How Much Do Cornrows Cost?
Cornrows, often referred to as braids, is a hairstyle that is known to be a traditional African hairstyle. While many people confuse cornrows with the style of box braids, the two hairstyles are not the same. Cornrows are braids that are attached to the scalp and entire length of the braid, making the hair flat against the head and unmovable. Box braids, on the other hand, are not attached to the scalp and can move freely.
How much does it cost to get cornrows?
Depending on the salon, the prices can range anywhere from $25 to $175.
For a simple cornrow job with no extensions, most jobs will start at $25 to around $45.
Complex designs or hair extensions can cost upwards of $80 to $180.
For instance, DP Hair Visions, located in Virginia, charges $110 for cornrows and a sew-in. Tree braids, on the other hand, cost $135.
On a forum thread on the website NaturallyCurly.com, forum members claimed they paid anywhere from $40 to $140, and the price really would depend on the style selected and the salon where the job was done.
LongHairCareForum.com conducted a poll with its members to find out what cornrows cost them. 15% claimed around $10, while 30% said around $30. 5% stated that they had paid more than $50.
Factors that affect the price
The length of your hair – the more hair you have, the more you will be charged.
The need for hair extensions. If you need hair extensions, as noted in our estimates above, the costs can increase.
The type of braids you would like to have done.
The style you choose – you could have straight cornrows, zig-zag, or many other options.
Geographical location.
The salon/stylist performing the job.
The thickness of the hair.
Cornrows overview
Cornrows are braided extremely close to the scalp, with the appearance of a continuous line of “rows.” Cornrows can be straight or can have a complicated design.
As long as the hair is deemed long enough, the process should take no more than 45 minutes to complete.
What are the extra costs?
With any hairstyle, cornrows do not last forever. However, with the appropriate care, cornrows can last weeks without having to have any sort of touch ups. After a few weeks, it is advisable that you visit a professional to have your hair touched up or cared for.
If extensions have to be added to the cornrows, plan on spending an additional $75 to $150, depending on the length of the hair.
Styles that are straight and basic are going to be a lot less than a complex design. For example, this design can cost more than $150 to have done.
Another salon located in Kansas City, Your Natural Image, charges $65 to $175 with hair added. A weave sew-in can cost $85 to $120 depending on the closeness of the braid.
A trim, shampoo or any additional services can be considered an added cost.
There are oils that need to be applied to your scalp to keep your hair healthy while in cornrows. You will need to purchase this separately.
Most hair stylists or barbers expect tips for their services. Since cornrows take less than an hour, $5 to $10 should be plenty.
Tips to know:
Leaving your cornrows in for too long can lead to dandruff or even a major hair loss. Due to the hair being pulled too tightly, it can lead to something known as traction alopecia.
Some employers do deem this sort of hairstyle inappropriate. Before you consider getting this type of hairstyle, make sure that your employer will allow it.
How can I save money?
Children and students can often get discounts. Be sure to ask the salon to see what kind of discounts you can get.
Use websites such as Groupon.com to find local deals at salons. This is a great way to save more than 70%.
If you are not loyal to a salon, try calling up a few to see what they charge. Most of them will be more than happy to provide a quote over the phone.
If you are going to keep your cornrows for an extended period of time, you will need to get them redone or at least touched up every few weeks. Being loyal to a salon and even a specific stylist within that salon can earn you a discounted price.
Barber shops can be cheaper than a higher-end salon. Be sure to get quotes from both.
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