Hi there fellow Black baddies navigating the PWI life! Finding a bomb braider in San Francisco can be a real struggle, especially when trying to keep your grades up and your style on point. From the unpredictable weather to the lack of local beauty supplies, it can feel like a mission impossible. But fear not, because we're here to spill the tea on the best spots to get your braids done in the city. So, grab your favorite edge control, and let's dive into the world of SF braiding!

@The.hair.books

Knotless Braids, natural styles, faux locs, sew-ins

Quality: ***

Price: $ 

$20 deposit

Proximity: @ USF!

Booking is done through Instagram DM or on her site. Responds super fast on Instagram, open-minded when it comes to styles. Hair can be provided ask! Good quality for a good price.

@L’ELEGANCE Hair Braiding 

Quality: **

Price: $$

Proximity: }} (17 min bus, 6 min drive) 

$50 deposit 

Closed on Sundays and there's a 15-minute late fee of $40, so try to arrive a bit early. They also ask that you call before booking, so if you have phone call anxiety, they might not be the best choice. While I wish they had more style options, they're a great pick if you just need standard box braids or feed-ins.

@hairbysmooches

Quality:***

Price: $$

Proximity: }}} (30 min drive, 1-hour bus ride) 

$25 deposit 

Booking is done through her website. She offers diverse hairstyles at reasonable prices, especially considering hair is included. If you choose a hair type not listed, there's a $30 fee. I also appreciate the detailed booking questions. This saves time discussing with your stylist and ensures they know your expectations.

@harrison.thestylist

Sew-ins, wigs, closures

Virgin Plus Beauty Lounge

Quality: ***

Price:  $$$

Proximity: Oakland, BART ride (40-minute drive, 1 hour 25 bus and BART)

Booking is done through the link in their Instagram bio. At a beauty lounge with two options of stylists! It's a bit expensive but it seems very good quality on their Instagram. Lots of variety with the days and times available for booking. They also offer many services such as silk presses, coloring, extensions, and maintenance. 

@acedbyasa

Sew-ins, wigs, closures

Quality: ***

Price:  $$$ 

$30 deposit

Proximity: San Francisco (Address is given with booking) 

Quality looks super nice and hair of differing lengths can be added on. At times they have deals and discounts, so keep an eye out to be a baddie on a budget.  They are closed Sunday-Monday, they do not allow Amazon hair, and they include wash and dry with all new installs.

@LIMA_HAIRBRAIDING

Knotless braids, takedowns, cornrows, twists, faux locs, etc

Quality:**

Price: $$$

Proximity: Mission st( 55  bus , 25 min drive )

$50 deposit 

Booking is done through Booksy. They're farther out, but you'll be in and out of the chair quickly. There's a bit of a language barrier with the braiders, but once they understand what you want, they deliver. Despite there being some drawbacks, I don't regret going because the style was really cute and they did it super quickly.

Naza Beauty

Naza Beauty, a cherished Black hair salon located in the Mission District of San Francisco, recently closed its doors. The rising cost of rent and the need to pay braiders a fair wage proved insurmountable challenges. As owner Natanya shared, "To be a part of so many people's lives is truly special." This closure underscores the scarcity of safe, inclusive spaces for Black people in the city. It's imperative to support Black hair braiders and salons to preserve Black culture, community, and self-expression.

So, there you have it! Whether you're rocking a fresh set of braids or a sew-in, these salons have you covered. With this guide in hand, you can find a stylist who meets your needs and budget, all while feeling confident and supported. Remember, getting your hair done is about more than just looking good; it's about treating yourself to a little self-care and celebrating your culture. 

We know the feeling of struggling to find a hairstylist in a new city, and we're here to save you the trouble. As we all learn to navigate the ins and outs of being in a new community and environment, we should be able to lean on and support one another. It can be difficult to adjust, but we hope this list gives you some support and takes some stress off of your mind.