Procedure / Service
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Within Scope of Practice?
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| Airbrush Tanning: A topical solution is sprayed onto the skin as an alternative to ultraviolet light-based tanning systems such as tanning beds. |
Yes. See related fact sheet. |
Body Treatments: Body wraps, polishes and masks are used to firm skin and for light exfoliation. Body wraps may also have a diuretic effect that may aid in weight reduction.
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Yes. |
| Chemical Peel: As with microdermabrasion, chemical peels remove outer layers of skin. However, different chemical formulations are used rather than an abrasive-acting device. |
Yes, but some chemicals are prohibited and others may be used only in specified strengths.
Types of alpha-hydroxy acids are allowed while trichloracetic acid (TCA) formulation containing phenol or resorcinol are not allowed.
Salicylic acid is allowed, but salicylic acid that acts on living tissue is prohibited. See OAR 817-015-0050(3).
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| Dermabrasion: A surgical procedure that scrapes away the top layers of skin using an electrically operated instrument with a rough wire brush or diamond-impregnated burr. Acts on layers of skin below the epidermis (top skin layer). |
No. This is a surgical procedure regulated by the Oregon Board of Medical Examiners (BME). The procedure is more invasive than microdermabrasion, often requiring local or general anesthesia. |
| Electrolysis: Insertion of a single-use or sterile needle (which also conducts electricity) into a hair follicle and then directing electrical energy toward the hair cell in a series of treatments removes hair. |
No. Electrologists are a separate profession licensed by the Oregon Health Licensing Agency (OHLA). Estheticians may provide electrolysis services only if they have dual licensure. |
| Fillers and Injectables: Treatments using substances with brand names such as Botox and Restylane inject substances under the skin to immobilize muscles (Botox), replace depleted collagen and “fill in” wrinkles. |
No. Injections are medical in nature and go deeper than the top layer of the skin, the epidermis. |
| Laser Hair Removal: A hand-held laser passes light through the skin's surface to tiny sacs called hair follicles. Each follicle contains a bulb that germinates a hair shaft. When light reaches hair follicles, it temporarily generates enough heat to destroy the follicles and bulbs. |
Yes. Practitioners should follow the requirements of OAR 817-015-0050 regarding advanced training and education that is documented and can be provided upon request. The statutory definition of esthetics includes the “temporary removal of hair.” |
| Laser Skin Removal / Rejuvenation: Lasers or light-based devices remove surface layers of the skin or reduce sun damage and other surface imperfections. |
Yes, if performed on the upper epidermal layers. |
| Lymphatic Drainage: An advanced, specialized massage technique using gentle rhythmic pumping techniques to the skin that encourages the flow of lymph fluid, draining away pockets of retained water and toxins and enhancing the quality of the skin. |
Yes if used in relation to skin care services for the purpose of improving the health of the skin. Practitioners must show proof of training upon request. |
| Massage: Estheticians may provide massage only in relation to skin care services and not as a massage therapist licensed by the Board of Massage Therapists (BMT). Estheticians receive basic massage education (approximately 35 hours) compared to a minimum of 500 hours for massage therapists. |
Yes and No.
Yes if used only in relation to skin care services for the purpose of improving the health and attractiveness of the skin.
No if provided solely for therapeutic purposes beyond the health of the skin. |
| Microdermabrasion: A device like a fine sandblaster sprays tiny crystals across the face, mixing gentle abrasion with suction to remove the dead, outer layer of skin. As with other skin resurfacing techniques, more than one treatment may be needed to reduce or remove fine wrinkles and unwanted pigmentation. |
Yes if practitioners obtain “…training in the safe and effective use of each chemical, product or device,” according to Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) 817-015-0050(4).
• Evidence of training required upon request.
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| Permanent Coloring: Otherwise known as “permanent makeup,” this procedure is similar to tattooing, marking or coloring the skin by insertion of non-toxic dyes or pigments. |
No. Only permanent color technicians may provide this service. This is a separate field of practice that is also licensed by OHLA, along with tattoo artists. OMB-licensed physicians, usually dermatologists, may also provide permanent color within their scope of practice.
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| Reflexology: Pressure is applied to specific parts of the body — usually the soles of the feet but also on the hands and ears — for an intended healthful effect on other parts of the body. |
No. While considered a type of massage by the BMT, reflexology is not the type of massage that would be used, for example, to apply skin lotions or for any other type of skin care service. |
| Thermage: Radiofrequency or equivalent delivery systems heat the dermal layer of skin and/or subcutaneous (fatty) and connective tissue to cause collagen and skin tightening. |
No. |
| Vacuum Massage: Motorized rollers and regulated suction creates a symmetrical skin fold, which may reduce the appearance of cellulite and inches while improving skin appearance. Called endermologie or by brand names such as Dermasonic. |
Yes if used in relation to skin care services for the purpose of improving the health or attractiveness of the skin. Practitioners must show proof of training upon request. |
| Waxing: Hot or cold wax adheres to hair, removing hair shafts from roots when peeled off. |
Yes.
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