Starting your loc journey: A Guide to Starter Locs
By Exyhair team | 02 January 2025 | 0 Comments

Starting your loc journey: A Guide to Starter Locs

Starter locs are the start of the permanent dreadlocks journey; they are the initial stage of locking hair. Starter locs are used to self-express and maintain one’s natural hair. Embarking on this new braiding hair journey can be challenging yet exciting; laying a good foundation for ensuring healthy mature dreadlocks is important. For women, starting dreadlocks presents an opportunity for personalization and creativity as one can choose various starter locs styles, including two-strand twist starter locs or very short starter locs.

What are starter locs?

Starter locs, or “starter dreadlocks,” start the dreadlocks formation process. They are the baby stage for the permanent dreadlocks process. Unlike temporary locs, such as faux locs and soft locs, starter locs are permanent because they involve coiling and mating one’s natural hair. There are various female starter locs styles, as shown below.

How long do dreadlocks last?

Dreadlocks can last anywhere between 4 and 12 months, depending on how fast your hair grows and how you maintain them. Patience and persistence are essential to growing your dreadlocks to maturity. Dreadlocks can be created on all types of hair, from curly to straight. However, dreadlocks extensions on curly and wavy hair tend to last longer due to their coarser texture.

4 Tips for Maintaining Dreadlocks

The first tip is to keep your scalp clean – make sure you cleanse your scalp regularly to remove any oil and dirt. Always use a cruelty-free shampoo and natural oils, such as coconut oil. Also, avoid over-washing your dreadlocks as this will strip them of their natural oils. To keep your scalp clean, always use minimal hair care products – I recommend using LocN gel during the re-twisting process as it does not leave any white residue.
The second tip is to not fiddle with your hair too much – avoid styling, pulling or twisting your hair too often. Frequent fiddling with your hair can cause breakage. Protect your hair at night with a silk or satin bonnet and pillowcase; this will prevent breakage from constant friction. However, be sure to schedule time to brush your hair and re-twist your hair.
Third, it is vital to maintain a healthy diet - Proper nutrition is important for maintaining healthy hair. According to Healthline, adequate protein is essential for hair growth; biotin also helps produce keratin, an important hair protein. Consider a high-protein diet that includes eggs, meat, and fish. Fruits and vegetables such as spinach, berries, and avocados provide essential nutrients and vitamins for hair growth.
Fourth, consider adopting protective hairstyles to help hair growth. - Protective hairstyles reduce damage and hair tension by tucking the ends of the hair away. Consider adopting hairstyles such as juicy braids and tribal braids. Below is a list of some entry-level braid hairstyles to inspire you on your braid journey.

Starter Loc Styles

Two-Strand Twists

Two-strand twists are a quick-start braid style that builds into twists over time. They have a fuller, thicker texture and feel and are a popular style for braids. This look works on both short and long hair, but the recommended hair length is around 4 inches. Two-strand twists are created by first sectioning your hair into sections of your chosen size, then simply twisting two strands of hair around each other from root to tip. Finish with a light hold cream to secure your twists. Two-strand twists are a popular choice because they are easy to DIY at home. The twist technique also means they are less likely to unravel, making them easy to maintain.

Comb Curls

Comb curls are a common and beginner-friendly hairstyle. This style forms clean, cylindrical curls over time and works best on hair that is about 2 to 3 inches in length. To create comb curls, first separate your hair into small sections, the thickness of which is up to you. Start at the roots and gently wrap each section of hair around a pointed tail comb or fine-tooth comb in circular motions. Once all the hair is curled, you will want to use a locking gel or cream to secure the curls in place. This beginner hairstyle can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to achieve, depending on the length of your hair and how tight you want your curls. Be sure to give your comb curls the care and moisture they need, especially in the first few weeks, to ensure they don't unravel.

Palm Curls

Pal curls are another easy initial lock look that you can do yourself. Palm curls give your dreadlocks a stylish, even, and rounded shape. Palm curls work best on hair longer than 2 inches, which means you can start curling your hair early in its natural growth. To palm curl, first separate your tresses into small sections. Starting at the nape of your neck, take a small section and place the hair in your palms. Gently roll the hair in your palms until you have an even initial lock. Make sure to roll all the hair in the same direction. Palm curls can easily fall apart in the first few weeks, so be sure to take care of your locks and gently cleanse your hair when you wash it for the first time. Palm curls are also a great way to keep your locks in shape once your locks are formed and mature.

Interlocking Braids

So, what are interlocking braids? -- They involve twisting the braids from the roots to the ends of the hair to create a more stable and stronger structure. Interlocking helps tighten the braids from the roots. Unlike classic styles like comb curls and palm curls, interlocking braids require the use of tools to twist the hair. A significant advantage of interlocking braids is that it helps to maintain length. It is also very flexible and neat.

Conclusion

Beginning your loc journey with starter locs is a remarkable and deeply personal experience. It's about embracing your natural hair and allowing it to grow and evolve in unique ways. The journey can be challenging at times, but the results are undoubtedly worth it. Embrace the process, stick with proper care, and you'll soon have beautiful, mature locs that reflect your personality. Remember, your loc journey is a unique path, and each loc is a testament to your patience, dedication, and self-expression. Enjoy the journey! 

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