BY DESIGN : What the Law Has to Say

The practice of cosmetology is defined by the California State Board of Barbering and Cosmetology as any or all of the following: treating by any means the hair of any person; massaging, cleaning or stimulating the scalp, face, neck, arms or upper part of the human body; beautifying the face, neck, arms or upper part of the human body; removing superfluous hair from the body; manicuring nails; beautifying the hands or feet; giving facials; applying makeup, and performing electrolysis.

The law was enacted July 1, 1992, and is contained in the California state Business and Professions Code. Section 7318 applies to barbers and cosmetologists.

REGARDING HOUSE CALLS

The law permits cosmetology “outside of a licensed establishment when necessary due to the illness or other physical or mental incapacitation of the recipient of the service, and when performed by a licensee obtained for the purpose from a licensed establishment.”

EXEMPTIONS

A) All persons authorized by the laws of this state to practice medicine, surgery, dentistry, pharmacy, osteopathic medicine, chiropractic, naturopathy, podiatry or nursing and acting within the scope of practice for which they are licensed.

B) Commissioned officers of the United Sates Army, Navy, Air Force or Marine Corps; members of the United States Public Health Service, and attendants attached to those services when engaged in the actual performance of their official duties.

C) Persons employed to render barbering, cosmetology or electrolysis services in the course of and incidental to the business of employers engaged in the theatrical, radio, television or motion picture production industry.

D) Persons engaged in any practice within its scope when done outside a licensed establishment, without compensation.

E) Persons engaged in the administration of hair, skin or nail products for the exclusive purpose of recommending, demonstrating or selling those products.