Are South African hair salons falling short on textured hair care?

For many South African women, a trip to the hair salon is more than just maintenance. It’s a moment of self-care, a chance to feel seen, cared for and looked after. But recently, more and more conversations online have pointed to a shared frustration. The very spaces that are expected to understand Afro, 4C and curly hair are not always prioritising its health.

Across the country, women are opening up about their salon experiences. Stories range from rushed appointments and excessive heat usage without proper protection, to a lack of thorough detangling, conditioning and aftercare advice. The conversation isn’t just about haircare either. It also touches on the overall salon environment and etiquette. Many clients are starting to question whether convenience and styling are being prioritised over genuine care.

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One of the biggest concerns is the overuse of heat. Silk presses, blowouts and other heat-styled looks are often done at high temperatures, sometimes without considering the condition of the hair or using adequate heat protection. Repeated exposure to high heat can lead to long-term damage, and for many, the disappointment only shows up later when their curls no longer revert the way they used to.

Another issue is the lack of education and communication. Clients today are more informed than ever, with a growing understanding of porosity, moisture balance and protective styling. Yet not all salon experiences reflect this shift. Some salons still take a one-size-fits-all approach, treating textured hair as something to be managed quickly rather than cared for intentionally.

@yandiduze
I did these braids while I was home (house call) and the girl who did them did them with my hair in an afro. They came out so fresh and they’re a month and a half old. I really don’t think there’s an excuse for these salons.

♬ original sound - Yandi

There is also an ongoing conversation around time and gentleness. Afro and curly hair requires patience. Detangling, washing and styling should not feel rushed or harsh. Many clients have shared experiences of excessive pulling or rough handling, which can lead to breakage and even discourage them from returning to salons altogether. It raises an important question about whether the pace of salon culture truly aligns with the needs of textured hair.

Beyond technique, the salon environment itself has come under scrutiny. There have been concerns around hygiene, the use of unsuitable tools and products, and spaces that don’t feel as welcoming or considered as they should. For many clients, the experience is just as important as the end result.

@thegentletouch_co
This is wrong.

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It’s also worth noting that there are clear standards in place. According to South Africa’s Labour Relations Act under the Bargaining Council for Hairdressing, Cosmetology, Beauty and Skincare, salons are required to operate in clean, well-lit and properly ventilated spaces, with access to running water and appropriate waste disposal systems. These regulations exist to ensure both safety and hygiene, yet many clients feel that not all spaces consistently meet these expectations.

At the same time, it’s important to acknowledge that there are stylists who are getting it right. There are professionals who prioritise hair health, take the time to educate their clients and tailor their approach to different textures. These stylists are building trust and setting a new standard, showing that it is possible to balance style with genuine care.

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While the conversation around salon experiences continues to grow, it also opens up an opportunity for both stylists and clients to meet each other halfway. Better experiences are built through intention, communication and care. Here are a few tips for salon owners, stylists, and clients.

For salon owners and stylists

Prioritising hair health should always come first: This means taking the time to properly assess each client’s hair before starting any service and adjusting techniques accordingly. No two heads of hair are the same, and a personalised approach goes a long way in building trust.
Investing in education is just as important: Staying up to date with textured hair care, from detangling methods to heat styling and product knowledge, ensures that clients receive informed, thoughtful service. Small changes, like using heat protectant consistently, handling hair gently and not rushing through appointments, can make a significant difference.
The environment matters too: A clean, organised and welcoming space signals professionalism and respect for clients. From fresh towels and clean tools to a comfortable atmosphere, these details shape the overall experience just as much as the final hairstyle.

For clients

Advocating for your hair is key: Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the process, the products being used or the level of heat applied. Your hair health should always be part of the conversation.
Be clear about your expectations from the start: Whether you’re aiming for a protective style or a silk press with minimal heat damage, communicating your goals allows your stylist to work with you more effectively.
Do your research: Finding a salon or stylist who specialises in your hair type and aligns with your hair care values can make all the difference. Sometimes, walking away from a salon that doesn’t meet your standards is the best decision for your hair in the long run.