KALEYLOCKS

Kaleylocks is a dreadlocks salon in Auburn, run as a locally owned business by its founder, Kaley Mackay. Kaley has been styling hair for about twenty years, and the studio is built around locs and custom color. The stated goal is to meet and exceed each client's expectations.

Every new client starts with a consultation, which can be done online for free or in person for a fee; if an in-person consult leads to a booking, that fee comes off the bill. Visits are by appointment only, and a deposit is due beforehand, refundable only with cancellation at least 48 hours ahead. The studio has no waiting area, and guests, children and pets are not allowed. Payment is due in full at the end of the visit, and there are no refunds or exchanges.

New dreadlocks are the most involved service. A session can run from roughly four to sixteen or more hours, depending on hair length, density and texture, and a whole-head set is usually spread over two days. A full head without added length needs hair at least five inches long, while adding length needs at least three inches. Each appointment includes a 30-minute lunch break. The new locs are made with human hair, and the color can be blended to match natural hair or to create an ombre effect.

Partial dreadlocks let clients start small, from a single row up to three-quarters of the head or anywhere in between. Synthetic dreadlocks can be added to brushable hair or to existing locs, and clients can bring their own synthetics, choose pre-made ones or order a custom set. The salon says synthetic locs cause less damage to natural hair and can usually be worn for 10 to 12 weeks at a time.

Custom color behaves differently on locs than on loose hair, so the salon recommends working with a professional for it. Magical Mermaid Hair is fashion color, and clients can bring inspiration photos or a custom palette. The salon describes itself as one of the premier custom coloring salons in the area and as the number one dreadlocks salon in the region; these are its own descriptions.

Each client is assessed individually, with styling advice and product recommendations offered alongside the services.