West Virginia
The West Virginia Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists and the West Virginia Massage Therapy Licensure Board are the governing agencies for beauticians in the state. Classroom training must be conducted in a licensed college, and apprenticeships must be supervised by a licensed practitioner.
Regulated Beauty Services in West Virginia, USA:
Non-Regulated Beauty Services in West Virginia, USA:
Regulated Beauty Services in West Virginia, USA
Lash Technician (Lash Extensions, Brow Tinting) / Waxing Technician / Makeup Artist / Facialist
These professions require an aesthetician license in West Virginia, which demands 600 training hours.
Barber
Barbers have a few licenses to choose from in the state. They can be barbers who provide services without chemicals involved, requiring 1,200 training hours. They can also be barbers who offer services with chemicals involved that require 1,500 training hours. Another license is the barber permanent wavist, which needs 2,000 training hours.
The state also honours barber apprenticeships to qualify for the exam. Applicants must complete 2,400 apprenticeship hours. Licensed cosmetologists wanting to become a barber can finish 300 additional training hours for barbering.
Hairstylist
Hairstylists are expected to complete 1,000 training hours to take the state’s licensure test. They also have the option to become licensed cosmetologists if they are interested in learning other skills. Cosmetology requires 1,800 training hours or 3,600 apprenticeship hours. Barbers interested in cosmetology can add more training hours to meet the 2,100-hour requirement and qualify for the licensure exam.
Nail Technician
Nail techs in the state must complete 400 training hours for theory and technical skills.
More information about the curriculum for the above beauty professions is available here:
Massage Therapist
Massage therapists should finish 500 training hours and must pass the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork exam.
Non-Regulated Beauty Services in West Virginia, USA
Spray Tanning Technician
Spray tanning techs are not regulated in West Virginia. The state doesn’t require a license to practice and earn. Professional training is still crucial for providing the proper service.
Lash Technician (Lash Lift and Tinting)
Lash technicians who provide lash tinting and lifting only are also not regulated. However, aspirants are encouraged to train in these services at a reputable school or course provider.