New York Mandates Curly Hair Training in Cosmetology Schools to Combat Discrimination

New York state has enacted regulations requiring cosmetology and hair-styling schools to incorporate training on the care of kinky and curly hair into their curricula by September 2026. This initiative aims to address racial discrimination within the beauty industry, where incidents of black customers being denied services or receiving inadequate care have been reported. The new rules were co-authored by state Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages and state Senator Jamaal Bailey in 2023, following a discrimination lawsuit against an Ulta Beauty salon.

New York Requires Salon Schools to Teach Curly Hair CareNew York Post

The updated curriculum mandates that new students receive a minimum of 10 hours of hair analysis, which includes studying various hair textures, and 20 hours focused on natural hair care and styling techniques. Additionally, 18 hours will be dedicated to textured hair styling services, covering topics such as treatment for curl and coil hairstyles and blow-dry preparation for braid styling. These changes will be integrated into the existing 300 to 1,000 hours of instruction required for cosmetology licenses.

New York PostNew York Requires Salon Schools to Teach Curly Hair Care

The New York Department of State's decision to implement these regulations stems from ongoing issues of racial discrimination in the beauty industry. Assemblywoman Solages highlighted her personal experiences and those of her daughter, emphasizing the need for stylists to understand diverse hair types. She stated, “It’s a form of discrimination,” referring to salons that do not accommodate textured hair. The state aims to foster a more inclusive environment for all customers, ensuring that stylists are equipped with the necessary skills to serve clients with various hair types.

New York Requires Salon Schools to Teach Curly Hair Care

The New York State Beauty School Association has expressed confidence in the ability of cosmetology schools to comply with the new requirements, stating that they do not foresee significant barriers to implementation. The association believes that institutions can integrate the changes without undue burden, reflecting a commitment to enhancing cultural and ethnic awareness in hair care.

New York Requires Salon Schools to Teach Curly Hair Care

While the new regulations have been largely welcomed, there are concerns regarding their applicability. Existing licensed stylists will not be required to undergo additional training to renew their licenses, which some critics argue may perpetuate gaps in service quality for customers with textured hair. The lack of continuing education for current practitioners could undermine the intent of the new curriculum.

New York Requires Salon Schools to Teach Curly Hair Care

The new training requirements will officially take effect in September 2026, marking a significant step towards addressing racial discrimination in the beauty industry. The state continues to monitor the implementation of these regulations, aiming to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to equitable hair care services.

New York Requires Salon Schools to Teach Curly Hair Care

“I have curly hair. Not everyone has straight hair. The new training at the beauty schools will benefit those who don't have straight hair.” — Michaelle Solages, New York State Assemblywoman

New York Requires Salon Schools to Teach Curly Hair Care

“It's a form of discrimination.” — Michaelle Solages, New York State Assemblywoman

New York Requires Salon Schools to Teach Curly Hair Care

“The person behind the chair should understand your hair.” — Michaelle Solages, New York State Assemblywoman

New York Requires Salon Schools to Teach Curly Hair Care