There’s talk in the loc community that locs don’t need to be washed. We believe, this misconception comes from the early stages of the loc journey when some people avoid washing their hair to help it loc faster. There's a lot of mixed information online because theres so many people who have locs and so many different textures, ways to start locs, different stages people are in, and beliefs systems - with all the difference out there, it can get confusing. If you don't want to wash your locs, then thats your thing and if it works for you then great, but according to Dr Locs, a professional Loctician and Hair Consultant for decades - locs are hair, and hair needs to be washed.
Do Locs Need to Be Washed?
Yes! Just like any other hair type, locs require regular washing to stay clean, fresh, and healthy. The idea that locs should never be washed is misleading and can lead to buildup, odor, and even mildew. While it’s true that washing locs too soon in the baby stage can slow down the locking process, you don’t have to completely avoid cleansing your scalp. Instead, you just need to wash your locs properly.
How to Wash Locs in the Early Starter Phase aka Baby Stage
If you don't want to ever wash your locs, dont, that's yoour decision, if you want clean locs and want to wash your hair, go to someone who knows how to wash locs in the early stages without a comb. A skilled loctician knows how to wash locs without disturbing the formation process. They use their fingertips—not a comb—to gently cleanse the scalp and hair, preventing unraveling while keeping locs fresh.
If you’re hesitant about washing your locs on your own, here’s what you should know:
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Go to a loctician who specializes in washing starter locs.
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Avoid using a comb during washing, as it can slow down the locking process.
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Use residue-free shampoo to prevent buildup like Dr Locs Yasin Shampoo.
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Wash gently to avoid disrupting the locs.
The Truth About Dirty Locs
If you don’t wash your locs, they will accumulate dirt, sweat, and odor—just like loose hair. Locs don’t get a free pass when it comes to hygiene. Many professional locticians actually require clients to wash their hair before an appointment because they know how important cleanliness is for a healthy loc journey.
Dirt, debris, and product buildup can get trapped in locs, especially in the early stages. This is why regular cleansing is essential to maintain fresh, lightweight locs that continue to thrive.
Air Drying vs. Blow Drying – What’s Best?
Some people who embrace a natural loc journey prefer to air dry instead of using a dryer. While air drying is an option, it’s crucial to ensure your locs dry completely. If your locs remain damp for too long, they can develop a mildew-like odor.
Tips for Properly Drying Locs:
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Make sure your locs dry completely before tying them up or covering them.
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If air drying, allow enough time for moisture to evaporate.
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Locticians perform a “sniff test” to check for mildew smells—so get ready!
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Consider using a hooded dryer or blow dryer on a low setting to speed up drying time.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, whether or not you wash your locs is your decision. However, if you want healthy, fresh-smelling locs, regular washing is highly recommended. If you’ve been told that washing locs is bad, just know that it’s a myth—you can and should cleanse your locs to prevent buildup, odor, and scalp issues.
So, go ahead and wash your locs with confidence—just make sure you’re doing it the right way with Dr Locs' Buildup-free Products created with only the health of your locs at heart!
