Beauty at a cost: Inside the unsafe practices of informal nail salons in Dar es Salaam and beyond

In the heart of Dar es Salaam’s bustling slums, a quiet revolution in beauty has been unfolding. Informal nail bars—tiny, often makeshift structures—have become hotspots for women seeking affordable manicures, pedicures, and nail art.

For as little as Sh 3,000, clients can leave with nail care services such as colour removal, a glossy gel set, creative acrylic extensions, or neatly painted toes.