How You Can Do Natural Loc Grooming

By Lena Stephenson


The natural hair trend has been growing in popularity in recent years. Dreadlocks, one of the oldest hairstyles known to man, are one of the most popular choices for a natural hairstyle. Loc grooming is actually quite simple and very necessary to keeping the hair clean and healthy.

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.

After washing, rinsing is probably one of the most important things an individual with locs can do to help his or her hair. A post-shampoo rinse made up of water and apple cider vinegar is perfect to run through the hair. This combination will help get rid of any residue from washing, which can generally leave the scalp itchy and also make the hair brittle and dry.

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.

Make sure your hair dries completely after shampooing and rinsing. If your locs don't dry thoroughly, they can begin to smell musty from mildew. They will also lose strength from being damp. You should not use a normal towel to dry your locs, as it leaves behind lint. Look for a microfiber towel instead and don't be afraid to sit under a dryer if you need further help drying the locs.

The scalp's health is the most important part of having beautiful locs. Massage the scalp at least three times a week to stimulate the flow of blood and also promote hair growth. Use a light oil when massaging that will also hydrate. Spray locs occasionally with some salt water, which is good for tightening and also maintaining cleanliness until it is time to shampoo them again.

New growth requires special attention and maintenance. Keep new growth neat by twisting hairs that are loose into locs that already exist. This will help the loose hairs to integrate well into the hairstyle. New growth can also be treated by palm rolling or by using a latch hook to tighten the roots. Use a headscarf at bedtime to protect the hair and keep the style neat.

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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