From Cornrows to Wig Installations—What You Need to Know Before You Book

In Kenya, beauty is more than appearance—it’s a lifestyle rooted in pride, creativity, and verified self-expression. Whether you’re prepping for a wedding in Syokimau, hosting guests in Machakos, or treating yourself in Kisumu, salon and braiding services offer comfort, confidence, and cultural flair. This guide breaks down real costs, service types, regional trends, and how to hire trusted stylists through Balozy.

đź’° National Snapshot: Beauty Salon & Braiding Costs in Kenya (2025)

Service Type Cost Range (KES) Notes
Basic Braiding (lines/cornrows) 500–1,500 Includes wash and styling
Medium Braids (shoulder length) 1,500–3,000 Includes extensions
Long Braids (waist length) 2,500–5,000 Includes wash, blow-dry, and styling
Wig Installation 1,500–4,000 Includes glue, styling, and baby hairs
Dreadlocks Retouch 1,000–3,000 Includes wash and twist
Hair Treatment (protein/oil) 800–2,000 Includes steaming
Blow-Dry & Styling 500–1,500 Includes heat protection
Manicure & Pedicure 800–2,500 Gel, polish, or acrylic
Bridal Styling Package 5,000–15,000 Includes hair, makeup, nails
Mobile Saloon Visit +500–2,000 extra Travel fee based on location

Source: ,

🏙️ City-by-City Breakdown

1. Nairobi

Kenya’s glam capital—home to high-end salons, mobile stylists, and bridal pros.

  • Medium Braids (e.g., Kilimani, Syokimau):
    • KSh 2,000–3,500
    • Includes extensions, styling, and scalp oil
  • Wig Installation:
    • KSh 2,000–4,000
    • Includes glue, styling, and baby hairs
  • Bridal Styling Package:
    • KSh 8,000–15,000
    • Includes hair, makeup, nails, and travel

Balozy Tip: Nairobi stylists often offer mobile services—perfect for short-stay hosts and estate residents.

2. Machakos

Affordable and expressive—Machakos stylists serve estates, schools, and short-stay clients.

  • Basic Braiding (e.g., Mlolongo, Athi River):
    • KSh 500–1,200
    • Includes wash and scalp oil
  • Dreadlocks Retouch:
    • KSh 1,000–2,500
    • Includes wash and twist
  • Mobile Saloon Visit:
    • KSh 500–1,500 extra
    • Ideal for estate-based clients

Balozy Tip: Many Machakos stylists offer same-day bookings—perfect for Airbnb turnovers or guest prep.

3. Mombasa

Coastal beauty blends tropical flair, humidity-aware products, and Swahili elegance.

  • Long Braids (e.g., Nyali, Bamburi):
    • KSh 2,500–5,000
    • Includes wash, blow-dry, and styling
  • Hair Treatment (protein/oil):
    • KSh 1,000–2,000
    • Includes steaming and scalp massage
  • Pedicure (gel polish):
    • KSh 1,000–2,000
    • Includes exfoliation and polish

Balozy Tip: Ask for stylists with coastal experience—humidity affects hair texture and product choice.

4. Kisumu

Lake-side glam focuses on bold braids, radiant skin, and culturally inspired looks.

  • Cornrows & Lines (e.g., Milimani, Manyatta):
    • KSh 500–1,500
    • Includes wash and scalp oil
  • Wig Installation:
    • KSh 1,500–3,000
    • Includes glue, styling, and baby hairs
  • Manicure & Pedicure:
    • KSh 800–2,000
    • Includes gel polish or acrylic

Balozy Tip: Ask for Luo-inspired braid patterns—perfect for cultural events and bridal shoots.

5. Eldoret

Known for spacious salons and farm-friendly beauty setups.

  • Medium Braids (e.g., Elgon View):
    • KSh 1,500–3,000
    • Includes extensions and styling
  • Hair Treatment:
    • KSh 800–1,500
    • Includes steaming and scalp massage
  • Mobile Saloon Visit:
    • KSh 500–1,500 extra
    • Ideal for rural estates and hostels

Balozy Tip: Eldoret stylists often offer rural packages—ask for generator-friendly setups and travel rates.

💄 What’s Included in Salon & Braiding Services?

Service Element Included? Notes
Wash & Blow-Dry âś… Often bundled with braiding
Extensions ✅/❌ Optional or included
Styling & Finish âś… Includes gel, mousse, or oil
Scalp Treatment ✅/❌ Optional add-on
Wig Installation âś… Includes glue, styling, baby hairs
Nail Services ✅/❌ Optional add-on
Travel Fee ✅/❌ Applies to mobile bookings
Bridal Trial Session ✅/❌ Included in premium packages
Product Type âś… Darling, X-pression, Mizani, ORS, Cantu

Balozy Tip: Always confirm product brands, hygiene practices, and stylist ID before booking.

🧠 What Affects Beauty Service Costs?

âś… Hair Length & Style

  • Waist-length braids cost more than cornrows
  • Wig installations vary by glue type and styling

âś… Location

  • Nairobi and Mombasa rates are higher
  • Transport to rural areas adds KSh 500–2,000

âś… Stylist Experience

  • Verified stylists charge more for consistency and hygiene
  • New stylists may offer lower rates for portfolio building

âś… Product Brands

  • Premium brands (Mizani, Cantu) cost more than local options

âś… Add-ons

  • Nails, facials, and travel increase total cost

đź’ˇ Smart Ways to Save on Glam

  1. Book Packages: Combine braiding, nails, and makeup for discounts
  2. Use Verified Balozy Stylists: Compare ratings, portfolios, and hygiene standards
  3. Choose Local Talent: Hiring within your town reduces travel fees
  4. Ask for Trials: Especially for bridal or high-stakes events
  5. Go Off-Peak: Weekday bookings may be 10–20% cheaper