Top 5 Most Common TDLR Violations for Lash Techs (And How to Avoid Them)
If you’re a licensed Eyelash Extension Specialist in Texas, understanding the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) rules is essential for building a safe and successful lash business. TDLR inspectors can visit your salon or suite at any time, and even small oversights may result in violations, fines, or worse—suspension of your license.
But don’t worry—staying compliant doesn’t have to be complicated. In this blog, we’ll break down the 5 most common TDLR violations for lash artists, explain why these rules exist, and provide practical tips to help you stay inspection-ready every day.
1. Sanitation & Equipment Violations
What Happens:
Many lash techs forget to disinfect their lash bed, headrests, or tweezers between clients. Others reuse disposable items like mascara wands or eye pads.
Why TDLR Enforces It:
Cross-contamination can lead to infections such as pink eye, styes, or allergic reactions. TDLR requires strict sanitation to protect public health.
How to Stay Compliant:
Disinfect tools with an EPA-registered disinfectant after every use.
Use a clean towel or disposable sheet for each client.
Throw away disposables (eye pads, spoolies, microbrushes) immediately after each appointment.
Keep a daily cleaning log as proof during inspections.
💡 Pro Tip: Have a “sanitation station” with labeled containers for clean, dirty, and to be disinfected tools.
2. Handwashing & Personal Hygiene
What Happens:
Some lash techs rely only on hand sanitizer instead of washing their hands.
Why TDLR Enforces It:
Handwashing removes more bacteria and reduces the risk of transferring germs to clients’ eyes. Sanitizer alone is not enough.
How to Stay Compliant:
Wash hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds before and after every client (TDLR Infection Control).
Keep paper towels and a trash bin nearby.
If you don’t have a sink in your suite, make sure one is within easy access and visible to inspectors.
💡 Pro Tip: Wash your hands in front of your client—it builds trust and shows professionalism.
3. Improper Storage of Implements
What Happens:
Clean tweezers or tools are left on countertops or stored with dirty items.
Why TDLR Enforces It:
Improper storage risks re-contaminating sanitized tools, making your sanitation efforts pointless.
How to Stay Compliant:
Store disinfected tools in a closed, labeled container or drawer (TDLR Storage Rules).
Keep them separate from used tools and unrelated supplies (makeup, pens, food, etc.).
Always keep disinfectant clearly labeled and not mixed with other cleaning products.
💡 Pro Tip: Invest in a tool sterilization tray with dividers—it looks professional and keeps everything organized.
4. Licensing & Required Signage
What Happens:
Some lash artists forget to renew their license on time, fail to update their name or address, or don’t display required signage.
Why TDLR Enforces It:
Clients have the right to know you’re licensed and to see how to file a complaint if needed. Transparency protects both the client and the industry.
How to Stay Compliant:
Renew your Eyelash Extension Specialist License every 2 years (Enroll in CE course here).
Update your contact info with TDLR within 30 days of any change (TDLR Update Info).
Display in plain sight:
Your license
Most recent inspection report
TDLR consumer complaint sign (Download Here)
Human trafficking awareness sign (TDLR Human Trafficking Info)
💡 Pro Tip: Create a “compliance wall” near your lash bed—easy for clients and inspectors to see.
5. Exceeding Your Scope of Practice
What Happens:
Some lash techs advertise or perform services they’re not licensed to do—like waxing, facials, or brow laminations.
Why TDLR Enforces It:
Each license type covers specific training and safety practices. Offering services outside your scope risks client harm and legal penalties.
How to Stay Compliant:
As an Eyelash Extension Specialist, you may only apply semi-permanent lash extensions (TDLR Scope of Practice).
To offer skincare or hair removal, you’ll need a Cosmetology or Esthetician license.
Always check TDLR’s official Scope of Practice page before adding services.
💡 Pro Tip: Instead of breaking the rules, consider collaborating with an esthetician or cosmetologist—you can cross-refer clients and grow together.
Quick-Reference Compliance Checklist
✅ Disinfect tools and lash beds between clients
✅ Wash hands with soap & water (not just sanitizer)
✅ Store clean tools separately in closed containers
✅ Display license, inspection report, and required signage
✅ Stay within your lash-only scope of practice
Final Thoughts
Following TDLR rules doesn’t just protect you from violations—it protects your clients, your license, and your reputation as a lash artist. By creating systems for cleanliness, organization, and compliance, you’ll always be inspection-ready and able to focus on what you do best: giving clients beautiful, safe lashes.
✨ Stay proactive, stay compliant, and keep building your lash empire the right way!
References:
Scope of Practice Guide – Eyelash-Extension Specialist
Barbering and Cosmetology Penalties and Sanctions
BAC-Health-and-Safety-Rules.pdf
Common Violations in Barbering and Cosmetology Inspections
DFW Lash University – TDLR Continuing Education Course
How to Avoid Getting Reported to TDLR as a Lash Tech – DFW Lash University
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