Can Cosmetologists Do Waxing Services? What to Know

There’s often confusion around which beauty professionals are permitted to perform specific services. One common question is whether cosmetologists can provide waxing services. In many states, waxing falls within the cosmetology scope of practice, and cosmetologists receive training in basic hair-removal techniques as part of their licensure. However, scope of practice and permitted services vary by state, and the depth of waxing training may differ from that of licensed estheticians. For this reason, professionals should always verify requirements with their state board before offering waxing services.

What Cosmetology Training Covers

Cosmetology programs are designed to prepare students for a wide range of beauty services, with a strong emphasis on hair, nails, and foundational skin care. Depending on state requirements, cosmetology students may also receive introductory instruction in waxing or basic hair removal techniques as part of their broader training.

When included, this foundational education typically focuses on:

• Basic waxing concepts and application methods
• Sanitation, safety, and infection-control procedures
• Client consultation and basic skin assessment
• Product knowledge and appropriate product selection
• Post-service care and aftercare recommendations

Because cosmetology programs are intentionally broad in scope, the depth of waxing instruction can vary by state and program. This is one of the key differences between cosmetology and esthetics education.

Cosmetology vs. Esthetics: Understanding the Difference in Training Depth

Cosmetology and esthetics offer two distinct educational paths within the beauty industry, each with a different focus and level of specialization—particularly when it comes to skin care and hair removal services.

Cosmetology Programs

Cosmetology schools provide a well-rounded education that covers multiple service areas, including:

• Hair cutting, styling, and coloring
• Basic nail care
• Foundational skin care services

Waxing or hair removal, when part of the curriculum, is taught as one component of this comprehensive training. Students learn a variety of skills that allow them to offer multiple services and meet diverse client needs in a single setting. Many cosmetologists value this versatility, as it supports flexible service offerings and client convenience.

The length of cosmetology programs varies significantly by state—typically ranging from approximately 1,000 to 2,300 required hours—which means the amount of time dedicated to any one service, including waxing, can differ. Students should always consult their state cosmetology board to understand permitted services and training requirements in their area.

Esthetics Programs

Esthetics programs take a more specialized, in-depth approach, focusing primarily on skin care and hair removal services. Esthetics students spend a significantly greater portion of their education developing advanced skills related to waxing and skin health, including:

• Detailed anatomy and physiology of the skin and hair growth cycles
• Advanced product chemistry and formulation knowledge
• Specialized techniques for sensitive areas and diverse hair types
• Identification of skin conditions that may affect hair removal services
• Advanced post-treatment care and customized product recommendations

Esthetics programs typically include more extensive hands-on practice with waxing services and expose students to a wider range of skin and hair scenarios. This focused training often prepares esthetician graduates to confidently address more complex waxing situations and individualized client concerns.

Learn more about Paul Mitchell Schools’ comprehensive esthetics programs here.

Cosmetology and Esthetics: Scope of Practice Variations by State

While cosmetologists generally can perform waxing services, keep in mind that specific regulations vary significantly from state to state. Since the beauty industry is regulated at the state level, each state’s cosmetology board sets its own rules and requirements for licensed professionals.

For example, some states: 

• Have restrictions on the types of waxing services cosmetologists can perform
• Might specify certain areas of the body that require additional certification or training
• Require cosmetologists to complete continuing education courses specifically related to waxing or hair removal 

Individual salons or spas may also have their own policies about which services different staff members can provide—regardless of state regulations. Some establishments prefer to have licensed estheticians handle all waxing services. 

It’s also important to note that state boards periodically review and update their scope of practice guidelines, sometimes expanding or restricting what certain license types can perform. Because these regulations change over time, staying informed about current regulations is a good idea, especially if you’re interested in waxing services.

Learn more about Paul Mitchell Schools program options near you.