Spa Marketing Made Easy Podcast: Episode #425 Summary

Scope of Practice, State Regulations, and Industry Advocacy with Susanne Schmaling

Host: Daniela Warner, CEO of Atto Aesthetics and founder of the Growth Factor Framework program
Guest: Susanne Schmaling, Founder of the Aesthetics Council and Peruvia Skincare
Release Date: March 17, 2025

Introduction

In Episode #425 of the Spa Marketing Made Easy Podcast, host Daniela Warner engages in a critical discussion with Susanne Schmaling, a seasoned leader in the aesthetics industry. The episode delves into the intricacies of scope of practice, state regulations, and the pressing need for industry advocacy to protect and advance the profession of estheticians.

The Importance of Scope of Practice

Daniela opens the conversation by highlighting the often-overlooked aspect of scope of practice, emphasizing its significance for estheticians in maintaining their livelihoods across different states. She shares her personal journey of navigating varying state regulations, which underscores the fragility and complexity inherent in the profession.

Daniela Warner [09:35]:
"It's not pennies we're talking about here. It's livelihoods. It's our professional careers."

Susanne elaborates on this by explaining how scope of practice defines what estheticians can and cannot legally perform, directly impacting their ability to operate businesses seamlessly across state lines.

Current Challenges in Regulation

The episode addresses recent regulatory changes, particularly focusing on Texas and Illinois, where sweeping legislation threatens to redefine the scope of practice for estheticians.

Susanne Schmaling [22:36]:
"The terminology within this bill that has been submitted is not acceptable to our scope of practice."

In Texas, the passage of HB 3749 was prompted by a tragic incident involving an IV procedure performed in a med spa, leading to stringent regulations that could potentially ban many non-invasive procedures estheticians commonly perform.

The Role of Aesthetics Council

Susanne provides an overview of her work with the Aesthetics Council, emphasizing its mission to advocate for estheticians by educating regulators and shaping industry standards.

Susanne Schmaling [05:16]:
"Our focus is really trying to educate regulators and help them make really smart decisions so we don't lose our profession."

Her efforts are pivotal in maintaining a balance between ensuring client safety and preserving the professional autonomy of estheticians.

Navigating Legislative and Regulatory Processes

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the complexities of legislative versus regulatory changes and how they affect estheticians' scope of practice.

Susanne Schmaling [15:37]:
"Regulations do not change quickly, and there should be that full public process."

She outlines the typical timeline for regulatory changes, which can span up to a year, and contrasts it with sudden legislative actions that bypass established processes, leading to confusion and abrupt impacts on businesses.

The Impact of Regulatory Changes

The conversation delves into the real-world implications of these regulatory shifts, highlighting how vague legislation can result in restrictive interpretations that stifle the profession.

Daniela Warner [26:13]:
"That's true, that's what I don't get with most of these bills."

Susanne explains that broad definitions within bills like HB 3749 can unintentionally outlaw essential esthetician services, forcing businesses to either comply with restrictive supervision requirements or shut down entirely.

Advocacy and Solutions

Both host and guest emphasize the necessity for estheticians to stay informed and involved in advocacy efforts. Susanne shares strategies for monitoring legislative changes and encourages estheticians to actively participate in the regulatory process.

Susanne Schmaling [38:02]:
"If we all work together, we really can support each other and we can have longevity in this profession."

She advocates for collective action, urging estheticians to leverage resources like the Aesthetics Council to navigate and influence regulatory landscapes effectively.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a call to action for estheticians to engage with their state boards, stay updated on legislative developments, and collaborate within the industry to safeguard their professional scope of practice. Daniela and Susanne reinforce the message that unity and proactive advocacy are essential for the sustained success and recognition of estheticians.

Daniela Warner [38:30]:
"Take one step, one step, one step. And see what you can do to help unify our profession."

Notable Quotes

• Daniela Warner [09:35]:
  "It's not pennies we're talking about here. It's livelihoods. It's our professional careers."

• Susanne Schmaling [05:16]:
  "Our focus is really trying to educate regulators and help them make really smart decisions so we don't lose our profession."

• Susanne Schmaling [15:37]:
  "Regulations do not change quickly, and there should be that full public process."

• Daniela Warner [26:13]:
  "That's true, that's what I don't get with most of these bills."

• Susanne Schmaling [38:02]:
  "If we all work together, we really can support each other and we can have longevity in this profession."

• Daniela Warner [38:30]:
  "Take one step, one step, one step. And see what you can do to help unify our profession."

How to Connect

Susanne Schmaling encourages listeners to reach out through the Aesthetics Council website for support and further information.

• Website: aestheticscouncil.org
• Social Presence: Limited due to legislative discussions; primary contact through the website.

This episode serves as a crucial resource for estheticians navigating the volatile landscape of state regulations and underscores the importance of unified advocacy to preserve and enhance the scope of practice within the aesthetics industry.