NY Hairdressers Must Learn All Hair Types
New law requires cosmetology students to be trained in working with all hair textures, ensuring equal access to service for all clients
A new law in New York state requires hairdressers studying cosmetology to be trained to work with all hair types, aiming to provide equal access to service for all clients regardless of their hair texture. The law, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul in 2023, went into effect on September 1, 2026.
The law was sponsored by assembly member Michaelle Solages, who emphasized the importance of equal access to service for all New Yorkers. According to Solages, the new law will ensure that no one is turned away or receives substandard care because of their hair texture.
Under the new law, cosmetology and natural hair styling classes will include instruction on hair types from the kinkiest to the straightest. Students will also learn about hair and scalp properties, hair care and styling techniques associated with textured hair. To demonstrate their proficiency, students will have to pass state licensing exams, which will now include assessments of their skills in working with all hair types.
The number of hours required to receive a license will not change, and schools have had three years to prepare for and comply with the new law. By embedding the new instruction into existing programs, the changes will expand skills and service without increasing costs, and will ensure that haircare professionals are prepared to serve all of their clients.
## Why it matters The new law is significant because it addresses a long-standing issue of unequal access to haircare services. Many people with textured hair have reported being turned away or receiving substandard care from hairdressers who are not trained to work with their hair type. The law aims to change this by ensuring that all hairdressers have the necessary skills and training to work with all hair types.
New Jersey has also signed similar legislation into law, which requires students to receive training on textured hair and includes curly hair in written and practical testing on the state's licensing exams. The new law in New York state is a step towards providing equal access to service for all clients, regardless of their hair texture.
