How do I become a beauty pro on Made Glow?

Made Glow's pro acceptance rate is about 38% of applicants — selective by design so the marketplace stays high-quality. The full overview is on /for-pros; the application checklist is here.

What you need before applying

• Active state license for every service you want to offer (cosmetology, nail technician, esthetician, LMT). Expired or pending-renewal licenses are not accepted.
• Government-issued photo ID matching your license name.
• Portfolio — minimum 8 photos showing range of work, ideally 12–20. Cell-phone photos are fine; in-focus and well-lit matters more than camera quality.
• 3 references with phone numbers — one each from a former client, a colleague (another licensed pro), and a salon or studio you've worked at.
• Bank account or debit card for Stripe Connect payouts. Payout details here.
• Liability insurance is provided by Made Glow ($1M policy) — you don't need to carry your own.

The application flow

1. Identity verification (Stage 1) — Checkr live-selfie + ID match. Takes 2 minutes; usually back in 30 minutes.
2. License verification (Stage 2) — we cross-check your license with the issuing state board. Takes 1–24 hours.
3. Background check (Stage 3) — 7-year nationwide criminal + sex offender registry. Takes 1–3 business days. Full criteria here.
4. Portfolio + references (Stage 4) — our internal review team scores your portfolio and calls references. Takes 2–4 business days.

Total: most candidates have a decision in 72 hours from submission.

What we score on portfolio

• Technique — clean lines, even color, good cut shape, polished finish.
• Range — multiple skin tones, hair textures, age groups, styles.
• Consistency — your strongest 3 photos look like the same person did them. Inconsistent portfolios are the #1 reason applications get a "needs more work" response.

If you're declined

You'll get a feedback email — usually one of: portfolio not strong enough yet, references didn't respond, criminal-history issue. You can re-apply 90 days after addressing the feedback.

After approval

You're onboarded into the Made Glow pro app, set your availability, finalize your profile, and start accepting bookings. Most new pros take their first booking within 7–10 days of approval. Scheduling guide here.

The economics

Pros keep 92% of every booking; Made Glow takes 8%. 100% of tips go to you. No monthly fees on the standard plan. Payout flow.