After a lot of research and contemplation, you are ready to start your loc journey. It is a big decision that requires patience and commitment. The loc journey goes through 5 key stages before it can be a fully grown, mature loc. The starter loc is the most important stage of the loc journey. Below we have answered 10 questions in regards to starter locs to help guide you to get through this stage with ease.

1. How long do starter locs last?

Your locs will stay in this stage for around 3 to 6 months. The time is different for everyone and varies from one person to the next. How long the locs stay in the starter loc stage depends on; your hair type, the current health and condition of your hair, genetics (how fast your hair grows), and how well you maintain the locs. Hair can easily unravel at this stage which is normal but it will prolong the hair from budding.

2. How do you start locs?

Your starter locs are the foundation of your locs and determine the final outcome of your locs once they mature so a lot of thought process has to be put in before you start them. You need to consider the length of hair and the hair texture. Starting locs involves; the size of the locs, establishing a parting pattern, and the method of installation. There are 8 types of installation methods; free forming, backcombing, interlocking, instant locs, three-strand plaits, finger or comb coils,  two-strand twists, or loc extensions.

3. What NOT to do with your starter locs?

There are things you need to avoid with your starter locs that may be detrimental in your

  loc journey.

• Over maintenance; overwashing hair and over manipulating can unravel the hair.
• Retwisting dry locs or retwisting too tight. This will likely cause breakage.
• Not washing your hair at all. Dirt and buildup will clog up the locs and prevent hair from receiving moisture.
• Do not deep condition hair. Hair treatment can unravel your starter locs due to the slippage of the products.
• Do not use rubber bands. They will snug and pull the hair damaging the locs.
• Do not use D.I.Y hair treatments. The avocado, egg, and banana mixture chunks will get stuck in your hair.
  

4. Should you cover your starter locs?

Covering your starter locs is an efficient way to protect the hair from breakage. Cover the hair with a silk or satin scarf and bonnet. Cover your locs when; showering to avoid locs getting wet or soap from getting to the locs, cooking to avoid having odours, cleaning to avoid dust and dirt getting on the hair, and when sleeping to avoid lint and friction.

5. How often should you wash your starter locs?

At this stage of your loc journey, you want to prolong how often you take to wash starter locs. This is vital so as to prevent unravelling and to give the locs time to form. Do not worry too much as once the locs begin to form and bud you can wash them more often. Every 3 to 4 weeks is a reasonable time before washing starter locs. Avoid creamy shampoos that can cause build-up and opt for light shampoos or dilute your thicker shampoo with water before application.

6. How do you maintain starter locs?

Less is more in this stage of your locs journey. Maintaining your starter locs should be your priority at this stage to ensure the successful formation and healthy growth of your locs. This can be done by:

• Moisture is key to the health of your locs. If your locs are dry they will become weak. Spritz hair with water or rose water using a mist spray to hydrate the locs.
• Use light natural oils to lubricate, protect and seal in moisture.
• Touch the hair as few times as possible.
• Sleep with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet when at home.
• Retwist locs every 6-8 weeks.
• Keep the locs clean by gently shampooing the locs every 3 to 4 weeks. Be gentle and take your time to avoid unravelling. Use a gentle massage method and avoid scrubbing the hair.

7. Should I see a loctician to start my locs?

Yes. Starting your own loc journey or getting your friend to do it sounds like you will be saving money. However, it is important to remember that for your starter locs to become thick, healthy, and mature locs, it is crucial to get a certified loctician to create a great base for successful loc growth. Your loctician will play a vital role in correctly starting your starter locs. It is very easy for a non-expert or yourself to take shortcuts during the installation process. Starter locs are a time-consuming and complex process that requires patience and uniformity throughout.

8. How much does it cost to start locs in London?

There are many variants to consider on the cost of getting your locs done in London. It costs between £100-£500. The cost depends on the hair length, the density of the hair, the loctician, experience, using your own hair or loc extensions. Please note that anyone can call themselves a loctician. Do your research and find a certified loctician with years of experience to guarantee high-quality results. Remember starter locs are the foundation of your locs and you should invest in their process.

9. When will my starter locs get thicker?

This will depend on the size of your parts, your hair density, and the hair texture. In the first 3 to 4 months you will be able to get some fullness and thickness as the locs begin to mature. This process happens naturally. Time and patience are a necessity.

10. Why are my starter locs so flat?

This is expected with starter locs as they are not yet mature and get sturdy. The flatness is caused by;

• How the hair was parted when starting.  Longer and rectangular parts are likely to flatten.
• Freeform locs are likely to flatten.
• Looser curl patterns have to be shaped more and are likely to flatten.
• Not maintaining the entire length of the loc and only focusing on the root.

Your starter loc phase should be taken seriously to ensure a smooth and healthy progression for your loc journey. We hope we have been able to answer all your questions to take you through the starter loc stage as you work your way through the first stage of your loc journey.