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Ghana Citizenship > News > Culture > Hair salons in Ghana – Best picks for expats and locals

Hair salons in Ghana – Best picks for expats and locals

Finding a reliable hair salon in Ghana can be one of the biggest quality-of-life upgrades, whether you are a local, a returning Ghanaian, or an expat settling in for the first time. Ghana has strong salon culture, skilled stylists, and many options across budgets, hair types, and styles.

What to expect from hair salons in Ghana

Hair salons in Ghana generally fall into a few categories. Once you understand the categories, it becomes much easier to choose the right place for your hair type and your expectations.

  • Luxury and hotel-based salons: Consistent service, higher price, often expat-friendly.
  • Mid-range salons: Great value, strong braiding and styling, good for regular maintenance.
  • Specialist salons: Focused on natural hair, dreadlocks, sisterlocks, or advanced color work.
  • Neighborhood salons: Affordable, fast, and highly skilled, but quality varies by stylist.

Many salons are walk-in friendly, but for braiding, loc maintenance, and color services, calling ahead is usually a good idea. Braiding can take several hours depending on the style, length, and thickness, so plan accordingly.

Recommended hair salons (directory table)

Below is a practical starter list of salons that are commonly used by both locals and expats.

Salon City Area / Address (as commonly listed) Best for Services commonly offered Notes for expats
Resense Salon (Kempinski Hotel) Accra Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City, downtown Accra Luxury styling and grooming Cuts, blowouts, coloring, barbering, grooming Hotel-based, typically consistent standards, often easier communication for visitors
Hair by Akeel Accra Tang Palace Hotel, Roman Ridge (Bostal Avenue) Advanced cuts and color work Cuts, highlights, color correction, keratin/straightening services Popular with expats who want a stylist familiar with multiple hair types
Masi Hair Studio Accra Osu (commonly listed near Ogbamey Street) Premium braiding and wigs Braids, twists, natural styles, wig installs, styling Good option when you want high quality without hotel pricing
Silver Hair Salon and Spa (multiple branches) Accra Multiple areas (examples commonly listed: Osu, Madina, East Legon, North Legon) Reliable braiding at scale Braids, twists, dreadlock maintenance, haircuts, styling, some spa services Useful when you want a known brand with multiple locations
Finaxtouch Dreadlocks Salon Accra Ayawaso West (commonly listed on Tunmete Street) Dreadlocks and sisterlocks Loc installation, loc maintenance, retwists, styling Strong option if you want a loc-focused specialist rather than a general salon
Royal Hair Salon and Spa Kumasi Ahodwo area Full-service salon and beauty care Braids, cuts, styling, grooming, some spa services Good choice for visitors in Ashanti Region who want a modern salon experience
Naser Beauty Salon Takoradi Takoradi Mall (commonly listed on Independence Avenue) Convenience and full-service grooming Hair styling, braids, barbering, nails, basic beauty services Easy access if you are in Western Region and want a mall-based option

Pricing guide

Pricing varies widely by city, salon type, and style complexity. In general, expect higher prices for luxury salons, color services, and long-length braids. Many salons will ask you to bring your own hair extensions unless they sell hair on-site.

  • Simple cornrows and basic braids: typically the most affordable
  • Box braids, knotless braids, twists: medium to higher cost depending on length and thickness
  • Cuts and blowouts: mid-range pricing, often higher at hotel salons
  • Color and chemical treatments: higher pricing, best done at salons known for these services

Tips for expats and first-timers

  • Confirm the total price before starting, including add-ons like wash, blowdry, or hair pieces.
  • Bring reference photos and confirm length, parting size, and tension level.
  • Plan time realistically. Braiding can take hours depending on the style.
  • Ask what to bring. Some salons expect you to bring hair extensions and edge control.
  • Choose specialists for high-stakes services like loc installation or major color changes.

How to pay at hair salons in Ghana

Understanding how payment works at hair salons in Ghana will save you time and avoid awkward moments,
especially if you are new to the country. Payment methods vary by salon type, location, and price point,
but most transactions are straightforward once you know what to expect.

Cash (still very common)

Cash remains widely accepted at hair salons in Ghana, particularly at neighborhood salons and
mid-range braiding shops. Many stylists prefer cash for simplicity, especially for longer services
like braiding or loc maintenance.

  • Carry small bills when possible
  • Confirm if the price includes washing, blowdrying, or hair add-ons
  • Ask about tips if you are unsure. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory

Mobile Money (the most popular option)

Mobile Money is the most widely used digital payment method in Ghana and is accepted at many salons,
including mid-range and some upscale locations. If a salon accepts Mobile Money, they will usually
share a phone number for payment.

  • MTN Mobile Money is the most commonly accepted network
  • Vodafone Cash and AirtelTigo Money are accepted at fewer locations
  • Always confirm the recipient name before sending
  • Keep the confirmation message until service is completed

If you are staying in Ghana long-term, setting up Mobile Money is highly recommended. It simplifies
payments not only for salons but for transportation, food, utilities, and everyday purchases.

Debit and credit cards (limited but growing)

Debit and credit card payments are generally accepted only at higher-end salons, hotel-based salons,
and mall locations. Even when card machines are available, connectivity issues can sometimes cause delays.

  • Visa is more commonly accepted than Mastercard
  • American Express is rarely accepted
  • Always ask before your appointment if card payment is available

Paying in advance and deposits

Some salons, especially those offering braiding, wigs, or loc installations, may request a deposit
before starting or before confirming an appointment. This is common for long or labor-intensive styles.

  • Deposits are usually paid via Mobile Money
  • Confirm whether deposits are refundable or transferable
  • Clarify the remaining balance before service begins

Practical payment tips

  • Ask about accepted payment methods before starting the service
  • Confirm the total price, including add-ons, before payment
  • Save payment confirmations until you leave the salon
  • When in doubt, cash or Mobile Money will almost always work