The Do’s and Don’ts of Maintaining Traditional Locs

Maintaining traditional locs requires careful attention to keep your hair clean, moisturized, and healthy. From washing techniques to retwisting methods, knowing what works and what doesn’t is essential. Here’s a guide to help you avoid common mistakes and keep your locs looking their best.

The Do's of Maintaining Traditional Locs

1. Moisturize Regularly
   Your locs need moisture to stay healthy. Whether it's daily or every other day, make sure to moisturize your hair regularly. The frequency depends on your hair texture and how well your locs hold moisture. Avoid going too long without applying a moisture mix to your hair, as this can lead to dryness and breakage. Shop Dr Locs' Moisture Mix for lightweight moisture that your locs will eat right up! 

2. Proper Wetting Before Shampooing
   Always soak your locs thoroughly before applying shampoo. Run water through your locs from the roots to the ends to ensure they are fully damp. The first round of shampoo should be used sparingly—this is just to help get your hair wet. Only apply more shampoo during the second wash when you can create a proper lather. This prevents product waste and ensures a more effective clean. Experience Dr Locs' Build-up-free Shampoo to keep your locs growing healthy and strong. Clarify every other wash. 

3. Wash Your Locs Thoroughly
   Locs hold onto dirt and oils like a sponge, so it’s important to wash them thoroughly. We recommend washing at least three times to ensure your hair is properly cleaned. If you have buildup, use a pre-cleanse product to help loosen residue before shampooing.

4. Retwist with Care
   After washing, moisturize your locs with a moisturizing mix (like the Jinan Moisture Mix or the Island Breeze) and follow up with a light locking spray (like Imani Locking Spray). When retwisting, make sure to keep the sections flat and avoid creating too much tension at the root. The goal is to avoid bunching or coiling the locs tightly at the base, as this can lead to breakage over time. Shop Dr Locs Imani Locking Spray for best grooming results Here.

5. Use Lightweight Products
   Choose lightweight products to avoid buildup. Heavy creams or oils can clog the scalp and weigh down your locs. For the healthiest results, stick to products like the Imani Locking Spray and the Amla Extract Conditioner and avoid anything that feels too thick or greasy.

6. Finish with Oil
   After your locs have completely dried, finish the process by applying a light oil like the Dr Locs' Yaya Oil. This will help nourish your locs from root to tip while sealing in moisture.

The Don'ts of Maintaining Traditional Locs

1. Don’t Wash Without Fully Wetting Your Locs
   One of the most common mistakes is starting to shampoo your locs without thoroughly wetting them first. If your locs aren't wet enough, the shampoo won't lather properly, and you'll end up wasting product. Always wait a few minutes for your locs to become fully saturated before applying shampoo.

2. Avoid the ‘No-Clip’ Retwisting Method
   The ‘no-clip’ method—where you twist your locs tightly at the root without using clips—may seem efficient, but it can lead to breakage over time. While it might not cause issues immediately, repeated tension on the roots can weaken the loc and cause it to break. Instead, retwist your locs, and use clips a few inches away from the scalp to avoid putting too much pressure on the roots.

3. Don’t Over-apply Oil
   While oils can be great for your locs, don’t overuse them. Applying oil every day can clog your follicles and lead to scalp issues. Keep oil use to a minimum, using it only when necessary to lock in moisture and keep your locs shiny.

4. Limit the Use of Clarifying Shampoos
   Clarifying shampoos are great for deep cleaning, but they should be used sparingly. If you wash your locs twice a month, use a clarifying shampoo like the Sweet Peppermint Clarifying Shampoo once a month. For a more gentle deep clean, alternate between your regular shampoo and a clarifying formula every other wash.

Final Thoughts

By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure that your traditional locs stay healthy, clean, and strong. Remember, patience is key—loc maintenance is a process, and taking the time to properly care for your hair will pay off in the long run. Keep your routine consistent, choose the right products, and avoid common mistakes to keep your locs looking fresh and vibrant!