The Des Moines Register’s latest editorial, ‘Why require a license to run a hair dryer?’ is another in a long list of things that chafe my ass. Yes, I know it’s an opinion piece, but I’m entitled to my opinion on the subject too.

I’m quite passionate when it comes to cosmetology. Yes, there are a lot of things wrong with the industry, but there are a lot of things right too. I could go on and on about the execution of services and how I think changes in State Board testing have failed, but that’s not the point of this post.

Licensing is my concern, something the Register keeps tossing around without doing a bit of research behind why we are licensed. They keep pushing that 2100 hours is a ridiculous amount of time. Tell me, is an unpaid internship any different than on the floor training of students in beauty school? Personally, I think the fail is in what and how they are being trained, not the length of time. I’m proud that I have those hours behind me. All that practice helped me understand how to treat clients and run a salon properly.

I’m not debating that any moron can run a hair dryer—although, with all the warning tags they stick on them, it could be questioned—but have they thought about the other tools involved? Brushes, combs, irons, hell, even your fingers, or the chair the client sits in. All of those things need to be cleaned and sanitized. Does the average Joe know the procedure for dealing with a client with lice? How about other scalp issues? Would they know what to look for, or when to deny service because of a possible contagion?

As for blow dry bar, franchise owners—this goes for any business—do your damn research. It’s not like it’s a secret that the state requires licensing for several professions. Lots of states do. If you are starting something that requires a license you should know before opening your business. Oh, I’m sorry; I forgot common sense is passé.

In no way is enforcing proper procedure stopping small businesses from opening. These procedures are set in place to protect not only the public, but also stylists. These are not ‘job-killing licensing laws.’ Unless you’re practicing illegally.

I worked hard for that little slip of paper and am proud to hold the title of cosmetologist. In my opinion, this whole discussion devalues the profession.