Find out how to care for your locs while cleansing and styling.
General Maintenance
- Always opt for products that do not clog the pores or cause build-up
- Avoid heavy butters and balms such as shea butter, beeswax or products that
have mineral oil as their base
- Shea butter, beeswax, and mineral oil cause buildup and leave
behind a residue that accumulates and collects grime over time
- Sleep with a satin/ silk scarf night after night, having
locs does not exempt you from this rule. Not only does a silk bonnet protect
your hair from knotting up and losing moisture, it also keeps your locs lint
free
*Special Note: The use of beeswax has often been debated among
locticians; while some claim it is a necessary evil during the initial phase,
know that there are alternate products that can be used. These include clay,
gels, hair glue, honey mixes among others. Find out what you and your hair best.
Styling
When it comes to styling,
the sky is the limit. Locs are versatile and translate well with any setting.
The only word of caution that I cannot stress
enough is this; do not stress your
hairline. Your hairline is very weak and sensitive, even more so in
the case of locs. Avoid tight ponytails or styles that will cause undue stress
on your hairline. Failure to do so will ultimately lead to traction alopecia.
Cleansing
During the initial phase,
washing your hair is out of the question. Remember to be gentle while
washing your hair. Follow this up with an oil massage be sure to add a few
drops of your favorite essential oil (remember that less is more, don't use too
much product). Re-twist to avoid locs from meshing together.
You can wash your matured locs
as often as you would like. Some experts recommend washing locs every 2-3
weeks, but this really depends on your lifestyle and tolerance level. Be sure
to dilute your sudsy shampoo or opt to purchase a sulphate free shampoo if you
can. If you work out or have the need for water on your locs, washing your hair
more often or whenever you feel the need is also an option.
Deep Conditioning
You must deep condition
your locs. There is a thought that exists that claims once you dawn locs, your
hair is as tough as nails. No ma'am, that is false. Your hair will still need
regular nourishment which will come in the form of moisture and protein. How
often you carry out these processes is by far, a lot less than that of a woman
who has her natural hair out.
Deep conditioning sessions
are what make the difference between lustrous, shinny hair and dull, listless locs.
You can up your protein; protein deep conditioning sessions will make your locs
stronger and tougher, while moisture DC's will give your hair that brilliant
shine.
Co-washing mature dreads
also promotes clean, soft locs. Do not over-do it, however. Your locs may begin
to fluff up if they are not fully mature.
Leave-In conditioners are
excellent choices for not only dreadlocked hair, but all-natural hair textures
because it opens up the cuticle, moisturizing and coating the hair shaft.
In the end, proper loc care is very important…
- Keeping your dreads clean not only promotes healthy hair
growth, but helps get them tighter and stronger.
- Moisturizing locs requires light oils that do not clog pores
and is close to the
- Essential oils like Castor oil, Jojoba, Sesame oil and Olive
oil, will cleanse condition and stimulate the scalp, strengthen, and add sheen
to your locs
- Olive oil and Sesame oil are very nourishing to the scalp and
hair and help reduce stiffness and tightness in the scalp
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