Is certification required by law in the state of Colorado?

In the state of Colorado, the certification and licensing requirements for Cosmetic Laser, Permanent Makeup, Esthetician, Advanced Exfoliation, and Cosmetic Injectables vary depending on the treatment and the type of professional performing the procedure. Here’s a breakdown of the specific requirements in Colorado:

Cosmetic Laser Certification in Colorado

• Required by Law?: Yes, you need certification to perform certain laser treatments.

• Details: In Colorado, laser hair removal and other cosmetic laser treatments are regulated. Although the state doesn’t have specific licensure for laser practitioners, you must have training in the use of lasers and equipment. Most professionals who perform laser treatments, such as estheticians, nurses, and other medical professionals, are required to undergo cosmetic laser training to ensure they understand safety protocols and proper laser usage.

• Note: Colorado does not require a specific laser certification for medical professionals (e.g., physicians, nurses) who perform certain procedures, but you still need training and experience in laser treatments to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Permanent Makeup Certification in Colorado

• Required by Law?: Yes, permanent makeup practitioners must meet certain regulatory requirements.

• Details: In Colorado, permanent makeup is regulated by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). Permanent makeup artists must be licensed as Body Art Technicians, which requires completing a state-approved training program and passing a health inspection at your facility.

• Training and Certification: To legally practice permanent makeup (including eyebrow tattoos, eyeliner, lip blush), you must complete a certification program, which includes both theoretical and hands-on training. Additionally, body art technicians must follow specific sanitation and sterilization practices to reduce the risk of infection and ensure safe practices.

• Note: Permanent makeup artists must also adhere to strict bloodborne pathogen training requirements.

Esthetician Certification in Colorado

• Required by Law?: Yes, estheticians are required to be licensed in Colorado.

• Details: To practice as an esthetician in Colorado, you must complete an accredited esthetician program and pass the state board exams. This typically includes 600 hours of training, which covers skin care, facials, hair removal, makeup application, and basic cosmetic treatments. After completing your training, you must pass both written and practical exams administered by the Colorado State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists.

• Note: Estheticians are licensed to perform services like facials, waxing, makeup application, and basic exfoliation techniques but cannot perform medical or invasive procedures like injections or certain laser treatments unless further certifications are obtained.

Advanced Exfoliation Certification in Colorado

• Required by Law?: Not specifically required by law, but estheticians must be licensed, and additional training is highly recommended.

• Details: In Colorado, advanced exfoliation techniques like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and dermaplaning are generally considered advanced esthetic procedures. Although the state does not require separate certification for these exfoliation techniques, licensed estheticians are typically required to complete specific training in these advanced procedures. This ensures that estheticians understand the risks, safety protocols, and how to perform these treatments effectively.

• Note: Certain procedures, such as chemical peels with higher concentrations of acids, may require additional supervision by a medical professional or specific certification depending on the depth of the peel.

Cosmetic Injectables Certification in Colorado

• Required by Law?: Yes, only licensed medical professionals can perform injectable treatments in Colorado.

• Details: In Colorado, only licensed medical professionals (such as nurses, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and doctors) are authorized to perform Botox injections, dermal fillers, and other injectable cosmetic treatments.

• Training and Certification: Medical professionals must complete a cosmetic injectables certification program to gain expertise in administering injectables safely. This includes training in facial anatomy, injection techniques, and managing potential complications.

• Note: A medical professional who is not certified or trained in cosmetic injectables should not perform these treatments, as improperly administered injectables can lead to serious complications.

Summary of Certification and Licensing Requirements in Colorado:

• Cosmetic Laser: Required training and certification for performing laser treatments (especially laser hair removal) but not specific state licensure.

• Permanent Makeup: Yes, permanent makeup artists must be licensed as Body Art Technicians by the CDPHE and complete an approved training program.

• Esthetician: Yes, estheticians must be licensed by the Colorado State Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists after completing an accredited program and passing state exams.

• Advanced Exfoliation: Not legally required to obtain separate certification, but licensed estheticians must complete additional training in advanced exfoliation techniques.

• Cosmetic Injectables: Yes, only licensed medical professionals can perform injectable treatments. Certification in cosmetic injectables is required for safe practice.

Always check with the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) or relevant state licensing boards to ensure you meet all current requirements, as laws and regulations can change.