What States Can Estheticians Do Microneedling?

 If you’re an esthetician, you already know that your location has a huge impact on the services you’re legally allowed to perform. But what states can estheticians do microneedling? Join us as we cover some of the states that do and do not allow estheticians to perform microneedling, as well as those requiring skincare professionals to jump through a few extra hoops. 

What is microneedling? 

Also known as collagen-induction therapy, microneedling uses derma rollers or handheld devices to create micro-perforations in the skin. Since slender needles penetrate up to 3 millimeters into the client’s skin, it’s considered a minimally invasive procedure. Microneedling is highly effective for a number of cosmetic concerns, including: 

• Acne scars
• Stretch marks
• Hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone
• Sun damage
• Lesions 
• Fine lines and wrinkles
• Skin laxity
• Enlarged pores
• Uneven skin texture
• Thinning hair

What states allow estheticians to do microneedling?

According to FDA guidelines, estheticians may perform services for microneedling using devices less than 0.3 millimeters, but each state imposes its own restrictions. Some places require licensed estheticians to take additional classes to offer this service, while others only allow master estheticians to perform microneedling after taking the appropriate training courses.

It’s essential that you fully understand the laws in your state to maintain good standing with your oversight board and avoid unnecessary issues with your license. Here are a few notable states that include microneedling in the scope of practice for estheticians (with occasional stipulations):

Utah

Master estheticians in Utah may legally microneedle as long as the needle depth is less than 1.5 mm. Licensed estheticians may complete the additional 600 hours of training to earn the title of a master. 

Florida

In Florida, licensed estheticians may perform microneedling under the supervision of a licensed physician or medical professional. However, microblading and similar services that incorporate dyes require a tattooing license. 

Texas

In Texas, qualified licensed estheticians working at a med spa under the supervision of a medical director may perform microneedling with the proper training qualifications. 

North Carolina

After removing dermaplaning from the esthetician’s scope of practice in 2020, the North Carolina Board of Cosmetic Art Examiners revised their ruling in 2022 to permit both dermaplaning and microneedling. Estheticians in the state can now use microneedling devices up to 1.0 mm in depth. 

Arizona

Cosmetologists and aestheticians in Arizona can do microneedling as long as they stay above a depth of 0.5 mm. Penetrating deeper into the skin qualifies the service as an “advanced procedure” and may only be performed by doctors and registered nurses.

Skincare professionals hoping to microneedle clients in Arizona must hold licenses from both the Arizona Department of Health Services Bureau of Special Licensing and the Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board. 

Nevada

Microneedling at any depth falls under the purview of advanced estheticians in Arizona. Licensed estheticians can complete a 75-hour advanced training course to become eligible to practice microneedling. 

Georgia

In Georgia, licensed estheticians may be allowed to practice microneedling under the supervision of a medical professional, such as a doctor, registered nurse, or physician’s assistant. However, they can’t represent themselves as estheticians during the treatment, as the service is technically not within their scope of practice. 

Illinois

Similarly, doctors and medical practitioners in Illinois may delegate microneedling to licensed estheticians working under their supervision. Still, they will not be performing the service as an esthetician but rather as a delegate of the overseeing physician. 

Which states don’t allow estheticians to perform microneedling?

Some states prohibit the practice of microneedling by licensed estheticians due to concerns about penetrating the skin. Here are a few places where estheticians shouldn’t expect to microneedle: 

Alabama

Microneedling falls under the umbrella of medical practice in Alabama. Only physicians and APRNs are allowed to perform this service in medspas and other facilities. 

Kentucky

In Kentucky, you must hold an active license from the Kentucky Board of Nursing or the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure to practice microneedling. 

Louisiana

Microneedling and other medical aesthetic procedures can only be performed by physicians and nurses. Licensed estheticians can’t legally perform the service — even under physician supervision.

Ready to level up your career? Join us at Bosses in Beauty!

Bosses in Beauty is your ultimate source for industry insights and professional guidance within the world of esthetics! We help clients transition into solo careers and level up to six- and seven-figure incomes. In fact, our clients have earned over $65 million and counting!

Whether you’re searching for one-on-one business coaching to refine your management approach or a proven course to attract high-end clientele, we’re here to help. Contact us today to learn how we can help you transform your bottom line!