Ask Afrobella — Seeking Natural Hair Salons
Here’s an Ask Afrobella question that I’m gonna need you all to help me answer. Ready? Here goes…
Hello Afrobella,
First, let me start off by letting you know how much I really respect you as a Woman, Journalist, & Fellow Afrobella! I really appreciate your point of view. Please know that you have filled a missing void in the natural community. Which brings me to my request. I don’t know if this idea has crossed your mind or maybe it’s a work in progress. Nevertheless ,I would really a be grateful if you could write about one or all of the following topics:
1. A list of Natural Hair Salons located in Major Cities and/ or States.
2. A review of Natural Hair Salons located in Major Cities and/ or States.
3. Create a forum for Afrobellas to list and make referrals to natural hair care salons that satisfied them.
Please, note that when I say natural hair care salon. I’m not talking about a salon that thinks a press and curl is the only way to style natural hair! I’m talking about a place that can cut, treat, shingle, coil, finger style etc.
Granted you have supplied us with awesome product recommendations to take care of our own hair. But, sometimes we would like a little TLC from and trained professional who knows how to care for and style natural hair.
I would be grateful if you could write about natural hair salons. I feel that info on this topic would fill another missing void within the natural community. I currently live in New York City of all places and I don’t know where to go!
I Thank you in advance for allowing me to make this request.
God Bless, Cece
I actually wrote back to CeCe and thanked her for her brilliant suggestion, but I must say, this is an especially daunting Ask Afrobella for me. Those of you who have been reading for a while might remember my Hairdresser Horrors post. I’ve dealt with many a bad salon, and as a result, I hardly EVER go to the hairdresser. Last time I went was to the fabulous Larramy for my curl cut back in May! I loved my experience with Larramy, but I also agree with CeCe — there is something special about meeting a professional hairdresser who actually has your hair texture. There’s a feeling of security from knowing that the person you’re paying to style your ‘do knows exactly how to treat your tresses from personal experience, and there is also a significant satisfaction that comes from supporting businesses within the black community.
After I said to myself, fire burn that fancy Aveda place where they sate you with tea then load you up with overpriced, don’t-work-for-your-texture products you’re expected to buy (pardon me for venting Aveda fans, I obvs had a very lame experience there) — I spent quite a while searching for a natural hair salon within 30 miles of my residence. And as far as I knew (longtime Miami natives, please correct me if I am wrong) — I was fresh outta luck. The best natural hair salon in the area was all the way up in Fort Lauderdale….until September 30, when Natural Trend Setters opened a Miami branch!
Their locations in Tamarac and Delray Beach were already the must-visit locations for a variety of well-known local afrobellas, including hostess with the mostess Ingrid B, gorgeous 99 Jamz DJs Supa Cindy and K/ Foxx — early Afrobella readers might remember my interview with her. K. Foxx told me about NTS back then, and I finally got around to visiting a whole year later. And finally, I’m writing about it two months after visiting the place. Jeez, I am such a slacker.
Natural Trend Setters has a big reputation in south Florida. Stunning sister stylists Simone and Trudy Hylton are like walking advertisements for their craft — their hair is ON POINT. Their opening event was such a warm, welcoming, family affair. The salon merged with the Yellow Moon Day Spa in Liberty City, a pretty gritty part of Miami. Owner Rick Spence explained that the location was key — “We wanted to set an example. We’re trying to erase that negative vibe and create a social vibe.” Part of the social vibe will be a cafe and lounge area at the front, where they will host spoken word poetry and live music in the evenings. The salon is attached to the large front space, and it’s seriously gorgeous. Bright and plush and very welcoming. At the back is the spa, and they’ve got pretty, private rooms where they offer massages and waxing as well. The event was covered by the Broward Times, so you can read more about their services there, or click here.
At the opening reception I met some really cool local bellas, including Brigitte, owner of Brown Olive Natural Skin Care — I got to smell and sample some of her products and they rock!
