Starting your loc journey is exciting, and a little intimidating. The good news: healthy locs come down to a few solid decisions at the start and a consistent routine afterward. Here is everything a first-timer needs to know before and after that first appointment.
Before your first install
Come in with clean, product-free hair unless your loctician tells you otherwise. Buildup from heavy oils and creams can interfere with how well your hair coils and holds. If you are unsure what to bring or how to prep, book a consultation first — we will look at your hair type, length, and density and recommend the right starting method.
Choosing a starting method
There is no single "best" method — only the best method for your hair and your goals. The most common starter methods are:
- Two-strand twists — versatile and beginner-friendly, with a fuller early look.
- Comb coils — tight, uniform coils that create neat, defined locs on shorter hair.
- Interlocking — low-maintenance and secure, great for active lifestyles.
- Braids — a sturdy foundation that locs down over time.
We walk every client through the trade-offs during their consultation so the choice is informed, not guessed.
The first few weeks
New locs are delicate. Resist the urge to wash too soon or retwist too often — both can disturb the locking process. Protect your hair at night with a satin bonnet or pillowcase, keep your scalp lightly moisturized without overloading it, and be patient. Your locs are supposed to look a little "undone" in the early stage. That is normal.
What comes next
Over the first several months your locs will move through predictable stages — starter, budding, and teen — before they fully mature. Regular maintenance appointments keep them healthy and even. When you are ready, book your first appointment and let us build a plan around your specific hair.
