How to Care for Locs: 5 Basic Tips

These days, more and more parents are opting to loc their child’s hair. This is no easy task, and proper planning and research should be done prior to beginning the process. Once you have loc’d their hair, you will need to follow these 5 basic steps to keep those beautiful locs neat and moisturized.

1. Find a Hair Stylist That Specializes in Loc’d Hair

When you are just starting out, it is best to have a consultation with a loctician so that they can either start the locs for you or give you instructions on how to begin the loc’ing process. A loctician will be able to give you great advice as well as recommend products that work best for your child’s hair.

2. Cleanse Locs Regularly

Make a habit of regularly washing your child’s locs. Sweat and dirt build-up causes bacteria to grow and the scalp to itch which can lead to hair breakage and scalp irritation. Using a clarifying shampoo or ACV rinse will aid in keeping their locs clean. Make sure to allow ample time for drying which can take anywhere from 1 to 24 hours.  

3. Moisturize Your Scalp

Massage a natural oil into the scalp regularly to keep the new growth and scalp moisturized, as well as promote hair growth. This also keeps the hair healthy and prevents breakage.

4. Don’t Retwist so Often

Over manipulating, i.e. over twisting, can create breakage and thinning at the root. Try styling hair in creative styles that keep the hair looking neat while prolonging the time in between re-twists.

5. Protect Hair at Night

Just like with any other hairstyle for our curly cuties, sleeping with a satin bonnet or satin pillowcase at night is essential to preventing breakage. Sleeping on satin helps retain the moisture in your child’s hair and scalp, as well as protect the hair from excess rubbing and friction.