New York Law Requires Cosmetology Students to Train in Textured Hair
For countless Black women across New York, the routine errand of booking a salon appointment carries a frustratingly familiar hurdle. Walking into an establishment only to be turned away because stylists lack the training for textured hair is an all-too-common reality.
Mandating Textured Hair Training in State Cosmetology Curriculums
A newly signed law aims to dismantle that barrier. The legislation overhauls state cosmetology licensing requirements to explicitly mandate training in kinky, curly, wavy, and coily textures.
According to ABC7 New York, anyone pursuing a professional cosmetology license in the state must now demonstrate proficiency in working with all hair types. While the total number of hours required to secure the credential remains unchanged, the underlying curriculum has been restructured. Programs are now required to incorporate dedicated instruction for diverse textures.
Economic and Social Access Barriers Addressed by Assembly Reform
Assembly member Michaelle Solages explained the core motivation behind the reform to The Guardian.
“This is about equal access to service. No New Yorker should ever walk into a salon and be turned away or receive substandard care because of their hair texture. Now, with the adoption of this legislation, they won’t have to,” Solages noted.
By embedding this instruction directly into existing programs, the state aims to expand practical skill sets without inflating student tuition costs.
Extending CROWN Act Protections Into Salon Workforces
Senator Jamaal Bailey pointed out that the new mandate builds directly upon previous work with the CROWN Act. The goal is ensuring that future beauty professionals entering the workforce are fully equipped to serve every client equitably.
“Hair is deeply personal. It is linked to our identity, our well-being, and how we show up in the world. Building on our past work with the CROWN Act, which ensured no one faces hair-based discrimination, I am honored to see our continued efforts toward making a more inclusive New York,” Bailey said.
Updated State Guidelines and Regional Shifts in Beauty Standards
Under the updated guidelines outlined by the state department, enrolled students will complete dedicated coursework covering hair and scalp properties. The curriculum also mandates specific hair care and styling techniques associated with textured hair.
New York’s adoption of the requirement follows a similar measure enacted in New Jersey in January 2026.