New York law requires hairdressers to learn how to work with all hair types

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Published: 2026-09-02T14:07:13.137Z • Permanent link

New York's latest legislative push is taking a step towards more inclusive beauty standards. The new law, which took effect on September 1st, requires cosmetology students to receive training on all hair types, from the kinkiest to the straightest. This measure aims to address the long-standing issue of hairdressers lacking the skills to work with diverse hair textures, leaving many individuals feeling marginalized and excluded from mainstream beauty services.

The legislation is a direct response to the growing awareness of the beauty industry's shortcomings in catering to people of color. According to a report by the National Association of Barber Boards of America, 75% of African American women report having to settle for subpar hair care due to a lack of understanding and training among hairdressers. By mandating comprehensive training, New York is taking a significant step towards bridging this gap and promoting greater inclusivity in the industry.

The initiative is spearheaded by Governor Kathy Hochul, who has been vocal about the need for greater diversity and representation in the beauty industry. In a statement, she emphasized the importance of providing cosmetology students with the skills and knowledge necessary to serve a diverse range of clients. "We want every New Yorker to feel welcome and included in our beauty services, regardless of their hair type or texture," she said.

The implications of this new law are far-reaching, with significant consequences for the beauty industry and its stakeholders. One of the most direct impacts will be on companies that cater to diverse hair types, such as hair care product manufacturers and salon chains. By providing their employees with the necessary training, these companies can ensure that their services meet the needs of a broader customer base, leading to increased revenue and market share.

Research communities, too, will be affected by this new law. As the beauty industry continues to evolve, researchers will need to adapt their methods and approaches to account for the growing diversity of hair types and textures. This may involve the development of new products and technologies, as well as the creation of more inclusive beauty standards. By providing cosmetology students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work with diverse hair types, New York is setting the stage for a more comprehensive and evidence-based approach to beauty research.

This new law is part of a larger trend towards greater inclusivity and diversity in the beauty industry. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for more diverse and representative beauty standards, particularly in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement. As consumers increasingly demand more inclusive and culturally sensitive beauty products and services, companies are responding by investing in diversity and inclusion initiatives.