What overarching principle is the Missouri Board of Cosmetology guided by?

The Missouri Board of Cosmetology is fundamentally guided by the principle of public safety and professional standards. This means that the board prioritizes the health and safety of the public, ensuring that cosmetologists adhere to high professional standards in their practices.

The focus on public safety involves regular inspections, licensing, and regulation of cosmetology practices to minimize risks associated with beauty treatments, such as infections or allergic reactions. Professional standards also encompass the education and training necessary for cosmetologists to practice competently, ensuring that clients receive quality service from knowledgeable practitioners.

While other choices may seem relevant in the context of the beauty industry, they do not align with the board’s primary function. For instance, profit maximization for salons is a business-focused concept, and focusing solely on beauty industry trends or new product development may overlook the essential requirements of health and safety that protect consumers. In contrast, the priority on public safety and maintaining professional standards underpins the regulatory framework of the board's operations and decision-making processes.