You need to safe an esthetician license to work in a salon; nevertheless, freelance MUAs and those working in film or entertainment, or in retail environments don’t want a license to use temporary makeup. You are required to acquire either an esthetician or cosmetologist license to work in a salon; there are not any further necessities for MUAs. The state of New Hampshire requires both an esthetician or cosmetologist license for those working in a salon; MUAs don’t need a license to promote or apply make-up, or to work in retail. Nevada is the one state that currently licenses MUAs separately from cosmetologists or estheticians. MUA candidates should pay a $25 charge to either transfer out-of-state credentials, or sit an examination to find a way to earn the state MUA license. While you do not want a license to work as a freelancer, in retail, or in visible arts, you do want one when you plan to work in a salon as a cosmetologist or esthetician.
