About NHBC
The NHBC is committed to revolutionizing the natural hair care industry by tackling critical gaps in education and training for natural/textured hair. For too long, Black women and individuals with natural/textured hair have endured hair trauma due to a lack of understanding and expertise in natural hair care, leading to physical and psychological harm. At the NHBC, we believe in uplifting the beauty wellness standard and significance of natural/textured hair while advocating for inclusivity and professionalism within the industry.
NHBC Legacy
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, and established a professional standard of education for practitioners. The pioneering braiders and locticians recognized the need to establish rules, regulations, and educational standards, resulting in the creation of the country's first license for natural hair care and braiding. This pivotal step played a crucial role in legitimizing the natural hair care industry, which is now estimated to be worth billions of dollars.
How The NHBC Formed
In 2021/2022, there was a looming threat of deregulating the NYS Natural Hair Styling license, established in 1993 as the first license for natural hair care and braiding in the United States. This potential deregulation not only jeopardized the thriving community of licensed natural hair stylists, braiders, and business owners but also posed health risks to the clients frequenting natural hair and braiding salons, especially within Black communities. Recognizing the urgent need to protect both the industry's legitimacy and the health of Black clients, including those served by such establishments, the NHBC's founding members, two of whom had been original advocates for the 1993 license, joined forces to address the impending challenge.
United for the Future of Natural Hair Care
Pooling their expertise garnered from years of individual work within the industry, the founding members of NHBC engaged in a variety of initiatives, including consulting with major hair care brands, developing texture-focused curriculum and ethical education for the NYS curriculum and state board, publishing texture-inclusive textbooks, and advocating for awareness on issues such as hair discrimination and texture inclusion. The collective efforts of these five members culminated in the decision to unify as a single force against threats to the natural hair care industry by establishing the Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition.
Putting the "Care" Back into Hair Care
The organization's formation was driven by concerns over the potential lack of oversight and quality control that could result from deregulation, especially considering the history of harmful practices perpetuated by inadequate education and training within communities of color and the beauty industry. NHBC firmly believes that regulations mandating education and training for hair care professionals are essential to safeguard public health and safety. Such regulations ensure proficiency in sanitation, hygiene, and the identification of scalp disorders and diseases, highlighting the scientific knowledge necessary for anyone working with clients' hair. Moreover, NHBC aims to challenge long-standing misconceptions and stereotypes about textured hair by emphasizing its beauty, versatility, and unique care needs through scientific understanding.
Meet the Founders of the NHBC
Diane Da Costa
Co-President
With over 30 plus years in the beauty industry, Da Costa's calling is to educate, inspire and motivate both consumers and professionals as a textured hair advocate. Diane is leading the charge of change in the multi-textured hair movement.
Diane C. Bailey
Co-President
Diane's deep understanding of the historical context of textured hair and its cultural significance enables her to eloquently express the intricate relationship between culture and hair.
Debra Hare-Bey
Executive Vice President
A passionate advocate for the licensure of braiders, Debra actively champions the recognition and professionalization of the braiding industry, working tirelessly to ensure that braiders are properly trained and certified.
Natasha Gaspard
EVP of Communications & Media
Working with hair care professionals and brands has resulted in the creation of impactful video series, natural hair events, panel discussions, presentations, and community workshops. Natasha utilizes her platform to raise awareness and shed light on the intersections between natural hair, culture, politics, race, and identity.
Erin H. Maybin
EVP of Education Development
An influential member of the NYS Appearance Enhancement Advisory Committee and writer. Erin challenges the norms by offering a fresh perspective. Advocating for texture inclusion in curriculum, testing, and legislation that benefits the future and current professional.
Mission & Vision
The Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition's mission is to Elevate the ART & SCIENCE of the natural hair care industry through our Four Pillars: Advocacy & Activism, Ethical Education, Business Development, and Community Health & Safety. We envision a world where everyone has access to safe, ethical, and sustainable hair care regardless of hair type and texture.
Natural Hairstyle & Braid Coalition Pillars
Advocacy & Activism
Create and uphold professional standards and protocols, with accompanying curriculum while spearheading legislation that protects the rights of hair care professionals and the consumer.
Ethical Education
Foster growth and innovation in the industry while promoting the highest standards of professionalism, ethics, and safety.
Business Development
Assist natural hair care professionals in building sustainable careers through licensing, training and certification, while increasing career opportunities and service quality for clients.
Health & Safety
Set standards for public safety through proper sanitation practices and the implementation of safe and effective styling techniques for the natural hair community.
“Since beauty culture legislation is almost a certainty in every state, it is necessary for operators to have a thorough theoretical and practical knowledge of every branch of the trade, for today beauty culture is not work for a novice, or unprepared individual.”
- Madame C.J. Walker
Shaping the Future of Natural Hair Care in NYS
The NHBC is leading the charge in advocating for the natural hair care community in New York State. Beyond endorsing existing licensing standards, NHBC is spearheading the introduction of the new Natural Hair Care and Braiding Bill A8624A. This groundbreaking legislation aims to modernize regulations, catering to the evolving needs of both professionals and consumers. By bridging educational gaps, promoting inclusivity, and empowering stylists to deliver top-notch services for diverse hair types, this legislative initiative seeks to elevate industry standards. The organization’s proactive collaboration with legislators and stakeholders shapes occupational licensing requirements in New York State, fostering professionalism, driving economic growth, and ensuring consumer safety and satisfaction.
Recognizing the ongoing evolution of the industry, NHBC stands unwavering in its commitment to shaping the future of natural hair care in NY state and beyond.
