How Often Should I Retwist or Interlock My Locs?

September 30, 2025 Chimere Faulk

How Often Should I Retwist or Interlock My Locs?

If you’ve ever typed into Google “How often should I retwist my locs?” or “How often should I interlock my locs?” — you’re not alone. This is one of the most searched loc care questions online. The short answer is: it depends on your loc size, the method you’re using, and your personal hair goals.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about retwisting vs. interlocking, along with the best Dr Locs products to keep your hair healthy between appointments.

Retwisting Locs: How Often Should You Do It?

On average, most people with traditional locs come in for a wash and retwist every 4–6 weeks. This schedule keeps your roots neat without causing stress or breakage.

Traditional Locs: Every 4–6 weeks works best.
Microlocs: Closer to every 4 weeks, because the smaller your locs are, the easier they can start combining if left unmanaged.
Active Lifestyles: If you sweat a lot, exercise daily, or work in a dusty environment, you may need to wash your locs more often, even if you don’t retwist every time.

💡 Keyword note: If you’re searching “Can I wash my locs without retwisting?” — yes, you can. Just be sure to separate your locs at the roots with your fingers to prevent them from combining.

Interlocking Locs: How Often Is Best?

Interlocking is different from retwisting and usually requires fewer appointments.

Microlocs / Sisterlocks®: Every 6 weeks to prevent matting and breakage.
Larger Locs: Every 2–3 months is often enough, since bigger locs are less likely to unravel.
Loctician Guidelines: Some stylists may recommend shorter cycles depending on your loc pattern and desired look.

💡 Keyword note: If you’re asking “How often should I interlock my Sisterlocks®?” — the safe answer is every 6 weeks, especially when they’re new.

Freeforming & Alternative Journeys

Not everyone wants neat roots. Some choose to freeform locs — meaning no retwisting, no interlocking, just natural growth.

Freeformers still need clean, moisturized locs to keep hair strong.
Washing more often than retwisting or interlocking is perfectly fine.
The most important step is separating locs at the roots so they don’t unintentionally combine.

The Role of Products Between Retwists or Interlocks

No matter how often you retwist or interlock, your locs thrive when they’re clean, hydrated, and buildup-free. That’s where Dr Locs comes in.

Yasin Shampoo – sulfate-free, gentle, and residue-free cleansing.
Jinan Moisture Mix – a daily spray that penetrates deep into locs for long-lasting hydration.
Island Breeze Moisture Mix – a lighter blend for soft, refreshed locs (perfect for fine hair or hot weather).
Yaya Oil – seals in moisture, nourishes the scalp, and prevents dryness.

✨ Pro tip: Even if you’re stretching out your retwist or interlock, use Moisture Mix daily + Yaya Oil to seal. This combo prevents breakage and keeps your locs soft between salon visits.

Final Thoughts

So, how often should you retwist or interlock your locs?

Retwist: Every 4–6 weeks for traditional locs, or 4 weeks for microlocs.
Interlock: Every 6 weeks for microlocs/Sisterlocks®, or every 2–3 months for larger locs.
Freeform: Skip retwists and interlocks, but keep your scalp clean and your locs moisturized.

At the end of the day, the right schedule depends on your loc size, your lifestyle, and your personal style goals. Whether you prefer neat roots or a freeform look, consistency with cleaning and moisturizing is the real secret to healthy locs.

👉 Keep your locs strong between appointments with the Dr Locs Essentials — your hair deserves it.