There are many ways to start locs, including two strand twists, comb coils, braids, interlocking and freeforming. Loc sizes range from super tiny to super thick. Medium to large locs can be maintained using the palm rolling or interlocking method. Smaller locks are more fragile so it's best to interlock the roots. You can interlock your new growth using a latch hook, a crochet needle or an interlocking tool. There are many YouTube videos which give tutorials on how to interlock new growth.
Palm rolling produces smooth cylinder shaped locs and it's easier to control the frizz. However, palmrolling causes more tension on the strands and can lead to breakage. To prevent product build up it's best to use water and oil or a very light water-soluble gel to palm roll the roots. You can then twist the hair or clamp it with clips to keep the palm rolled hair in place. Palm rolling may not be suitable for people who get their hair wet frequently because the roots might unravel. If you're someone who works out, swims or likes to wet your hair frequently you may want to consider wearing your locs in braided or twisted styles to prevent unravelling.
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| Photo courtesy of @abbylove86 |
If you are unsure what size locs to go with it's better to start with smaller locs. After the starter locs are installed, if you find that you would prefer the look of thicker locs or you feel that the retightening sessions are taking up too much of your time you can always combine some of your locs and make them thicker. If you are unsure what size to go for it's better to start smaller because you still have the option to make them bigger. If you start too big you won’t be able to make them smaller without unpicking the locs (which is an extremely long process).
In the beginning stages, it is best to loosely braid your hair when washing it to prevent unravelling. This will also prevent shed hair from slipping out of the twists or braid. Once your hair is locked in the middle you will not need to follow this procedure.
I wore micro braidlocs from January 2016 until June 2018 so I have done a lot of research into different locing techniques. I have a strong love for locs and I'm considering locing my hair again in the future.
