Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition

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Preserving the Legacy of Natural Hair Care

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The Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition's (NHBC) efforts advance beauty justice for equitable natural hair care by addressing regulatory gaps, preserving licensing standards, protecting consumers, advocating for beauty wellness, mental health, and establishing equitable pathways to entrepreneurship and ownership within the industry.

Meet the Founders & Explore the NHBC's Mission

History of Licensing in NYS

The Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition (NHBC) traces its origins to the pioneering efforts of the New York State natural hairstyling license, enacted in 1993 as the first of its kind in the United States.

This groundbreaking legislation legalized natural hair care and braiding services, previously restricted without a Cosmetology license. Establishing a professional standard of education for practitioners.

The pioneering braiders and locticians recognized the need to establish rules, regulations, and educational standards, resulting in a stand alone natural hair care and braiding license separate from Cosmetology.

This pivotal moment played a crucial role in legitimizing the natural hair care industry, which is now estimated to be worth billions of dollars.