And the beautiful bella you see pictured here is JoAnn Sampson, a gorgeous grandmother who participates in the Senior Olympics! Click here to read her story, and be as inspired as I was. I chatted with JoAnn for a while and she told me all about staying fit past 60, and being a senior Olympian. Amazing. JoAnn is a regular client at NTS and frequently models in their natural hair shows, as well.
I haven’t yet had the opportunity to come to Natural Trend Setters, but I plan to go get my hair done and write a review soon. Twists, anyone?
This is my first step to answering CeCe’s question. I don’t know thing 1 about creating a forum for discussion, first of all…. I’d love to start something like that next year when I do a big site redesign. For now, all I can do is write about the places I know of and ask you to tell me about your favorite hairdresser so we can spread the love. Seems like a good place to start, right?
Do you have a natural salon you absolutely love in your neck of the woods? Tell me - where do you get your hair done, bellas?
Afrobella Issues, Ask Afrobella, Beautifully Aging Bellas, hair, random randomness |52 Responses to “Ask Afrobella — Seeking Natural Hair Salons”
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I’ve yet to visit a natural salon (but i will soon to get my hair dyed), but I know that Kaya Kasper’s Naturally You! Magazine’s website has a listing of natural salons across the US. Here is the link:
http://www.naturallyyoumagazine.com/salondirectory.php
This is great!! While I live in Brooklyn, I am contemplating a move to LA to pursue my dream of TV writing. I have Locs and have asked a few friends if they know of natural haircare salons in LA… They have come up empty. Any Rastabellas in LA know of a good spot? I’m going out there in January to visit… Let me know of a good one. But while I’m here in NY I go to SOL, 80 Lafayette Avenue, Suite 2, Brooklyn to get my locs maintained.
Great post! If you know of a place in DC, please let me know!
check out http://www.mahoganyrevolution.com/
Kari is the best!
In LA, any self-respecting Afrobella/fella need only know two names - Leimert Park the neighborhood and Institute For Fine Braidery Arts the hair mecca. Stylist Akeem and his mom Hana are the truth: http://ifbaproductions.tripod.com/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leimert_Park,_Los_Angeles,_California
And for anyone looking in NYC, Tameeka Bacchus is your girl…if and only if you’re *serious* about investing (time and money) in your natural glory, you can tell her I sent you. Can’t have no flakes droppin’ my name, you feel? http://tameekabacchus.com/
islandgirl550!!!! I live in LA and currently go to a place in Bellflower, which isn’t exactly in LA but about 30 min (with no traffic) south. Think Long Beach!
Kimberly Swan works at Stylemasters Salon and is getting ready to open her new salon with partner Tonie Eisley. I will only trust my hair to these two wonderful women. Kimberly is all about the natural: twists, braids, locs, etc. She books up to 3-4 weeks in advance, cuz she is just sooooo good. Tonie can hook you up with braids too, but I go to Tonie when I want to revisit my straightened self again(with a temporary press). She also did an excellent dye job on my hair. I will post again once I know what their new salon will be called and with a number.
here is Kim’s Website: http://naturalintentions.net/index02.html
Hope that helps my fellow LA afrobella’s
PS: I’m orignally from Baltimore so if anyone has any suggestions for the Bmore/DC area please post. Thanks.
I typically do my own, but some of my favorites to watch are
http://www.dua-fe.com
http://www.indigofera.com
http://www.brownstownenaturalhair.com
Oh these are all in Philly.
Atajmil is another, this one I’ve actually been to but they do not have a site, they are listed on the Naturally You website already mentioned tho, I believe they all are actually.
anyone know of any GOOD places in the newark/irvington area of jersey??
Na’klectic Salon in Baltimore is the best. Great atmosphere, professional environment. They also use wonderful organic products. They helped me with my transition - - but be forewarned, only a few of the stylists deal with transitioning hair.
Great post! Is there anything in the ATL like that?
That indeed was a great question. However I wish there were places in Canada especially In the Toronto area where there are natural beauty salons. I’m getting the idea that I would have to fly/drive to NYC to get something done. If I asked if you are aware of places over here or you know anyone who might know, is that asking for too much?
