The Alabama Legislature has passed Senate Bill 183 (SB183), which makes important changes to the regulation of certain hair services in the state. This update is intended to help individuals, businesses, and licensees understand what services are regulated by the Board and what services will no longer be subject to licensure or oversight once the law takes effect on October 1, 2026.
What Has Changed?
Under SB183, natural hair styling is no longer regulated under Alabama cosmetology law. This means individuals who perform only natural hair styling services are not required to hold a Natural Hair Stylist license and are not regulated by the Board.
What is considered Natural Hair Styling?
Natural Hair Styling generally includes techniques that do not involve the use of chemicals and may include:
- Braiding
- Twisting
- Weaving
- Locking
- Similar natural hair techniques
Voluntary Natural Hair Stylist License Option
SB183 provides an option for individuals to obtain a voluntary Natural Hair Stylist license. Individuals who choose to become licensed must meet all Board requirements for licensure. Once licensed, these individuals remain under the regulatory authority of the Board.
Licensed Natural Hair Stylists are subject to:
- Applicable laws and rules
- Inspection (if operating within a licensed establishment)
- Disciplinary action, if necessary
This option allows individuals to demonstrate professional credentials while remaining compliant with Board standards.
What this means for individuals
If you perform only natural hair styling, you are not required to be licensed by the Board.
If you perform any regulated cosmetology services, you must be licensed.
What this means for businesses
Businesses that provide only natural hair styling services do not need a Board-issued license and are not subject to inspection by the Board.
Businesses that provide both natural hair styling and regulated cosmetology services must maintain proper licensure and are subject to inspection for regulated services only.
What this means for consumers
Consumers should be aware that Natural Hair Styling services will no longer be regulated by the Board as of October 1, 2026. The Board will no longer investigate complaints or take enforcement actions related solely to these services. The Board can take action when regulated services (such as chemical treatments or skin care) are involved.
The Board's ongoing role
The Alabama Board of Cosmetology and Barbering remains committed to protecting public health and safety by:
- Licensing qualified professionals
- Inspecting regulated establishments
- Enforcing laws related to cosmetology, esthetics, and nail technology.
If you have questions about whether a service requires a license or falls under Board regulation, please contact our office for guidance.