posted on: 06/15/2026
Governor Josh Green signed into law Senate Bill 2876, creating a new registration pathway for natural hair braiders in Hawaii. Instead of requiring a full cosmetology license, braiders will now register with the Board of Barbering and Cosmetology (Board). This change removes barriers that previously required braiders to complete training unrelated to their work. Learn the latest below.
How Registration Works
To qualify for registration, braiders must complete a Board-approved course covering sanitation, health, and safety practices. Once registered, braiders must display their registration in a visible location at their place of business. Registrations are valid through December 31 and must be renewed every odd-numbered year.
What Counts as Natural Hair Braiding?
The bill defines “natural hair braiding” as braiding, cornrowing, locking, twisting, weaving, wrapping, or extending hair by hand or with braiding tools, along with minor trimming of extensions.
Allowed practices include:
- Using natural or synthetic hair extensions, fibers, and decorative accessories
- Making and lacing wigs
- Applying topical products such as gels, moisturizers, oils, or pomades
- Using tools such as blunt-tipped needles, clips, combs, crochet hooks, curlers, curling irons, hair binders, hairpins, rollers, scissors, or threads
Natural hair braiding does not include:
- Coloring or chemical treatments
- Services that alter the structure of the hair (chemically straightening or curling)
- Chemical bonding methods (keratin bonds, fusion bonds, etc.)
Why This Matters
This law recognizes natural hair braiding as a distinct practice that carries minimal health and safety risk. By shifting from licensure to registration, Hawaii is making it easier for braiders to enter the workforce and start businesses without training that falls outside their scope. At the same time, the sanitation requirement helps ensure professionals can continue to serve their clients safely.
Key Dates
- November 1, 2026: Deadline for the Board to adopt hair braiding sanitation, health, and safety training rules.
- January 1, 2028: Registration requirement takes effect for natural hair braiders.