Under what condition must licensees refrain from performing cosmetology services?

Licensees must refrain from performing cosmetology services while consuming or under the influence of intoxicants or controlled substances to ensure the safety and well-being of clients. This regulation is in place because substances that impair judgment or physical coordination can lead to mistakes that compromise service quality and client safety. The integrity of the cosmetology profession relies on practitioners being fully alert and capable of performing their duties. Other choices do not directly relate to client safety or professional efficacy in the same way that the influence of intoxicants does. For example, talking on the phone, wearing gloves, or taking a break do not constitute impairments to the service provision in a manner that could directly endanger clients.