Highlights the braider’s ability to produce flawless, clean, and consistent braids while demonstrating speed and artistry. This division separates the technicians from the true craftspeople.
General format for all Road to HEBS™ regional tour stops. Exact times are confirmed closer to the event date. Check in promptly — late arrivals may forfeit their competition spot.
01
Competitor Check-In
Registration desk opens. Collect your product package, receive station assignment, and complete any outstanding paperwork.
8:00
AM
02
Competitor Briefing
All competitors attend the mandatory briefing. Rules, judging criteria, category order, and competition format are reviewed by HEBS officials.
9:00
AM
03
Competition Rounds Begin
Categories compete in scheduled rounds. All work must be performed live on stage. Judges evaluate each competitor using the official HEBS scoring system.
9:30
AM
04
Lunch Break
Scheduled break. Competitors must keep their stations clean and secure during the break.
12:00
PM
05
Afternoon Rounds Continue
Remaining categories compete. Top 3 in each category qualify for HEBS Nationals in Secaucus, New Jersey.
1:00
PM
06
Judging & Tabulation
Official judges finalize scores. HEBS staff tabulate results from all categories. Results are reviewed for accuracy.
4:00 PM
07
Awards Ceremony
Top 3 finishers in every category are announced. Regional Champions receive their belt, trophy, and Nationals qualification. Photos, media, and celebration.
5:00 PM
01
Memphis Regional
Mar 21, 2027
02
HEBS Nationals
May 2–3, 2027
03
HEBS Crown
Crown Finals
04
HEBS Lagos
Oct 2027
Open to All Competitors
All 10 Divisions Compete in Memphis
Competitors may enter one or more divisions. Each division is judged separately — you can qualify for Nationals in multiple categories.
Braid & Loc
NeatBraid Precision
60 min | Full head braid design
Highlights the braider’s ability to produce flawless, clean, and consistent braids while demonstrating speed and artistry. Required product: PureO Braiding Gel.
Loc Dominion Retwist & Style
3 × 30 min | Competitor brings model
Elite championship demonstrating discipline, precision, and mastery through a complete loc retwist and style under pressure. 3 rounds: Retwist Discipline, Style Authority, The Dominion Final.
Creative Styling
Crown Icon Championship
Video + Stage | Social votes
The signature HEBS transformation category. Complete beauty look combining hairstyling, makeup artistry, fashion & couture, nail art, and performance.
Fusion Styling
60 min | Multiple techniques
Combines braiding, loc styling, extensions, texture manipulation, and advanced sculpting into one cohesive design.
Barbering · Powered by Men't Pro Tools
Modern Comb Over
Duration: 40 minutes
Freestyle Fusion
60 min | Color & props allowed
Texture Transformation
Duration: 40 minutes
Scissor Precision
40 min | No clippers allowed
Fast & Flawless
15 min | No enhancements
Rising Blade Rookie
30 min | New barbers only
On the Day
What to Expect in Memphis
The Road to HEBS™ is more than a competition — it’s a full championship experience built to elevate the beauty industry.
10 Official Divisions
All 10 HEBS divisions compete at every regional tour stop — from NeatBraid Precision and Loc Dominion to Fast & Flawless and Rising Blade Rookie. Competitors may enter one or more divisions.
100-Point Judging System
Every competitor is evaluated by HEBS-trained, certified judges using the official 100-point scoring system. Judging is based strictly on visible execution — not personal preference.
Top 3 Advance to Nationals
The top 3 finishers in each division at every regional event qualify for the HEBS National Championship in Secaucus, New Jersey — including VIP party access.
Regional Champion Belt
1st place in each division receives the official HEBS Regional Championship Belt — the symbol of regional dominance and the first step on the road to the Crown.
Education Sessions
Each tour stop features professional masterclasses and education sessions led by industry experts — covering advanced techniques, business development, and social media growth.
Networking & Community
Connect with braiders, barbers, locticians, stylists, product brands, and educators from across the country. The Road to HEBS™ builds careers — not just championships.
What You Can Win
Regional Championship Prizes
Top 3 competitors in every category at each regional event advance to the HEBS National Championship in Secaucus, New Jersey.
Regional Champion
$1,500
Cash prize — $1,500
HEBS Regional Championship Belt
Championship Trophy
Qualification to HEBS Nationals
VIP Champions Welcome Party access
1st Place
Regional Finalist
$1,000
Product prize package — $500 value
Championship Trophy
Qualification to HEBS Nationals
VIP Champions Welcome Party access
2nd Place
Regional Finalist
$500
Product prize package — $500 value
Championship Trophy
Qualification to HEBS Nationals
3rd Place
Before You Compete
Key Competition Rules
All competitors are responsible for knowing and following the official HEBS rules. Violations result in point deductions or disqualification. The full rulebook is available on the Rules page.
All cutting, braiding, styling, and shaping must start and finish within the official time window. Pre-work results in disqualification.
Competitors must bring their own live model
Models must arrive with hair in the required natural condition for their category. Competitors are responsible for model preparation.
Stop immediately when time is called
Continuing work after time is called results in deductions or disqualification. This is strictly enforced by HEBS officials.
Only approved products and tools permitted
Competitors must use designated required products where applicable. All tools must be in safe, clean working condition prior to competition.
Professional conduct required at all times
Respectful, focused, and professional behavior is expected. Disruptive or disrespectful conduct results in point deductions.
Clean, organized workstation throughout
Stations must be maintained during competition and fully cleaned post-service. Station cleanliness is a scored compliance requirement in barbering categories.