When it comes to hairstyles, the details matter.
That’s why Juan Carlos Montemayor, owner of Wolves and Shears Barbershop, took the initiative to educate himself on working with different hair textures.
“I learned a lot about different hair types through YouTube and just being in the barbershop, like learning from older hairdressers and different stylists,” Montemayor said.
However, this training did not come from hairdressing school. That’s why Montemayor expressed his support for a new California law requiring hairstylists to train for all types and textures of hair.
“They just start with more knowledge. You know, they can build and have a greater variety of customers because you’re working with a larger demographic of people. And so I think it’s phenomenal that this is becoming a standard,” he said .
Assembly Bill 2166 requires hairdressing and cosmetology schools to administer a written test to students to assess their ability to provide services to clients with all hair types. The bill also expands criminal penalties for hairstylists who violate the Barbering and Cosmetology Act, a measure intended to prevent discrimination against customers based on hairstyle.
The new law also requires licensing exams to address the new material covered. Regular customer Eric Meyer said it’s essential to have a stylist who understands his hair type.
“Having someone who understands my hair type, and keeping it healthy has been life-changing for me. In the past I’ve had irritations with it and I would just shave it all off. But I’ve really come to embrace it .”
And that’s why Juan Carlos believes the new law will help both barbershops and salons become a more welcoming and inclusive space – not just through gestures, but also through the right training.
“I’m excited about the industry. It just feels and seems like a win,” Carlos said.
