10 Things You Need to Know Before Starting Your Locs

Starting your locs is more than just a hairstyle—it’s a journey of patience, growth, and self-discovery. Whether you’re locking your hair on your own or working with a professional, it’s important to understand what lies ahead. To help you start strong and stay confident, here are 10 things you need to know before starting your locs.

1. Your Hair Type Plays a Big Role in How Your Locs Form

Everyone’s hair is different, and that’s the beauty of it. If you’ve got tight curls or coils, your hair might start locking up faster. Looser curls or straighter textures may take a little more time—but don’t worry, it’ll get there. The key is working with your curl pattern, not against it.

Choosing a starter method that fits your hair type makes the journey a lot smoother. For example, coils or two-strand twists work great for kinkier textures, while crochet Instant locs might be better for looser curls. Do a little research, talk to a loctician if you can, and go with what feels right for your hair.

2. There’s More Than One Way to Start Locs

You’ve got options—lots of them. You can start with comb coils, two-strand twists, Crochet, or even interlocking. Each method gives a slightly different look and feel, so it really comes down to what works best for you.

Think about your hair type, how long it is, and how much maintenance you’re up for. If you want a low-maintenance start, Crochet Instant Locs might be your thing. If you’re aiming for that traditional loc look, comb coils or two strand twists could be a great fit. Whatever you choose, make sure it matches your lifestyle and your vision.

3. Your Locs Will Go Through an Early Stage of Transition—And That’s Completely Normal

In the early stages, your locs may appear frizzy, puffy, or less defined than you imagined. This is a completely natural part of the process. Your hair is adapting and learning to hold its new shape. Be patient and gentle with yourself—this phase is temporary, and your locs will continue to evolve with time and care.

4. Yes, You Still Need to Wash Your Hair After Starting Your Locs

A common myth is that you shouldn’t wash your hair after starting your locs—but clean hair is essential for healthy locs. In the beginning stages, wash your hair gently every 2 to 3 weeks or in some cases where scalp conditions are an issue, wash as needed. Use a residue-free shampoo and focus on your scalp. Clean hair actually helps your locs form better over time.

How to Wash Without Messing Up Your Starter Locs
Avoid heavy scrubbing or rough towel-drying, since that can cause unraveling. Try using a stocking cap or banding method to keep your locs in place while you wash. If you're nervous about doing it yourself, visit a loctician who can safely wash and care for your new locs.

5. You’ll Need to Switch Up Your Hair Products

heavy products like waxes, thick creams, and heavy oils can cause buildup and slow down the locking process. Switch to lightweight, residue-free options instead. Look for water-based hydrating mists, light-weight oils, and simple products that keep your scalp healthy without weighing your hair down.

6. You Should Protect Your Locs at Night

Your locs go through a delicate process in the early stages, and nighttime is when they can easily get messed up. Tossing and turning in your sleep causes friction, which can lead to frizz, unraveling, and breakage. That’s why it’s important to protect your hair every night.

Use a satin or silk scarf, bonnet, or pillowcase—these smooth fabrics help your locs stay neat by reducing friction. Cotton, on the other hand, can dry out your hair and pull on your strands. Making this small change to your nighttime routine will keep your locs looking fresh and help them mature properly.

7. Maintenance Looks Different for Everyone

How often you maintain depends on your hair type and the method you’re using. People who retwist for maintenance might do so every 4 weeks, other methods like interlocking can wait for 8 weeks or more.

Don’t Overdo It
Twisting too often can cause thinning and damage. Pay attention to what your hair needs and give it time to grow between sessions. A loctician can help you find the right schedule.

8. Locs Take Time—Be Patient With the Process

Locs don’t form overnight. It can take months or even over a year for your locs to fully mature, depending on your hair type and maintenance. Don’t rush the process. Every phase—from baby locs to teenage locs to adult locs—is part of the journey. Embrace each stage and give your hair the time it needs.

9. Every Loc Journey Is Unique

No two loc journeys look the same. Your curl pattern, thickness, and method all affect how your locs will form and how long it will take. It’s easy to compare your progress to others, but try not to.

Your locs will grow and mature in their own time—and that’s part of what makes the process so personal and powerful. Trust the journey, stay patient, and enjoy watching your hair transform.

10. Choose a Loctician You Trust

If you’re not starting your locs on your own, picking the right loctician is a big deal. You want someone who understands your hair type, listens to your goals, and uses clean, healthy methods.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions during your consultation. A good loctician will walk you through the process, explain what to expect, and make sure you feel confident every step of the way. Trust matters—this is your hair journey, and you deserve support from someone who gets it.

Final Thoughts

Starting locs is an exciting and empowering decision. The more you know going in, the better prepared you'll be to embrace the process. Remember: your hair is unique, your journey is personal, and every phase is worth celebrating.