Lagos, Nigeria's largest city, is more than just a bustling hub of commerce and entertainment—it's a place where beauty meets individuality. In recent years, the natural hair movement has taken Lagos by storm, with women celebrating their Afro-textured hair in its natural glory. But maintaining natural hair in a tropical city like Lagos can be challenging. It requires proper care, skilled hands, and quality products to keep your hair thriving.
The good news? Lagos is brimming with amazing hair salons that cater to natural hair enthusiasts. From twists and locs to protective styles and treatments, these salons understand the unique needs of kinky, coily, and curly hair textures. In this post, we’ll explore the best salons for natural hair care in Lagos, why they stand out, and how they can help you achieve your hair goals.
Why Natural Hair Salons Matter
Caring for natural hair is more than just styling—it’s about nourishing and protecting your hair so it can grow healthy and strong. Many women in Lagos face challenges like dryness, breakage, shrinkage, and scalp issues. A natural hair salon bridges the gap by offering services tailored to these specific needs.
A great natural hair salon does more than just style your hair. It educates you about:
- Hair health: Understanding your hair type and needs.
- Product use: Choosing the right oils, creams, and conditioners.
- Maintenance tips: Keeping your hair moisturized and protected between visits.
Let’s dive into the salons that are setting the standard for natural hair care in Lagos.
1. Kinky Apothecary Hair Studio
Located in the vibrant Lekki area, Kinky Apothecary Hair Studio is a trusted name in the natural hair community. As Nigeria's first dedicated natural hair care store, they’ve expanded into offering salon services that cater to all natural hair types.
Services Offered
- Wash and go treatments.
- Protective styles like flat twists and Bantu knots.
- Deep conditioning and hydration therapy.
- Consultation services to assess your hair's health.
One of the standout features of this salon is its retail space, which stocks popular natural hair products like Shea Moisture, Cantu, and homegrown Nigerian brands. This means you can shop for products while getting your hair done—a win-win for busy Lagosians!
Pro Tip: Book your appointment early. Their expertise means they're often fully booked, especially on weekends.
2. Olori Naturals
Olori Naturals is more than a salon—it’s a movement. Located in Ikeja, this salon emphasizes the beauty of African hair and promotes self-love through natural hair care.
Why People Love It
- They use 100% natural, chemical-free products.
- Stylists are experts in protective styling, which minimizes manipulation and encourages growth.
- The salon offers scalp detox treatments to clear buildup and boost hair health.
If you’re transitioning from relaxed to natural hair, Olori Naturals is the perfect place to start your journey. Their stylists are patient and knowledgeable, ensuring your transition is as smooth as possible.
3. Sisi Salon
Situated in Victoria Island, Sisi Salon is a chic, urban space that attracts Lagos’ trendiest naturalistas. The salon combines luxury with practicality, making it a favorite for working professionals and celebrities alike.
Signature Services
- Silk presses for those seeking a sleek, stretched look without chemicals.
- Customized hair treatments targeting dryness, dandruff, or thinning edges.
- Gorgeous twist-outs, flat twists, and braid-outs.
The staff at Sisi Salon are not just stylists—they’re artists. They take the time to understand your vision and execute it flawlessly. Plus, the ambiance of the salon makes it an experience you’ll look forward to.
4. Natural Nation Hair Studio
Natural Nation, located in Yaba, is perfect for the budget-conscious naturalista. They prove that high-quality natural hair care doesn’t have to cost a fortune. This family-friendly salon welcomes women, men, and children, offering a wide range of services tailored to natural hair.
Special Features
- Tutorials and workshops on at-home hair care.
- Affordable pricing for wash, condition, and styling packages.
- Kid-friendly environment with gentle styling for little ones.
If you’re looking to connect with a community of like-minded natural hair lovers, Natural Nation frequently hosts events and meetups where you can learn more about maintaining your mane.
5. Locitude Studio
For those rocking locs, Locitude Studio in Lekki is an unrivaled gem. Specializing in all things locs, this salon offers everything from starter locs to maintenance and intricate styling.
Why It Stands Out
- Expert consultations to help you decide the best type of locs for your hair type and lifestyle.
- Use of high-quality, lightweight products that keep locs hydrated and healthy.
- Repairs and extensions for damaged or thinning locs.
Whether you’re a seasoned loc wearer or starting your journey, Locitude Studio provides a supportive, judgment-free environment to care for your crown.
6. O’Naturals Beauty Hub
O’Naturals is a powerhouse in the natural hair industry, with salons in Ogudu and Ikeja. Known for their innovation, this salon has a loyal clientele that swears by their creative hairstyles and excellent service.
What to Expect
- Stunning bridal hairstyles for natural hair brides.
- Unique protective styles that blend African tradition with modern aesthetics.
- Scalp treatments that soothe irritation and encourage growth.
Their stylists are deeply passionate about natural hair and often go above and beyond to make every client feel special.
7. The Hair Coach Salon
Nestled in the quiet streets of Ikoyi, The Hair Coach Salon takes a holistic approach to natural hair care. Their services are rooted in understanding each client’s unique hair texture and needs.
Popular Services
- Tailored treatments for damaged hair and split ends.
- Loc retwists and maintenance.
- Hydration therapy to combat dryness caused by Lagos’ tropical climate.
The salon also offers private appointments for clients who prefer one-on-one sessions.
8. Nature’s Gentle Touch Hair Institute
Nature’s Gentle Touch, located in Victoria Island, is a pioneer in natural hair care in Nigeria. They’re known for their professional approach, using science-backed methods to tackle common hair issues.
Services You’ll Love
- Hair loss and scalp disorder treatments.
- Protein and moisture-balancing treatments.
- Customized regimens for maintaining healthy curls and coils.
Their in-house trichologists (hair specialists) ensure every client receives the best care for their specific hair concerns.
9. Yellow Sisi Salon
If you’re based on the mainland, Yellow Sisi Salon in Surulere is worth visiting. This cozy salon has a team of talented stylists who specialize in trendy, low-maintenance styles.
Fan Favorites
- Twist-outs and braid-outs that last for weeks.
- Protective styles like faux locs and crochet braids.
- Scalp massages that are perfect after a stressful Lagos week.
Clients love the relaxed, no-rush atmosphere and the stylists’ ability to work with even the thickest of hair.
10. African Naturalistas Hair Clinic
African Naturalistas is not just a salon—it’s an institution dedicated to natural hair care education. Located in Ikeja, this salon is perfect for naturalistas who are serious about their hair health.
Why People Flock Here
- Comprehensive hair health assessments.
- DIY product-making classes for clients who want to create their own hair oils and masks.
- Focus on retaining length and achieving growth.
Their stylists are patient and skilled, ensuring every client leaves with healthier, happier hair.
Tips for Choosing the Right Salon
1. Read Reviews: Check social media and Google for honest feedback from previous clients.
2. Ask Questions: During consultations, ask about the products and techniques they use.
3. Check Their Specialty: Some salons focus on protective styles, while others excel at treatments.
4. Consider Distance: Lagos traffic is no joke. Choose a salon close to home or work for convenience.
Conclusion
Natural hair is a journey that requires care, commitment, and the right support system. The salons listed here represent the best of Lagos’ natural hair scene, offering services that cater to every need, from protective styling to advanced treatments.
No matter where you are on your natural hair journey, these salons provide not just expertise but a community where you can learn, grow, and celebrate your natural beauty.
Take the plunge, book that appointment, and let your crown shine!