Whether summer sun or winter chill, braids, twists, and locs are the best protective styles [1] for Afro textured hair. The variety of braiding styles is boundless, while their low-maintenance appeal and enduring beauty make them a timeless favourite among naturalistas. DIY [2] braiding is always an option, but if you're looking for that professional finish, then we'd recommend visiting one of our favourite, highly recommended Afro hair salons in London.
Box braids are a classic choice, but the once-staple among protective styles has made way for summer 2020's hottest looks: passion twists [3] and faux locs [4]. Similarly to box braids, these styles use kanekalon or toyokalon synthetic braiding hair [5], which is not easily recyclable in the UK. Instead of purchasing from Pak's, we recommend checking out the Black-owned, recyclable hair-extensions brand Tiwani Heritage [6] or British hair retailer Spell Beauty [7] for affordable and eco-conscious synthetic braiding hair.
Ahead, we've searched through hundreds of salons on Treatwell to find you nine top-rated Afro hair salons in London that you'll want to bookmark ASAP.
La Aibamania — Brixton
Where: 220 Brixton Hill, Brixton, SW2 1HE
Services: Crochet braids, twists, braids [8]
Price: £54+ for crochet braids
"This hairdresser is great will definitely be back. Best experience I've had, makes you feel so calm and relaxed and my braids look lovely. Would recommend to anyone in the area, you won't be disappointed." — Amani
Her Definition Salon — Streatham
Where: 135 Streatham High Road, Streatham, London, SW16 1HJ
Services: Braids [9]
Price: £25+
"Great service as always from Sharon, she finished my hair in an hour and a half. Love it and can't wait to go back another time!" — Nyasha
Pink Scissors Hair & Beauty — Finsbury Park
Where: 346 Hornsey Road, Finsbury Park, London, N7 7HE
Services: Box braids [10]
Price: £64+
"New braids installed, very pleased with the final result. Marva listened to my needs / concerns and I walked away happy with my hairstyle." — Michelle
Lathaniel's Couture Hair & Beauty — Brixton
Where: 196 Coldharbour Lane, Brixton, London, SE5 9QH
Services: Single plaits, single twist [11]
Price: £75+
"Over the years I've never had a bad experience here. Everything from the staff to the refreshments are 5 star! I always leave feeling amazing & get so many compliments on my hair." — Naomi
Blessed Beauty Salon London — Battersea
Where: 136 Battersea Park Road, Battersea, London, SW11 4LY
Services: Crochet braids, Ghana braids, single plait twist, single plait braids [12]
Price: £45+ for crochet and Ghana braids; £70+ for single plaits and twists
"Great style, didn't cornrow my hair tight, just wish she was playing music in the background to make it less awkward! I've already booked my next appointment, great stylist!" — Abigail
Marsha's Hair & Beauty — Hackney
Where: 173 Morning Lane, Homerton, London, E9 6LH
Services: "Lemonade" braid medium, single plait short and medium, pick and drop, knotless plaits medium [13]
Price: £65+ for lemonade braid, single plait short; £75+ for single plait medium, pick and drop; £85+ for knotless plait medium
"It was my first time booking through treatwell. Got to the salon at my appointment time and I only waited about 5 minutes to be seen. I showed Marsha the style I wanted and I got exactly as requested. The salon is nice and clean and the staff are welcoming. I also managed to get my eyebrows done while there. I'll definitely be going back again soon." — Karla
Marinelle Hair & Spa — Walworth
Where: 174 Old Kent Road, Walworth, London, SE1 5TY
Services: Crochet braid, single plait, triangle box braid, faux locs [14]
Price: £60+ for crochet braid; £85+ for triangle box braid; £90+ for single plait; £150+ for faux locs
"Simply excellent. Marie is very attentive and careful. My hair came out beautifully and I will definitely be back." — Dami
Peckhams Best
Where: 163 Sumner Road, Peckham, London, SE15 6JL
Services: Full head Afro braids [15]
Price: £85+
"It was my first visit to the salon and I was made to feel welcome, my hair turned out great & I have received many compliments. Thanks so much, I will be back." — Benedita
Hair by Lauralyn London — Holloway
Where: 330 Holloway Road, Holloway, London, N7 6NJ
Services: Braids, cornrows, locs [16]
Price: £45+
"Always great!" — Ann