Nails, hair, makeup, and lashes are all parts of cosmetology; all aspects for which one needs a license in order to provide the service at a cost. Recently, there has been a surge of young, enthusiastic nail artists, but they unfortunately may not have the necessary qualifications to legally provide services to others.
When one scrolls through their social media, specifically, a platform like Instagram, one may notice numerous accounts started and managed by high school students like a business “start-up.” Clicking on their profile, there always seems to be a pinned post stating their prices, but how can this occur? It simply can’t.
In the state of Iowa, one must retain a cosmetology license indicating that they are qualified to provide a specific service. This is in place on account of it helping with insurance if another were to sue for failing to take proper precautions. Additionally, this lets others know that they have the ethical training to provide excellent service safely and appropriately. However, there are different regulations for doing press-on nails.
For press-ons, they wouldn’t need a license, but they would need to register for sales tax, and depending on their business structure, a business permit may be necessary. More in-depth services, such as gel X and acrylic nails, require a cosmetology license, which is issued by the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences. Therefore, anyone who provides services, with or without compensation, may face legal consequences if they do not obtain a license. However, there are exceptions, such as creating nails for close friends and family. One may also give a strong warning before providing one with their skills, and may ask for donations, but not tips.
Consequences of going against this law include losing the right to ever obtain the authorization to earn a cosmetology license, a $1,000 charge for each violation, with a maximum of $10,000 in fines, and, if one were to get sued, having no support system because a license offers liability protection.
I, for one, think that while the laws are a great precaution, since they’re set in place for safety, they also help divert traffic to trained professionals who have spent years acquiring the right qualifications and knowledge of preset and cleaning areas. However, I do understand charging for nails as part of a future in cosmetology and using money as a source of savings. I also think it’s a great way for someone to express themselves with something that seems so small and simple.
Nails are a great way to become creative and practice technical skills and arts. Although it provides a cheaper alternative to self-care aspects, it also provides the designer with a decent amount of practice. It also poses various health and safety concerns and requires preparation that students may not be able to provide. While this is a great “side hustle,” it may demand more than one thinks is necessary. Even though it may be a fun hobby or pastime, it’s important to secure the correct training.