Oh Wow, I’m glad i found this site… its going to be on my go to dailies link section…
Does anyone know of any AFFORDABLE natural hair salons in NYC?? I have 3c hair, and I have just begun wearing my hair in its natural state (I usually head to the Dominicans for a wash/set & blow dry for bone straight hair, and let them trim my ends). Normally I wear my hair curly during the summer, but Im trying something different. I know I need to have my ends clipped on a regular basis but I dont want to have to endure the wash/set and blowdrying just b/c I need a trim.
Kari and Mahogany Hair Revolutions is in LA. A few blocks from the Beverly Center.
Ms. Bella –
That request does seem like a tall order to fill. I would hate to see you held/named responsible for another Bella’s horrible hair story. I would suggest going to the Miss Jessie’s sight and looking at their list of retail locations to see if there is one in your state/city. A lot of the salon’s listed (not all but a lot) have owners or tenants that have and treat natural hair. That is how I hooked up with Good Hair Salon in Seattle, WA which specializes in locs, twist, coils, etc. Be sure to set up an appointment to visit the salon, view pictures and inquire about the products that they use and encourage you to buy for at home maintenance. I know from experience that one woman’s trash (stylist) can be another woman’s treasure (stylist). I have had friends that swore their stylist hooked them up and kept their hair healthy, but after I “interviewed” them at one of those scheduled visits, I knew she was not comin’ no where near these puffs. Ladies (and gents) do some research and keep hope alive!
One,
tuff-puff
I second Kari at Mahogany Hair in L.A. She used to be at another salon and just opened her own place. She is GREAT. Really smart about hair care.
I’ve just started locs. My stylist is Nefer at:
SHENY NEFER
Hairlocking Salon
349 Marion Street
Brooklyn, NY 11233
718.443.6361
Some other salons in the NYC area are:
DE LUX GALLERY
91 Hanson Place
Brooklyn, NY
(on the back of 4W Circle)
718.522.3324
Nubian Heritage
155-03 Jamaica Avenue
Jamaica, Queens. 11432
718.291.5105
And most notably,
Khamit Kinks
327 Gold Street
Brooklyn, NY 11201
718.422.2600
Brooklyn seems to have the largest number of natural hair care salons. There was a natural hair show that took place this summer at the African Arts Festival, showcasing the natural styles of many of the area’s salons.
I belive Oh My Nappy Hair, has a salon in ATL.
There are several places in Oakland, CA - Handz, Nappy Or Not, Oh My Nappy Hair just to name a few off the top.
I do not have natural hair but a few of my friends love this place here in houston called
Uncle Funkys Daughter
here is the link http://unclefunkysdaughter.com/
I hear they get white girls in there all the time.
I absolutely love, love love Na’Klectic Hair LLC of Baltimore. Check them out at http://www.naklecticnaturalhair.com/home.cfm. Nice vibe, great products, great stylists.
In ATlanta I have heard of good things about a salon called Urbanbella. I have also heard that they were expensive sut haven’t trie dthem yest so I can’t confirm or deny this. Their info is:
http://www.urbanbella.net
141 W. Wieuca Rd Suite 202A,
Atlanta, GA 30342
This was an EXCELLENT question and something that has plagued me as of late. . .
It is so hard to find a natural hair salon — especially if you DO NOT have locs. Locs seem to be the style du jour and other than that you’re out of luck.
I’m in NYC and the quantity may be there in greater #rs than that of another area but QUALITY is another story. . Like I made an appointment the other day so excited and ended up being in someone’s apartment building. . . and their prices where cheaper but not exactly cheap. Or I have to go to somewhere with an excellent reputation but the prices are SOOOO steep not to mention what is with the BUILT IN consultation fee?? Or NO WALK-INS policies??
I think I’m just gonna continue to try to DIY — cause it is just too much!!
For those in the DC/MD/VA area like me, Miko Branch, one half of the Branch sisters behind Miss Jessie’s, has set up shop in downtown DC. She only works by appointment and can be contacted via her info on
http://www.findmiko.com
This haircare is at the higher end of the price range but you can work it so that you go only semi-annually and it is worth it!
Peace and Blessings Bella!
