If your locs are starting to bloom I know you are loving your new look and receiving compliments galore! Here are a few helpful hints from the loc guru and celebrity stylist Dr. Kari Williams. She is a certified trichologist and founder of Mahogany Hair Revolution Salon and Trichology Clinic. Grab your notepad:
“You should cut off your frizz”
When starting your locs you will see a bit of frizz along the length of the loc. As your desire may be to have a smooth, consistent loc, you may be tempted to cut the frizz with scissors or shears as you would an individual braid extension. But could that damage the loc? Let’s see what Dr. Kari thinks about this practice.
“Refrain from cutting the frizz from around the loc. Frizzing is a natural part of the loc process that happens during the ‘budding‘ phase. As the loc matures and solidifies, this frizz should become a part of the loc. If you cut this frizz, you risk thinning out the loc, which can create a weak spot and lead to breakage. This frizz can easily be wrapped or twisted around the loc during a touch-up appointment. Once the loc has solidified, it is okay to trim frizz from the hair that did not mat into the loc. I highly recommend a trained professional perform the loc trim so that you do not accidentally cut your loc off. With palm-rolling, you must be careful. The constant re-twisting and twisting too tight can weaken the strands and cause locs to break off. Think of a paper clip. If you twist it in the same direction long enough, you can actually break the paperclip and your hair is the same. So when starting locs using this method, be sure your stylist creates a base for your loc that is strong enough to support the weight of the loc as it gets longer. It is really important to section locs around the hair line large enough to support the loc and prevent breakage that can occur as a result of the constant manipulation of locs around the hair line during maintenance and styling.
“You should shampoo less”
Locs get dirty just like loose hair. Daily styling and consistent exposure to the elements cause buildup along the hair shaft while the scalp excretes its sebum. This too, when unmanaged, can attract dirt making it necessary to cleanse the hair and scalp. Dr. Kari helps us understand how best to regulate the oil production and grimy buildup.
“Locs can be shampooed as frequently as needed based on the level of activity and amount of products used in the hair on a regular basis. It’s just important to keep the locs well lubricated to prevent dryness and breakage of the loc and also helps to balance out the pH of the scalp.” says Dr. Kari. A good quality natural oil is an excellent choice to use. The Ann Carol Coconut Lavender Oil and Ann Carol Peppermint Chamomile Oil products by Dr. Kar are a blend of natural and essential oils are a great option.
“You should sleep a special way”
Believe it or not, according to Dr. Kari Williams, “There are no inappropriate sleep methods with locs.” So treat your locs as you would your hair!
Don’t be fooled, hair is hair no matter what styling methods you choose, take proper precautions and follow best practices to receive the best results!
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