Scope of Services

Salons in Zambia offering hairdressing and nail care typically provide:

Hair trimming, cutting, and styling

Hair weaving, extensions, and braiding

Hair coloring, highlights, and chemical treatments

Natural hair care (twists, locs, protective styles)

Manicures, pedicures, and nail extensions (gel, acrylic, poly-gel)

Nail art and embellishments

Spa-style hand and foot treatments

Many salons combine hair, nails, and beauty services (such as facials and makeup) under one roof.

Market Structure and Distribution

The salon market is highly fragmented, with many single-owner or small-scale businesses.

Most salons are concentrated in Lusaka Province, with smaller clusters in the Copperbelt and Central regions.

Operations range from standalone shops to mall kiosks and home-based setups.

Digital presence is still growing — while some salons have websites, many rely mainly on social media and word of mouth.

Examples of Salons in Zambia

Her Rootz Hair Studio (Lusaka): Focuses on natural hair care and styling.

Papillon Nail Studio (Lusaka): Offers gel and classic manicures, acrylics, and spa-style treatments.

Nails by Judz Beauty Bar (Lusaka): Known for high-quality gel, poly-gel overlays, and nail art.

Seka’s Hair and Beauty Salon (Lusaka): A well-known local salon offering full beauty services.

Flomo Hair & Beauty (Great East Road, Lusaka): Provides hair styling, braiding, and facial services.

Nail Addikt (Lusaka): Popular for a wide range of nail services.

Business Considerations & Challenges

Supplies & Costs – Many products (extensions, nail supplies, chemical treatments) are imported, which makes costs sensitive to currency changes and import duties.

Skills & Training – Well-trained stylists and nail techs are in high demand. Continuous training on new techniques is a strong differentiator.

Hygiene & Regulation – Cleanliness and proper sterilization of tools are vital for reputation and customer trust. Local licensing rules may apply.

Customer Preferences – Customers often value trusted stylists for complex treatments. Natural hair services and braiding remain popular, especially among younger women.

Marketing & Visibility – Social media is the main driver of visibility, with referrals and word of mouth playing a big role.

Competition – Urban areas, especially Lusaka, have many salons, so differentiation is key.

Opportunities & Trends

Niche specialization: Natural hair, bridal packages, or luxury nail artistry.

Mobile services: Stylists and nail techs traveling to clients’ homes.

Training programs: Offering workshops and courses for upcoming stylists/technicians.

Product sales: Retailing branded hair or nail care products.

Digital systems: Online booking, social media marketing, and mobile payments.

Expansion: Many areas outside Lusaka remain underserved, creating room for growth.