I’m in the CLeveland area and I’m attempting to transition again and would LOVE to know if anyone out there knows of any salons that could me out. Much appreciated in advance.
The thing about natural hair salons is that the prices are often outrageous. I’d love to get my hair done in a salon, but when I think of shelling out $60 for what I can do just as well in 2 hours and a little elbow grease, I just end up doing it myself.
If you absolutely can’t do hair, like my sister, then go to a salon. Otherwise, do it yourself. Most “natural hair” salons just charge too much.
Born and raised NY’er and I would have to say Khamit Kinks is great. I hear that they have moved from around Chambers St in Lower Manhattan and they are back in BKLYN now.I know that the Fort Greene/Clinton Hill area probably has some excellent salons as well.
Now that I live in ATL, Oh My Nappy Hair is my spot. I’ve only ordered products from Urbanbella (and have been satisfied)but I think now they actually do have a salon.
DC Suggestion:
I started my natural hair journey about 5 months ago and it has been tough. I’m choosing the longer route of maintaining my length and trimming regularly. I started going to Portfolio on U. St, but it takes a minimum of 4 hours out of my day. So I lucked up and found Natural-Shapes through a friend and they are GREAT for all around hair-care. Check them out here > http://www.natural-shapes.com/ - they are located at 1923 NY Ave NW.
~Peace & Love…
Although, Kari Williams at Mahogany Revolution in LA has already gotten a couple of mentions, I could not let this opportunity to add my 2cents about this very talented sista pass me by. Not only is she getting her Doctorate in Trichology, the science dealing with the study of the hair and its diseases, but she has a passion and knowledge for natural hair/haircare that is amazing. To add to this, she is a beautiful warm spirit, and her 10 minute scalp massage that she gives prior to all of her treatments is truly to die for. Check her out, you won’t be disappointed!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have taken care of my natural hair for years when I lived in upstate NY, but I am now in Chicago and looking for someone to help me along. Any suggestions for Chi-town…..
I go to and recommend Kamaria Creations in Albuquerque, New Mexico…Home of the Natural Hair Revolution! LOL! http://www.kamariacreations.com/
Lawanda at Simply Devine in Woodland Ca is a natural hair freak. She also does the traditional stuff (perms, weaves, flat irons etc., a girls gotta make a living) but she is honest to her clients and encourages her girls to be as natural and healthy.
117 W Main St # 28
Woodland, CA 95695
(530) 668-9550
Braids and Dreds in Richmond, VA. They’ve been in the business for YEARS and have been featured in most of the prominent African American magazines, both hair- and non-hair related. Their site is http://www.braid-designer.com. Check ‘em out!
If you happen to be in the Metro DC area, Camille Robbins’ Noire Design Concepts in Silver Spring, MD, is also a great salon. Their site is http://noiredesignconcepts.com. …and Camille’s a real sweetie!
@MBG and others looking for spots in Chi-town. I’ve been taking care of my own hair (and sisters) for ever, but I did find a woman named Sherrie who works at Roots to Wings which is in Oak Park. And if anybody’s hands get tired, I do loc maintenance, two-strand twists, and flat twist, etc. whenever I can. If you want more information just let me know. Currently in between jobs so my avaibility is pretty open.
Great question…great post. I recently moved to San Diego from New York and its been rough trying to take care of my natural hair out here. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.
I, too, live in San Diego and can’t find a natural hair salon for the life of me. Please help. Thank you.
In Chicago, you can try Why Knot, a natural hair salon located in the West Loop. They are really good and offer great prices.
I had a really good natural hairstylist. His name was Hassan. He was located on Chicago’s East side of near Stony Island. I have been going to him for ten years and just lately I have not seen him in in months. He just dissappraed. I miss him and he has a unqiue way of styling locks. He said” I have a passion for locked hair. He never used precon gels, or clips just oil and water. Has anyone seen him or can you recommend someone in Chicago or a near by suburb that can do locks. p.s. $60.00 is not a lot of money to maintain locks on your own. I think that it is resonable.
