Resources and publications: Cosmetologists

Laws and regulations

See resources about laws and regulations for cosmetologists, barbers, manicurists, estheticians, master estheticians, and hair designers.

Cosmetology Law Book

The Cosmetology Law Book (The Law Relating to Cosmetologists, Barbers, Manicurists, Estheticians, and Master Estheticians) is only available in English.

Hairbraiding Interpretive Statement

The Hairbraiding Interpretive Statement is only available in English. It has information about how Washington regulates natural hair braiders.

Estheticians and medical devices

Learn about the laws for Estheticians, Master Estheticians and the Use of Devices/Lasers. This document is only available in English.

Health and safety

See resources related to health and safety for cosmetologists and customers.

Safety and Sanitation booklet

The Safety and Sanitation Booklet is available in the following languages:

• English
• Spanish (Español)
• Korean (한국어)
• Russian (Русский)
• Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt)

Health and safety notices for consumers

• Read about the risks of skin infections related to whirlpool footbaths
• Read the Environmental Protection Agency's tips for preventing pedicure-related skin infections

Hazardous waste management in King County

Your King County business may qualify for free disposal of hazardous waste. Learn more about the Hazardous Waste Management Program.

Health and safety resources for nail salons

Information specific to nail salons and manicurists.

• Protecting the Health of Nail Salon Workers (cdc.gov)
• Healthy Nail Salons: Workshops and slideshows (hazwastehelp.org)
• Nail Salon Resources: Brochures, news articles, related links (hazwastehelp.org)

Fish pedicures

Fish pedicures are illegal in Washington under WAC 308-20-110.

Training and exams

Learn more about D.L. Roope, who administers the exams. You must pass the state-approved practical and written exams to get a cosmetology license.

Resources for businesses

See required notices for businesses and links to other agencies.

Required notice to customers

All shops and salons are legally required to post this Notice to Customers, which describes rules and responsibilities for salons and salon workers.

Washington Medical Commission

The mission of The Washington Medical Commission (WMC) is to "promote patient safety and enhance the integrity of the profession through licensing, discipline, rule making, and education."

Internal Revenue Service

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has information about your tax responsibilities.

National professional boards and associations

Among other things, the National Coalition of Estheticians, Manufacturers/Distributors and Associations (NCEA) offers national credentials for estheticians.

The National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) has up-to-date licensing and contact information for all states in the U.S.