So, you've decided to embark upon the dreadlock journey. Good for you! A lot of thought goes into such a decision, and for many people, it's preceded by embracing their natural hair - although people from all races and ethnicities grow locs for many reasons. We're happy for you that you have come to this decision.
Just like any big new thing, growing your locs will be a transition. Some things will happen just as you expected, while other things won't at all. It's unlikely that your locs will look precisely how you expect them to because growing locs have a mind of their own. But your locs will be beautiful, and you'll love their uniqueness.
Let's look at a few other things to know about transitioning into locs.
Related: Natural DreadLocks In Just 10 Easy Steps!
Top Things to Know About Transitioning into Locs
Here are a few things to keep in mind as you begin your loc journey.
You'll Need Patience
We hate to begin with this one, but it's essential to keep in mind. Your locs will undergo several stages of growth before they're 'mature.' If you're impatient, you won't enjoy the process. The loc journey isn't just about arriving at a gorgeous mane of locs; it's about the whole process.
Do Loads of Research
You'll have to settle on a method for forming locs that suit your hair length and type. So, do your research. Search websites and magazines, and ask other people questions about their hair and process. Figure out the method you'll use, what size locs you'd like, and consider how you'll maintain them.
New Levels of Self-Acceptance
Although people have different reasons for embracing dreadlocks, one thing seems universally true for everyone. The choice to grow locs is associated with greater self-acceptance. For some people, it's about accepting and loving the hair that society has told them for generations isn't 'good' or attractive. For them, the loc journey is about learning to appreciate the beauty and strength of their textured hair.
For their own reasons, others with 'socially accepted' hair may feel the need to be outside society's norms. And for everyone, dreadlocks can be a form of self-expression and a demonstration of autonomy.
We believe dreadlocks are not just a hairstyle - they’re a lifestyle movement. Are you looking for natural loc care products that reflect that? Look no further, we’ve got them! Check out Lion Locs today.
You May Need an Interim Protective Hairstyle
Depending on the length and condition of your hair before your locs, you may need (or want) to wear a protective hairstyle for a while. A protective hairstyle is any style that requires little to no manipulation of your own hair. Examples include braid extensions, faux locs, or Marley Twists. To grow your locs faster and to ensure they're as healthy as possible, you'll need to stop brushing, combing, or otherwise messing with your hair. Locs grow best when left alone.
You may also want a protective hairstyle to get you through the awkward stages of loc development. For a while, your locs will look unkempt and even untidy. If you're uncomfortable with that, a protective style can keep you looking good while your locs grow unhindered.
A New Relationship with Your Hair
Pre-locs, you may remember that you tended to think of your hair as a unit. But when you have locs, you'll get to know each loc individually. You touch and handle each one, so you know which ones are exceptionally healthy, which ones need care, and which ones are trying to grow together. You might even give some of them names if you're a whimsical person.
Dreadlocks often cause you to appreciate your hair and develop a positive relationship with it.
Related: The Benefits of Having Locs
The Stages of Loc Growth
As mentioned earlier, here are the stages of loc growth. You may progress through these stages faster or slower than others, and your locs may look different to others as well.
- The Baby Stage is when you start your locs using braids, palm rolling, coiling, twisting, etc. This stage can last between three and six months.
- The Budding/Sprouting Stage is when your locs begin to take shape. This stage is characterized by puffy or fuzzy locs. They're loose and untidy but well on their way to lovely locs.
- The Teen Stage is when your locs tighten and start taking shape. You're getting your first glimpses of what they'll look like when they're mature. But it's also a time of rebellion - this is when you realize that your locs have their own mind!
- Finally, Maturity. You've arrived at locs that are full, healthy, and hang nicely. Your locs are tight (not frizzy), and your ends are closed. This isn't to say that your locs won't ever change, but this is adulthood for your locs. Prepare to love it!
Find a Good Loctician
Although with the correct information, you can grow your own locs without the help or intervention of a professional, you might want the input of a loctician. At least in the beginning, a loctician may help get your locs off to a good start. They may also have a wealth of knowledge and help you develop habits that will serve you in the future.
Low-Maintenance Doesn't Mean No-Maintenance
One of the most significant advantages of locs is that you don't have to manipulate them daily to look good. You can maintain a gorgeous head of locs with just a few excellent habits and a little time. But you do need good practices. Low maintenance doesn't mean no maintenance!
- Keep your locs clean
- Find high-quality, organic products
- Moisturize them regularly
- Don't stress your roots with too much tension for too long
- Protect them from environmental debris
- Adopt a simple maintenance regime
- Protect them while you sleep
Related: Surprising Facts You Might Not Know About Locs
Final Thoughts
Growing your locs is exciting and filled with new discoveries. Before you begin, do your research, ask plenty of questions, and find the best possible products for your hair. Know your hair type and find a method that will work best for you. But more than anything else, enjoy the process.
Are you looking for high-quality products and information about growing your locs? Check out Lion Locs for the best loc care products and our other resources.