May, 2025
Many have not heard the recent news about the cosmetology industry in the state of Oklahoma. Gov. Stitt vetoed the bill (HB1030) that would keep our Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology, Barbering and Massage Therapy in operation until 2028.
If this bill holds, then the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology, Barbering and Massage Therapy would go away. What does this mean to Oklahomans? Who will regulate our industry in Oklahoma? Will there be regular inspections? What about students, schools and licenses? Do they plan on shifting us to a new agency, like Service Oklahoma, who oversees car tags, titles and such? Do you really want to go to a Beauty Professional who is not regulated? Safety and Sanitation should always be first and foremost!
If the Senators and Representatives over-ride the veto, then the Oklahoma State Board of Cosmetology, Barbering and Massage Therapy stays as is for now.
Consumer Beware!
It is very important that you are very cautious when entering a new establishment. Look for the following:
- Is it Clean?
- Do they sanitize and disinfect their tools and capes?
- Are they licensed?
- Do they keep up their education for new tools, chemicals, a sanitation guidelines?
- Germs, bacteria, fungus, microbes, and yes, even parasites, could be present and you would not even know.
The Salon can be a very dangerous place if you don't know what you are watching for. We have extremely sharp tools, strong chemicals, curling irons that can reach temps of 450 degrees. Many chemicals don't play well with others...
Salon staff need to be well trained in all facets of safety and sanitation to protect themselves, co-workers as well as the public. It's not all about getting a bad haircut, it's your health. Please be watchful.