“[T]o perform … microneedling, an individual must come within one of the exemptions from the cosmetology laws recognized by Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-4-109. As applicable here, section 109 exempts from Tenn. Code Ann. §§ 62-4-10l through - 138 certain individuals, specifically "[p]hysicians and surgeons or trained nurses, trained nurses assistants, aides or similar personnel, acting solely in their professional capacities." Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-4-109(a)(3). See also Tetn. Op. Att'y Gen. No. 12- 91 (Sept. 25, 2012) (discussing Tenn. Code Ann. § 62-4-109(a)3)).”
For questions regarding microneedling, you may contact the TN Department of Health, Health Related Boards at 615-532-3202 or tn.health@tn.gov
This FAQ is based off of Tennessee Attorney General’s Opinion 17-31. Like that opinion, this FAQ “assumes and is limited to the following definitions of the procedures of “microblading” and “microneedling.” “Microblading” is a semi-permanent makeup procedure that enables a person to recreate lost eyebrows. Microblading is performed by manually depositing pigment into the skin by use of a pen-like instrument, which contains several fine needles organized in a line. When the instrument is pressed against the skin, the needles penetrate the skin and leave behind pigment. “Microneedling” is a skin-rejuvenation procedure that involves the use of a device that contains fine needles, which may be between .25 and 3.0 mm in diameter. The needles are organized on a cylinder, which is rolled over a person’s skin to puncture it and create a controlled skin injury to infuse the skin with preparation materials or collagen. The devices used in both procedures are capable of causing bleeding or rupturing blood vessels.” All quotes provided below are pursuant to that Attorney General’s Opinion, which is available in its entirety at https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/attorneygeneral/documents/ops/2017/op17-031.pdf.