Finding My Loctician in Kigali: My First Micro Locs Retie
My locs and I have been on a journey together for 12 years, starting with tiny braids that have since matured into the micro locs I love today. So, when it was time for my maintenance, I knew the search for a skilled loctician in a new city like Kigali would be an adventure. I was 12 weeks out from my last retie—a little longer than my usual 10 weeks—and my scalp was ready.
New growth - Don't wait this long.
The Search for a Micro Locs Specialist
Kigali is a city bursting with life, and you can see the culture of natural hair everywhere. From the vibrant streets of Nyamirambo to the modern Makuza Mall, it’s common to see talented stylists braiding hair out in the open. The skill is undeniable. However, I quickly learned that not every natural hair salon is equipped for the specific needs of micro locs or Sisterlocks.
My quest involved asking around, popping into salons, and making inquiries. While many offered traditional locs and braiding, the specialized technique of interlocking, or retightening, for micro locs was harder to find. It’s a meticulous process that requires specific training. During my search, I even met another woman who, like me, was on her own loc journey. She shared that she had traveled to Kenya to get her locs started, which highlighted the need to find someone with the right expertise right here in Kigali. I heard about locticians who had received their training in Kenya, a hub for excellent loc care, which gave me a clear direction for what to look for.
Finding a Gem in Kimihurura: Pure Beauty Spa
After some dedicated research, I finally found a promising lead: Pure Beauty Spa, located in the lovely, serene neighborhood of Kimihurura. I booked my appointment and felt a sense of relief and excitement.
Before heading to the spa, I washed my own hair at home, which is my usual routine. It’s a ritual I enjoy, but I’m tempted to go for the full salon experience next time, from wash to finish.
DJ Dreadlocks at Pure Beauty Spa in Kimihurura Kigali
Upon arrival, I was introduced to my loctician. I was happy to learn he had indeed received his training in Kenya, which instantly put me at ease. The process of maintaining micro locs is called "interlocking" or "retightening." Unlike retwisting, which uses gel or wax to palm-roll new growth, interlocking involves using a special tool to weave the new growth into the base of the loc, creating a neat, lasting finish without product buildup.
The retightening itself took about three hours. My loctician was focused, professional, and incredibly efficient. His technique was gentle yet firm, and I could tell he was a true expert.
The last time I had Barrel Rolls was in 2021 - Watch the Video of me getting Barrel Roll Locs Style in Suriname.
The Magic of Barrel Rolls
Once the maintenance was complete, it was time for styling. I opted for a style called Barrel Rolls. For this part, a second stylist joined in, and I had two men working together to transform my freshly tightened locs. Their teamwork was seamless, and they finished the entire style in just one hour. I was so impressed by their speed and the flawless result.
So, why Barrel Rolls? With my long locs, the Kigali heat can be intense. I needed a style that would keep my hair off my neck and shoulders while still looking chic and put-together. Barrel Rolls are perfect for this. They are a protective style that tucks all the hair away neatly.
One of the fun parts of this style is the illusion it creates. It makes my hair look significantly shorter, and some people even ask if I’ve cut my locs! It’s just the magic of a clever styling technique. The best part comes later—when I take the rolls out, my locs will have a beautiful, uniform curl pattern.
After Care after a retie is very important. When your scalp is sensitive after a service or feels tight, a cold therapy massage with the Scalp Roller is essential. It relaxes the scalp, your face muscules and the whole body.
The Practical Details: Cost and Experience
For anyone planning their own loc maintenance in Kigali, you’re probably curious about the cost. Here’s the breakdown for 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: About $52 USD
Considering the level of skill, the professionalism, and the beautiful results, I found the pricing to be very reasonable. The entire experience was positive, from the easy booking to the comfortable atmosphere and the expertise of the stylists.
My first loctician visit in Kigali was a definite success. I left Pure Beauty Spa feeling refreshed, with my locs looking neat, healthy, and stylish. It’s wonderful to know I’ve found a reliable place to care for my hair in this beautiful city.
If you want to follow along with my loc journey and see what these locs look like after I take out the Barrel Rolls, you can join my community.
Follow my channel here: Locs & Life traveling Africa
See you next time!
While exploring Africa, I am also working on this documentary BAD Hair Uprooted. If you value this blog and you want to support, please consider downloading BAD Hair Uprooted, the Untold History of Black Follicles.
