California beauty industry regulators propose new fine schedule for health violations

The Board of Barbering and Cosmetology's Enforcement and Inspections Committee convened on April 14, 2025, to discuss proposed changes to fine schedules for various violations in the beauty and cosmetology industry. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding cleanliness standards, the use of prohibited tools, and the implications of inspection practices.

A significant point of discussion centered on the clarity of fines related to towel usage. Committee members sought to determine whether a $50 fine would apply to each individual towel violation or to the overall practice of improper towel storage. This raised concerns about the subjective nature of cleanliness assessments by inspectors, particularly regarding personal grooming styles that may differ among licensees.

The committee also reviewed proposed fines for various violations, including the use of neck strips and towels during services. The consensus was to maintain the current fine structure, which includes a $50 fine for the first offense, despite discussions about the necessity of these items for consumer safety. Members acknowledged that while there is no documented harm from the absence of towels, the use of neck strips is critical due to the repeated use of capes in salons.

Further discussions included the cleanliness of tools such as neck dusters and brushes, with proposed fines remaining consistent with current amounts. The committee agreed that higher fines might be necessary for violations involving prohibited tools, such as microneedling devices, to deter unsafe practices in the industry.

Public comments during the meeting emphasized the need for stricter regulations on invasive procedures and the use of hazardous substances, with suggestions to raise fines for these violations to better reflect their potential risks. The committee acknowledged these concerns and agreed to consider adjustments to the fine schedules to ensure consistency across similar violations.

In conclusion, the committee directed staff to amend the proposed regulations based on the discussions and recommendations made during the meeting. The updated language will be presented to the full board for further consideration, aiming to enhance safety standards and compliance within the cosmetology industry.