediately report the results of any inspection of the spa or school by the Virginia Department of Health as required by § 54.1-705 of the Code of Virginia.

I. All spas and schools must conduct a self-inspection on an annual basis and maintain a self-inspection form on file for five years so that it may be requested and reviewed by the board at its discretion.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, February 1, 2017; Volume 36, Issue 9, eff. February 10, 2020; Volume 39, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2022; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

18VAC41-70-280. Grounds for license or certificate revocation, suspension, or probation; denial of application, renewal or reinstatement; or imposition of a monetary penalty.

The board may, in considering the totality of the circumstances, refuse to issue, renew, or reinstate a license or certificate; impose a monetary penalty; place a license or certificate on probation with such terms and conditions and for such time as it may designate; suspend a license or certificate for a stated period of time; or revoke a license or certificate issued under the provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter if the board finds that the licensee, certificate holder, temporary license holder, or applicant:

1. Is incompetent, negligent, or unable, as a result of any mental or physical condition, as those terms are generally understood in the profession, to skillfully and safely (i) practice as an esthetician or (ii) operate a spa or school;

2. Is convicted of fraud or deceit in the practice or teaching of esthetics or master esthetics, fails to teach in accordance with the board-approved curriculum as provided for in this chapter, or fails to comply with 18VAC41-70-190 D when making an assessment of credit hours awarded;

3. Attempts to obtain or has obtained, renewed, or reinstated a license, certificate, or temporary license by false or fraudulent representation;

4. Violates, induces others to violate, or cooperates with others in violating any of the provisions of this chapter or Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or any local ordinance or regulation governing standards of health and sanitation of the establishment in which any esthetician may practice or offer to practice;

5. Offers, gives, or promises anything of value or benefit to any federal, state, or local employee for the purpose of influencing that employee to circumvent, in the performance of the employee's duties, any federal, state, or local law, regulation, or ordinance governing esthetics or master esthetics;

6. Fails to respond to the board or any of its agents or provides false, misleading, or incomplete information to an inquiry by the board or any of the board's agents;

7. Fails or refuses to allow the board or any of its agents to inspect during reasonable hours any licensed spa or school for compliance with provisions of Chapter 7 (§ 54.1-700 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia or this chapter;

8. Fails to produce, upon request or demand of the board or any of its agents, any document, book, record, or copy thereof in a licensee's, certificate holder's, temporary license holder's, applicant's, or responsible management's possession or maintained in accordance with this chapter;

9. Fails to notify the board of a change of name or address in writing within 30 days of the change for each and every license, certificate, or temporary license;

10. Makes any misrepresentation or publishes or causes to be published any advertisement that is false, deceptive, or misleading;

11. Fails to notify the board in writing within 30 days of any final or disciplinary action taken against a license, registration, certificate, or temporary license in any jurisdiction by a local, state, or national regulatory body;

12. Has been convicted or found guilty, regardless of the manner of adjudication, in Virginia or any other jurisdiction of the United States of any felony, there being no appeal pending therefrom or the time for appeal having elapsed. Review of convictions shall be subject to the requirements of § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia;

13. Fails to inform the board in writing within 30 days of pleading guilty or nolo contendere or being convicted or found guilty regardless of adjudication of convictions as stated in subdivision 12 of this section;

14. Allows, as responsible management of a spa, a person who has not obtained a license or a temporary license to practice, unless the person is duly enrolled as a registered apprentice;

15. Allows, as responsible management of a school, a person who has not obtained an instructor certificate or student instructor temporary license to practice as an esthetics or a master esthetics instructor;

16. Fails to take sufficient measures to prevent transmission of communicable or infectious diseases or fails to comply with sanitary requirements provided for in this chapter or any local, state, or federal law or regulation governing the standards of health and sanitation for the practices of esthetics or master esthetics or the operation of esthetics spas; or

17. Fails to comply with all procedures established by the board and the testing service with regard to conduct at any board examination.

Statutory Authority

§ 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.

Historical Notes

Derived from Virginia Register Volume 23, Issue 25, eff. September 20, 2007; amended, Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 8, eff. February 1, 2017; Volume 35, Issue 7, eff. January 1, 2019; Volume 38, Issue 4, eff. December 1, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 5, eff. December 1, 2025.

Forms (18VAC41-70)

Esthetician – Esthetics Instructor Examination and License Application, A450-1261_62EXLIC-v20 (eff. 12/2025)

Master Esthetician – Master Esthetics Instructor Examination and License Application, A450-1264_65EXLIC-v22 (eff. 12/2025)

Temporary License Application, A450-1213TEMP-vs4 (eff. 8/2024)

License by Endorsement Application, A450-1213END-v21 (rev. 12/2025)

Training Verification Form, A450-1213TR-vs1 (eff. 5/2022)

Individuals – Reinstatement Application, A450-1213REI-v16 (rev. 8/2025)

Salon, Shop, Spa, and Parlor License and Reinstatement Application, A450-1213BUS-v20 (rev. 12/2025)

Salon, Shop, and Spa Self-Inspection Form, A450-1213_SSS_INSP-vs2 (eff. 5/2016)

Instructor Certification Application, A450-1213INST-v22 (rev. 12/2025)

School License Application, A450-1213SCHL-v24 (rev. 12/2025)

School Reinstatement Application A450-1213SCHL-REIN-v13 (rev. 12/2025)

School Self-Inspection Form, A450-1213SCH_INSP-vs5 (eff. 1/2022)

Licensure Fee Notice, A450-1213FEE-v13 (rev. 8/2025)

Change of Responsible Management, A450-1213CRM-v6 (eff. 12/2021)

Experience Verification Form, A450-1261_64EXP-v2 (eff. 2/2023)

Esthetics and Master Esthetics Universal License Application, A450-1261-65ULR-v3 (rev. 8/2025)

Student Instructor Temporary Permit Application, A450-1213ST_TEMP-v5 (rev. 12/2025)

Change of Instructor Application, A450-1213SCI-v1 (eff. 12/2025) ]