African braids in Dakar are the right place to entrust your hair to a hairdresser who works with these techniques every day. Simple or American braids, twists, box braids, weaves, steampod straightening or a hair treatment: you choose the style, and the session takes place in a salon, from 1 h to 3 h.

Choosing your style

The choice is wide, and it is probably the longest part of the visit. The menu brings together several families:

• Braids: plain (without extensions), with added extensions, American or with beads.
• Twists and box braids, offered in three options.
• Weaves, grafting and wig fitting, as well as hair additions, simple extensions and hair customisation.
• Treatments and straightening: steampod straightening and hair treatment, for straight and afro-textured hair alike.

The menu has 27 options in all; most are 1-hour sessions, while hair additions take 3 h. The rate is per person.

Extensions, duration and preparation

Extensions are not always included: this is stated in each option. The duration depends on the length and density of your hair, so a style listed at 1 h may take longer on very thick hair. Come with clean, detangled hair and a photo of the style you want, and bring something to keep you comfortable while you wait.

If you live in Dakar, this is the usual appointment before a wedding, the start of the school year or a change of look; if you are visiting, it is a practical way to leave with a style done here, rather than improvising on the street or the beach.

Getting your hair done in Dakar

The session takes place in Dakar, in a salon. Allow 1 h to 3 h on site depending on the style, which is easy to organise around a free morning or an afternoon in town. Arriving a few minutes early lets you settle in, show the photo of the style you have chosen and agree the plan for the session before the hands get to work.

Completing the beauty appointment

To go further, you can add a manicure, eyelash extensions or make-up before an evening out. A massage also does you good after several hours sitting.