Radio presenter Alex Mwakideu has ignited a storm online after publicly criticising what he calls a growing trend of “unnecessary and inappropriate” massages being offered to men in barbershops across Kenya.
The outspoken Milele FM host raised the issue during a candid discussion on social media, saying he had noticed barbershops increasingly adding massage services that go far beyond the basic shoulder rub traditionally offered after a haircut.
Mwakideu questioned why women working in grooming establishments were offering men what he described as “extra services no one asked for”, urging them to observe professional boundaries.
“Some of these massages are not part of the haircut. Ladies, know your limits. Why are you massaging men like that in barbershops?” he posted, sparking instant controversy.
His comments quickly went viral, drawing thousands of reactions from Kenyans—some agreeing with him, others accusing him of overreacting. Many men admitted they had noticed the trend too, while women in the grooming industry defended themselves, saying they simply follow customer preferences and salon culture.
The debate soon spilled over into wider conversations about professionalism, personal boundaries, and the blurred lines in the modern grooming business, where barbershops have evolved into full-service grooming lounges offering facials, head rubs and relaxation treatments.
Some commenters pointed out that women also receive similar pampering at salons, questioning why men’s experiences should be policed differently. Others argued that the issue wasn’t the massages themselves, but the manner in which they were being offered.
Mwakideu, meanwhile, stood firm, insisting he was simply advocating for respect and professionalism.
“A haircut is one thing. An massage meant to be something else is another,” he reiterated.
As the exchange rages on, barbershops have found themselves unexpectedly thrust into the spotlight, with many now weighing in on where the line between customer service and over-familiarity should be drawn.
Whether Mwakideu’s comments lead to a shift in grooming culture remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: he has touched a nerve in a debate many didn’t even realise was brewing.
