In the United States, this is usually determined by your location and the state you intend to begin or complete non-invasive liposuction. There is no federal law governing non-invasive body contouring.
So also, there are no federal certifications, national board, or other national licensure requirements to work as a body contouring professional or to operate and provide non-invasive body contouring services. You do not need a federal license because it is not regulated by the federal government.
Non-invasive liposuction is a term for fat reduction and body contouring without surgery but by using cooling, heat, lasers, ultrasound, or radio frequency. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the country has endorsed several handheld devices for this purpose. All devices are placed on or near the skin.
They work by directly sending cold, heat, or sound waves into the fat cells. The devices can destroy fat cells without harming the skin, nerves, or other parts of the body. While no federal license is required for this job, there may be a need for state and other local business licenses. The licenses you require are usually issued by a government agency in your area and they vary by state.
A business license, a massage therapist license, and a cosmetology license are the most important licenses and permits you may need to start a body contouring business. Depending on the state, you may also require additional permits. Visit the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn about license requirements and how to obtain them.
Licenses Needed to Do Non-Invasive Lipo in the United States
As was noted above, the licenses you need to do noninvasive lipo in the United States will depend on your location or state. While this may vary from one state to another, here are the basic licenses to consider;
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General business license
Regardless of the type of business you want to start, most cities and counties will require new businesses to obtain some form of general business license.
If you intend to sell products, then this general business license will have to come with a reseller’s or tax certificate. It grants an entrepreneur the legal rights to undertake commercial activities within the boundaries of an existing town, city, or county.
How to Apply
To apply for your business license, visit your secretary of state office. You may only have to fill out a form with your social security number and profession. This license will cost around $100, but the cost can range from $50 to $400. An additional processing fee of about $25 can also be added.
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Aesthetician License
Most states do not require the acquisition of an aesthetician license to perform non-invasive body contouring procedures. However, it is recommended that you get certified to carry out these procedures in order to establish a trustworthy image with clients and to reduce the chances of causing irreversible damage to the client’s skin.
Confirm from your state’s cosmetic or aesthetics regulatory body if they need a license to conduct non-invasive body contouring procedures.
How to Apply
- Complete an approved program
- Pass a state aesthetician exam
- Maintain licensure and also pursue advanced credentials
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Zoning permit or Waiver
Zoning governs some kind of business that can operate in specific areas of your city, town, or county. In most cases, residential zones do not permit businesses.
However, if your business does not necessitate a sign, increases traffic, or involves dangerous items, you may be able to obtain a waiver. It is recommended that you contact your city or county’s zoning department to determine the kind of permits you require.
How to Apply
Each jurisdiction has its own rules and regulations. It is recommended that you contact your city or county’s zoning department to determine what, if any, permits you require.
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Retail Seller Permit
Your state may require that you obtain a specific permit in order to sell products to your customers. For instance, when you sell or lease merchandise, the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) expects your beauty store to apply for a specific permit.
A seller’s permit is usually free. However, you may be required to put down a security deposit to cover any unpaid taxes in the event the business closes. The deposit amount will be determined at the time of application.
How to Apply
Most states in the United States allow you to file your application online, and you will most often receive your permit faster if you pick the online option over U.S. Mail. Fees will also vary by state. A good number of states don’t charge a fee for seller’s permits, but for states that charge a fee, it could typically range from $15 to $100. Some states also require a security deposit.
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Doing Business As (DBA) License
A DBA License allows you to operate your business under a name other than your own. For instance, if you want to use the company trade name “Kris Beauty Lounge,” you must file a DBA. A DBA is not required, but it is important to get because it fulfills some requirements for opening a business bank account and enforcing any necessary contracts. If you want to register a DBA, you must do so with your county or state.
How to Apply
To conduct business under a DBA, you will have to complete and file the necessary DBA forms, coupled with paying a filing fee, after which you will be issued a DBA certificate. You may be able to file with a local or county clerk’s office, a state agency, or both, depending on your state.
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Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)
An employer identification number is a nine-digit number assigned to new businesses by the Internal Revenue Service. It is required when filing state and federal taxes. It is as important to a business as a Social Security Number is to an individual.
Your EIN will be required when dealing with vendors, and clients, and opening a business bank account. Others might call an EIN a Federal Tax Identification Number or a Federal Employer Identification Number, but these terms are interchangeable.
How to Apply
The IRS provides options to apply for an EIN. You can apply online, by fax, or by mail. Applicants who are currently not in the United States but are seeking to immigrate to the U.S. for business purposes can also apply by phone. For all U.S.-based applicants, the online application is the easiest and fastest method.
For the online application, the IRS’ online EIN assistant offers an easy step-by-step form. The online application is available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. EST.
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Certificate of Occupancy
You must also demonstrate that your property is suitable for the body contouring business you intend to establish. A beauty-related business is expected to comply with specific water installation and chemical treatment requirements, so you should have the property inspected before opening your doors.
The Certificate of Occupancy is a document issued by a local government agency or building department that certifies that your property meets the requirements for the type of business you intend to operate.
How to Apply
Requirements differ depending on your area, so you should always check with the local government for a final answer. The cost of a Certificate of Occupancy is around $20 to $80 depending on the location of your business and the size of your property.
Commercial spaces less than 1500 square feet are around $30, while larger ones can cost up to $80. This certificate will be issued once all inspection checks have been completed; such as an electrical inspection, a plumbing inspection, a fire safety inspection, and a general building inspection.
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Permits For Your Commercial Sign
Note that a properly mounted commercial sign may assist to orient your customers or market your body contouring business to the public.
However, before investing in a sign, find out what permits and rules apply to commercial signs in your area. This permit may also specify additional restrictions, such as the size, placement, wording, materials, and lighting on your property.
How to Apply
You have to get in touch with your local zoning board or commission for rules and restrictions on signage.
Conclusion
If you want to specialize in body contouring or sculpting, you may not need a license. Each city and state has its own set of cosmetics and beauty industry regulations. It is imperative to check with your state board before you do anything. A license, on the other hand, is required if you want to become a body sculpting instructor.