Your Loc Questions Answered
Starting or maintaining locs often comes with lots of questions.
We’ve gathered the most common ones here to guide you on your journey.
Locs (also referred by some as dreadlocks) are a natural hairstyle created when hair strands are allowed to mat and coil over time. They can be started intentionally with different methods or form naturally. Locs are a cultural and stylistic expression, that can also be spiritual, and they require care just like any other hair type.
There are several ways to start locs depending on your hair type, texture, and desired look. Common methods include two-strand twists, comb coils, interlocking, braids, and freeform. The best method for you depends on your lifestyle, patience level, and the aesthetic you’re going for. A consultation with a trained loctician can help you choose the right starting method
Locs typically go through different stages — starter, budding, teenage, and mature. Depending on your hair type and maintenance routine, it can take anywhere from 12–24 months for locs to fully mature. Patience and consistent care are key.
No, you don’t need to cut your hair. Locs can be started at any length of hair. However, the method used to start them may vary depending on how much length you have to work with.
Clean locs are healthy locs. On average, every 2–4 weeks works well for most people, but frequency depends on your scalp, lifestyle, and environment. Using a residue-free shampoo is important to prevent buildup.
Yes! Locs need moisture. The key is to use lightweight, water-based moisturizers or leave-ins that won’t cause buildup. Heavy creams and oils can weigh locs down and make them difficult to clean.
Healthy locs do not damage hair. In fact, many people find their hair retains length better in locs since it’s not being constantly combed or manipulated. Damage usually comes from poor maintenance, over-tightening, or product buildup, all of which can be avoided with proper care.
Yes, in many cases locs can be combed out, especially if they are still relatively new. Mature locs are more difficult to take down, but with patience and the right technique, it is possible without cutting your hair completely off.
At home, you can maintain healthy locs by:
Sleeping with a satin scarf or bonnet to reduce frizz.
Keeping your scalp clean and moisturized.
Avoiding heavy products that cause buildup.
Separating locs gently at the roots to prevent them from matting together.
Yes, anyone can loc their hair, but the process looks different depending on your hair type and texture. Coily and kinky hair textures loc more quickly, while straighter hair may take longer and often requires specific starting methods (like backcombing or interlocking).
Avoid waxes, heavy creams, and thick oils — they can cause buildup, trap lint, and make locs heavy or hard to clean. Stick with lightweight, residue-free products designed for locs or natural hair.
Yes, locs can be colored or bleached, but chemical treatments can be drying. It’s important to prep the hair with moisture beforehand, have the process done by a professional, and maintain a strong hydration routine afterward. Over-processing can weaken locs, so moderation and care are key.