The Ultimate Guide to Starting Your Loc Journey
- Naomi Hawkins-Kossie
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Starting locs is more than just a hairstyle—it’s a journey of patience, self-discovery, and embracing your natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to locs for cultural reasons, style, or simplicity, the process can feel both exciting and overwhelming at the beginning. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting your loc journey, from choosing a method to maintaining your hair as it grows.
Why Choose Locs?
Locs, also called dreadlocks, have been worn across cultures for centuries and hold deep spiritual, cultural, and aesthetic significance. Beyond the symbolism, many choose locs because they:
Celebrate natural hair by embracing texture without constant manipulation.
Simplify styling routines, reducing time spent on daily hair prep.
Offer versatility, with endless styling options from updos to curls.
Promote patience and growth, teaching you to love each stage of the process.
If you’re considering this step, it’s important to understand that locs are a commitment. Unlike braids or wigs, locs are meant to be a long-term style that evolves with you.
Step 1: Deciding on Your Starter Method
There’s no one-size-fits-all way to begin locs. Your hair type, lifestyle, and personal preferences will influence your choice. Here are the most common starter methods:
Two-Strand Twists
Great for medium to long hair.
Offers a defined starting pattern.
May take longer to “bud” (lock) depending on texture.
Comb Coils
Ideal for short to medium hair.
Creates neat, uniform starter locs.
Requires frequent maintenance early on.
Freeform (Natural Method)
Minimal manipulation; hair naturally mats and locks.
Low-maintenance but less uniform in appearance.
A good choice for those seeking a spiritual or natural look.
Interlocking
Uses a tool to weave strands together.
Produces a more secure base.
Great for active lifestyles or finer textures.
Instant Locs / Crochet Method
Hair is crocheted into locs for a “finished” look from day one.
Popular for those who want to skip the baby stage.
Requires professional installation.
Take your time exploring these options. Speaking with a loctician can help you choose the best path.
Step 2: Understanding the Stages of Locs
Your locs won’t look the same from beginning to maturity, and that’s part of the beauty. Here are the main stages you’ll experience:
Starter Stage (Months 0–6)
Hair is freshly twisted, coiled, or interlocked.
Frizz and unraveling are normal—patience is key.
Budding Stage (Months 6–12)
Locs begin to swell and knot.
This is when hair officially starts “locking.”
Teen Stage (Year 1–2)
Locs may look unruly, uneven, or puffy.
They’re growing stronger but not fully mature.
Mature Stage (Year 2–3)
Locs are firm, cylindrical, and uniform.
Styling options expand significantly.
Rooted Stage (3+ Years)
Fully developed locs with weight and length.
Maintenance is routine and much easier.
Step 3: Loc Maintenance Basics
Healthy locs don’t just happen—they require consistent care. Here are the essentials:
Cleansing: Wash every 1–2 weeks with a residue-free shampoo to prevent buildup.
Moisturizing: Use lightweight oils or a water-based spray to keep hair hydrated.
Retwisting/Interlocking: Maintain new growth every 4–8 weeks depending on your chosen method.
Protecting: Sleep with a satin or silk scarf/bonnet to reduce frizz and breakage.
Patience: Resist the urge to constantly retwist—over-manipulation can thin roots.
Common Myths About Locs
“Locs don’t grow.” False! Locs grow at the same rate as loose natural hair—it just appears slower because the hair coils and knots together.
“Locs are dirty.” Properly maintained locs are clean and healthy. Buildup only occurs when products aren’t washed out.
“Once you start, you can’t change.” While locs are a commitment, they can be combed out or cut if you ever want to transition.
Step 4: Choosing Products Wisely
Not every product made for natural hair is loc-friendly. When shopping, look for:
Residue-free shampoos (no sulfates, no waxes).
Lightweight oils like jojoba, argan, or almond oil.
Water-based sprays for daily hydration.
Avoid heavy creams, waxes, or gels that can cause buildup inside the locs.
Embracing the Journey
Starting locs is more than a hairstyle—it’s a lifestyle. Every stage brings lessons in patience, acceptance, and self-love. No matter your starting point, trust the process, stay consistent with maintenance, and celebrate each milestone along the way.
If you’re ready to begin, consult with a trusted loctician or natural hair specialist, invest in the right products, and prepare to embrace a beautiful journey that’s uniquely yours.