posted on: 09/09/2026
New York is updating cosmetology education requirements to better prepare future licensees to serve clients of all hair types and textures. The New York State Register published final rules (page 19) amending instruction requirements for cosmetology and natural hair styling programs.
The changes implement a 2023 law expanding education related to textured and natural hair. New content will be incorporated into existing training programs. Required program hours remain unchanged: cosmetology programs will remain at 1,000 hours and natural hair styling programs will remain at 300 hours.
Natural Hair Styling Curriculum Updates
The final rules provide additional clarity on required natural hair styling instruction, including:
- Scalp and hair analysis, density, and scalp conditions (dry and oily)
- Recognition of common scalp infections (fungal, bacterial, parasitic)
- Natural hair hydration, moisture treatments, and product knowledge
- Historical and cultural foundations of natural hair styling practices
- Expanded instruction on braiding, locs, twists, extensions, weaves, wigs, knots, coiling, and other textured styles
- Proper use of tools and materials (combs, needles, hooks, pliers, threaders)
- Training on extension fibers (synthetic, human, yarn), and installation and removal techniques
- Textured hair styling techniques, including curl and coil definition, blow-drying, thermal styling, and heat damage prevention
Cosmetology Curriculum Updates
The final rules add new requirements related to natural and textured hair styling to cosmetology instruction, including:
- Hair type, texture, and density analysis
- Detangling and treatment techniques for coily and curly hair
- Curly and coily styling methods
- Blow-drying, diffusing, and thermal styling for textured hair
- Heat damage prevention and safe styling practices
Effective date: September 1, 2026
Link to final rules (page 19)