In 2017, I graduated from cosmetology school with high hopes of making a difference in the beauty industry. My vision was to see textured hair care and styling embraced as an essential part of every cosmetology curriculum. So, with experience and a passion for empowering others, I returned to my alma mater to propose a comprehensive textured hair care and styling curriculum. Unfortunately, what I encountered was a stark reminder of the biases that persist in this industry.
Standing Up Against Discrimination
My time in cosmetology school wasn’t easy. I faced challenges not only as a student but as an advocate. My instructor often lacked sensitivity towards minority students, and I witnessed many instances of bullying and discrimination. As someone who will always speak up when others are mistreated, I became a whistleblower—a real disruption to their toxic culture. While challenging, this experience reinforced my commitment to ensuring that all students, regardless of background, feel supported and respected.
The Misconception of Black Hair Care
When I pitched my curriculum to the school’s administration, the owner told me, “Black people do not spend money on their hair.” I was stunned. Black hair care is a multi-billion dollar industry, with Black consumers consistently spending more on hair care products and services than any other demographic. According to an online article from NIQ in 2022, Black consumers spend $2.29B on hair care annually. I even showed them my price list at the time, which has since tripled in value, yet they couldn’t—or wouldn’t—acknowledge the demand for textured hair services.
Ironically, the owner took a copy of my price list and never returned it.
My vision was to see textured hair care and styling embraced as an essential part of every cosmetology curriculum.
The Barrier of Instructor Certification
The administration suggested I obtain a licensed instructor certification to teach full-time. While I respect formal certifications, my goal was to bring a specialized, much-needed perspective—not necessarily to become a permanent staff member. When I declined, the atmosphere changed. It seemed that they viewed my expertise in textured hair care as a threat rather than an asset.
A Missed Opportunity for Diversity
I explained that my goal was to help them attract a more diverse group of students and clients by including textured hair education. To this day, however, the school continues to cater mainly to non-textured hair. I see this as a form of hair discrimination. How can a cosmetology school, charging $22,000 in tuition, justify excluding textured hair care from its curriculum?
A Temporary Victory and a Price Adjustment
Eventually, they allowed me to conduct two textured hair classes. Both sessions were a success, and one instructor even left me a 5-star review. But then came the payment issue: they initially offered me $100 for four hours of teaching—an insulting rate. In true form, I sent a corrected invoice for $499, which they paid. But that was the last class I taught there.
Student Demand vs. School Barriers
After the classes, 17 students reached out, eager to learn more. I approached the director, and we agreed I could rent space to teach additional sessions. But after the rental was set up, not one of those students followed through. I couldn’t help but question why these students, who had once begged for more education in textured hair, suddenly went silent.
Continuing the Mission
I may never fully understand why I was let go. But I know this: I’m committed to being the change I want to see in the billion-dollar Black hair care industry. The demand for textured hair education is undeniable, and I will continue to advocate, teach, and empower future cosmetologists to represent and serve all clients with skill and respect.
Some photos of my interactions with students and fellow instructors.
With love:
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