Searching for a Loctician in Kigali: My First Micro Locs Retie
After twelve years with my micro locs, it was time for another retie, the maintenance treatment where my new growth is intertwined or worked into my locs. This time was different: I was in a new city, Kigali, and therefore had to find a loctician who could do my hair.
It had been twelve weeks since my last maintenance, a little longer than usual, and my scalp really needed it.
New growth - Don't wait that long.
The Search for a Micro Locs Specialist in Kigali
Kigali buzzes with energy and creativity. On almost every street corner, you see women with beautiful natural hairstyles and hairdressers skillfully braiding hair. Yet, I soon discovered that not every salon specializes in micro locs or Sisterlocks.
During my search, I asked around, spontaneously walked into salons, and asked all sorts of questions. Many salons offered traditional dreadlocks or braids, but the specialized technique of interlocking, or retightening for micro locs, was much harder to find.
I even met a woman who, like me, was on her own loc journey. She told me she had traveled specifically to Kenya to start her locs. That immediately made it clear how important it is to find a loctician with the right expertise, even here in Kigali. I heard about locticians who had trained in Kenya, a well-known place for high-quality loc care. That gave me a clear idea of what I needed to look for.
A Gem Found: Pure Beauty Spa in Kimihurura
After some research, I found Pure Beauty Spa, a beautiful, serene salon in the Kimihurura district. I immediately booked an appointment and felt a mix of relief and excitement.
As usual, I washed my hair beforehand at home, a small ritual I enjoy. Next time, however, I'm considering the full salon experience—from washing to styling—to make it complete.
DJ Dreadlocks at Pure Beauty Spa in Kimihurura Kigali
Upon arrival, I was introduced to my loctician, who had indeed trained in Kenya. That immediately put my mind at ease.
The process of micro loc maintenance is called interlocking or retightening. Unlike retwisting, which uses gel or wax, interlocking uses a special tool to neatly weave the new growth into the base of the loc. This results in a neat finish without product buildup.
The entire retie took about three hours. My loctician worked carefully, professionally, and efficiently. His technique was gentle yet precise—I knew immediately I was dealing with a true craftsman.
The last time I had Barrel Rolls was in 2021 - Watch the video of me getting Barrel Roll Locs styled in Suriname.
The Magic of Barrel Rolls
After maintenance, it was time for my hairstyle. I chose Barrel Rolls, a stylish and protective look. Two stylists worked together on my hair—their teamwork was impressive, and everything was beautifully styled within an hour.
Why Barrel Rolls? Because it can get quite hot in Kigali! With my long locs, I was looking for a style that keeps my hair off my neck but still looks elegant. Barrel Rolls are perfect for this: they are practical, chic, and protect my locs by being fully swept up.
A nice effect of this style is that my hair looks shorter—people even ask if I've cut my locs! That's the clever thing about this hairstyle. And the best part? When I take the rolls out, my locs have a beautiful, even curl pattern.
After a retie, good aftercare is essential. Does your scalp feel tight or sensitive? A cold massage with the Scalp Roller works wonders. It not only relaxes your scalp but also your face and body—pure wellness for hair and mind.
The Practical Details: Cost and Experience
For anyone considering loc maintenance in Kigali, it's naturally useful to know the cost. Here's an overview of my visit to Pure Beauty Spa:
-
Maintenance (Retightening / Interlocking): 50,000 RWF (approximately $35 USD)
-
Styling (Barrel Rolls): 50,000 RWF (approximately $35 USD)
-
Total price: approximately $52 USD
Given the professional service, craftsmanship, and result, I found the price more than reasonable. The entire experience was positive—from booking to the comfort of the salon and the expertise of the stylists.
I left Pure Beauty Spa with fresh energy, healthy, shiny locs, and a broad smile. It feels great to have found a reliable place for my loc care here in the heart of Rwanda.
Follow My Loc Journey
Want to follow my loc journey and see what my locs look like once I've taken out the Barrel Rolls? Join my community and stay up-to-date on all my hair adventures.
Follow my channel here: Locs & Life, Traveling Through Africa
Until next time!
As I travel through Africa, I'm also working on my documentary BAD Hair Uprooted.
If you appreciate this blog and want to support it, please consider downloading Bad Hair Uprooted, the Untold History of Coarse Hair .