Credit picture: Tia's Hair salon Natural hair movement in the UK can be traced back to the 1970s when natural hair movement was at its peak, fuelled by the rise of Black Power and the civil rights movement in the US. Having a fro back then was not solely based on creating a fashion statement or signature look, it was rather about making a political statement to express and showcase your black identity with utmost pride and confidence. In the last few years, research has shown that black women are making statements in the beauty industry. Due to this, they have become an invaluable voice that must be listened to by stakeholders in the hair industry. In fact, the black hair industry at the moment is worth £88 million, with black women spending six times more on their hair care than their white counterparts. In the UK, the afro Caribbean hair industry has been found to be quite lucrative, with so many brands now venturing into the market due to the increase in consumer demand for natural hair care products.

Picking the right hair salon can be anxiety-inducing for anyone, particularly for people with afro hair. There are many options out there but knowing which to choose can be hard. There are several things you need to look out for before you put your head in the hands of a stranger so you can get the best service and experience. We have done the hard work of compiling a list of 9 things to check before choosing your afro hair salon. Let’s delve fully into the topic.

We have spoken before about the silent sacrifices many afro stylists make in order to provide an exceptional service to clients. We bend, turn, twist and place our bodies in awkward positions as well as the standing for long periods of time. We should also acknowledge the emotional toil of styling (also discussed before). The difference between a stylist and someone who ‘does hair’ is the attention to detail, which requires concentration, all the while ensuring the client is comfortable/entertained - and it is only emotionally taxing because we care so much about meeting the client’s expectations. As there is no professional certification for afro styling, see this as an afro stylists guide to personal health and safety. Even if you are not a stylist, please continue to read - these tips apply to all in some way or other.

Finding a good afro hair professional can be a tedious and sometimes stressful process in London for many Black women with natural hair. We have all heard or experienced dreadful salon stories, right? Well, if you live in London and are looking for reliable, skilled natural hair stylists, locticians or braiders, say no more! You will find below some of the best afro hairdressers in London - the good news is you can also book them on Afrocks. C'est parti!

 

Wheeeennnnnn I decided I was going to become a 'serious' stylist, I faced so many challenges and the biggest one (as I have only come to realise) was myself. I was and continue to be my biggest challenge and having spoken to a fellow stylist I know I am not the only one. When I wrote my first blog for Afrocks I did not sleep the night before publication. People, the doubt that plagued me that night...even bush tea couldn't help me.

  We caught up with Klerissa McDonald, CEO and founder of award winning UK brand Curly By Nature to discuss damages caused by use of chemicals, Curly By Nature products and much more. 

  There are many benefits to using Afrocks. From getting the inspiration for your future hairdo to book and pay online and be styled from the comfort of your own home, we make you save  time and money. If you're still on the fence, or just don't believe us, here are the ... reasons why taking to Instagram or Facebook for your hair pampering sessions may be a hassle.

 

Hi, my name is Simone (raises hand) and I am addicted to partings, braids, twists, combs, curls, waves, coils, kinks, accessories and all things Afro. This is one of the hardest pieces I have had to write because when it comes to Afro hair I can talk for days…seriously, I can but today I will spare you and try to be brief as we talk about the importance of RESPECT in this profession.

  New serie on Afrocks' blog! Discover our stylists through 5 funny/unusual questions

Recently one of my clients had major hair 'meltdown’. After I told her off for keeping her braids in for too long (tut,tut) she went on to say she's fed up with her hair, wants to cut it, what's the point, it won't grow, natural hair isn't for everyone....and the rest.

Back in January 2017 we officially launched Afrocks' adventure by communicating our vision and idea to our followers, fans and community. 2016 was definitely a big year for us as after a year of very hard work we had finally managed to get something out that people could actually use.