South is never well represented so I must give HUGE props to Indigo at Najhammadi Beauty Salon here in Memphis, TN…
Najhammadi Beauty Salon
4560 Elvis Presley Blvd.
Memphis, TN 38116
901/ 398-5070
Indigo is the brains behind all the beautiful twists, locks and fro’s in the Memphis Metro area.
Natural Hair Care Salon In Atlanta Georgia
http://www.keekeeshouseofstyles.com
Are there any good natural hair places in Jacksonville, FL? I need a trim desperately.
Try Latisea- salon 904 264-6949 cell 904 651-9790. She’s on wells rd in orange park.
I’m living in the Metro Detroit, Michigan area, and currently looking for Natural Hair Salons in the Detroit and/or surrounding areas. I’m ready to transition from perm’d to chemical-free hair, but aside from people who work out of their homes, I haven’t found a reparable professional stylist.
Any help is greatly needed and appreciated! Thanks!!
Try checking out http://www.TreasuredLocks.com there is a pretty good State By State listing of salons.
I think alot of salons need to advertise more. Besides that there needs to be MORE DEMAND in order that there will be MORE NATURAL STYLISTs.
The more we MEETUP the more we can share knowledge, interests, suggestions and advice. Word of mouth is always the best. Check out http://www.Meetup.com to find your nearest Natural Hair MEETUP or start your own. Gather together and share like interest.
If you are in middle Tennessee hope to see you at one of my events
I leave in the Detroit area and I’m looking for a professional to dye my locks.I have tryed someone and really like her work, but unfortunately she is unavailable or is slow to call you back when trying to schedule an appointment every eight weeks….
Does anyone know a natural hair salon across the sea in Australia. Due to despiration i have made an appointment to go to a salon where they are pushing the press and curl and chemically straightenting why do they think permed hair is better. I am even trying another salon which only uses Aveda products umm… at least they are not pushing chemicals just seems to be a bit over priced. Anyway i will keep you posted but Afrobella if you have heard of any salons my side let me know i am deseprate for some TLC for my hair.
Update. I went to the press and curl salon after an hour of trying to convince the hairdresser that ‘no i dont want to relax/texturise/curly kit my hair ‘ and ‘yes i am sure i want to stay natural’. The man cut my ends and led me in the right direction in terms of why my hair was so thin and grey looking yes ladies “GREY”. The sad thing is the man worked wonders with my hair deep conditioned and styled with hot tongs i just love the versitility of natural hair! Anyway i would go back in a heart beat the man is fantastic, he would let me know if i am heading in the right direction in termsd of maintenance BUT and that is a big one i would love for the natural haters to stop trying to convert us as if we have been standing under the Sun too long and require some tough advise - relaxer is the only way to have soft manageable hair baby….
For all who are looking for natural hair salon in Chicago. There’s a really quaint & cozy hair studio in the South Suburbs, that has 2 stylists. (Jamal & Nagena) Jamal has been in the business for over 10 years and owned Why Knot for 5 years. He now has a shop on the east side of Chicago but has another shop in the South Suburbs where Nagena is the stylist there. Nagena has been in the business for 7 years. They specialize in numerous techniques, very reasonable with the price, and are flexible with appointments. Check out their contact info on naturalhaircareguide.com and treasuredlocks.com. Or just hit my link and i’ll give you their info. Peace
Kings & Queens Natural Hair Studio
826 E. 155th St
Phoenix, IL 60426
Nagena (773)951-6704
Jamal (708)323-8260
Help! I’m looking for a natural hair care salon in the south suburbs of chicago.
Lockstar in Charlotte,NC. Their website is lockstarsalon.com
If your in the Los Angeles area looking for Natural Hair Care please contact Natural Intentions by Kimberly at The Hair Zone 17619 1/4 Clark Ave. Bellflower Ca.90706 (562) 804-7929. specialzing in Natural hair styling, locs, loc extentions, twist, braids and more.
Going Natural can be a liberating experience for many women. Partnering with a professional who provides signature services, plant based beauty solutions and exceptional client care can make all difference.
Check out the article 5 ways to find the right Natural Stylist
http://indigoferabeauty.blogspot.com/2008/06/natural-hair-stylists-5-ways-to-find.html