So, you’ve decided to join the loc community and we hope you’re as excited as we are. The best way to start any new phase in life is, first and foremost, with a fresh mindset and positive attitude. We’re going to do this and we’re going to do this right.
Did you notice the use of “We?” That’s because while you may have chosen to rock the loc look, you have also made the decision to join the loc community, because yes, this is an open and welcoming community. One of the very many bonuses of joining the loc community are all the tips you can find on what to do, and of course, what not to do (like using wax to loc your hair, thats a big no no.)
Now let’s get started on your budding locs. First , you’ll need to decide which method will work best for your hair texture and lifestyle. If you lead an active lifestyle, and perhaps live in a humid and warm climate, you may want to start with interlocked locs. If you’ve got coiled or kinky hair, than you’re already halfway there, sort of. Your hair type will help keep your locs in their twisted or palm rolled placement.
Once you’ve set your heart to a way you’d want to start and your hair has grown at least a half an inch of new growth, its time to start your healthy regimen of keeping your hair moisturized. When you’re ready to embark on your loc journey, you must, must, must, make sure to wash your hair with the right products that will not cause buildup. It’s essential to use natural products curated for locs. If you pick up a shampoo with a ton of toxic ingredients, not only will it be harmful to your overall health, but it will leave buildup and residue in your locs, in other words, mildew and stank. If you can’t pronounce a third of the ingredients, then you probably don't want to expose your body to that option.
Now you might be wondering, “How often should I shampoo?” Well, that all depends on your lifestyle, but in general a between 4-6 weeks is a good amount of time to then give your locs and deep cleaning. During this time, you are allowing your body to produce its own natural oils, sebum, to naturally nourish your scalp and new growth. In between washing periods your hair will naturally lock on its own. Keep a solid eye on the condition of your scalp, while you want to keep it healthy and dandruff free to avoid locking any loose flakes into your new formed locs.
If your having trouble keeping your locs locked, try Dr. Locs Imani Locking Spray, its made for that exact purpose, to naturally keep your locs healthy and twisted as desired. The Imani Locking Spray will keep your locs hydrated and build-up free, all desirable traits you are doubtlessly after.
If you haven’t found a loctician you love, now might be a good time. Don’t expect your locs to loc and twist uniformly. It’s not a bad trait to be a perfectionist, but also remember no part of our bodies are perfectly balanced. One foot is a little bigger than the other, one armpit stinkier than the other, and one hip tighter than the other. Similarly, one loc may grow in thicker than another, and one may lock faster than another, this is all to be expected. A loctician can guide you through the process and make sure you’re not over twisting and that you’re twisting continuously in the same direction. How often you go see your loctician is up to you, and naturally, best of luck on your loc’ing journey!
