Tips For Natural Loc Grooming

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By Lena Stephenson


If you are one of the many people who has decided to rock a natural hairstyle, good for you! You may have dreadlocks, which is actually the oldest hairstyle known to Man. Loc grooming may seem like a tiresome task, but it is actually quite easy and very necessary for the care and protection of your hair.

Washing dreadlocks is very important, perhaps more so than with any other hairstyle. Washing once a week is perfectly fine, but twice a week may be necessary in cases of an itchy scalp. The water should be lukewarm for washing and the scalp is the area that needs the most attention. Let suds run down the locs and this is sufficient to clean them. Always use a natural shampoo or invest in a shampoo bar, which is very popular for this type of hairstyle. Shampooing is good for tightening the locs and maintaining the overall style. However, if locs have just been created, it is best to wait up to two weeks before washing.

Rinsing is one of the most important steps that must be carried out after shampooing. Mix water with apple cider vinegar and use this mixture as a after-shampoo rinse. The mixture will rid the hair of any shampoo residue, which could make the scalp itch and also affect the strength of the hair itself.

To condition one's locs, natural products are always recommended. Oils and butters should be applied after shampooing and then again after a few days. Some examples of good products to use on this type of hair are jojoba oil, olive oil, shea butter and rosemary oil.

Drying the hair is just as important as rinsing. Locs that are not properly dried can actually accumulate mildew and begin to smell after a while. They will also get weaker as a result. Using normal towels is not recommended for this type of hair. A microfiber towel is always best. To speed up the process, a dryer can help if air drying takes too long.

Taking care of the scalp is probably the most important part of caring for one's locs. Massaging the scalp is of great benefit, stimulating the blood flow and also hair growth. This should be done about three times a week with a light, hydrating oil. Keep some salt water in a spray bottle to spritz on locs whenever they need a little tightening. It will also keep them clean until the next wash.

New growth should be twisted into already existing locs to keep the hairstyle neat. Other ways to treat new growth are by doing the palm roll or by using a latch hook which will tighten up the roots. You should always sleep with a headscarf on to protect your locs, preferably silk.

Brooklyn, NY is notorious for its natural hair experts. Those versed in the grooming and maintenance of dreadlocks are commonly referred to as locticians. Shaquora R'Bey is a popular loctician who has dealt with celebrities like Stevie Wonder. She is available for a personal consultation at her salon in Brooklyn.




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